What makes a great pub? Hopefully all the pubs in this guide are ones you want to return to, but Gold Star pubs are the ones I believe are the very best. They'll have well kept and tasty beer and a decent choice of other drinks as well. They'll have atmosphere and character, and a bit of personality. They may have a bit of history (I love a heritage pub!) but there are modern bars on the list as well. The staff are genuinely friendly and attentive but don't overdo it and are happy for you you to have a quiet drink on your own or a noisy drink with friends. All these things usually come together when there is a manager or licensee who really cares about the pub and its customers. It's all subjective of course and you won't agree with all my choices, but hopefully I'll have pointed you to to at least a few stunning pubs.