The Crafty Wilson Ale House

The Crafty Wilson Ale House in Whitley Bay is a cosy, community-led micropub where real ale and cider do much of the heavy lifting and dogs are welcome inside. It has the kind of traditional pub energy built for regulars, conversation and low-key drinks rather than big-night-out chaos, and the appeal is as much in the atmosphere as the beer.

The setting is simple and unpretentious, with a focus on proper local bones and a slower stop for those after a pint somewhere with character. It feels like the kind of place where everyone can settle in together, paws included, without fuss.

Good for dog people looking for a real-ale refuge with a warm, neighbourhood feel and no pavement-waiting shuffle required.