One of the most decorated real-ale pubs in England — twice winner of CAMRA's National Pub of the Year — and the place that put Kelham Island on the beer-tourism map. The bar holds a constantly rotating selection of 13 cask ales, including unusual milds and porters that you struggle to find anywhere else, alongside a strong list of Belgian and German bottles.
The interior is small, traditional, and busy; the rear beer garden, with its mature plane tree, is one of the best in the city. No food beyond pork pies and crisps. Walk-ins only; arrive early in summer to get a garden table. The Fat Cat next door is sister to the Tavern and equally good.