South Shields first micropub, a former housing rent office, is located opposite the Town Hall and has recently extended into the former vinyl album store/coffee shop. Its floor space has almost doubled in size. There is a new beer garden at the rear with four large heaters. The Cask Lounge is run by an experienced and very friendly couple who value the principle of the micropub encouraging conversation with no TVs or gambling machines. There are five handpulls dispensing ever changing real ales. Four real ciders are also available. The pub is light and airy which includes a comfortable sofa, soft carpeting and background music to complete the experience. Most of the towns bus services stop nearby and South Shields Metro is about 3 minutes walk.