A converted Victorian warehouse, the Rain Bar is tastefully done out and has a fantastic terrace backing on to the canal.

The Venue
The Rain Bar occupies a prime spot and is extremely popular in the warmer months when people flock to make full use of its very large terrace which backs on the waterway. This big four-storey, big red brick building used to be an umbrella-making factory and, before that, a warehouse.

In 1999 it was converted (at the cost of £1.5m) into a pub retaining many of the original features such as the oak beams, support pillars and brickwork while turning it into a light, contemporary and airy space. The colours are warm and welcoming: dark beiges, browns, creams, oranges and dark pinks.

On the left as you come in there's a snug wood-panelled room with an open fire which is great for those chilly winter nights. There's a central bar and sunken mini seating area, which would be a peaceful spot if it wasn't for the TV screen stuck in one corner. There's even a cute mini terrace upstairs off the first floor, which also houses its own bar.

The People
There are offices all around, as well as some apartment blocks, but Rain Bar gets a lot of its trade in the summer when all sorts of people come to chill out and pose for hours on its beer terrace.

The Food and Drink
An expensive looking place doesn't necessarily mean expensive prices. You can get away with a pint of JW Lees Mild for an amazing £1.50 here, although it can be a bit heavy and is better saved for the winter months.

On a lighter note, there's Carlsberg, Carling and Strongbow on draught. The house white is a Cuvee des Princes for £9.95 and the Montes Oak Cabernet red is £13.95 a bottle and £3.50 for a small glass. The menu is good; a Moroccan lamb wrap is £5.95 and an Aberdeen Angus beef burger costs £6.25. And there's a reportedly wonderful fresh fruit crumble for £3.25, which won't break anyone's bank.

The Last Word
A well-designed pub incorporating a mix of old and new - the main attraction is the enticing terrace where you can soak up the sun and the beer.

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