These days, the only news we hear about the Great British pub is bad enough to make you head straight down the pub. From lack of staff to stupid Labour taxes to the bald fact that, right now, every day sees two more pubs closing – it’s like the melancholy ramblings of a drunk at chucking-out time. Which is why I’m here to bring you more positive news. The British pub is, in fact, thriving – everywhere else but Britain. A few months ago, for instance, I had a good night out at The Shakespeare.