The Botanist is one of the most striking bars in Newcastle – its glass dome part of the city skyscape, moments away from Grey’s Monument – it’s one of the loveliest buildings in the city.

The bar itself has never quite lived up to its potential for me. The first time I went my friends and I accidentally sat in the restaurant bit, and the staff were slightly snotty about what was an honest mistake, which made me less than well inclined to the place.

Tonight was much better – the staff were friendly, though it was busy (I still can’t get used to the fact that after-work drinks in Newcastle start at 5). But it remains a hard place to warm to for me – striking and stylish, but without the buzz or atmosphere I want in my pubs. That said, it is stunning, so worth a visit…