A Guided Tour..

 The journey continues..              Stage - 5/8

'THE SLIDING DOOR ROOM'

As we enter this room via the sliding door (which is usually already open) you are faced with a large round table - with a gaslight over the center. To the right is fitted in an 'L' shape, is the high-back bench seats. To the left, is the open range which usually has a coal fire burning during colder weather.

The window opposite, looks onto Hengate. Hengate usually has traffic queuing at the traffic lights outside, so it is quite typical to see drivers looking in through the windows with some envy at the occupants enjoying the comfort, warmth and beverages.

Having walked over to the other side - and turning back to look from the window - the 'round table now is more visible in the foreground. The range to the right is not lit as this tour takes place during summer. However, during winter we shall see the place with open fires and happy folk etc.., etc.

Looking forward over the red and black tiled floor, we can see the doorway from whence we came.

OUTSIDE 'THE SLIDING DOOR ROOM'

A view from outside 'The Sliding Door Room'. Immediately beyond the doorway to the left is the front door (from Hengate). To the right - the Bar, Toilets and back door. As you enter the corridor, directly opposite, immediately to your left is the 'No Smoking Room'. Continuing down the corridor -leads   to the 'family Room'.

THE NO-SMOKING ROOM

This room (which also faces onto Hengate) is pictured a couple of days prior to the replacement hand-made gaslights being installed. This room had relied on candles for quite a number of years (visible above the fireplace) although originally had the gaslights. As we stand with our back to the window - looking towards the left corner - we can see the small fireplace with traditional mirror above, and to the left an ornate mirror surround.

Incidentally, as you might have guessed - this is the one public room within Nellie's that is reserved as a non-tobacco participation room!

THE FAMILY ROOM

Having entered through the doorway visible to the left, we are now facing towards the main fireplace, with the windows overlooking Hengate to our right. In the right-hand corner is one of two piano's (the other being in the function room - upstairs). 

  The piano is quite often played - preferably by someone who can - adding to the overall ambience. Only just visible between the door and the fireplace, is an old wine cooling chest.

   Now let's head into the main bar area....