This week, I decided to go and find something new, something I hadn't seen before, away from the chain pubs with mainstream lager and limited choice, so I ended up in Hop Lord's, an interesting tap house and bottle shop in Pump Street, where I was not disappointed.

Tucked away in one of the retail units in the street, it is not a large bar, with only a few tables inside, but the owners really do make the best of the space, with two large sets of bench seats by the door, and tall stools and tables lining the opposite wall.

The main space in the room is taken up by an impressive, if a little bit intimidating fridge full of exotic and interesting types of beer.

If one were not a connoisseur of real ale, it would be easy to get lost in the maze of brightly coloured cans and bottles.

Fortunately though, the bar staff are knowledgeable and are able to help make an informed choice from the myriad options on offer.

My companion and I both had a 2/3 pint glass (I'm not entirely sure why the measurements are like that either) of Cloudwater, a charming and slightly tangy pale ale from a brewery in Manchester.

An online review of Cloudwater says that it is "A beer for everyday moments, conversation with friends, or quiet relaxation after work, and aims to provide a balance between new wave hops, yeast esters, and easy drinkability.

"It’s full of ripe tropical fruit flavours, that linger over a finish that’s soft, juicy and low on bitterness, to leave your taste buds satisfied but your palate fresh."

My companion and I, evidently not discerning enough, simply said "That's quite nice, that" and just drank it down.

The drinks at Hop Lord's come in glasses bearing the bar's logo, and one can order in pints, 2/3 pints, 1/2 pints and 1/3 pints of the various beers on tap.

It is a quirk which actually provides a really nice touch if, say, you are driving and don't want to have a whole pint.

Hop Lord's is the place to be if you want an interesting, unique beer in a relaxing setting.

It is the kind of place where one can comfortably just sit and chat with a friend and while away a few hours.

Despite the 'cozy' size of the bar, it has a surprising amount of space, and there are tables outside for punters to take advantage of.

There is no food on offer at Hop Lord's but it isn't that kind of place, besides, isn't beer basically bread? Who cares about food?

Hop Lord's is a fascinating place, mainly because it shows what is possible with a good idea, good products and the right space.

If it were in a larger unit, I am not sure it would have the same effect, but because of its location and size, tucked away in Pump Street, it feels more special, like a secret few people know about.

I would definitely recommend Hop Lord's to anyone who is a lover of beer, the chances are, you will find something you have never had before and discover a new favourite.

I will definitely be returning to Hop Lord's soon, and encourage you all to try it out.

All hail the Hop Lord!