I VISITED my first brothel last week.

One of the more pleasurable of a reporter's duties is to review pubs, but little did I realise when I volunteered to have a quiet pint at The Goat, that I was visiting what is rumoured to have been the oldest prostitute parlour in St Albans.

Today, however, the establishment carries no reminders of its possibly disreputable past - indeed, it is one of the city's more civilised drinking houses.

The decor resembles the front room of an old-fashioned house, complete with musty books, antique furniture and ancient framed photos.

With soulless chains beginning to dominate the pub market, it's refreshing to experience a tavern of such unique character.

In keeping with its image, The Goat boasts a sophisticated menu, with dishes such as Thai Crab Cakes, Steak, Stilton and Port Pie with Bubble and Squeak, and Fillet Steak. Not your average pub grub.

A comprehensive range of beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks are served. There is a wide variety of games, including an oversized version of Jenga, and newspapers for solo punters.

Staff are laid-back and chatty, ensuring a consistent turnout of regulars every evening. The Goat seems to attract an older crowd, so the atmosphere is more sedate than most of its city centre rivals.

The picturesque pub was built at the end of the 15th Century and is steeped in history. At the height of the coaching age in the late 18th Century, it was known for having the biggest stables in St Albans, with space for 72 horses - but rooms for only 10 people.

In 1921, with horse transport redundant, The Goat slept 54 guests as a common lodging house.

The character of the building has been well preserved and the old carriage arch remains.

If you fancy a quiet drink on a weekday, I'd recommend heading to The Goat at 37 Sopwell Lane for an uneventful but relaxing evening.

CL