‘Meat from the farm, fish from the quay’, says a board outside The Staith House – a born-again fishermen’s drinking den by St Shields harbourside. At the helm is John Calton, who had his moment of fame as one of the top three in MasterChef: The Professionals back in 2010. After an extensive refurbishment, the pub has emerged with a blend of urban chic and cosy quirkiness – think industrial-style lights and exposed brickwork, with reclaimed portholes and real ship’s charts adding to the nautical vibe. John cares about produce and sourcing, bakes his own bread and is prepared to go the extra mile. On offer: steamed mussels with ale and kale; roast monkfish with chilli butter and chips; pulled pork with creamed potatoes; pan-roast duck breast with braised barley and salsify; apple and rhubarb crumble with toasted oats. Quiz nights every Monday.