Joe, as one who has supped many a pint in England, and Wales over the last 35 years the snug is now an anachronism destroyed by the brewers in thier quest for big open plan pubs.

It was originally a small well furnished snug or parlour bar - deliberatly kept quiet, from the main public (low furnishings traditionally used by working men in working clothes) and saloon bar (better furnishings - seats tables etc) used by couples out for the evening etc.

The snug or parlour still survives, but it is not very common these days.

Before legislation changed the law many Public Bars would not serve woman - particullaly in industrial areas.

Gareth