Unicorn Inn, Canterbury

The only place I've ever seen a bar billiards table. It's an odd game: the table has holes in the surface, not the cushions, and there are skittle things which, if you knock them over lose you all your points. I first went in to find out about bar billiards, but went back because it was so friendly and had regulars who were both students and locals.

5 Feb 2005 00:38

The Bishops Finger, Canterbury

Used to be called "The Nun's Delight." Really is essential for any Canterbury pub crawl.

5 Feb 2005 00:30

The Cardinals Hat, Worcester

Fantastic pub. The staff are extremely friendly and efficient in a brisk Austrian manner (almost all are authentic German speakers). The beer is very well kept and plenty strong. The building dates from the 15th century and has some wonderful details, especially the wood panelling in the back room. The owners keep it spotlessly clean - it's the cleanest pub in Worcester by a long, long way. Drinks are expensive, but this doesn't deter the crowd that packs the bar every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night.

If you're up for a real challenge ask for the 5-litre stein. I saw a chap order one once and asked "How long will that take you?"
"The last one took two and a half hours," He grinned.

5 Feb 2005 00:20

The Three Kings Inn, Hanley Castle

A love-it-or-hate-it place. Completely out of step with modern Britain, time seems to have stood still at this country pub for about fifty years. There's no electric till and certainly no jukebox. Log fires in Nell's bar and the tiny Public bar, dartboard in the "Family Room."

Real ale fans will appreciate rotating guest beers. Butcombe (yes, really) is always available and, I think, Guinness. There's also a tap at the bar that says "Carlsberg," but it's bad form to ask for it. My mate tried once. The landlady guffawed and told him to order a man's drink.

Folk gigs happen fairly often and there's a Friday afternoon blues session featuring a number of teachers from the nearby secondary school.

The summer beer festival features well over 50 real ales including some really obscure brews.

The place keeps odd opening hours, closing between lunchtime and the evening. Food takes an eternity to arrive, but is decent when it comes. I adore the Three Kings because it's like stepping into a bygone era. Go there if you want proper beer, a good conversation and no mod cons.

5 Feb 2005 00:02