BITE user comments - Steamer1
Comments by Steamer1
Willy's Pub and Brewery, Cleethorpes
Was heaving on our July Saturday visit and sadly the beer brewed at the rear ran out just as we arrived. We had one of two beers from The Fat Cat Brewery on offer.
3 Jul 2017 08:58
No 1 Refreshment Rooms, Cleethorpes
Was heaving on our July Saturday visit but good selection of ales on including one from Horncastle
3 Jul 2017 08:55
Good solid hostelry serving food in a lovely old building. 4 beers from Adnams and one from Woodfordes on.
28 Jun 2017 18:09
A 12th century pub that succeeds in offering all that one would expect from a pub that old. We had Harbour local micro IPA and some fantastic food. Although they have a lovely garden we chose indoors as the lounge bar oozes character. Highly recommended and has rooms to stay in as well.
17 Jun 2017 18:46
Really good visit to this wonderfully sited pub. I'm guess the general and ordinary will get no farther than the Harbour pub but this is well worth the stroll round to the other side. If you like your real ale, superb fish and tremendous views this is the venue to head for. And it's seriously old too. Beers on were two from Rebel micro and Skinners pale ale.
17 Jun 2017 18:42
Excellent micropub opposite the road to my old school 1966-73; oh how I wish...
Really good selection of real ales and ciders in top notch condition. Free bites like crackers and cheese was very welcome. Highly recommended.
12 Jun 2017 10:09
Absolutely superb quality real ale and cider and convivial atmosphere. Under 10 minutes walk of the station beside the River Cray. Very nice turkey pies. Being a micro pub check opening times.
12 Jun 2017 10:04
The Albion, Kingston Upon Thames
Excellent range of 10 real ales and 5 real ciders. Sister pub to the superb brewpub Antelope in Surbiton.
16 May 2017 22:11
Since our review last September we've returned several times and thoroughly enjoyed their very well kept range of beers from a pale ale through to a black IPA, six on in all plus six trad' ciders. Food's good as well. And a reminder that it is now called THE PICKLED PLUM.
9 May 2017 17:18
Number 22 Alehouse and Canteen, Darlington
A beer lovers paradise. Excellent range of beers across the spectrum from pale ales to stout. All that we tried were in top order. Highly recommended and around 10 minutes walk of the main station.
9 May 2017 17:15
They have now moved to the Polygon (street) in Central Southampton and the new venue is superb, much larger and with the same range of beers which on our visit to see Magenta on 09/04/17 was in excellent condition. Of note is that the front bar is open to the public and although the rear bar is open for gigs the same range of real ales is available in there. A rare event these days is decent ale and music. I shall try and present this as a new entry.
10 Apr 2017 09:32
In our opinion the best (although even this is limited) cask ale choice in Hythe. Bowmans Swift One,Flack Manor Double Drop and Piddle Bent Copper st our visit.
9 Apr 2017 16:11
An excellent brewpub very much in the German hausbrauerei style. Superb range of unfiltered cask ales in an historic building right opposite the ferry dock to the Isle of Wight and Hythe. A brilliant 9.
9 Apr 2017 16:08
Three Horseshoes Inn, Sidlow Bridge
Very happy today with excellent Burning Sky's Plateau and Dark Star Hophead (just a trifle warm) and lovely food. Regulars were all chaps, one giving it max about women drivers luckily my other half and chief driver for the day, so I could imbibe, was in the loo. Otherwise friendly pub and helpful and courteous Czech barlady. Recommended.
1 Apr 2017 19:25
Although Waddies is not my favourite brewery the Horizon here was well kept and there's no getting away from this being another very rateable historical inn in the town. Definitely worth a visit.
29 Mar 2017 07:19
Smart village pub beside the River Avon with lovely riverside terrace. Looks as though it's had a redec' recently. We had an adequate snack lunch and although the beer choice is limited, the Wye Valley Butty Bach was very good. We walked from Pershore across the meadow and riverside. If you get a chance look at the ancient church in the villlage
29 Mar 2017 07:16
Arvon Ale House, Llandrindod Wells
What a superb addition this lovely spa town. A range of 5 real ales from local micro and small breweries as well as 4 superb 'farm ciders'. Great atmosphere. No loud music etc., just people having a good old chinwag. We arrived on a train charter from Eastleigh and Guildford which meant for a long day out, round trip of 500 miles, but the scenery and this pub made it very worthwhile.
19 Mar 2017 11:42
We were recommended this by a friend as we only had time for a quick pint between trains and this pub is only a minute from the station. Although we were the only persons at that moment drinking real ale vs lager the ales were in very goon nick. We had two from Salopian and there was also one on from Three Tuns and Stonehouse.
14 Feb 2017 09:25
Seemingly no change in the lack of real ale from our widow vantage point so we didn't enter. A rarity these days.
8 Feb 2017 08:53
A glimpse into the past. Love it or not your cup of tea this is what the majority of pubs used to be like and it's refreshing to see this one still exists. Most of the beer choice was sadly a bit predictable but we had Hooky Mild which was in good nick. A sop to modern entertainment was a pool table but two chaps were playing cribbage instead....marvellous.
8 Feb 2017 08:51
The Grainstore Brewery, Oakham
Pretty much as BlueScrumpy and Rocky53 have said. I think I too was expecting more from a brewpub but the Osprey was good as was the seasonal stout. Two TV screens on with no one watching (competing with 'spoons?). At least we didn't have to leave until 1 minute before the train was due.
15 Jan 2017 15:58
Arrived just after lunch opening so bit quiet. Just two Steamin Billy beers on but both in extremely good condition. Friendly landlord.
15 Jan 2017 15:53
Agree with Rocky53 and Number11. Nothing much has changed; beers still expensive and the building an absolute gem. beers were Wherry and Adnams and a pale from micro Stoney Ford which was a tad on the warm side as I guess most persons in there were wine and G&T
15 Jan 2017 15:32
So many good things to say about this pub. First thing that hits you is the rarely- used-elsewhere current beer list on a blackboard outside the pub. The choice of beers was excellent, 6 on, 5 of which were from local micro breweries and the quality was very good. We had a snack there which was scrumptious. Both the staff and customers were friendly. The landlady described the many activities that the pub puts on in an evening. As mentioned previously her son runs the Bakers Dozen brewery. When we returned to the pub before departing after our 3 day stay in Stamford his beer was on and was superb. All round, the best pub for our wishes, in Stamford and it gets a rare 9 from us.
15 Jan 2017 10:11
For our tastes the beer choice was disappointing; two by GK, Hobgoblin, Fullers Pride and Wherry but the saviour was Stoney Ford's Sheepmarket Supernova Straw which was superb. Friendly pub. Currently no food as kitchen being worked on.
15 Jan 2017 09:53
The East Lodge has now reopened selling 8 real ales and keg but we couldn't see any trad' ciders. Excellent quality (real) beers.
8 Jan 2017 15:17
Usual stunning ales for Oakham and the (Thai) food was excellent.
8 Jan 2017 15:10
The Grand Union, Westbourne Park
Concur with blue scrumpy here. An excellent range of beers (5 real) from micro breweries as well as one from Fullers that you don't normally see. Friendly landlord, homely pub. And that's in the middle of winter; must be gorgeous in the summer by the canal By the way the name is Union Tavern.
6 Jan 2017 09:02
No plastics on our visit this week, just excellent choice of beers from micro breweries and pork pies to eat. We were as pleased and impressed as our last visit.
25 Dec 2016 22:35
The New Entertainer, Gorleston
Superb pub, lovely atmosphere and great choice of quality ales, many from micro breweries. It was our first time here and we look forward to another visit soon. It was an Lacons pub so look for the Falcon brewery glazing.
25 Dec 2016 22:12
Now owned by Sadler's, a West Midlands Brewery who brew outstanding beers. There were 9 real ales on at our visit. We also ate and the food was very good and lots of it. Called Brewhouse and Barbeque which is slightly misleading in that they don't brew on the premises but the beers really are top notch.
15 Dec 2016 19:36
Now firmly established, Excellent range of 5 beers brewed on the premises, Black IPA to Golden Ale. Very busy and although we didn't eat there were plenty that were.
15 Dec 2016 19:30
Still brilliant for real ale and at the moment selling real cider awaiting the reopening of the East Lodge.
4 Dec 2016 13:28
The Stag on the River, Eashing
Sadly the Shere Drop had sold out leaving rather boring samey beers to sample. The food this time was a big let down. We both wanted a turkey sandwich but this was also sold out and I was recommended a beef steak sandwich whilst my wife chose a salmon sandwich. Mine was stringy and difficult (impossible) to chew whilst my wife bit into a 1" piece of plastic. On complaint the meal was 'replaced' and then later the manager(?) asked if all was ok so we appraised her of the situation. My wife's meal cost was reimbursed, sadly not mine. They were very lucky as if any damage had occurred to my wife's teeth then we would have involved the appropriate authorities and sought damages for any costs. We were doing a 'recci' for a group meal but we are now unlikely to choose this place.
2 Dec 2016 11:48
All the recent reviews have said it all. Marvellous place for the cider drinkers amongst us. Ale choice was a bit ordinary but the Piston Broke I had was in excellent condition.
2 Dec 2016 11:10
Absolutely fantastic choice of four local beers in excellent condition. There are 2 Greene King and 2 GK list guests which we naturally didn't bother with given the aforementioned choice. The best I had was a Long Dog Porter which was superb. The walk from the station was just over 15 minutes but well worth it to what must be the best real ale pub in Farnham. Never thought I'd say that about GK pub as I can't stand their beers.
21 Nov 2016 15:59
Wheat Sheaf Public House, Farnham
Sadly we couldn't eat in the dining part here as they were full on Saturday lunchtime. However we sat up the bar stools where we had a snack. Choose carefully as mine was good value but my wife was more hungry after hers than before. The beer range was pretty good and I was so pleased to see a beer (porter in this case) from a local brewery, Hop Art
21 Nov 2016 15:52
The Shepherd and Flock, Farnham
Disappointing range of four beers that included Courage, Hobgolin and one from Cottage. I don't remember anything local being on. The Courage had a note saying it was he landlord's favourite which perhaps misses the point. This is really just an eatery.
21 Nov 2016 15:46
Excellent free house in a time warp street a few minutes walk of Waterloo station. 8 real ales on, all from small micros and the three we had were on good form.
16 Nov 2016 22:21
Pure Bar and Kitchen, Birmingham
I think it's called Pure Craft Bar and Kitchen. Nearly all the trad beers were Purity but did include a lovely black beer. There was also a beer from Roosters brewery. Very busy and loud on Saturday. A not untypical city centre venue but at least serving decent beer.
16 Nov 2016 22:19
None of their own beers was on real ale but the selection was excellent, 6 handpumps including a black beer. Only just over 5 minutes walk of Shrub Hill station
16 Nov 2016 22:14
The Bull Baiters Inn, Worcester
Excellent micropub on the 'far side' of the river but actually only just over a mile from the railway stations on foot. Superb range of 6 real ales including a porter and unusual small producer ciders and perries. Recommended
16 Nov 2016 22:12
The Thornbury Castle, Marylebone
Absolutely superb pub less than 5 minutes walk of Marylebone station. 5 real ales on from micros and a small regional ranging from pale ale to stout and all in top notch condition. Highly recommended.
16 Nov 2016 22:00
At last a rewarding visit to this wetherspoons. The beer during their beer fest was on good form and there was a distinct lack of the usual element.
17 Oct 2016 18:24
Everyone raves about the 'Voly' but although we have tried a few times we still cant get excited about it. We remember the days of Burts Brewery and it was an absolute must for us in those days. We went this weekend on the occasion of the Beer and Buses weekend but were disappointed to find all the beers bar one were from Heineken Caledonian Brewery with very similar styles. With so many different beers listed to be available over the weekend I guess we were unlucky.
17 Oct 2016 18:03
The Old Village Inn, Bembridge
and return we did on the occasion of the Beer and Buses weekend, had really good food and Black Gold from Cairngorm Brewery. A great idea especially for those like us who had breakfasted in a hotel was doing half size roast dinners which was still ample
17 Oct 2016 17:52
Excellent micropub which joined in with the Beer and Buses weekend> We had a golden ale brewed on the Island and a porter and delicious pork pie. Great atmosphere. Highly recommended.
17 Oct 2016 17:49
NOW FULLY OPEN. We went on the occasion of the Beer and Buses weekend and the staff were great and the beers from Yates, Plain and Upham were on good form. Recommended.
17 Oct 2016 17:43
Revisited yesterday and their range of beers is expanding and included a stout and German Altbier. Food is basic pub grub and very good.
10 Oct 2016 18:46
The Wight Bear Ale House, Southbourne
Just revisited and again an excellent range of real ales and ciders
10 Oct 2016 18:42
Excellent micropub in an interesting location on the quay opposite the ship loading area. Features micro breweries such as Eight Arch and Burning Sky.
10 Oct 2016 18:40
Superb quality real ale and cider. paulaledrinker is right, we didn't want to leave. Allow 15 minutes to walk from Central station.
10 Oct 2016 16:47
Due to Tescos to whom they supply a lot of bottles banning tours one has to be content with looking at the brewery through a window from the bar/reception area. We went on a group visit and the welcome was superb as was the food and jugs of beers.
3 Oct 2016 22:41
The address seems all wrong for the county (Lincolnshire) and the post code (PE24?)
3 Oct 2016 22:13
Brilliant local where the 'residents' made us southerners right at home. Excellent beers from micros and on the night we went the landlady was handing free beer samples... honest.
3 Oct 2016 22:10
The Crown and Mitre, Kings Lynn
Opens at 6pm for some superb beer and wonderful food. Very grumpy landlord just like the good old days and just like back then, we were having a great old chat after a while. Highly recommended for watching the sunset over the River Great Ouse
3 Oct 2016 22:08
A very small bar just off the main street but was disappointing in having a tv on and very poor beer quality. However it was changed to a much better one. Both were from Welsh micros.
26 Sep 2016 16:10
The Old Market Hall, Caernarfon
Apology as my machine was having a huge delay in loading. Please ignore previous submission. The correct info for The Old Market Hall is as follows. This is a newly opened micro brewery in the centre of Caernarfon. The place is huge and is currently still under restoration but is a real treat. If possible try and get a tour of the cellars and underground passages; you'll be amazed. The beers were a mix of ones brewed on the premises and others from Big Bog brewery. Really quirky and highly recommended.
26 Sep 2016 16:08
The Old Market Hall, Caernarfon
An excellent free house in the centre of Caernarfon. It's a lovely old building, does good food and is proud of their micro brewery beers brewed in Wales
26 Sep 2016 16:00
Peculiarly situated at the rear of the Kings Head hence the address is this brewpub/microbrewery tap for Bridgnorth Brewery. A full range of beers is available with seating inside and outside in the courtyard. In our opinion the best beer we had in the town.
26 Sep 2016 15:43
Looks can be deceiving as we went in and found a really good range of beers including our all time favourite, Hophead from Dark Star and was in as good condition as back home. Highly recommended
22 Sep 2016 22:49
Lovely old but tired hotel. The beers were national except one brewed by the local Pershore Brewery for the hotel but wasn't to our taste. Although the hotel need serious TLC the bar area is a delight apart from the pointless TV displaying the news with the sound down (thank goodness)
22 Sep 2016 22:46
The Snowdonia Parc Free House, Waunfawr
We were lucky enough to be there on beer fest weekend featuring their full range of 12 beers. Agree with Rocky53 that the beers are a bit malty but the stout and gold scored high.
22 Sep 2016 22:39
Lovely friendly homely place with at least one or two local beers on. Really good food. Sadly the beer we had wasn't in good condition. Hopefully it was just a one off occasion as the barman was very enthusiastic about his Welsh beers.
22 Sep 2016 22:32
Lovely old inn serving good food and local beers. In our case we had ones Great Orme brewery and Bragdy Heavy Industry.
22 Sep 2016 20:37
The seating is a bit regimented but the beer was local, both from Purple Moose. About a mile from Porthmadog 'big railway' station and a mile and half to two miles from the narrow gauge station. Very pretty old market square
22 Sep 2016 20:35
Really lively local on the 'big railway' platform where we had one of our best pints (of Purple Moose) in Porthmadog.
22 Sep 2016 20:27
My first visit here and was stunned to find a locally brewed mild. Well done Australia. Owned by a consortium of local breweries so hopefully no dreaded Doom Bar here. Highly recommended.
22 Sep 2016 20:23
It's a great location virtually on the platform of the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways but the quality of beer was not to what it should have been. I think we were unlucky in a few times getting the bottom of the cask. The food quantities are enormous so go hungry.
22 Sep 2016 20:19
Hugely disappointing visit encouraged in by a blackboard stating home brewed beers amongst others. We had the HPA which wasn't in good condition and as we finished the beer was taken off, great. No one came to check if the beer we had just been sold was alright. Shame as our visit a year or so ago had been memorable for all the right reasons.
22 Sep 2016 20:15
Definitely worth a visit although the Pardoes wasn't on top form. However the food is brilliant. We followed up with beers at the Stable Bar behind; see separate entry.
22 Sep 2016 19:59
The Weavers Real Ale House, Kidderminster
Second visit to this brilliant pub. The range of ales made us return the following day and we received CAMRA discount.
22 Sep 2016 19:46
Nice little pub that now brews its own beers under the Hop and Stagger label. The triple hop IPA was very good.
22 Sep 2016 19:44
The Railwaymans Arms, Bridgnorth
Brilliant as ever and a delightful place to sit on the bench on the platform in the early evening watching the locos going on shed. Superb quality beers.
22 Sep 2016 19:42
OK pub but nothing special but probably the pick of the bunch. We had Red Rock brewery Devon Coast.
22 Sep 2016 16:23
Very poor beer quality on our visit this time. Very convenient for Temple Meads station
22 Sep 2016 16:20
Absolutely superb micropub selling local beers on gravity. Bus 70/71 gets you near. The pub is close to Ashton Gate footie ground
22 Sep 2016 16:14
Bit of a shame there was only one other customer and the beer choice was not great, just the one local but it was in good nick.
22 Sep 2016 16:01
Watch the opening times of the excellent tap room where the beers can be enjoyed amongst the conditioning tanks. Superb stout.
22 Sep 2016 15:54
Totnes Brewing Company, Totnes
After our experience in Newton abbot this brewpub was a very good experience. Only gripe was their own beer was a bit on the high gravity. Def recommend a visit and I am not a bearded hipster and have loved real ale for 45 years
22 Sep 2016 15:51
We were really looking forward to visiting here being fans of railway and brewpubs but the ales were very disappointing in quality and lack of taste.
22 Sep 2016 15:47
Luckily no tele on when we visited. We return from year to year and this is still one of THE places to visit in the whole country. Absolutely wonderful from the real cider to the pies and rolls and the great atmosphere.
22 Sep 2016 15:43
Tombstone Saloon Bar, Great Yarmouth
Brilliant brewpub close to the river and town centre. A breath of fresh air to the real ale scene here. Nine ales here from the brewery at the rear and other local micros. On sale is a new ring bound book on brewing in the town. Highly recommended all round.
23 Aug 2016 15:38
An absolute must being the tap for next door Thurstons brewery. It's a couple of miles from Woking station but a walk along the canal towpath can account for most of that and can be a pleasant outing. Other brewery beers are available but being a punch tavern are not as adventurous as we would have liked. But the Thurstons is excellent.
20 Aug 2016 07:33
Visited here on a group outing and thought it a lovely place with well cared for ales mainly with a local slant like Hogs Back and Long Man which we had. Highly recommended.
20 Aug 2016 07:26
Still going well with a variety of real ales including local Ascot Ales. A new towpath has been built from the Guildford (old) bypass joining up with the existing towpath from Guildford town centre making a cycle or stroll out here for a beer beside the river a pleasant experience.
20 Aug 2016 07:22
The Jolly Farmers, Great Yarmouth
Returned on a family visit. On asking for Ghost Ship the bar lady said it had just run out but went to the cellar and changed the cask then and there. In our experience this sadly rarely happens so the pub has gained even more respect. Needless to say the beer was on good condition. Others available were Doombar and local Wherry.
20 Aug 2016 06:58
Totally agree with lezford, an excellent real ale exhibition where we were spoilt for choice and wish we had longer but our steam train to London wasn't going to wait for us. The beer was top condition. Less than 10 minutes walk of the station.
16 Aug 2016 12:26
Chesterfield Arms, Chesterfield
Totally agree with Number 11. Excellent choice of beers from micros and in good condition. Just past Holy Trinity Church where rail enthusiasts should pay respects to George Stephenson who is buried inside.
16 Aug 2016 12:20
Chesterfield Alehouse, Chesterfield
Another brilliant example of a micropub half a mile of the railway station and a few minutes west of the market square just beyond the impressive town hall. A full range of ales on from light and hoppy through to porter and stout. Highly recommended.
16 Aug 2016 12:13
Very busy town centre pub. A lot of people eating what looked like substantial portions. Not all of the 8 real ales were on due to the numbers of customers. Having said that we had take our first choice back as it was just on the turn i.e. approaching the end of the cask. Without question it was changed for our second choice but the beer was continued to be served to other customers gradually getting more and more opaque until it was finally sludge and only then was the pumpclip turned round. This is an extremely bad practice, whether it be a one-off or in general as it could put a new customer to real ale off for life. The beer was one we normally like a lot, Leeds Pale and the replacement of Titanic Plum Porter was fine.
16 Aug 2016 12:10
Good for just a drink or food from their posh menu (book). Only gripe was a lack of a dark beer with 3 out of the 4 real ales very similar in style. Probably the best pub in the village.
3 Aug 2016 16:41
The Blacksmiths Arms, Lastingham
Gosh this place was busy for a Sunday at 4pm with eaters but also a few drinkers outside. There was a choice of 4 real ales of which two were from Sonnet brewery, a pale and a milk stout...marvellous. An idyllic country pub
3 Aug 2016 16:38
An excellent micropub which follows the excellent recipe of snacks, decent range of local beers and no tele. 6 beers on including one brewed on the premises. Marked down slightly as the beers were too warm; we were first in on a Sunday lunch. Very convenient for the railway station.
3 Aug 2016 16:27
Visiting this pub with friends last weekend it was all about the beer and there were four guests on with 2 regulars as well an adventurous range of real ciders. Excellent pub with a community feel about it. Def worth the walk from the town centre.
3 Aug 2016 16:19
The Bowling Green in Otley, Otley
One of the better 'spoons we've been to with no rowdies and a good selection (4)of local real beers and sighted front of bar instead of hidden away like in some of the chain. Had the Ossett Sizzler which was in good condition.
3 Aug 2016 16:09
Appears to be a crazy low mark out of 10 for this pub which was totally at odds with our experience. Great atmosphere and a choice of 9 or 10 real ales from the wide local area and ranging from light and hoppy to porter. Happy to give this an 8 (8.5 if they did halves)
3 Aug 2016 16:06
Amazing no one has reported on this pub for 5 years but maybe that's because nothing seems to have changed from the in depth reports previously. Anyway excellent choice of 6 beers from local to far flung and a stunning range of real ciders as well.
3 Aug 2016 16:00
The Black Bull in Paradise, Masham
Visited whilst doing an excellent brewery tour conducted ably conducted by one of the ladies there. I tried one of the season beers and an Old Peculiar which came within the tour price.
3 Aug 2016 15:56
The Saxon Bear Ale House, Christchurch
This is a sister micropub to the Wight Bear in Southbourne and offers a similar range of local independent beers and congenial atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit. Once you've found the shopping centre it's on the main road by the roundabout just by the pedestrian underpass.
3 Aug 2016 09:40
The Stapleton Arms, Gillingham
Excellent village community local with 3 local ales on. Good food. Lovely village. Definitely worth turning off the A30 or A303 for between Gillingham and Templecombe.
26 Jul 2016 17:59
Not my choice of venue. They make a big thing about supporting local beers and ciders but the only local beer was a Hunters at 5%+ . Very busy on a Saturday evening but not with people drinking trad beers and ciders. Shan't go back. Having said that we didn't see anywhere else promising in Honiton.
26 Jul 2016 17:56
I haven't been for years as one of the previous owners post Big Al put me off by trying to make it a total food experience rather than a mix. The people there now seem to have got it spot on and on a Thursday lunch it was busy and the Hophead was delicious. Choice of ales from Dark Star, Flower Pots, Hop Back, Palmers, Oakleaf and Oakham.
21 Jul 2016 22:23
Shame we had to wait til 5pm for it to open leaving just a few minutes to grab an excellent Fat Pig beer and head for the nearby station to catch the train home to S.E. England. Excellent place.
18 Jul 2016 16:59
Fell into here on our way to the Rusty Bike. Good selection of ales on gravity. As BoehmBawerk says it's a couple of minutes walk of the Central station platforms at the eastern end. Definitely worth dropping in and we shall return next time we're in Exeter.
18 Jul 2016 16:56
An uncharacterful micropub but with some excellent beer choice. Although it was advertised as doing food they didn't so we bought a couple of pasties and ate them in the pub (with permission).
18 Jul 2016 16:37
Great atmosphere helped by the wonderful bar lady. 3 ales all brewed on the premises as is their gin distillery and the trad' cider is theirs as well. Excellent blues music.
18 Jul 2016 16:34
We thought we'd come back here for old times sake but it's definitely lost that atmosphere it had as a free hours before Youngs. The food on offer was generally a bit heavy for a hot summers day. The Pork Pie was fine. We had a dryish farm cider and one of the (only) 3 ales on offer. Due to there only being one light one on I resorted to having one of the so-called Youngs beers which is no longer even a brewery, just a pub owning company. Shame as we had great memories of the DL and given it's location it should be stunning.
18 Jul 2016 16:31
Is now a BREWHOUSE AND KITCHEN which brews a substantial range of beers on the premises and does food as well.
12 Jul 2016 11:28
The Wight Bear Ale House, Southbourne
Absolutely superb range of beers and trad' ciders in top notch quality. Would love this as my local. 10 minutes walk of Pokesdown station.
12 Jul 2016 11:25
We returned to have an evening meal last Saturday and the place was buzzing. A cricket match was being played on the village green and the pub was full of customers which was great to see. Beers were Hop Art Blonde, Dark Star Hophead, Hogs Back TEA, and Sharps Doomed Beer. Food was fairly good but not stunning. Only one veggie option for my friend.
4 Jul 2016 22:38
Excellent real ale showcase. On the bar were Woodfordes Reedlighter and Bure Gold, Ubu Purity, Hop Back Summer Lightning, and Grain 316 which was superb. Food is available but check times. As Blue Scumpy says it a lovely spot by the river and ancient bridge and for us only 10 minutes walk of the railway station and will be our point of call between trains in future.
29 Jun 2016 17:59
Absolutely wonderful to find Lacons brewery beers on the bar. We had Hoptrick which was in superb condition. It's only 10 minutes walk of the preserved railway station and it was such a shame to see so few customers. They also do food all day. The landlord deserves better from the ale drinkers out there.
29 Jun 2016 17:54
The Jolly Farmers, Great Yarmouth
We went twice over the weekend and were impressed how this village local is turning into an excellent community pub. Beers on were Adnams Ghost Ship and Broadside and Doombar. We had the Ghost Ship which was in very good condition. Food is served as well but check for times. On Friday night there must have been 80 customers and there was a great atmosphere.
29 Jun 2016 17:49
Under new ownership as of last week. Only two real ales on but both Surrey Hills and Long Man were in good shape. Once the new people have settled in hopefully the range will be restored.
7 Jun 2016 16:12
North Riding Hotel, Scarborough
Excellent choice of beers from the brewery within the pub, their associated brewery the other side of Scarborough and a selection from other breweries. The main bar was heaving. Very jolly. It's about 20 minutes walk of the railway station and afterwards a couple minutes of the beautiful North Bay.
7 Jun 2016 16:09
Now owned by local Donnington brewery and serves three of their beers of which we had the Gold which was in good fettle. We ate there and the food was excellent. Very convenient for the adjacent steam railway.
1 Jun 2016 15:39
Friendly high street brewpub. The beers were a bit too malty for us but lovely old building and there was a trad cider handpull as well.
1 Jun 2016 15:37
Really busy on this Saturday lunchtime but excellent service for beers and food. There were 5 trad beers and 3 trad ciders on and we had beers from local(ish) breweries, Salopian and Wye Valley. The building is rambling and gorgeous. Well worth a visit to it and the village.
1 Jun 2016 15:32
The pub should have a higher rating but appears to struggle to get the customers. As the Thatched Tavern weren't doing food we ate here and it was very good and we enjoyed a pint of Purity Mad Goose. Only the one trad beer on though.
1 Jun 2016 15:28
Seems it may be under new management or tenancy and the restaurant is being rebuilt. Amongst the Greene King ales which we don't like was a beer from Exeter brewery which was excellent. It was a pity to see the next 'guest' was to be another Greene King beer. The place was friendly and we look forward to returning when the restaurant is up and running but only if a micro brewery beer is available.
1 Jun 2016 15:24
Lovely spot overlooking Ventnor bay. Initial disappointment seeing 1 Marstons and 3 Ringwoods but then saw 2 Isle of Wight beers, namely Sunfire from Yates and one from Goddards. We had the Yates and it was in good condition.
17 Apr 2016 18:59
Excellent vibrant local. We visited on a Sunday afternoon. Bass and Longman American Pale Ale on, I had the latter which was in good condition. Also available was a trad cider. Check website for meal times.
17 Apr 2016 18:47
The Devonshire Arms, Cambridge
I used to really rate Milton Brewery beers and used to frequent the Pembury Tavern in London. The quality of the beer at the Devonshire was good but the beers didn't excite which I know is personal preference. However both the Ladies and Gents were a disgrace verging on a health risk. Sort it Milton. My wife refuses to step back into the place. I suppose that's expressing a personal preference as well.
19 Mar 2016 10:32
The Express Tavern, Kew Bridge
I didn't realise this place was part of the same group that includes the excellent Antelope. This place is even better even though it doesn't brew it's own beers. No matter, the choice of real ales and real ciders was staggering, many from micros and the quality was spot on. Food was brilliant as well. The pub was busy, service excellent and it's highly recommended
19 Mar 2016 09:42
Two of theirs on yesterday which I didn't find that exciting but we were told that two others came from the same brewer under the Clouded Minds Brewery of Warwickshire name. The Golden was really good . Superb coal fire in the middle of the pub gives this pub a wonderful atmosphere.
19 Mar 2016 09:35
Brilliant stout and black IPA on yesterday. Didn't think the pales were that good though. Still a great venue now
19 Mar 2016 09:30
New people have taken over. The only thing lacking was customers. The food was excellent in quality and quantity and there were three ales, one from St Austell and two from Surrey Hills including the rarely found Ranmore Ale. Between the four of us we sampled all and they were in top noch condition. On the food side we had tiger prawns and then steak pie/a vegetarian flan/fish and chips and puds. No complaints. I wish the new people well and hope they keep some local beers on and don't get persuaded into main steam nationals like DoomBar. They must niche themselves and don't become like all the competition
21 Feb 2016 18:23
Drove past yesterday and I think there was a notice on the gate indicating the place had closed down. I hope I'm wrong but that's the way it looked
31 Jan 2016 17:49
Yes ok it has taken us a while to return but we were disappointed on Saturday's visit to find the place is closing and being converted to student accommodation. The live music venue is moving to The Maple Leaf The Polygon near Central station. Lets hope the choice of beers goes with them.
17 Jan 2016 19:11
The Butchers Hook, Southampton
We loved this place. We had walked from Central station so needed a pint or 3. All four ales were on and a broad selection from light and hoppy to a porter. Also were 3 ciders including a delicious scrumpy style from Hampshire. It was a great atmosphere and not too busy at 5pm on a Saturday. It wouldn't take much for it to get crowded but hey it's a micro-pub. Just shows what a lot of these big pubs owned by national and pub owning companies are missing.....the knowledge of what customers want not what the accountants want us to have. Great place, highly recommended but try to go at less obvious times of day. Check for varied opening times
17 Jan 2016 19:00
Really interesting pub with an enormous brewery in the back room. Only one of their own brews on handpull but 3 others from other breweries along with trad ciders. I'd like to see more of their own on real but another great place to visit in Acton.
11 Jan 2016 11:24
Definitely worth going to and the coming soon board promised three different porters all brewed in the pub
11 Jan 2016 11:21
Just paid another visit and the choice of ales was excellent from a citra to a black ipa and a stout.
4 Jan 2016 14:10
Powder Keg Diplomacy, Battersea
Not my usual sort of venue but I quite liked this as there was a good mix of bistro bar set up but offering 3 real ales, two of which were right up my street being dark. Not the usual boring ones either, two of the breweries were new to me and the third was Dark Star with which you cant go wrong.
4 Jan 2016 14:04
What a find. Absolutely superb. Excellent range of real ales, not the boring main stream but a milk stout, Greensand IPA, Hackney Golden and others. Friendly atmosphere, a real community pub.
4 Jan 2016 14:00
An absolutely delightful brewery tap for Brightwater brewery which is situated elsewhere in the village. The pub was the former coal office for the adjacent Claygate station and is probably the smallest pub in the UK. There is only (just) standing room within but plenty of chairs, tables and a heated gazebo for inclement days is provided. The beers on offer when we went were two light ones from Brightwater and a milk stout from Twickenham all of which were in exceptionally good condition. The brewer operates both the brewery and the pub so the latter has limited opening times to Thursday 12 to 9.30pm, Friday 3 to 9.30pm, Saturday 1.30 to 9.30pm, and Sunday Noon to 6pm. Phone number is 01372 462334, 01372 462995, 07802 316389. Apart from crisps there's obviously no food served but apparently the nearby Kebab shop is excellent
21 Dec 2015 17:26
Quite a surprise as often station outlets are a bit samey but this one is excellent. It's in the old luggage storeroom and serves 3 real ales which on our visit were from Harveys, the excellent Brighton Bier brewery and Long Man brewery. Definitely worth a visit; located to the east side near platform 7
15 Dec 2015 15:33
Now is called the Brighton Beer Dispensary, a collaboration between Late Knights and Brighton Bier breweries who both produce some stunning ales. Alongside these the pub also sells beers from other micro breweries giving a full range to suit all tastes. This is a real enthusiasts pub and is very close to the Churchill Square shopping centre. We loved it.
13 Dec 2015 15:30
Good range of unusual local real ales. Good buzzy atmosphere. Virtually under the station.
13 Dec 2015 15:22
Always go here when visiting. Lovely old fashion pub with good food and full range of Harveys including Old on our visit. Just a few yards from the station.
13 Dec 2015 15:19
Reasonable choice of local real ales in excellent condition just north of the shopping centre. Beware of odd opening hours.
13 Dec 2015 15:15
Slightly more ordinary choice than we had experienced with some other pubs in the town but they had Long Man American Pale Ale so what more could one ask for. Great atmosphere, friendly and hard working staff. We didn't eat but it seemed to do food.
13 Dec 2015 15:13
An excellent pub in possible contrast to some of the others in Brading. This is in the High Street, has friendly owners, roaring log fire, excellent food, and local ale. We have immediately put this on the list to return to when we cross from the mainland once more.
7 Dec 2015 14:49
Absolutely gorgeous thatched inn within sight of the sea. Excellent, imaginative food and friendly owners. We went on a special bus day where the owners had got an extra cask of ale and in fact had three on from the Isle of Wight. Highly recommended.
7 Dec 2015 14:44
Decent freehouse with an emphasis on food but has a few real ales including ones from Brandon and Wolf breweries as well as Adnams I think. Pretty hamlet. big carpark.
7 Dec 2015 14:38
Excellent food just a sad choice of ales...Doomed Beer yawn and TEA. But if the punters are coming in because the food is so good then maybe they don't need to worry.
24 Nov 2015 15:28
Seems it's all change here. Excellent welcome and the sight of 4 real ales including Dark Star Hophead and Hop Back's stout, open fire's going in both rooms, separate dining area...we'll eat next time. Yes this pub now deserves a far higher rating due to the recent metamorphosis
24 Nov 2015 15:25
The Railway Arms, Downham Market
I think we were unlucky as there was only one real beer on and that was a lager at the bottom of the cask. However we had ciders of which there was a great choice and the landlord was excellent in seeking out one that suited us. Beware of funny opening times as it's often shut early afternoon and only open right through all day on Saturday. Best ring to check.
10 Nov 2015 14:01
Now called the Wellington. We were really looking forward to the beer here but were disappointed with what was available. Both were ruby/red beers, the former from Belhaven, a shame when there are so many good breweries a little nearer like Lacons in Great Yarmouth. We had our evening meal here but the dining room is sterile with no atmosphere.
10 Nov 2015 13:55
Now called the Draymans Son and is an excellent showcase for local micro breweries and farm ciders. A short walk of the station. rather good pork pies and other snack food. Very friendly; deserves to do well.
10 Nov 2015 13:48
Beer choice seems to have dramatically improved since my last visit as well as a restaurant built on the rear. Food was very good. We dislike Greene King products but their rare Dark Mild is a classic and this pub sells it. This pub and Draymans Son (ex Liberty Belle) are the only two worth seeking out in Ely in my opinion.
10 Nov 2015 12:55
Gosh this place is unbelievable. So many beers on, 30 I think and at £3 a pint. Friends and us tried a lot and all were spot on. One of THE must visit places for beer in the whole country. I don't remember giving a place a 10 before.
10 Nov 2015 12:47
paul_d102 says it all. A must to visit near the castle. I was really pleased to get a beer from Lacons from Great Yarmouth for the first time and very good it was too.
10 Nov 2015 12:42
St Andrews Brew House, Norwich
Great to find a brewpub in the heart of Norwich. 3 of their own beers on including a porter. Good food as well.
10 Nov 2015 12:39
Although the food is all Thai the beer choice and quality was good. We had one from Lincolnshire and one from Japan both on handpull. Can't get much more eclectic than that.
10 Nov 2015 12:37
Cosy old pub. Needed a few more drinkers vs v diners and the beers were a bit Marstons-ish i.e. samey but the Newby Wyke beer was excellent. Just the one micro brewery beer I think.
10 Nov 2015 12:33
Gosh this is an enormous place that's going to take a lot of looking after. On sale were Hobgoglin, Crop Circle, GK ipa, Padigree and a local Brandon ale. Only 3 other customers, two of them glued to the ads on the tele, I wish them well, I hope it gets busier. Very short walk of Brandon station on Norwich to Ely line
10 Nov 2015 11:30
The banner announcing a mini beer fest was enough to tempt us back but judging by their usual 'range' of real ales I expected the worse but couldn't have been more wrong. Only 10 casks but a good range of styles from light to black and from unusual breweries. Shame it the stillage was in the dining room (the old public bar, where all the tables were laid for dinner on Friday night. Well done Star in Witley; I hope the next two days of the fest went well. If there were just two or three of those beers available regularly we would return as many times as we used to but with Doom Bar and another national beer on which seem to be widely available in other pubs in the area we regrettably are not drawn back.
1 Nov 2015 12:31
Having lived in Petts Wood from 1960 to 1973 how I wish this sort of place had existed then but that was then and this is now. This micropub is wonderful; fantastic atmosphere, lots of people chatting (no music or machines) and a blackboard menu of 6 real ales (no lager) which was ever changing. Friendly, enthusiastic and hard working bar staff and owners. Quite superb. To find it walk up the 'stub end' of Petts Wood Road toward the railway line where the shops etc are in 1960s buildings vs v 1930s further down. PS Great pork pies and cheeses.
1 Nov 2015 12:17
Excellent food and Skinners ale. Lots of Sharps beers which don't interest me but the Skinners was excellent. Lovely spot overlooking the estuary. Look to previous comment for how to find it or go to the riverside and turn left and enter through the "back door".
25 Oct 2015 23:02
The Old Village Inn, Bembridge
Our experience couldn't have been more different to the last report. Wonderful welcome, superb quality beers including two black beers and convivial atmosphere. This is an island pub to return to.
18 Oct 2015 16:02
Sad to say we used to rate this pub as one of the best on the island but on Saturday we walked in and straight out. All the tables appeared covered with table cloths at 4pm and the beers apart from Goddards were not to our liking (I think were only two the other being Doom Bar or something similar that is available almost everywhere.)
18 Oct 2015 15:39
Idyllic spot but the music was too loud for us to chat. Boring Doom Bar and a couple of big regional beers on offer alongside two from Yates for the bus weekend.
18 Oct 2015 15:34
Devonshire Arms, Burton-Upon-Trent
Excellent tied house for Burton Bridge brewery with excellent choice of beers and quality was good. Pork pies. Good atmosphere.
8 Oct 2015 18:42
The Coopers Tavern, Burton-Upon-Trent
Our first return visit for 25 years when it did just Bass. It's a gem and now serves a variety of beers and styles.
8 Oct 2015 18:33
The Burton Bridge Inn, Burton-Upon-Trent
An absolute visit on visiting Burton. We came here first in the early 1980s just after the brewery opened. Lots of little bars and parlours. Food. Blackboard menu for the wide variety of beers.
8 Oct 2015 18:30
The Borough Arms, Burton upon Trent
Agreed the quality wasn't top notch but there was a reasonable choice of styles and the location next to the railway station will hopefully attract customers.
8 Oct 2015 18:27
Old Cottage Tavern, Burton on Trent
An excellent back street local now as the tap for nearby Burton Old Cottage brewery. Still only 5 minutes or so from the railway station.
8 Oct 2015 18:23
Very friendly pub within view of the railway station. Unless you're that way inclined best to miss match days and when the footie is on the large TV screens it is very noisy. Beer choice was average...too much GK for me...but the Trumans we had was excellent.
8 Oct 2015 18:20
Weighbridge Brewhouse, Swindon
Situated in the old weighbridge for the Great Western Loco works is this brewpub that until recently was the brewery and stores for Archers brewery. The beers, brewed on the premises, are good and the restaurant looks very stylish. The location is west of the old works, now a designer shopping mall and museum, and north of the main line to Bristol. Walking time form Swindon station for us was 20 minutes.
28 Sep 2015 22:19
A welcome addition to the sparse micro brewery beers scene in Swindon. It's quite a walk (20 minutes) to the south of the station but well worth it. The micro pub used to be a provisions store and now dispenses an excellent range of micro brewery real ales including on our visit a stout.
28 Sep 2015 22:11
Superb re-addition to the real ale scene near the station. With 3 Guineas now a Fullers this will now be our choice for between trains stop in Reading. It's less than 5 minutes walk; turn right from the main station exit and down the slope and it's straight ahead. Very interesting range of 6 beers, including a stout. Highly recommended.
27 Sep 2015 11:00
Beautiful building in the lovely hilltop district of Swindon. Thought the beer choice uninspiring like the ubiquitous Doom beer.
27 Sep 2015 10:49
A Saturday afternoon visit produced an enjoyable time with good service and one of the best choices of Hop Back beers and Downton guests I've seen in their (HP) pubs. Very helpful blackboard beer listing with descriptions. Historical location in the Great Western Railway village built for the workers at the adjacent loco works
27 Sep 2015 10:47
A marvellous and welcome addition to the real ale scene in Carlisle. It is sited within 5 minutes walk of the station. There are 15+ ales on handpull, many from the local area and from micro breweries. Seating and tables are basic and I don't think food was available but there are plenty of places closeby offering that. It's a showcase for Cumbrian beers, has a great atmosphere and we think it's brilliant. Watch (out) for live music I guess on weekend nights.
23 Sep 2015 21:37
The Weavers Real Ale House, Kidderminster
Absolutely fantastic ale choice in this "micro pub". Some snacks available but food can brought in; convenient chippy next door. Just what Kiddy needed as far as I'm concerned a s a lover of the micro brewery scene.
22 Sep 2015 16:22
First time here. Reasonable choice of local real ales. Very busy and foody when we went but it was the adjacent steam railway's gala. Nice terrace overlooking the valley. Def worth a visit if t the Severn Valley Railway.
22 Sep 2015 16:19
The Railwaymans Arms, Bridgnorth
Still the same (except the price has gone up a bit) as alexw two years ago and still on this occasion a lot better than the one on Kiddy station. Wonderful place
22 Sep 2015 16:16
The Great Western, Wolverhampton
First time here and won't be the last. Great atmosphere and beers with emphasis on Holdens and Bathams but with guests. No music or machines, lots of chatter. Pork pies. Exit via main entrance of Wolverhampton station then turn sharp right and head for subway right to end then turn right alongside old Low Level station and pub will be at end by railway bridge.
22 Sep 2015 12:43
Still an excellent place. A near-bottom of cask beer was changed immediately for another of the 5 ales available with a range of styles. Lovely spot as well in the village.
23 Jul 2015 20:49
Quite a few ales from the Marstons range but for me all very samey and boring. Pretty pub though. Watch out for strange opening/closing times
23 Jul 2015 20:45
Stops doing food at 2pm and the beer selection was at best unimaginative and at worst boring. I encountered so many small producers in Yorkshire producing fantastic beers a pub like this could niche themselves with local beers to go with their local food.
23 Jul 2015 20:42
I was expecting great things but was very disappointed by the national look to the beer selection, menu and surroundings. A better choice of beers would have helped.
23 Jul 2015 20:37
Apart from The Chequers micro pub this in my opinion is the only other one worth going to if you like your real ale. Big selection form near and further away.
23 Jul 2015 20:34
What an oasis this place is. At last five beers from small breweries and across the spectrum from light to porter. Felt at home with a nice bunch of customers. In all but one of the other pubs in Beverley the range of beers was largely the same and showed no imagination. Those pubs weren't busy and are all in competition with each so why don't they try something different. Probably because they're told they can't. And pubs are closing; what a surprise. The Chequers was really buzzing.
23 Jul 2015 20:30
Lovely little local with interesting historical photographs. Three beers on but choice a bit disappointing with just one local, Buffy's, on.
11 Jul 2015 11:21
Mariners Tavern, Great Yarmouth
Excellent choice of beers. I had a porter from White Horse brewery. Only gripe was a lack of locally brewed beers
11 Jul 2015 11:19
Absolutely stunning range of trad beers in historical surroundings. A must to visit in the city centre.
11 Jul 2015 11:05
Midland Hotel, Appleby in Westmorland
I think this used to be a Marstons pub but now appears free of tie and serves local real ales. It has been possibly modernised a bit too much for our taste but the beer was excellent and that's what matters the most. Not convenient for the town centre but very convenient for the railway station, being the "station inn".
11 Jul 2015 11:04
A new brewpub near the city centre. Excellent beers and basic food like pizzas. Recommended
11 Jul 2015 11:01
Absolutely superb venue with lots of variety in ales and in excellent condition. Also one of the rare pubs in Leeds to do evening meals which got us out of a problem a couple of times. Located in a back street in City centre a few minutes of the railway station.
16 Jun 2015 11:48
Excellent olde worlde pub with interesting choice of ales and ciders and well informed staff.
9 Jun 2015 12:33
Excellent buzzing pub. Lots of choice of local beers missing perhaps a stout or porter.
9 Jun 2015 12:31
Excellent evening. The staff are so good. Beer choice was Taylors Landlord, Rev James from Brains and the winner for me, Andwells Gold Muddler. Beer quality was good and the food comes in large portions. Very historic place and full of character and people!
22 May 2015 22:26
On a tour of 5 Rye pubs this was head and shoulders above the rest. We absolutely loved it. All the beers were local; we had two from Tonbridge and one from Hastings all in excellent condition. The staff were so friendly and welcoming I could have stayed there all evening. We ate as well; the pizzas are great. The inn is on the opposite side of the railway tracks to the town and this makes it easy to park and for us was just over 5 minutes walk from the station. Highly recommended.
20 May 2015 17:34
Service was awful but they had Longman IPA on so they can't be all bad. There was a guest ale on but the staff didn't know whose or what it was.
20 May 2015 17:26
A lovely quirky pub adjacent to the Gun Garden with tremendous views. We had Harveys and a newie local to me, Pig&Porter's Ashburnham Pale Ale. Great to see support for local micros.
20 May 2015 17:24
Still much as Billyfish says. I was very impressed to see three local breweries represented namely Dark Star, Old Dairy, and Three Legs. Food was very good but pricey
20 May 2015 17:21
Superb historical inn. I thought the choice of 3 beers a little disappointing with Harveys Best, Fullers Pride and Taylors Landlord on with so many local micros around. Tables weren't cleared or cleaned which let the place down. Could and should be wonderful but apart from the building isn't.
20 May 2015 17:18
Seems the word has got around. Really busy when we went last Sunday afternoon. The beers brewed on the premises are superb.
6 May 2015 16:40
Its now a great local which was full and standing last Sunday afternoon. Reasonable selection of 6 real ales including one from Goddards on the IOW.
6 May 2015 16:38
Went last Saturday afternoon. Great real ales and a good buzz about the place. Opposite the railway station which is only half hour of Victoria
6 May 2015 16:36
Mixed reviews on the beers we had on Monday lunchtime but one from Track Brewing Company in Manchester was devine. A group in the corner were swearing away the whole time we were there and the barman could have asked them to tone it down a bit but didn't. On that basis we shan't go back.
28 Apr 2015 16:59
Hopefully TPB's experience was a one off as we had some excellent ales there yesterday and we were impressed at the range and choice of light and dark cask beers. Food was ok.
28 Apr 2015 16:55
The bar has seriously improved with 6 local ales on. Sadly the clientele haven't with nearly all lager drinkers and colourful language.
28 Apr 2015 16:50
The Defector's Weld, Shepherds Bush
Had an East London Brewery cask beer which was ok and the only the one of interest on the bar. However the stupid price being asked stopped us having more than one round. At a more reasonable price we would have had two rounds and returned but hey a few days later we found somewhere selling Barki Star Hophead at £3
28 Apr 2015 16:45
Good range to local micros which was good to see. We only had time for one but sadly the Dark Star American Pale Ale was a little tired. Interesting building, a converted hotel with lots of character and right beside the market cross in the centre, about 5 to 7 minutes walk of the railway station.
22 Apr 2015 22:20
The Horse And Groom, East Ashling
An excellent friendly pub where the Dark Star Hophead was in good condition and £3 a pint. We ate and the food was reasonable value and enjoyable. Highly recommended and deserves a score way above its current 5.1
22 Apr 2015 22:16
Now a Brewhouse and Kitchen where the food is excellent and the beers are brewed on the premises and are superb. It opened February 2015. Only 5 minutes walk of the station.
13 Apr 2015 18:36
Brewhouse and Kitchen, Dorchester
Absolutely superb Sunday lunch. The beers brewed on the premises are excellent. If South West Trains offer another £15 travel deal we'll be back.
13 Apr 2015 18:33
Fanny's Ale And Cider House, Saltaire
I really wanted to like this place for the great beers on but the barlady was unreceptive and played music so out of keeping with the place. Beers range from stout to gold. Love to go back but not to listen to that dreadful "music".
7 Apr 2015 22:16
A rather strange but very likeable bar serving some interesting beers. Amazing atmosphere on a Saturday night with a DJ playing vinyl the like of which I'd never heard before.
7 Apr 2015 22:05
Jubilee Refreshment Rooms, Sowerby Bridge
Superb venue in the remnant of the original Victorian station, the rest was modernised in the 60s I guess. Frequent train service is a few yards away. Good range of beers. I had Heron Porter from Two Roses brewery which was excellent
7 Apr 2015 22:00
Now Head of Steam. Another pub convenient for the station with some interesting real ales on. There's a lot of competition in that area though. About 10 handpumps and the 3 we had were all in good shape. Good variety as well, stout, porter and golden ales.
7 Apr 2015 21:56
Incredibly historic pub which serves an excellent range of real ales and all that we had were in fine fettle especially those from Great Heck and Kirkstall breweries.
6 Apr 2015 22:19
Old Gate Bar & Restaurant, Hebden Bridge
Stunning choice of beers served by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff. Right in the middle of the town. If you like local real ales this place is mecca.
6 Apr 2015 22:15
The Stubbing Wharf, Hebden Bridge
Idyllic spot by the canal and only 10 minutes walk of the town centre. Choice of ales was a bit sparse but what we had was very good from Derwent brewery and Leeds brewery.
6 Apr 2015 22:13
Pretty well exactly as lezford found except we managed to eat and the food was excellent. Lovely homely feel with excellent local ales. Two steam trains passed over the infamous viaduct as well that day. Normal trains run roughly every two hours from either Carlisle or Leeds and the pub is 2 minutes walk away.
6 Apr 2015 22:10
Very pro-active with new and small breweries. We went on the occasion of a mini beer fest and the only issue we had was the high gravity of most of the beers. It's near the Interchange station although a city spoilt by provision for cars does make it a bit of a challenge
6 Apr 2015 22:06
Superb 3 mile canalside walk to this tap fro the excellent Kirkstall Brewery. Guest beers also available and all we had were in very good condition. Excellent food as well.
6 Apr 2015 19:37
Mr Foley's Cask Ale House, Leeds
Yes I think its a York Brewery place but has guests which unfortunately were a bit high on the gravity for us. Nevertheless a decent central pub opposite the town hall.
6 Apr 2015 19:18
Excellent choice of beers in the arches under the railway station on the canal side. The quality of all we had was very good.
6 Apr 2015 19:13
We were really looking forward to a lunchtime sesh in this classic Victorian pub which is a sole survivor in Hunslet. a decent choice of real ales from different breweries but one after the other was in poor or disgusting condition. And don't you hate it when you're told that's what it's supposed to taste like. I'd love to see the tasting notes if that were the case. Leeds Pale was the only enjoyable beer we had. This is a real tragedy and I hope we were just unlucky but in 40 years of drinking I've never taken four consecutive beers back to the bar.
6 Apr 2015 19:10
Great on the price but the quality of their own beers wasn't up to standard. Although we didn't eat food looked great. Also sells beers from other local breweries.
6 Apr 2015 19:00
A superb choice of real ales but avoid weekend evenings if you like to enjoy supping your pints. Ultra convenient for the station and tons better than the 'spoons on the concourse.
6 Apr 2015 18:57
Absolute classic which I guess may have been the tap for the now dead Tetley brewery. A variety of beers on offer including Leeds pale and Orkney Dark island to be drunk amidst Victorian splendour.
6 Apr 2015 18:53
The Hovelling Boat Inn, Ramsgate
Another excellent micropub with perhaps not quite as much atmosphere as some. Four real ales and four cider/perrys and cheese plattters. If walking from the station allow 20 minutes down and 25 up. I had a stout which was superb.
6 Apr 2015 18:41
The Thirty-Nine Steps Alehouse, Broadstairs
A busy micropub in the town centre a few feet back form the sea. Four real ales on, served on gravity from a temperature controlled "upright cellar". All the beers we had were in excellent condition.
6 Apr 2015 18:33
Great little corner micropub that now brews its own beer which is sold along with two other real ales and two cider/perry all on gravity. We enjoyed the chat with the locals.
6 Apr 2015 18:27
Absolutely wonderful experience. This micropub is situated in an old flint stable. The 3 real ales and 3 cider/perrys are served on gravity and are temperature controlled. There are snacks, a wood stove, a "garden" and a very friendly landlord/owner. This was the first of three micropubs we visited in Broadstairs on Saturday and wish we didn't have to travel so far.
6 Apr 2015 18:15
Ebrington Arms, Chipping Camden
Wonderful country pub with a fully hands-on host. The food is superb and I would recommend booking. The house brews are brewed at the North Cotswolds Brewery and there are guest ales as well. Stone flagged floors, open fireplaces and a great atmosphere.
9 Mar 2015 17:42
The Bakers Arms, Broad Campden
Decent pint of Wye Valley but zilch atmosphere for an attractive pub and a TV blasting in my ear didn't help my impression.
9 Mar 2015 17:39
The Volunteer Inn, Chipping Campden
Very disappointing range (if that's the word) of ales, both with enormous carbon footprints. All the locals seem to be lager drinkers. Maybe some might be persuaded to try a decent local ale if one were on the bar.
9 Mar 2015 17:37
The Lygon Arms Hotel, Chipping Campden
At least this pub/hotel had a decent guest ale on but just the one and the staff nearly outnumbered us. The whole bar area needs a refit to take it to the 21st century or back to early last century not stuck in the pub dark ages of the 1970s.
9 Mar 2015 17:34
Great pub, the best in Chipping Campden by a long way. It was the only one really busy last weekend and the only one selling a decent range of traditional beers. It's not rocket science. The emptiest pubs were the ones selling very very ordinary beer. Excellent food, staff and atmosphere.
9 Mar 2015 17:30
Now called Four Theives and is an excellent Laine brewpub with beers from the on site brewery as well as others from their other London brewpubs and guest beers from micros. Excellent range last night from pale to amber, IPA and stout. We didn't eat but food was available.
15 Feb 2015 12:16
We've been going here on and off for 34 years and I've seldom seen it as busy and with such a buzzing atmosphere. We ate and the food was excellent and seeing as I don't rate Youngs beers since Wandsworth brewery shut I was pleased to have Grandstand from Twickenham brewery which was very moreish. Very very pleased to see this historical pub in a village that once became the capital of England (in 1305) a success once again.
4 Feb 2015 15:32
We didn't eat but our friends did and very good it was apparently. Beer choice was a little limited in one of them was Sharps doomed beer which I don't like and another a pub badged beer made by Caledonian which my friends warned me off being over malty. I had Shere Drop which was quite acceptable but not as good I feel as their Ranmore Ale and not a scratch on Tillingbourne's beers. Anyway good atmosphere and busy for a Tuesday.
4 Feb 2015 15:24
A real surprise for us. Unusually for Greene King pubs it has its own brewery and a fine selection of beers from small breweries including on our visit 2 dark beers. Some are on handpull but look to the rear of the bar where there are 4 casks on stillage including the excellent local Red Cat. It's a medium sized place but was full by 1pm Saturday and potential diners were been turned away so get there early. Food was typical pub grub and was fine. Unfortunately the brewery was being refitted so we'll have to return to try their own beers. I normally won't drink GK beers as I think they are awful but this pub was selling a GK Suffolk Porter which was superb apart from its confusing description as a rich stout
24 Jan 2015 18:49
Certainly one of the most amazing pub interiors you'll ever likely to see. Beer choice was a little lacking I thought, a black old would have been nice but otherwise highly recommended.
24 Jan 2015 18:41
Sadly the micro brewery appears to be no more. But there was a very good selection of 8 ales on only 2 of which were from Greene King. Red Cat, Upham Andwell, Rusty Prop, Hook Norton were present as well as a superb old from Weltons.
24 Jan 2015 18:39
Great village pub. We only went for a beer but found it welcoming and cosy. There were 4 real ales on of which two were interesting, Hobsons Best and the delicious Ringwood Porter. It was great to see the pub busy nearing closing time so they must be doing something right.
23 Jan 2015 18:40
The Green Dragon, Little Stretton
Superb pub. 5 real ales on 2 of which were local breweries. Six of us ate and we all had excellent meals. It's cosy and the staff are brilliant. It is possibly a victim of its own success in that its very busy (we went Friday night) and I guess a reservation is essential if eating.
23 Jan 2015 18:33
Yes bit of a surprise having all the beeries herded into one bar. I did find one superb ale from Great Heck in excellent condition. I only use this pub as a pop in and have one or two beers between changing trains at Clapham Junction and for that it is still a very reliable hostelry.
11 Jan 2015 22:49
Very poor selection of guest beers on ranging from 4.8 to 6%. Bought a half pint, then bought a meal which had a 'compulsory' pint with it which I didn't really want at lunchtime especially given the strengths. The whole experience left me feeling more p***ed off rather than at satisfied customer.
11 Jan 2015 22:44
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
Four ales on, all very ordinary that can be found anywhere so on a Saturday afternoon the pub is near empty. Shame as the pub is a good looking place inside and out. We settled for the Harveys which was good quality but I doubt I'll be back til next year
11 Jan 2015 22:39
The Inn On The Lake, Godalming
Not a place I would visit for a beer with the Refectory just down the road. However I was there for a meal with friends and was surprised to see Hop Back Winter Lightening on, so ordered that only to be told it's not on yet. "We're just letting you know what's coming soon" Well you're not actually, a pumpclip facing forward should be telling us what's on now. Anyway the other beers were Fullers London Pride and Adnams Broadside so nothing exciting with Doom Bar off (hate it anyway). Food was pretty good. Some of the choices off their festive menu were off but they let us mix and match off the main menu to substitute. The Broadside btw was quite acceptable in quality.
13 Dec 2014 10:13
Gosh this now deserves a much higher rating than its current 4.4. There was one Bateman beer on and 5 guests ranging from a superb Citra to a stout and porter from micros. Very convenient for the station but don't get stuck wrong side of the level crossing if going for a train as the barriers can stay down for 5 minutes sometime as there's no footbridge.
13 Dec 2014 09:56
Absolutely superb pub, just what Lincoln needs. Talking of needs, after walking from the railway station you'll deserves a few of the 14 real ales on offer. Watching the 2 lady staff run the bar on a crazy busy day during the Christmas Market day brought back memories of how a pub should be run. Despite being rushed off their feet they still changed two beers whilst we were there as well as all the other tasks. Marvellous.
13 Dec 2014 09:48
Absolutely superb range of beers on our last visit, 15 in all, at their Beeriodical which is like a monthly mini beer fest. Loos need sorting.
13 Dec 2014 09:41
Not too bad but a few issues like unclean tables when there were only a few customers and loos not up to scratch. Five pumps but only Bristol Beer Factory beers on, not that there's anything wrong in that. It's ok but I don't think we'll rush back such is the competition in Bristol these days.
13 Dec 2014 09:32
Our experience couldn't have been more different during an afternoon visit. The service was excellent, a good choice of micro brewery beers and around £3 a pint. There were no objectionables present. I guess we were lucky and we will definitely go back.
9 Dec 2014 10:40
The Gazebo, Kingston Upon Thames
Was I that passerby I wonder. On seeing no handpumps I too walked on by.
9 Dec 2014 10:33
Bishop Out Of Residence, Kingston Upon Thames
Was really looking forward to going back here after decades but very disappointed and wont be returning for many of the reasons outlined by other visitors. The saving grace was Twickenham ale on as guest but the price Wow!
9 Dec 2014 10:30
We always like brewpubs and their beer is brilliant and if not there's loads of choice of other beers. And each one is up on a blackboard with descriptions of each. You can't lose. Go now.
9 Dec 2014 10:26
Probably the best of the bunch as at least it tries with a choice of ales and styles.
30 Nov 2014 13:12
Brilliant. Some excellent beers with a range from golden to porter brewed on the premises and good value. A really buzzing place.
30 Nov 2014 13:11
Yes we could sample beer from the cask and buy some bottles. Super place. BR certainly didn't know what they were doing when they let all those goods sheds fall down or were demolished.
22 Nov 2014 20:17
Sister pub to the Foundry brewpub nearby. Same excellent beers although range not as big. Idyllic location next to the cathedral. These two places are just what Canterbury needed.
22 Nov 2014 20:14
Brilliant beers, especially the Torpedo, all brewed on the premises. Good food and big helpings as well but beware they get very busy.
22 Nov 2014 20:12
Used to be a bit of a dive but has cleaned up its act in relation to the place and the beers of which there is a good choice from micros. Despite the complete rebuild of the station it has survived in what I believe is the listed original station building. Access is from the street side not the platform. Shame there are no departure screens in the pub to aid the drinking time.
30 Oct 2014 09:55
Stunning location. Best park in the quarry-like carpark on the final approach to the village. Food was excellent but get there early or late as it gets very busy at lunch. Beer choice was a bit disappointing with 2 from Skinners, a Thwaites and Landlord which is a shadow of its former self. That said the quality of the Skinners we had was acceptable. The pub is dog friendly and there is a terrace overlooking the beach...marvellous.
30 Oct 2014 09:50
The Three Horseshoes, Thursley
We've been coming here periodically for more than 30 years. I read the previous comments so wasn't surprised, it being a Sunday, at the devotion to feeding the masses that had descended. We therefore went prepared to just have a beer and were made very welcome perched at the bar. The home badged beer is in fact designed by them with Frensham Brewery so we were very happy to sample this brewery for the first time. Very good it was as well. We stuck to it as the other beers on offer, Hogs Back TEA and Tribute from St Austell didn't fit our taste as much. The barman said he had taken one from Tillingbourne off as it was a bit samey as the Frensham but in my opinion it would nicer to see one of theirs on the bar as they produce many different styles. St Austell is big brewery with many tied houses in Cornwall so it seems a shame to truck it all the way up here when there are so many superb local breweries that could do with our support. If intending to eat at weekend, book.
20 Oct 2014 09:17
Strange one. It's an old school and consists mainly of a pool room and one enormous bar room. Not the sort of place that would normally fill me with joy. However the open fire and some superb beer from Goose Eye had me going back for more. For me, at the end of the day, it's the beer that rules and this was excellent.
18 Oct 2014 18:04
This pub is a great survivor where nearly all around has been demolished. It's a small place with some great beers on and the ones we had were top notch condition. Totally the opposite to a gastro/bistro/chain type place. Excellent.
18 Oct 2014 17:59
A cosy pub with a good atmosphere selling Taylors beers and a guest ale.
18 Oct 2014 17:56
Beer was ok but nothing to write home about. Sadly we just missed the guest ale from Saltaire and the next night the guest was from Taylors which perhaps misses the point a little. It was really crowded and very noisy but we found refuge in a side room.
18 Oct 2014 17:54
The Old White Lion Hotel, Haworth
We went here a couple of times over the weekend. The Goose Eye Bitter wasn't on form but the Moorhouse was fine. Disappointed on the second visit to see Tetley on. Worth noting they do food Sunday evening, not easy to find round there.
18 Oct 2014 17:49
Beers, a mixed result yesterday with Kings Brighton Blonde in fine fettle but Turners East Sussex Best, hazy and a strange after taste. Usually just the two beers on. If the queue looks long, check as it may be for food and a shorter one to the left is for drinks. This comes over as a cafeteria that has beers.
3 Oct 2014 19:07
The Duke Of Wellington, Shoreham by Sea
An excellent basic drinking pub. Dark Star no longer own it we understand but their beers are still on the bar along with beers from other breweries
3 Oct 2014 19:02
The Partridge, Partridge Green
We cycled here from Shoreham and were made welcome by the staff and the beers from Dark Star were superb. A let down was the food. We ordered a ploughmans to share as encouraged to do so on the menu. I would have been hungry if I'd just ordered it for myself alone. One piece of bread!! However we went there for the beer and that didn't disappoint.
3 Oct 2014 18:59
We came to see Anathema play and were pleasantly surprised at the quantity of decent real ales available. Sadly one of us was driving but we shall return on a non music night
29 Sep 2014 22:59
Metropolitan Bar, Baker Street
The building and history is most interesting however I think I was unlucky in the beer choice. I don't like the standard Wetherspoons listings and prefer the guests of which two weren't ready leaving a choice of three I believe. We had two which were not in the best of condition and were about to try a third when, I'm not exaggerating, a party of 75 to 100 people turned up and swamped the bar so we departed for the Euston Tap where the beer choice and quality was superb.
27 Sep 2014 18:01
The Victoria and Albert, Marylebone Station
Fantastic building within the last main line terminus built in London. Unfortunately the beer choice, quality and price were all sorely lacking so I would recommend a look in at the rooms and go somewhere else for real ale if that's your preference.
27 Sep 2014 17:48
After reading the reports I was expecting the worst. However the house brewed beers were ok (and Biddenden traditional cider) and the food as well. The young lad serving was courteous and helpful. One of the beers ran out, but he washed the line through and put a new cask on. It's a bit quirky and thank goodness for that.
24 Sep 2014 21:42
Back here again after another few years away. We stopped coming here because the Refectory offered a much better choice in beers. Things have changed marginally. There are beers from Sharps Doom Bar (yawn) and Hogs Back Tea (probably another yawn) and Hobgoblin Bountiful which I hadn't had before and was ok. Having said that we'd just been to the Refectory and had Dark Star Hophead and a summer beer from Kings of Horsham which were delicious. I could be wrong but I suspect a boring Punch guest beer listing, one of the reasons perhaps that company make eye watering losses. The menu looked ok if a little pricey but we shall return to try the dining. However the thing that makes us go to a pub is the choice of beer and our spending on food follows from that, always. If that's not right sadly we won't return, which is shame as it's a real pub in the village with lots of history.
21 Sep 2014 17:30
The Cyder House Inn, Shackleford
First visit for many years as I'm not keen on Badger Beers. However friends picked it for evening meal and we were very surprised to find Thatchers Cider, Upham Tipster, Hogs Back HBB and Firebird Heritage XX on. Apparently Hall and Woodhouse still own the premises but it is now free from tie. It would appear they are struggling a bit by there being a few items not available on the menu but what we had was good. A note on the website saying it hasn't been updated due to lack of payment doesn't help their log term credibility. Worryingly we were the last customers to leave just after 10pm. They deserve better so give it a go.
21 Sep 2014 12:07
What a lovely pub in most idyllic countryside. We had Wensleydale Semmerwater summer ale as well as Theaksons OP and both were in excellent condition. Friendly staff and a homely atmosphere.
12 Jul 2014 12:55
The Gold Cup Inn, Nether Silton
The pub is a bit basic which isn't a criticism and has the most gorgeous of views as well as serving a good quality Copper Dragon when we were there. Choice is limited though.
12 Jul 2014 12:50
Superb pub in all respects. Specialises in local ales and the food is fantastic. Because of that it looks a bit foodie and one would be in the minority if only going for a beer but are still made welcome round the bar area.
12 Jul 2014 12:47
Not as good a choice of beer as the Golden Lion but a friendly pub with local ale.
12 Jul 2014 12:44
The Queen Catherine, Osmotherley
I'm afraid the beer choice had us heading straight out again and going to the Golden Lion where the choice was, for us, much better.
12 Jul 2014 12:42
Another excellent visit to this superb pub which specialises in local ales. The landlord even went to the cellar to get me one. A must for good beer fans.
12 Jul 2014 12:40
Absolutely amazing array of ale from this brewpub and other breweries. Quality is good as well.
12 Jul 2014 12:37
Quality is not what it once was but still better than the Station Tavern in my opinion
12 Jul 2014 12:35
Still very good. Blackboard beer menu. Great fish and chip shop 50 yards away.
12 Jul 2014 12:31
I gather now it was a Ind Coope (Friary Meux) before in it's previous life bought by H&W in 1998
1 Jul 2014 08:48
We haven't been here for about 30 years when I think it was a King and Barnes pub. Gosh I miss their great beer and I'm afraid Hall and Woodhouse don't come close with their portfolio. However the pub is still superb and does lovely food and is in such a gorgeous location.
30 Jun 2014 19:47
We had a half hour between trains and this place is so good for just that purpose. I wish all London termini offered such delights. Amongst others we had a beer brewed at the sister pub, the Sheffield Tap which also is a brewery within the station there. Amazing.
30 Jun 2014 09:32
Still as good as ever with about 12 different ales on of varying styles.
30 Jun 2014 09:28
The Porcupine, Leicester Square
The variety of beers on offer was a bit better than the Cambridge, another Nicholsons just up the road. However a TV football match put paid to any quality time there. I also reckon my beer was 'off' but I couldn't face battling back to the bar. My wife's Black Sheep beer was fine. Maybe one to go back to on a quieter day
26 Jun 2014 22:11
The variety of beers on was a bit ordinary and samey to other places. However there was TV so at least it was a conducive drinking atmosphere.
26 Jun 2014 22:08
A better experience this time; in fact we were the only people there. Still not a great choice on the ale front, far more if you're a keg fan. However the quality of the two ales we had was excellent.
26 Jun 2014 21:52
Yes, I go along with SirTricky although I can only to 7 as I would prefer a few more guest ales. The price does my head in but it's such a great place to take folks to. So imaginatively converted. Food's fine and quick; important if you're catching a train. You can always watch it leave from the window in the dining area.
26 Jun 2014 21:49
The Betjeman Arms, St Pancras International Station
We ate in their restaurant part which is lovely. They are trying with their guest beers (two on I think) but the cost, ouch! Great location. So much more British than the champagne bar.
26 Jun 2014 21:44
Sadly didn't have much time here (steam train to catch) and it deserved longer. A couple of guest ales on including the brilliant Longman brewery American Pale Ale. Very pleasant staff. Nice atmosphere.
26 Jun 2014 21:40
A couple of guest beers were on, both from the Beachy Head brewery but the first smelt and tasted off (and was changed) and the second wasn't to my taste. There was also Harveys and I think Doom Bar (yawn) on. We were 'driven out' by the pub bore who was rat-arsed and loud whilst talking to his friends. Despite this the pub looks nice but the two things that would bring me back, beer quality and ambience were missing.
26 Jun 2014 21:36
We've been twice recently. prices have gone up and we were the only customers. Out of 6 handpulls 3 were turned round, soon to be 4 as my pint wasn't good. It was exchanged without question for another beer. The ploughmans is excellent. The landlord said he has had the beer from the new brewery in Wormley but so far I've been unlucky. Lovely place, just a bit pricey now which won't increase the profits if it's as empty as the day we went.
23 Jun 2014 11:54
Well done to Sheps for sticking with this pub. We had excellent fish and chips with a pint of Master Brew in this most unusual of locations. We arrived by steam train on the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. Understandably just the two beers on, the other being Spitfire.
23 Jun 2014 11:46
NOT CLOSED. I guess had a change of ownership to the excellent Oakham of Peterborough brewery. Their beers are very good. We ate as well, the food leaning on the Thai side and was extremely good.
6 Mar 2014 17:06
Popped in late on a Saturday evening and there was a lot less choice than usual on the real beer front but what we had was fine
6 Mar 2014 17:01
As ever does what it sells on the label. We needed quick food and a couple of pints whilst our steam loco was being serviced and they delivered. We know what to expect and that's what we get.
6 Mar 2014 16:59
The Craft Beer Co, City of London
An absolute gem. About 14 real beers on a long bar in a large saloon with an original mirrored clockface ceiling. There is another room upstairs. We were invited to try the beers before purchase. All that we had were in excellent order. One warning is we first went on a Friday night and it was crazy busy so we returned on Sunday where there was far more time and space to take in the great beers. Food is just pork pies and the like.
6 Mar 2014 16:57
Crazily busy on a Friday night. After hearing so much about it the place was a let down. Only 3 real beers on with loads of keg (craft) taps. Had Moncada Notting Hill Amber which wasn't great. Couldn't face another battle at the bar so left
6 Mar 2014 16:50
Big big disappointment here in that nearly all the beer had gone. They only had one of theirs on. In defence of the staff the place was heaving and I guess there just wasn't time to tap new casks.
6 Mar 2014 16:45
Returned for a longer visit this time. Great atmosphere with lots of choice of beers. We needed some food to mop up and the barman despite being busy knocked us up some massive cheese rolls. Thanks kind sir. I had Castle Rock Vanilla Porter and Sue Pollard both in very good form
6 Mar 2014 16:42
Still quiet when most places in Derby were heaving. Lost its friendliness since our last visit. Choice of 6 ales I think. Had Whim Arbor Ale which was fine.
6 Mar 2014 16:39
Goes from strength to strength. It was heaving on lastest visit with an extra bar having been put in one corner with the beers on stillage. Still brews it's own excellent beers.
6 Mar 2014 16:36
Little Chester Ale House, Derby
One of those superb micro pubs. Specialises in Wentwell brewery beers which is very near to the pub. So friendly, everyone chatting to each other. Lovely warm feeling. 4 handpulls I think.
6 Mar 2014 16:32
Visited here on the occasion of the CAMRA winter beer fest,; we ate lunch and had some excellent brews from the extensive choice of unusual ales.
6 Mar 2014 16:29
Another must-do when in Derby even though it's a bit of walk (20 to 25 minutes)from the centre. They only sell their own brewed beers and we had Poseiden and Fistfull of Hops. The preceding pint to those two had turned and the landlord/owner changed them immediately. I wish him well.
6 Mar 2014 16:25
Returned from the deep south on a less busy day and had some excellent beers including Dark Drake and Grantham Porter. No issues with sitting this time I guess as it wasn't weekend
6 Mar 2014 16:21
Lovely friendly place which brews its own beer on the premises
6 Mar 2014 16:18
Back in Derby for the CAMRA winter beer fest and found this pub having a beer fest as well. What a great place. About 20 beers on, including a load of black beers for the fest. Live music also sometimes takes place including such great bands as Panic Room.
6 Mar 2014 16:12
Excellent pub just off the centre and with the added bonus that the landlord brews his own beers (currently at Mr Grundys). He is also very helpful and informative.
6 Mar 2014 16:08
Excellent little corner pub in the T-O-C houses. I hope the locals support it as it's a bit of step from the city centre. Owned by Dancing Duck and there was a whole tranche of their excellent brews on.
6 Mar 2014 16:06
The beers weren't great but is worth a visit to a fantastic building. We had Passchendael, Big Willy and Bullet which was the best of those. We ate and food was good.
6 Mar 2014 15:59
Lovely old place in the centre but very disappointing choice of beers, many from the usual suspects at ordinary pubs like Doom Bar. I had Dolphin house beer from Nottingham brewery but thought it rather average in quality. There were 7 beers on tap and a couple on gravity I think.
6 Mar 2014 15:55
Bit squeaky clean since its refurb. No complaints about the beer though. We had Dancing Duck~Dark Drake oatmeal stout and Leeds pale. Choice of 7 ales and 2 ciders
6 Mar 2014 15:50
Sorry go my list mixed up. We had Mercia IPA and Allgates California...still good though
6 Mar 2014 15:47
Back here again on the occasion of the CAMRA winter beer festival and found it much better than last time. The beers that we tried, Dancing Duck Oatmeal Stout and Leeds Pale, were in excellent condition.
6 Mar 2014 15:43
This is the brewery tap for Muirhouse Brewery although they also sell 2 or 3 beers from other micros. The pub is very basic (micro pub?) but is thoroughly recommended for the quality of the beers and the friendliness of the staff.
8 Feb 2014 22:37
One of the new breed of micro pubs. It is very small and just serves beer on stillage (4 local ales on at our visit) and possibly a glass of wine. The atmosphere is great and I thoroughly recommend it. I think the hours arte a bit restrictive so best go at lunchtime of early evening. A 5 minute walk of the railway station and even less to the sea.
8 Feb 2014 22:12
This is a brewpub with a difference. Situated in a rather currently run down area bordering the Olympic Park. They brew some great beers and make excellent pizzas. They are doing well and have opened a bigger brewing operation close by. If you're not happy walking into the small industrial estate access the pub from the canal.
8 Feb 2014 22:07
Exactly what I hope for in a pub. Excellent choice of beers from golden to black (Stout from Three Tuns brewery), great conversation with other visitors and a lovely warm feel about the place. Long may you be there for us.
8 Feb 2014 21:56
Gorgeous pub let down by the very average range of beers available from the Marstons range. Beers from Jennings, and two from Marstons, all similar styles and strengths. We went then the Church Inn which had many different styles and gravities on offer and was packed. It's not rocket science Marstons. Instead of closing 200 pubs perhaps if you let the publicans sell a decent range of beers you wouldn't have to. Shame, lovely historic inn that deserves better. By the way the first pint (Marstons EPA) was undrinkable.
8 Feb 2014 21:53
Abbey Grange Hotel, Llantysilio
This is a brewpub which sadly is the end of the good news. It's just been deleted from the Good Beer Guide because of bad beer quality. The first pint we had was undrinkable and the other available could be best described as average. We ate there and the food was fine but being a Sunday night the two of us made up two thirds of the clientele. We won't be going back. For those that do it's a hotel in Llantisylio on the road toward Horseshoe Pass
8 Feb 2014 21:40
It was Sunday night we were here and it was quiet as to be expected. There was a reasonable but not great choice of beers but what we had was good quality. Lovely open fire.
8 Feb 2014 21:33
Brilliant place. Go across the river toward the station and turn right and it's 200 yards on the right backing on to the river. Lots of choice of beers from light like Snowdonia to dark beers, about 8 or 9 I think. Quality was excellent. He's a little off the main street so I do wish him well. Word of mouth will help.
8 Feb 2014 19:29
The Coach and Horses, Weatheroak Hill
Very impressed with the beers brewed on the premises. Food was good as well. Don't go for the modern extension, head for the old part of the pub with atmosphere. 4 ales of their own on and 4 or 5 from other small breweries.
8 Feb 2014 19:22
Visited again on my friend's birthday and again the place didn't disappoint. We only go for a beer or three and are made just as welcome by the staff as the diners in the restaurant part. Surrey Hill's Shere Drop, Tillingbourne Hop Troll, and a couple of others. Good quality.
28 Jan 2014 17:45
We haven't been here for a few years but the beer choice was excellent including a black beer from Old School Brewery in Carnforth which pleased me no end. Plenty of choice for the paler beer drinkers. Reading the other recent visitors notes it's worth saying that the second pint of Blackboard tasted a lot fresher than the first so maybe there are some issues there that need addressing. Having said that my wife's two beers were fine. The place looks as though it's had a coat of paint since last we were there.
28 Jan 2014 17:38
What a shame as we were really looking forward to our first visit to this recommended pub to find it shut at a time we thought it should be open i.e. around 4pm on a Saturday
28 Jan 2014 17:33
The Avon Brewery Inn, Salisbury
I'm afraid we only visited here out of desperation to find a pub doing food. What steers our pub choice is the beer first and foremost and this pub being part of the Marston conglomerate I believe, doesn't offer anything that would normally entice us in. Which is a shame as the pub is an architectural gem, the food good, and generally a friendly place.
28 Jan 2014 17:24
Yes we too were disappointed the Entire Stout wasn't on but the new(?) was a delight. We've been coming here since they first bought the pub and the brewing equipment was being installed in the cellar. No visit of ours to Salisbury would be complete without a beer at the Wyndham. Another pub that could do with a cheese roll or similar to keep us longer.
28 Jan 2014 17:03
The Winchester Gate, Salisbury
Good quality beer on including Northumberland Irish Stout. Good marks from us having trad' cider as well as light and dark beers. Only downer for us was we could have done with a cheese roll or similar in which case we would have stayed longer. A good drinkers pub.
28 Jan 2014 16:58
Further to 5thearlofwimbourne notes, the railway has now extended to East Grinstead and therefore no bus journey is necessary, just a change of trains from electric to steam. As on the big railway though maintenance is required from time to time so do check on their web site first. Just the one beer on today 11/01/14, Franklins Grumpy Guvnor which was a dark beer and in good condition.
11 Jan 2014 21:06
Ounce & Ivy Bush, East Grinstead
Bit of a plain wetherspoons with no character and not much atmosphere BUT the beer was excellent. On 11/01/14 were Long Man brewery Old Man, Arundel Old Ale and a newie from Hogs Back. Well done manager.
11 Jan 2014 20:57
Like some previous reviewers we hadn't been here for years possibly even a decade. On early Saturday it was very busy and service was difficult owing to a no-show from one of the staff. I first started going here in the late 1970s when Andy was here, with his Dad picking up the beer from the West Midlands. There was also a bar billiard s table. Halycon days. The building has been considerably extended to offer separate dining facilities but we were the only people in there. There were some diners in the main pub part but not many which is hard to understand as the food was outstanding. Two of the eight handpumps were blanks and the remainder offered fairly similar styles although with a broad range of strength from 3.7 to 5%. No winter warmers, stouts or porters though and looking at their website, which lists the beers that will be available at any one time, no chance of there being any. We left around 10pm and it was fairly quiet by then. Yes as a pub the atmosphere was good, food was excellent, beer condition was good but the choice is what would make me rush back and that was sadly lacking in imagination. Andy niched himself a market place and so with a broader beer choice this pub could really be great again.
23 Dec 2013 08:49
The Crown and Anchor, Chichester
Lovely rambling pub in THE most superb location overlooking the quay and Fishbourne channel. We had food and although expensive was good. Some other customers didn't seem as happy as though. The menu is a bit limited but ok if you like fish and seafood. I was surprised to see Youngs Winter Warmer on the bar which although I admit not having since Youngs brewery shut in 2006 didn't taste a bit like I remember. First pint was well short on the correct measure, second was fine. As the brewing is all done now at Wells brewery with Youngs just a pubco I shouldn't be surprised at the lack of consistency in taste. For interest there was Youngs ordinary, London Gold and Wells Bombadier also on the bar. Great place to go for atmosphere and location. Bet it gets busy in summer.
14 Dec 2013 21:20
Given the competition from the nearby Cock Tavern I was surprised at the boring ale selection as in Otter, Butcombe and Sambrooks. All similar gravities and colour. The Otter was ok but I didn't like Sambrooks but that could be just me, I never have.
11 Dec 2013 19:31
Went back for more. Two of the beers we had were a little hazy but we were warned of this before purchase. Now that is good. Their porter was excellent. Also had a beer from the revitalised Truman brewery name; couldn't help but see the irony bearing in mind the name above the door.
11 Dec 2013 19:15
Now reopened as a BREWPUB called The Bath Brew House. Sells three of four of their own beers (James Street Brewery) and a similar amount from other breweries. Excellent range and quality. Highly recommended.
11 Dec 2013 18:50
Excellent choice and quality of real beer. 5 on plus a real cider. Food is superb. Had the Dark Star Hophead although there was Original there as well. Others included Bowman so a locale feel to the choice. As WeazelTimes says how good to get away from the Fullers etc. At least a pub here with freedom and imagination.
26 Nov 2013 22:04
Pretty basic but excellent place for real beers. Had a pint or two of porter and they were very good. About 5 to 8 minutes walk from the railway station and even less from the bus station.
26 Nov 2013 21:56
Superb building but I don't think the beers have improved since grobag went. We tried 3 different ones and they were all lacking body. Sadly they were the worst of the 3 brewpubs beers we tried that day, Hopefully things will improve. Staffing wasn't great. I was ignored for ages whilst one bar person chatted with a customer whilst her colleague who was serving somebody else was virtually screaming at her to serve me but to no avail. The staff also need training. An American lady next to me at the bar ordered a pint of Fullers (guest beer) which was verging on mud, totally opaque and with large bits floating in it. I pointed out to the customer and the barperson politely that the beer was way into the bottom of the barrel. That should never have been served and could put someone from abroad trying our beer for the first time off it for life.
26 Nov 2013 21:37
I can only concur with everything blue scrumpy said even to my first impression of the sink in the gents. Yes truly excellent place. We were made to feel very welcome and their pale ale was simply superb, followed by a stout.
26 Nov 2013 21:00
Indeed a friendly place. Black Sabbath playing on the jukebox and 5 ales on. Worryingly a bit quiet. Hope they don't get swamped out by the Exeter and Derby Royal Standard. Situated opposite the bus garage by the river weir.
25 Nov 2013 22:18
Thought it lacked a bit of atmosphere. It's almost too squeaky clean. We could only stay for one pint and I had the Derby Triple Hop which was a big disappointment. One good thing was the rack of several third (?) of a pint tasters. Great idea. Seen it a lot in brewpubs abroad but not in the uk.
25 Nov 2013 19:43
Came here for a change from the Brunswick and was impressed. Great atmosphere and 8 real beers and 2 ciders. I had Piddle Porter which was superb. Sadly had to leave then to get a train back south.
25 Nov 2013 19:29
I thought the beer wasn't quite as top notch as our last visit a few months ago. I wasn't keen about all these reservation tabs being put on the tables, nearly all the tables had them I think. It made someone like us popping in for a couple of pints feel a bit of an outsider. My experience of a pub down here that did this is that casual drinkers stopped going as they would never get a seat unless by appointment. That's not what being a pub is all about. I do wish them well as it sells good ale and has a great interior and atmosphere.
25 Nov 2013 19:25
Even better than my last visit last year in that they now brew out the back. Four of their own on including a stout and four from other breweries.
25 Nov 2013 19:13
Looks like a couple of shops joined up. Great place with 5 handpumps. The Farmers beers we had weren't brilliant but that was just a preference. Good, jolly atmosphere and service.
24 Nov 2013 19:12
Went past last night and all boarded up with a note on door saying refer any enquiries to Exeter Arms
17 Nov 2013 19:09
Only went in here as they had Black Cab Stout on which is delicious. Although weaned on Fullers ales I find most of their portfolio lacking in taste these days. Saw they had Cronx on as well but sadly we were out of time.
13 Nov 2013 22:00
Yes it was a bit quiet compared to the heaving Wetherspoons George. The beer though was a goodie for us, Clarence and Frederick in Croydon, so low carbon footprint there. We didn't rally want anything else of the 3 others on offer and it was a shame the "on now" and "coming soon" boards didn't match up with what was actually there. And bearing in mind how busy it wasn't there was no excuse unless the chalk had been lost. All in all a shame. Could do better but well done for the C&F beer.
13 Nov 2013 21:44
Quieter than the usual town centre 'spoons and a bit dark up the top end. We had a very welcome pint of Brewsters Aromatic Porter and Cotleigh Lemon ale. Choice of about 5 excluding the GK range which we don't like.
13 Nov 2013 21:36
Amazing place for real ale. Must be 15 or so handpumps. We had Dark Star Darkness, and two from Tillingbourne brewery but could have spent hours there
13 Nov 2013 21:30
First time here for many a year, hardly recognised it. Bit more foodie than even my local, The Refectory, in Milford with all tables laid for lunch. However there was no problem with us sitting at the bar but that is it, there is nowhere else. We had Shere Drop and one from Ascot. I think were a couple other real ales on. Quality was reasonably good.
13 Nov 2013 21:27
Sadly disappointed here by poor beer quality which I guess shouldn't happen at a cask masque registered place. There were 3 ales on, Doomed beer I think, Triple f Alton Pride and Titanic White Star. We had the latter and it was hazy/cloudy and tasted off. We should have taken it back but we were in a hurry so persevered. I would have thought a CM pub shouldn't have served it in that condition. Inane conversation going on at the bar which would have driven us insane if we'd stayed but the beer quality ensured we didn't.
3 Nov 2013 22:04
Not usually my most soughtafter 'spoons but on the occasion of their recent beer fest they excelled themselves and the choice was excellent and all pumps were on
3 Nov 2013 21:57
Another great mini beer fest with 12 ales on. Where oh where are all you ale drinkers. This is a great place, so much better than certain GBG entries in nearby Godalming in my opinion.
3 Nov 2013 21:55
Similar visit to last year where the quality of the food was fantastic but the range of beers sorely lacking. We had a beer from Cotleigh which was ok but compared to the superb styles that had appeared at the Falmouth beer fest the previous day was lacking in almost every category. The other two beers on didn't even reach that level. Please, you are a great pub, try and sell some GREAT Cornish ales.
3 Nov 2013 21:52
So pleased to have cycled here and found it open again. The porter from Caledonian was so good I had to have another. Great to have this excellent hostelry back on the circuit. There were 4 other beers on including a mild.
21 Oct 2013 11:23
Has always been a superb quintessential English country pub with everything just right (except the opening hours so check first). Whether summer in the lovely garden or winter in the cosy two separate rooms it feels great. The ale straight from the cask and although the variety isn't great the quality of the two small brewery beers was excellent. The food portions are large and delicious.
1 Oct 2013 10:12
Lovely old pub in one of the back streets. Very busy as a steam train from London with 350/400 people on board had come in. Fairly boring range of ales on including two from Otter (again!). Landlord rushed off his feet and wishing he said he'd been told there was a special train coming in. Well he had been told actually, I emailed him 4 days before but as he says he doesn't read the emails that go the website. So there you go, 26 pubs a week are closing and we are all wondering why ...aren't we? BTW I thought the website was rubbish. The landlady cooked us some food which was delicious.
1 Oct 2013 10:01
This place on our visit to Kingswear looked CLOSED down and up for sale.
1 Oct 2013 09:54
OK pub with lovely views across the Dart. 3 ales on but nothing exciting, all fairly similar styles. Consequently we had just the one each and moved on. Does do basic food at certain times. Wouldn't rush back but this isn't a great area for real ale variety in the pubs. Is Otter becoming another London Pride or Doom Bar?
1 Oct 2013 09:52
We expected much from this place considering it's selection by CAMRA as their regional pub of the year. There was a plenty of trad' beer (10) and farm cider (4 or5) choice. We were told our first choice (of beer) was cloudy so we declined that one but were astonished when our next two were also murky. We persevered and found some clear ones. Any pub can have the odd cloudy beer but for a top notch CAMRA pub to have 3 in one lunchtime isn't good enough. The atmosphere is very busy and convivial. We sat at the only table available and found out why, it was right opposite the toilet door and the smell of disinfectant was overpowering.
The pub is 20 minutes walk of Deal station and 45 minutes of Walmer station.
1 Oct 2013 09:39
The Prince of Wales, Haslemere
Concur with the most of the previous submissions in the lack of variety of ales would make us not rush back. It's situated in a lovely spot for walking or cycling as we were. We had a baguette for lunch which was very tasty. It was a midweek lunch and the place was very quiet but hopefully gets busier at weekends. Very personally I feel Fullers beers in general have been dumbed down over the years to meet the mass market and they would do well here to get some unusual guest beers in as I'm not the only the only one who feels this. Having said that they made a stout a few winters ago which was scummy but was so hard to find.
1 Oct 2013 09:17
A nice looking central pub where we had Guzzler and Ghost from York Brewery. I do worry that a pub only selling one brewery's beers in city where the choice of local micros is amazing is the right stance to be. Like the Yorkshire Terrier, the other York Brewery pub that we tried, it was dead quiet.
16 Jun 2013 18:44
Reasonable but not especially good choice of beers on although the Blue Bee Lustin for Stout I had was superb. However I just didn't like the place; didn't feel at home at all. We returned to the waggon and Horses opposite
16 Jun 2013 18:39
Although only OBB on handpull as it's a Sam Smiths tied pub it's a must to visit. Double fronted in design it had 1 bar room and 2 other parlour rooms. A pint and half cost us £2.70 in case you needed further temptation. It's outside the City Wall but an evening stroll alongside the river to which it is close is recommended.
16 Jun 2013 18:33
Unbeknown the day we went was the annual bed racing day where the town heaves with visitors. I thought the pub handled the crowds well but we would love to go back on a quieter day. They brew on the premises although none was available on our visit. having said that the choice of local micros made up for that. The pub has a main room with bar and other parlour style room adjoining. Recommended.
16 Jun 2013 18:27
Great locals place in contrast to the Tut'n'Shive next door. Only 3 ales on and dissappointingly only one remotely local in Barnsley Bitter. But they did have Bitter and Twisted on which pleased the Boss. Heritage wise a must to visit for the stainglazed windows and other period pieces.
16 Jun 2013 17:59
Amazing choice of beers where most on our visit seem to drinking lager. Saturday afternoon saw loud music and the TV on so we oldies reired to the Plough next door.
16 Jun 2013 17:53
Another great local right next to the City Wall. Reasonable choice of ale. Lovely garden in the shadow of the wall. Definetely worth doing as part of a tour of the excellent local and community pubs that are outside the Wall. Beware during the week most don't open until after 5pm.
16 Jun 2013 17:50
An excellent friendly community pub with a good range of ales on the outside of the Wall but only a very short of the river, making for a delightful evening's stroll to the pub.
16 Jun 2013 17:43
Another pub just on the outside of the City Wall where most of the best pubs seem to be. Fantastic interior from the heritage point of view. Worth going just to see that but the ale is very good although could have done with a few more local micros on.
16 Jun 2013 17:32
Great atmosphere in this corner local close to the Wall. Choice of about 7 ales on I think and an historically interesting bar to study whilst supping.
16 Jun 2013 17:25
I quite like a lot of Wetherspoons but sadly this isn't one of them We only went as the pubs on our evening's list didn't do food. Beer choice was severly lacking as was the quality.
16 Jun 2013 17:19
The Yorkshire Terrier Inn, York
Considering the competion in York this place and possibly the brewery need to buck their ideas up. As with the previous reviewers it was almost empty and nothing said to me that I should return in a hurry. Shame I liked York Brewery beers a lot when they first came out. Was the acquisation by Mitchells when things started to go wrong?
16 Jun 2013 17:08
A bit on the tourist walk of York where a lot of people might not know a decent micro brewery beer if it hit them. There are a lot better ale houses around or as we found most are outside the city walls. This is an historical pub and has a courtyard garden.
16 Jun 2013 16:59
Only went in here because the Rook opposite was shut; thank goodness it was. This pub is superb. The range of beers is only supassed by the landlord's enthusiasm and knowledge. Apart for the amazing Batemans Salem Porter there was a wide range of micros including a stout. We went back later in the weekend for an evening there and for something to eat. Highly recommended
16 Jun 2013 16:55
Brigantes Bar and Brasserie, York
Still like this place having been soon after it opened. it seems to have grown into next door as well. Ale choice still good with a constantly updated blackboard. We ate there, not brilliant, but nothing detracts for the great beers.
16 Jun 2013 16:36
Gosh I think TWG has done an excellent summary. Pretty quiet when we went on a Thursday afternoon which gave us a chance to see the historical building properly. I do wish BITE would correct errors as I needed loaded this as a newie having not been able to find Pivni at first.
16 Jun 2013 16:22
This was so good on our recent visit to York we went there twice. Like mtaylor we got seats in the backroom into which the beer is served through a hatch. The front room has the full bar. There is a good choice of micros and the Treboom Yorkshire Sparkle was superb.
16 Jun 2013 16:13
Like the previous visitor ours was a return visit after several years. The extension loses the pub some of its charm but I guess it needed it, being always too crowded. Usual range of beers in good shape. We went on a weekday lunctime and it was quiet. I think the now all over black paint job outside doesn't do it any favours. Clubs and places to be avoided are painted that colour where we come from.
16 Jun 2013 16:09
Classic pub, not dissimilar to an Edinburgh bar, long and thin. Some excellent black and white pictures of old Newcastle adorn the walls. 6 ales were on and we partook of Tyne Bank Brewery pale and porter. Sited just off Quayside under the High Level and Road bridge it's only a 10 minute walk of the railway station but allow longer to walk back uphill.
1 Apr 2013 22:03
Worth going to whilst awaiting your train but not in my opinion a venue in it's own right. The handpumps seem a bit dominated by the enormous keg fonts and the place seemed a bit grubby. Even though it was freezing we chose to drink our ale on the platform 'garden'. 8 handpulls in total and we had Big Lamp and Jarrow Rivet Catcher which were OK but I wouldn't rush back unless waiting for a train.
1 Apr 2013 21:56
Historic establishment by the the High Level Bridge from which fine views can be had of the Tyne and it's other bridges. There were 10 handpulls and we had Habour pale from Cornwall, Firebrick Brewery coalface and Anarchy smokebomb. Nothing wrong with the quality and the range from light to dark was excellent. Here comes the gripe though. It was very quiet, about 7 customers but as soon as we sat down we were asked if we had reserved. Now this place is enormous and 95% of the tables were empty and with nothing on any to indicate reservations were present. Now we could therefore I guess have spent the next half hour playing guess the unreserved table so we went to the far side of the pub where apparantly we were safe, At no time were we offered any helpful advice on where to go. And after half an four we left and exactly the same 95% of the tables was available. That leaves a sour taste.
1 Apr 2013 19:22
The Victoria, Saltburn by the Sea
Having arrived on a steam train special we only had a short time in the pub which was a regret. It had a great atmosphere, was busy and I guess must be one of the better places for ale in the town. Having said that the choice was limited to two, Deuchars and McMullen although a third ale came on just as we were leaving. Seems like the sort of pub that could go great places given more of a free reign with ale choice.
1 Apr 2013 19:09
Don't usually go into pubs that require bouncers/heavies/security but this is a great place for ales. However on Good Friday it was so crowded and noisy to make being there uncomfortable. We enjoyed " Handrawn Monkey Porter" and Nottingham pale and both were good condition. There were a further 7 ales on of which 2 were a stout and a porter.
1 Apr 2013 18:55
The Brandling Villa, South Gosforth
What ever may have gone before, this is now a great pub full of delights for the lover of real ale....and they do food as well, evenings included. They were til recently a brew pub but the floods last year saw the end of that for the moment. Not to worry there were 10 ales on with a full spectrum from light to dark . We had Mordue workie ticket, Frank and Bird moteuka blonde, Hop Studio porter and Harviestoun b&t. About 5-10 minutes walk of the metro station, downhill to the main junction.
1 Apr 2013 18:48
It was a bit quiet on our visit but it gave us a chance to savour the excellent interior. There were 6 ales on from Big Lamp, Deuchars, Elland, Brew Company, Allendale, and Rat Brewery with a good selection from light to dark. I gather it gets very busy on match days.
1 Apr 2013 18:19
Loved this place. As has been said before, a proper boozer. Even the non real ale beers are interesting. There were 5 ales on with local reps from VIP, Durham and Anarchy and two from out of the area. Quality was spot on. If it's raining take time to study the black and white photos of Newcatle and if it's sunny sit in the garden and study the real thing from high up on the banks of the Tyne. There is a freqent bus service (Quay 2) that will take you back to the city centre from outside the Bike hub cafe below.
1 Apr 2013 18:13
The Cumberland Arms, Tynemouth
It's not terrible but with so much competition it didn't rate very high on our tour of the Tyne area. However they did do food which is not easy to find in the evenings in the area. Having said that it wasn't great. When we arrived the place was heaving but seemed to be a stop off point to other evening acivities as about 50 people left whilst we were there. Onto the beers; given the choice in the area the selection was small and disappointing. Arundel Castle, Wadworth 6X, Greenjack Trawler and Allendale Gold. We had the latter and it was delicious. We would have stayed for the Greenjack but the place was too noisy for us.
1 Apr 2013 18:02
Great place with enthusiastic landlord. Although we couldn't stay long, he was holding a beer fest with meet the brewers evening. There were 9 handpulls so I guess that even on a non beer fest day there would be plenty to choose from. The building is on the slopes leading to the river about 5 minutes walk from the Market Place and about the same distance up steam from the ferry from North Shields.
1 Apr 2013 17:53
Superb restoration on this classic building. Welcoming staff. 8 ales on with 3 from Jarrow, 2 from Mauldon, and others from Ossett, Nottingham, Wood Street breweries and 3 trad ciders. Just over 5 minutes walk of the University stop on the metro
1 Apr 2013 17:46
Fitzgeralds Sunderland, Sunderland
Busy, friendly pub with 6 ales on at our visit from Durham, Ossett, T Taylors and Hambleton breweries. Excellent quality. Spacious, double fronted period building about 5 minutes walk of the University stop on the metro
1 Apr 2013 17:40
Has been on my list to visit for years and we weren't disappointed. The parlour rooms are still there although we sat in the lovely extension at the rear. There was a good choice of small brewery ales on offer and the atmosphere is idyllic with lots of chatting and no piped music. About as an unplastic pub as you could get.
27 Mar 2013 16:17
Tremendous. All the things I love about proper pubs; no music just conversation, excellent range of 4 ales including two brewed on the premises, superb food open fire, friendly landlord. It had them all. A great place.
27 Mar 2013 16:12
I was probably a bit unlucky wth the beer choice. I've had better in a wetherspoons. 2 Skinners, Green King, Directors, Hobgoblin and two by local Hunters. Most of the beers except the last I see time and time again and had expected this place as the premier ale pub of Plymouth to be a bit more adventurous on style and brewery. Having said that, great pub, loads of atmosphere, just a vital ingredient missing for me.
17 Mar 2013 22:45
I do like Brodies beers although some of the tastes are a bit powerful. Anyway the pub is a great place. Be prepared for a bit of elbow work to get to the bar but with ale in hand soak up the atmosphere.
17 Mar 2013 22:27
One of my favourite pubs in London. There are about 12 handpulls with around half Miltons and the rest guest ales with some interesting ones from London. The food is good with but limited to pizzas in mid afternoon. The bar billiards table and the loos have seen better days.Very convenient for bus 38 from central London and LOndon Overground . If you like your ale in an earthy surroundings then this is a great place.
17 Mar 2013 22:23
Just popped in for a quickee at lunchtime but that is so difficult to do here. The choice of quality ales is quite superb. I think there were 8 on including Dark Star Extra Stout, Thornbridge Lombard and Glastonbury Porter. Not an inspiring interior but with ale choice like that I really don't care.
7 Mar 2013 23:08
What a great pub. We reserved as we were eating which turned out to be a good move. The atmosphere was great as were the meals. Superb beer and cider choice. They brew on the premises and the quality was excellent. 3 of the 5 real ales were theirs and the guests came from Oakham and Sambrook. Highly recommended. Walked past another pub in the street on the way to the station and it had one person it, about one fifthtieth of the number in the Bull. Do great beers and all else follows including the customers.
7 Mar 2013 23:02
Brilliant earthy pub. Only had Milk Street beers on at our visit but no complaints. Golden through to black on offer as well as a couple of trad ciders. High Street location. Has to be the best ale choice in the town.
7 Mar 2013 22:40
Below par on the beer front with 4 out of 5 being boring standard offerings and one a bit more adventurous. We ate and would have stayed longer but the lack of beer choice ensured we moved on.
7 Mar 2013 22:37
Popped in here after a Glive evening and was reasonably impressed. Although a couple of the beers were the standard boring fare there were a couple of unusuals and very good the were too. A good one to visit when in the town centre as it's at the top of the High Street.
7 Mar 2013 22:32
At last. The 4th pub we've tried in Shepperton and I get a decent pint of ale. This is a fantastic place. They were doing so much right that the Kings Head and Anchor in Church Square were doing wrong. They weren't trying to compete with the Thames Court with its location and food. They niched themselves on real ale, community feel, traditional games and it just feels great. You want to stay there for hours. The details are a blackboard beer menu with 5 on, 4 coming soon and 2 trad ciders, all independents. The range on our visit went through from Golden to a stout. Marvellous. Oh and yes the place was heaving. Not rocket science is it?
20 Feb 2013 10:02
Out of the 3 pubs in this part of Shepperton this is the one creaming the business. It wins I guess because of its location right by the Thames and seemingly has a reputation for food although not my choice. It's a big hit with families. The beer situation was as dire as the the two in Church Square, London Pride and global warming contributer Doomed Beer. This place though has niched itself as a foodie family place with which the other two can't compete which is why they should be selling an adventurous range of ales not virtually the same as this place. The Thames Court don't have to worry, they're busy with customers. Now there must be somebody round here selling a decent drop of ale......( see Barley Mow)
20 Feb 2013 09:50
I might have been dissappointed with the Kings Head but I was truly shocked at the Anchor. My notes from last century talk of a vibrant pub with lots of real ales and stuffed full of customers. On a Saturday lunchtime there were 3 less customers than the Head i.e 1. No staff to be seen. The building is fantastic on the inside with oak pannelling everywhere. I was almost excited til looking at the bar saw London Pride (yawn) and a Fullers rugby badged ale. We were looking to eat but with that choice in what resembled a morgue we left. How the mighty doth fall. So there are two lovely pubs in a glorious setting both selling almost exactly the same nationally avaiable beers and are virtually empty. Somebody some pub somewhere is creaming off the business. Whoever runs these places needs to go look seriously at the competition and see where they are going wrong.
20 Feb 2013 09:41
Very dissappointing ale choice. Lots of garish lager and keg fonts very out of place in this historical pub as was the gas log effect fire and 3 enormous TV screens. On a Saturday lunchtime there were 4 customers. Out of desperation I had Courage, the only other choice being, the much diminished in taste, London Pride. I wish I'd just left. Having said that the other was pub in Church Square was worse.
20 Feb 2013 09:28
Went for a meal with friends last night. Boy it was busy. Food was excellent for all four of us. Ale wise we had Dark Star Hophead, Hepworths Old and Hogs Back Snout all on good form. It is an injustice that a place that sells, in my opinion, consistently good ale and across a wide range of styles is not be in the Good Beer Guide. It doesn't affect us, we know it's there, I just feel a lot of others are missing out.
9 Feb 2013 22:42
Thought the other Nicholsons pub probably edged it given that they had a better choice of ale but still worth going to. We ate here and the food was very good including my fillet steak. There were 6 beers on and we had Itchen Valley, Green Jack and Oxfordshire, all on good form.
6 Feb 2013 15:19
Being a tied house I would normally have given this a miss but thought I'd see if they had Black Cab stout on and was surprised and pleased to see they did so we stayed a while. Also good to see a guest on, this one being from The Shotover Brewery. I need to check that one out. As TWG says this is a pub that should be on the discerning drinkers circuit of Oxford.
6 Feb 2013 15:14
Love the beer range all laid out on a blackboard menu with a key to describe the style. There were 5 on with another 3 coming The Wentworth WPA and Miltons Nero were excellent.
6 Feb 2013 15:07
The range of beers in this very old inn is supurb. There were 8 on as well as a cider from Scotland. The ales went from golden to black to porter. Highly recommended. I wish this range had been available when I was at the Polytechnic 40 yeatrs ago but sadly all was Ind Coope and Morrells in those days.
6 Feb 2013 15:03
Lovely historical pub in an idyllic setting. Seems to be owned by Everads of which there were 3 beers on as well as one by Holdens and one by Castle Rock. All that we had were in good condition and the food was excellent. Highly recommended. Bus 8 and 9 go from Oxford City centre and a 5 minute walk down High Street in Old Headington will bring you to the pub.
6 Feb 2013 14:59
Popped in last weekend for a friend's birthday. A much underated pub. There were 3 ales on from Tillingbourne, Hogs Back and Surrey Hills as well as the carbon footprint unfriendly Doom Bar. Excellent staff, all very friendly. All the beers we had were in excellent condition. There is live music on occasion. There seemed to be a good food menu. Definitely a good place for just a drink of for food as well.
31 Jan 2013 22:32
We stopped here on our back cycling from Portsmouth via Eastney to Havant. Having been to Sir Loin of Beef In Eastney this sort of pub comes as a big disappointment. The beers on were all similar styles, all very boring. Fullers do a stout and porter this time of year but you wouldn't think so. Very friendly barmaid but it's a proper choice of beer that would make me come back. Incidentally looked through the window of the nearby Royal Oak and bearing in mind beer choice didn't even go in.
31 Jan 2013 22:24
The Sir Loin Of Beef, Southsea
Another brilliant visit. Amongst others on were a golden. stout and a porter; just as it should be. Just noticed they have a bar billiards table as well so next time...
31 Jan 2013 22:17
Wetherspoons, Victoria Station
Popped in here whilst waiting for a train. An excellent choice of beer was on offer including Dark Star Expresso and Russian Winter, an imperial stout from Itchen Valley which was fantastic. A point to note when coming in the main entrance door is that there are many more beers on offer further into the pub i.e. by the doors onto the balcony on the 'Kent side' of the station. I didn't use the loos or have breakfast as per some of the previous contributors so can't comment there but as this site is called beer in the evening I thought it helpful to include a comment on beers...and it was the evening.
13 Jan 2013 10:37
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
Excellent, another real pub in Central London. Friendly and welcoming and such a short hop from the mediocre bustle of Oxford Street. On last night were Harvey's Best, Windsor and Eton Mandarin Ale, both very tasty and Hobgoblin. The only disappointment was 3 empty handpulls.
13 Jan 2013 10:26
A good old community type pub in the old sense. It was busy for a Wednesday lunch in winter with most peoples eating. We just had a couple of beers from Irvine (porter) and Ascot (dark mild and a fruity mid brown). There was a beer also from Anwells. Would have liked to have seen a light hoppy beer as well. If it wasn't for the great beers we probably wouldn't freqent here. I remember years ago going in for a beer and the choice (or not) was such we walked out, only returning in recent years.
10 Jan 2013 16:28
Wow, what a building. There's not much that keeps me from supping my beer but I had to go for a walkabout inside. Go see for yourself. Oakham, one of the best breweries in the country, had an amazing selection for us including a first, their porter.
10 Jan 2013 16:14
Still much as mcroyal says. A really homely pub, typical in my experience of the pubs further west in the Black Country. Two or was it even three seperate bars add to the delight. 6 ales were on and when mine was found to be past its best it was changed without question for something else. Excellent place and so convenient for the tram. What a civilised way to get about.
10 Jan 2013 16:10
Pretty much as paul says although it seemed so retro to be a good memory jerker when most pubs were like this. Again only Hobsons on with lots of silly over the top keg and lager fonts for company
10 Jan 2013 15:57
Lovely looking building which contiues inside. 4 ales on although one was the omni-present Doomed Beer. The others consisted of a light, a ruby and a porter so a decent choice. Mine was a bit hazy but tasted ok and the others were fine. It was early on a quiet Saturday morning and we had no complaints about the service.
10 Jan 2013 15:54
First time here for many years. Superb (very) historical inn. 4 ales on, Ringwood best, Spitfire , Hogs Back HBB, and the excellent Dark Star Hophead which was on good form. Very pleasant staff. They do lunch snacks and main meals. We had soup and loads of tasty bread. We look forward to more frequent visits.
3 Jan 2013 18:35
The Lincoln Arms Hotel, Dorking
We were first impressed by this place a while ago when the Olympics cycle race passed by and they were dispensing hot food from a stall outside. That day we couldn't stop but wanted to go back and sample the pub properly which we did this weekend. It's a rambling place; has shades of maybe once being a Railway/Station hotel in a former life and indeed still does accommodation. Although rambling we felt at home and it has a nice atmosphere. Just 2 ales were on, Hobgoblin and Shere Drop. We both had the latter and it was in excellent condition. Given that the other places in Dorking don't seem to suit us for one reason or another we may need go no further than the approach to the railway station in future.
11 Dec 2012 22:29
Bit of a strange mix is this place between a wine bar/bistro style yet doing 2 trad beers and a cider. The modernist interior though, is of a here today gone tomorrow look and left us cold. We only stayed for one beer which was delicious Dark Star Hophead. The other was I think Surrey Hills Shere Drop. There was also another unused pump which was having the line cleaned. As I say bit of a strange mix topped off by a visit to the loo which is painted in a colour more suited to tarts boudois. But the beer was excellent; just the rest of the place didn't urge us to stay.
11 Dec 2012 22:15
First visit here since going to the Good Intent where the food was excelellent and the ale choice poor. Well this place scored highly on both. It's a total transformation from its previous guise. The beers (5 I think) offered a range from golden to dark and the food was superb. Not my cup of tea but I was impressed the Guiness seemed to hve been replaced by keg stout from Hepworths in Sussex. Now that's brave but I guess there are probably a lot better stouts out there than Guiness even in the keg form.
3 Dec 2012 17:48
Our favourite of the 3 visited today. Had a geat atmosphere and excellent range of independents and micros beers on offer. Olde worldy inside with parlours and snugs. Just a great place. Would like to give 7.5 but as there isn't one it goes in as a 7.
3 Dec 2012 17:38
Didn't feel quite as home here as I hoped. It's all a bit Done. Never seen so many Bath Ales in one place. The boss has the Spa which she says was delicious and I had the porter. Now that was a heavy drink. Gets a 7 cause I love a pub where there are beers to suit all tastes even when it's a tied pub.
3 Dec 2012 17:33
Excellent choice on 6 (I think) handpumps, from golden to dark. Cosy homely feel only spoilt a bit by the pub bore who thought everyone wanted to hear what he had to say. Would return though. Didn't eat but watch for no food period in the afternoon.
3 Dec 2012 17:29
The Admiral Benbow, Shrewsbury
On a dreadful day weatherwise this pub offered a warm homely feel. The big TV screen was a bit distracting but I reckon it was only visible in one part of the pub. There was a good range af ales such as Ironbridge Gold and Ludlow Gold to Salopian Stout which was delicious. A couple of others I had weren't quite on from, a bit hazy, but we shall return at our next visit in March. Lovely town by the way; worth working a pub tour to include the medieval buildings en route.
27 Nov 2012 08:29
We visited here as we were attending a gig in the back room. A real basic boozer which would have suited us fine but for the boring beer choice. We had just returned from a real ale tour of Derby where all the free houses offered the most fantastic choice of beers to suit all tastes. I'm afraid Ringwoods (which I used to love) and Hobgoblin are all of a similar style and personally just don't appeal to me anymore. Has Ringwoods been dumbed down since the takeover? Certainly tastes like it. Anyway can't say I'd recommend this pub for its beer but I commend them for having 2 rooms for bands and artists to perform. BTW the band we saw was Panic Room really excellent music. Go see
19 Nov 2012 17:12
Just popped in for a quickee here on the way to the railway station from a tour of real ale houses in the town. We've been here many times before and didn't feel any difference in the ambience/service to before. We had their brewed on the premises Railway Porter and White Feather. There are so many handpulls here I forgot the number but I guess aaround 15 of which half were their own brewed beer.
19 Nov 2012 17:02
Immediately felt at home here and dived srtaight into the ale brewed on the premises, Black Iris Sunflower. There was plenty of excellent other choice from 8 hanpulled beers and 3 gravity dispensed. Didn't take long for the locals to start chatting and it was with regret the calling of the train home came.
19 Nov 2012 16:57
This was a surprise; it didn't live up to the billing. We needed something to eat so shortened our stay at the Furnace. The food was excellent and the beer range of 11 handpulls faultless but the pub had a corporate feel about it and was therefore very different from the Exeter, Brewery Tap and Furnace. I'm being picky but it was strange all three of us felt the same and after a couple of rounds we moved on.
19 Nov 2012 16:53
Not on our original list to try whilst in Derby but a CAMRA friend recommended it and we were not disappointed. There were 8 handpulls on and with a great range from golden to dark. The landlord majors on non Derby brews which seems sensible considering his nearest competition does just that. Having said that a brewery should be opening soon at the rear. We were made very welcome and this inn deserves to be on the circuit and we regret not having spent longer there.
19 Nov 2012 16:49
We hadn't intended going here simply through lack of time but it's so close to the Exeter Arms it would have been rude not to. It looks as though it's had a makeover and is possibly a bit squeaky clean at the moment. We had four here, all Derby Brewery beers and all in super condition. There were 10 handpulls in total so there were other brewery's beers available. A recommended as much as the Exeter.
19 Nov 2012 16:42
An excellent pub mainly selling the superb Dancing Duck Ales. We had three and I think there were 5 handpulls. The pub comprises various rooms of which two have a snob screen divider. Only a 15 minute walk from the railway station following the river.
19 Nov 2012 16:37
Absolutely heaving possibly with other people going to Hammy Odeon to see Gotye. Superb range of beers on from goldens to stouts during a beer fest they had on. Didn't eat. This sort of pub really brings home how times have/are changing and a great many other pubco directors whose companies may not be doing too well could pay these sorts of places a visit and see how to draw the crowds. Get the beers right and most else will follow especially customers. BTW the staff were superb at "next to be served" spotting.
14 Nov 2012 21:51
The Duke of York, De Beauvoir Town
A lovely individual pub. A kitchen brewery almost literally. Just the one of theirs on handpull, Neck Oil which was fine. A porter and one other were on keg taps. We tried the former which I reckon would be amazing as a real ale. The food looked good although we didn't eat. Very friendly and a world away from the homogenised gastro pub. Thank goodness.
14 Nov 2012 21:43
The Winterton Arms, Chiddingfold
Well we've been now. It was certainly better than I expected even including the beer. Well sort of. It's very homely and welcoming and was very locally. That's not a bad or good thing, just an observation that it wasn't attracting outsiders. We didn't eat but the menu prices looked a good £2 over what I would have thought reasonable but from we saw it looked good. A log stove was in one part of the bar and an open grate in the other; all very cosy. Now the beer. I was initially excited at seeing Otter on the bar, not what I had expected. Having said that there were two from the same brewery, with fairly similar strengths and Adnams I think. We opted for the lower strength Otter; my pint was ok but nothing special and my wife's half was not good. She didn't enjoy it at all. Hers had been pulled first and looking round at the other 8 customers I noticed we were the only ones drinking ale. Wine, lager and Guiness were the chosen beverages. Had my wife got a stale, in the pipes, beer. Probably. Sadly at the price of a pint we probably won't return, not just because of that bad half, but the lack of decent choice of ales, a thought through range of strengths and syles, which can be done even with just 3 on. Guiness is probably one of the worse stouts ever made but customers have seldom been offered anything different yet there are some superb examples of stouts out there in the real ale world. If real ale hadn't made a comeback all those years ago I would probably be still drinking Brew1X and be none the wiser. I sincerely wish the new owners the best but far too many pubs have closed recently who have done all they have done and still not succeeeded in attracting custom. Get the ale choice and quality right customers will come and may eat, and tell others and the sought after reputation will be established.
13 Nov 2012 16:02
Gosh, that submission by alezilla is worrying. We were there for the 3 hours that they are open on the same Saturday lunchtime. We ate and the food was superb and the portions generous and served in the beamed dining area. The bar area is equally enchanting. The thing that let it down for me was the choice of beers. I had the Butcombe guest which was ok and then looked to have ESB (it's a Fullers tied house) but the lady serving us had never heard of it and said I must mean HSB. I declined as sadly I never really liked that particular product of Horndean (RIP). I had the London Pride instead but there lies my disappoint in that it was so close in style to the Butcombe I could barely taste the diffference. Last year I congratulated Fullers by letter on a pub they have in Brighton that served a fantastic range of ales, all theirs, and included a real stout. With the superb food that was being offered thie pub should have been much busier with diners and I wonder if the reopened Drum in the town which is apparantly offering a good range of micros with differing styles is extracting custom for that reason and offering good food at the same time. Dangerous times for the Good Intent and given alezilla's comment very worrying for the future.
13 Nov 2012 15:28
Absoltely brilliant. A n excellent local where we outsiders were made very welcome. There was a bar billiards game (match possibly) going on where they broke for a meal. We ate as well and the food was lovely. It took a while to come but undestandably as they had a few more to dinner than might have been there normally. The beer choice was good with 4 on including Hammerpot's Bottle Wreck Porter and Bowmans SwiftOne. When one ran out the cask was quickly changed. How refreshing. This pub is such a welcome change from the gastro pubs nearer London and yet did superb meals and ales.
13 Nov 2012 15:11
The William Bray , Shere Guildford Surrey
Crickey. We rolled up here on our bikes from doing the 2 pubs in Gomshall last Saturday. It was heaving with diners. Despite that, as EccentricRichard says, it lacks something like homely warmth. We stood at the bar to have a drink but were very much the odd ones out in this place. Surprised to see 2 Brakspears beers on alongside a Shere drop. The Brakspears was very ordinary, nothing wrong with the quality, just boring and tasteless. The Shere drop was again (see The Compasses, Gomshall) not up to what it used to be. Looking around at the clientele I got the feeling that this place is THE place to go, for the moment, for the Surreys. And yes my wallet felt pleased I was drinking beer and not NZ sauvignon blanc.
9 Nov 2012 09:40
As the Pilgrim says the range of 3 Surrey Hills beers was on sale but for whatever reason I didn't think was up to scratch and certainly not as good as when I first started drinking their beers. The accolade for taste must now go to Tilingbourne which the barman at the Gomshall Mill says they will always try and stock now so no need to divert to Wonersh. The Compasses Inn is definetely worth a visit though; it has a lovely garden and for food I gather it's good. One slight downer, the lounge bar smelt musty.
9 Nov 2012 09:30
Blubeckers at Gomshall Mill, Gomshall
We live close to one of Brunning and Price's other pubs in Milford so were keen to see what the one in Gomshall was like. We were not disppointred. The beer choice was a little less with 4 on, including the wonderful Tillingbourne. We had a bite to eat in the bar area and all in all a very pleasurable experience. The building is a maze of passages and well worth a wander.
9 Nov 2012 09:21
Another excellent mini beer fest this and last week. Reasonable selection, 10 ales and ciders on at once. Highlights for me were Oakham Inferno and Hammerpot Bottle Wreck porter. Nice burgers as well. Such a great place for ales; can't understand why it's been missed out of the Good Beer Guide again.
29 Oct 2012 20:02
We, including the dogs, were made very welcome here. The food was absolutly superb. Most disappointing was the range of beers, 3 on, Doomed Beer, Directors and Skinners Betty Stoggs, the latter two we had. After a day at the Falmouth beer festival the previous day both these were a big let down in taste and style. Shame with just two or three of the other 25 odd Cornish breweries on the handpumps this could become a fantastic venue.
29 Oct 2012 18:46
The Winterton Arms, Chiddingfold
I clicked on the advert at the top of the BITE page today as we live within a few miles of the Winterton. Although it makes good reading and I am pleased the pub hasn't disappeared I was disappointed to see no references to what beers would be avaialable. It's the beer choice that attracts me and I suspect many others and everything else follows. Time and time again we find if the beer is right all else like wine, food and whisky falls into the qaulity and choice category. We keep finding the same beers in one pub after another. There are over a thousand breweries in the country yet you might be forgiven for thinking there are only a dozen. I shall look forward to my visit and hope the lack of aditorial about the choice of beers on offer isn't a true reflection of what we shall find.
18 Oct 2012 11:56
First time here for many a year. Very buzzy on a Friday night; full of atmophere. We ate which although very nice was expensive. Disappointed at the choice of ales, Bombadier and Doom Bar. There is some much local choice now in Surrey and Sussex. Landlord, maybe try Ranmore Ale from Surrey Hills or something from Tillingbourne brewery or Dark Star brewery. They go through gallons of it at the Refectory.
17 Oct 2012 22:29
We only popped in here for a quick beer but the two real ales we tried were both tired and one was way above it's ideal serving temperature. Hopefully this was just a blip.
22 Aug 2012 09:01
Excellent pub. Situated a few yards from the Dean Forest Railway station in the village. 2 real ales on, one from Pewsey and one from Bath as well as 2 trad' ciders. Very welcoming staff. Instantly felt at home
22 Aug 2012 08:55
Superb pub with great staff and locals as well an amazing choice of beers; something for everyone from stouts to summer beers. You can walk it off with a canalside walk to Stoke on Trent afterwards. A must go to pub.
19 Aug 2012 18:32
Normally I'm very keen on small brewery taps like the one of Titanic's we visited recently but I didn't feel Joules beers were up to the mark and choice and quality. The building is impressive and only 5 minutes walk of the railway station.
19 Aug 2012 18:28
The Jolly Potters Inn, Newcastle under Lyme
The shopshire gold was tasty as ever. The Three Tuns offering wasn't up to much. These are the only two on. We went in as we had passed by on the bus and seen the Salopian brewery sign outside. However the building is about as inviting as a public toilet, when you don't need to go that is. The main door was open and thence a choice of a pair of doors that would have enhanced the cheapest of deveolpers bodge jobs which would have sent most potential customers into reverse. Then inside an enormous tele with a soap on I think, and 2 other customers. A real shame considering the number people in wetherspoons a few yards away and I'll always want to support the little business first but hey let's try and attract some people in with an inviting entrance.
19 Aug 2012 18:07
Arnold MacHin, Newcastle under Lyme
Really busy 'Spoons on our weekdaylunchtime visit. Good central spot overlooking some gorgeous public gardens. Ale choice a bit boring and after eating we didn't stay
19 Aug 2012 17:56
The Gresley Arms, Alsagers Bank
Excellent pub with one hell of a view west toward Wales. A great range of ales. Bit disappointed to find no food on our weekday visit which sadly meant our visit was limited. Only one beer gripe was my wife is particular about her ales and asked for a tiny sample of one. The request was declined and an offer of a 1/3rd pint at suitable price was offered. We declined this and consulted the Good Beer Guide notes for the beer and decided it should be fine. We only needed even a lick of the beer to know if was to her taste. Never come across this policy but it wouldn't stop us going back.
19 Aug 2012 17:53
Didn't like this. Perhaps I had been spoilt by the Victoria. Left us with the impression it is a lager led pub with a fridge full of continental beers and 3 real ales which weren't terribly good. Shame as we were expecting great things having frequented the one in London when it was there.
19 Aug 2012 17:11
Excellent pub full of character and some interesting ales. Three on and the best was one from Durham brewery. Watch out for the afternoon closure. We were lucky in that they were open especially as we had come all the way from London by steam train.
19 Aug 2012 17:05
The Shakespeare Tavern, Durham
I'm afraid we were looking for some inspiring beers and as none on the bar did that we left. Interior looked nice though
19 Aug 2012 17:00
This place has everything a good local/pub. A choice of ale from mild through golden to stout. Brilliant. It appears very well supported by the local community and deserves it. Lovely atmosphere inside with convivial chatter.
17 Aug 2012 18:30
Excellent place especially if you like Titanic beers as I do. Normally I see only one every now and again in the free trade and here were 6 or 7 in one place. Superb.
17 Aug 2012 18:26
Huge place and felt a bit unloved. Poor ale choice and the Coachmakers Toffee wasn't to my liking. Never mind.
17 Aug 2012 18:23
No not of Tim Martin's best creations. Usual cheap food and ale but choice of the decent ones (not the standard beers I can get virtually anywhere) was limited and was becoming more limited by the minute with beers running out and not being replaced.
17 Aug 2012 18:05
Good old fashioned boozer with nothing going on except conversations. Ale choice a bit limited but definitely worth a visit for the building .
17 Aug 2012 18:02
It's really in Longton. Great place. Superb choice of ale from mild to golden to red to porter/stout, just as it should be. Something for everyone.
17 Aug 2012 17:59
About 5 to 10 minutes walk of the railway station this is a lovely pub which oozes friendliness and conviviality. Some of the ales are on handpull and some on stillage behind the bar. One of mine was collected from the cellar. The only gripe I would have is, that apart from Ballards Mild, the similarity in the remaining styles: a stout or porter would have made in perfect for me. Prices are set in relation to the beer strength; seems like a fair idea. Beware of opening times early in the week as it tends to be post 5pm. Check their web site. Although there are a lot of pubs in Winchester we found this and the Black Boy so good we went to only these two and twice at that.
5 Mar 2012 09:07
Haven't been here for many years and it hits you the moment you enter that in you're in for a treat. Many different rooms with their own atmosphere and a good range of trad. beers, 5 or 6 I think including a stout from Cheriton Brewery. An absolute must for a visit and if you're coming by train it's a 20 minute walk or so from the station but a delightful one through the historic city centre
5 Mar 2012 09:00
First time here as was recommended. Superb range of ales; could have spent all night there. The building may not be up to much but a walk along the adjacent streets is a "period building" dream. Will definetely go back
16 Dec 2011 16:23
First time back here since the change of ownership. Still a great atmosphere. Might have been unlucky but the choice of ales was a bit samey with no mild/porter/old or stout on. Strange for this time of year.
16 Dec 2011 16:19
Agree with all hillzy except we had enough time tample a lot of the ales. An amazing aray of styles to suit all real ale fans I would think. And the brewery's just outside the back door. One of the clientele was noisy but the atmosphere was great once he'd left. Food was fine . Deserves to really well. Would be nice to see it in the GBG
16 Dec 2011 16:16
Yes I can see what marc1013 means. If all the beers listed on the blackboard as available had been I would have been impressed but there were only two I think, from Buntingford and Elmtree. Service was attentive and the food was good and a big plateful.
16 Dec 2011 15:28
Was disappointed at the choice of ales, all a bit samey. Had the Adnams Bitter which was fine . Looking at the coming soon I may have been unlucky but nothing persuaded me to stay for a second pint. nothing wrong with the pub though but also nothing to make me rush back.
16 Dec 2011 15:23
Walked past on way to West End intending not to try it as GBG says guests from Green King portfolio but met a fellow traveller in West End who said they had beers from Titanic, Thwaites and Nethergate (I think) and so went back and was not disappointed. Excellent old style pub which ok was quiet when I was there on a monday afternoon but must have a great atmosphere when busy.
16 Dec 2011 15:20
I like my beer cooler than most but the ale was VERY cold. Didn't open til 5pm which made it a quick visit before catching the train home. Tried were Wherry and Adnams Old and there were two others. Apart from the temperature they were fine.
16 Dec 2011 15:12
Still sadly really the only place wirth going to in Sherborne I feel. However the beer choice is unimaganitive with simlilar styles and strengths on at the same time. Didn't help that only 3 of 4 were on then reduced to 2.
16 Dec 2011 15:09
Hadn't been here for a couple of years as I got tired of the high prices, warm beer and lack of choice....nearly all GK beers which I don't like. Popped in for a quickee between trains this week and was pleasantly surprised at the choice; not a GK to be seen and on was a mild, a stout and two or three others. Excellent. Beer still a trifle warm for me but I will be back sooner this time.
16 Dec 2011 15:06
Was here last Saturday c/o steam train from London. A superb pub; excellent buzzing atmosphere and a very good range of beers from Ludlow Gold to Bishops Castle Three Tuns stout with Hobsons Mild, Wye Valley bitter and others between.
2 Dec 2011 16:24
I would go along with the last comment. Although we do some of the other more obvious beer speciality pubs when we visit we wouldn't dream of missing out on this place especially this time of year now the Old's on. We were there on Saturday and all was well except perhaps it is a bit pricey.
21 Nov 2011 18:33
As good as ever with 4 from Dark Star and 4 others. The pick of the bunch for us was the American Pale Ale amazingly giving Hophead a run for its taste.
21 Nov 2011 18:28
The Basketmakers Arms, Brighton
Wow, they were busy this Saturday. However the staff were great being efficient and informative. Food was well above average fare for a pub. It was so nice and unusual to walk into a tied house and find a range of styles of beers from golden to black. The Black Cab Stout was too good to miss. Well done Fullers
21 Nov 2011 18:24
The Boaters Inn, Kingston Upon Thames
First visit and very impressed with the range of ales from Golden to Stout. Lovely spot by the river. Food a bit on the pricey side.
12 Nov 2011 19:22
Really buzzing today,and the Old's on...knew there was something good about the winter.
12 Nov 2011 19:20
Perhaps I expected to much from the idylic outside but the inside, instead of being a quaint old pub, was something more akin to a bistro. There is a large empty area in the bar which would be more use as seating. Having said that we were made very welcome, including our two dogs. The food was ok but expensive and the ale choice was unimaginative given the amount of new breweries in Cornwall. Does every pub in Cornwall have to sell a beer from a brewery beginning with S? There was one exception to this, a cask on the bar selling a beer from Nottingham but it was too warm and I felt a bit past its best. The address is of course wrong but as stelladrinker highlighted this in 2008 I don't hold any hope it will be corrected. Trouble is anyone looking for a pub in or near this village will not find it on BITE; they wouldn't be putting Truro into the search location.
8 Nov 2011 15:28
We hit the jackpot as they had a beer festival on. The only criticism I have is that the beers were all a bit high on the strengths. We could have done with some lighter ones in colour and strength but I had a lovely time. We didn't eat and would agree witha previous contributor that the place in general could do with a spring clean but at the time I had eyes only for the fine array of casks from far and wide.
5 Nov 2011 18:19
The Chainlocker and Shipwrights, Falmouth
Good choice of ale and friendly place in superb setting overlooking the harbour. If the food doesn't take your fancy the chip shop 50 yards away is excellent.
5 Nov 2011 18:02
There's no getting away from it, this pub is seriuosly rundown. However we had a long chat with the owner who is the 7th generation to run this very historic pub, and work has already started on a complete restoration. We were made very welcome by the barmaid and served some excellent beers straight from the cask. Personally I would like to see a bit more choice especially as Sharps seems to available from Cornwall to Caithness. Give this place a chance; they need all the help we can give.
5 Nov 2011 17:57
An absolutely superb beer and cider festival this weekend. Thanks to everyone there for making it happen.
23 Oct 2011 21:58
Absolutely superb place. When I went there were 4 handpumps (about to be increased to 5) selling local micro beers ranging from citrus to dark. The food was delicious. As the pub is on the coast to coast walk it can get very busy in the summer so best to call ahead if intending to eat. On a summers evening there can be little better than sitting ouside overlooking the village green drinking a well looked after trad. beer. If you're ever short of those little neccessities like a tube of toothpaste they sell that as well!
13 Oct 2011 16:02
Superb pints of Hophead late yesterday afternoon sitting on the patio. Keep pinching myself this superb place is so close to home.
3 Oct 2011 08:37
Thought I'd take another look bearing in mind other people's comments. Two of the three beers we tried were a bit lifeless but the Wobbler at 7% was superb. The barman was a bit stretched as everyone seemed to come in at once. The food was good and the student serving was very polite and attentive. We did see some people returning their food mainly because it was cold. All in all it's an ok pub and being a fan of brewpubs I am a bit biased but I wouldn't rush back.
3 Oct 2011 08:34
The Snowdonia Parc Free House, Waunfawr
Stopped off here between trains on the adjacent Welsh highland steam Railway. Wish we'd had longer. What a superb beer! We (from the deep south of England) were made very welcome by the locals
29 Sep 2011 08:58
Second visit was not a disappointment. Superb choice of beers and steam on the doorstep.
29 Sep 2011 08:52
Thought the whole marina and this Wetherspoons horrid. Beer choice was not good for someone who tries to get away from the standard fare and the quality of what we had was poor. Left hurridly and returned by the Volks Railway to the querky end of Brighton
30 Aug 2011 19:03
Possibly lucky visit for us having read the comments below. They had an IPA festival on and all the ones we had were in excellent condition. We ate as well but the pie resembled a hollow space. My food was okish but the thing I was most impressed with was the ale choice, quality and a beer menu with tating notes.
30 Aug 2011 18:57
Everyone's said it already. just keep going back for whatever harveys dark beer is on.....dark mild this weekend
30 Aug 2011 18:52
Loads of ales dominated of course by Dark Star but other micros as well. Good range from light to black. So good places like this are still around
30 Aug 2011 18:49
Must be 20 years since I was here and it's still good. One beer brewed on the premises and 3 others, I think, from micros. Only one block back from the sea front to the east of the pier.
30 Aug 2011 18:47
The Sir Loin Of Beef, Southsea
Another superb ale house in Southsea/Eastney. 8 ales on including the Titanic Plum Porter, and beers from Hammerpot, plain and other micros. Great atmosphere
30 Aug 2011 18:43
As promised I returned and with the better half, on August Bank Holiday Monday. Superb atmosphere, absolutely buzzing, like having a street party inside the pub. Titanic Iceberg was in excellent condition.
30 Aug 2011 18:39
Superb pint of Dark Star Hophead last night and the food excellent. Still says Godalming on the address when it's in Milford
18 Aug 2011 08:50
Just a wonderful place. Would have been quite happy just to be left there. A fine array of styles of ale, seven on I think.
12 Aug 2011 17:32
Typical 'Spoons pub where you get what it says on the tin. Impressed to see local ales on sale. In this case it was Richmond Brewery but both ales were not on form, possibly a problem at the brewery rather than the pub. The manager took them both straight off. Respect to him.
12 Aug 2011 17:26
Love this place. It has to be the place to go for decent local beer choice. it's a club and seems to open in the evenings and often has crews in there from the locos on the steam railway. It is open to all; just sign the book and feast your eyes on an array of handpumps
11 Aug 2011 22:25
Pretty boring ale choice and the Black Sheep particularly is a shadow of its former self. There are so many FANTASTIC beers being brewed within a few miles of this pub why bring in a beer from Adnams which for some reason just doesn't travel well and never tastes like it does in Southwold. The service is so much better these days in this pub; just wish I would want a second pint
11 Aug 2011 22:20
Visited at the weekend. great as ever. Had a couple of theirs to start but was guted that the porter wasn't on. No fear they had a Black Pearl from Milestone brewery which was wonderful
11 Aug 2011 16:55
What a difference a year makes. The ale choice was boring and predictable. Nothing from the breweries on the island one of which is in Ryde. Very disappointed. Had Taylors Landlord which rarely tastes any good away from Keighley
3 Aug 2011 14:21
King Harry's Bar (Glenbrook Hotel), Shanklin
Nearly didn't go in as the blackboard outside listed a very boring and predictable list of beers (apart from Proper Job) but we carried on in and there were some that were on the list but importantly something from Island Brewery and Sadlers from the West Midlands were on. Thank goodness we didn't take any notice of the blackboard advertisment. How difficult is it to find some chalk!
3 Aug 2011 14:17
This has possibly closed down. The whole Winter Gardens complex looked shut up
3 Aug 2011 14:12
Went here due to beer at the MillBay not being on form. Was surprised to see only one Island Brewery Ale on and yet three (!) Ringwoods. What's going on. Food very pricey but excellent. On the most gorgeous of days the view is stunning but get there early if you want to see it from your seat.
3 Aug 2011 14:09
Having been the one to instigate this pub onto BITE last year we were a little disappointed with the latest visit. Only 2 of the 4 handpumps were being used and only one of these was an Island brewery (Yates), the other being Ringwood. The Yates was well below good condition and as we were going to eat along with another beer we relunctantly moved on to another pub. Hopefully we were just unlucky butt the pub was VERY quiet compared to others on the esplanade. Although we are occasional visitors these days we have been going since it was a Burts pub with ripped seats et al so we do hope things improve again.
3 Aug 2011 11:32
Mm. Well I quite liked it. Having said that I haven't been for around 20 years and chose it as a suitable stop whilst on a cycle ride. At lunchtime the atmosphere in the bar was jolly, the food good and the choice of beer, brewed on the premises, excellent, going from a golden to a brown to a black. Couldn't fault it and will go back.
29 Jul 2011 09:01
Didn't eat here (looked a bit pricey), but had a beer. Thought the choice of breweries a bit boring, all large regionals but the Adnams was at least Explorer which was on good form. Nice spot just yards from the beach
23 Jul 2011 09:34
Pretty muck as the previous comments. Nice food and good to see imaginative choice of beers including, on this visit, from the newish Island (Wight) brewery and Hammerpot. Ale in good form.
23 Jul 2011 09:30
GBG says beer range varies which usually indicates a few on but here there were only 2 and one of those was turned round. Gripe over; I thought the place was great; chatty locals, nice atmosphere, lots of interesting things to look at on the walls, and the beer that was on was in excellent condition. Will definitely go back.
15 Jul 2011 19:49
Seems no one from BITE has been here for a while. In Weymouth again on a steam trip so thought I'd give it a go. Glad I did. 3 ales on, Doomed Bar which I didn't try and 2 micros which I did and both were kept well. Service was good. Seems to be a local and they were very friendly to this traveller. A previous contributer wondered why it was in the GBG but having sampled a lot of the possibles in Weymouth I can see why.
10 Jul 2011 21:58
As it says on the tin, a hotel bar. Wish all hotel bars were like this. Great choice of ales and if you can grab a seat by the waterway it's a great place to enjoy a few hours.
13 May 2011 08:23
Range of beers was a bit limited on a visit we made in April especially after a visit to The Brewery Tap up the road. However not to detract from a lovely pub and well worth a visit.
13 May 2011 08:19
Went there whilst on a steam train trip from London. Echo all Corkypunt has said. Excellent ale and cider choice and yes the stout was superb. A must do in this city. Food was good as well
13 May 2011 08:16
THIS PUB IS IN MILFORD not godalming. How do we get the address changed?
1 Apr 2011 17:27
The Southampton Arms, Gospel Oak
Absolutely superb. 10 ales and 8 trad. ciders on. A wonderfull atmosphere. Highly recommended. We shall go back
23 Mar 2011 22:37
First visit here for a while. Didn't like the Watneys when it was owned by them but went a few times when it was Sheps. Was very impressed that the Youngs Ordinary had just "gone" when we arrived, but the cask was changed immediately and a lovely fresh pint or two followed. The barmaid now landlady deserves to do well in what is a beautiful and immensly historical inn.
15 Feb 2011 11:11
First visit here c/o friends who live locally. They said it was good and we were not disappointed. Good choice of ales with a very helpful what's on blackboard which included a colour description of the ales like dark, ruby, light etc, which with all the funny names for beers these days is most usefull. Excellent place.
15 Feb 2011 11:06
The Refectory had a beer festival last week with 20 beers available on a rolling program of 6 on at a time. A blackboard was kept up to date with what's on and tasting notes. Over 3 visits we had such delights as Whistable Oyster stout and East India pale ale, Dark Star Espresso and Surrey Hills Mild, all in superb condition. On most occasions we just went for a dink not to eat and were made just as welcome.
15 Feb 2011 11:00
Excellent little gem. Wish we could have stayed longer. Reasonable choice of ales
7 Jan 2011 11:31
A lot better than I remember on previous visits. Don't know if we were just lucky but the choice of ales was superb including a porter.
7 Jan 2011 11:29
First visit here this time by steam train fron Manchester and was ok but nothing sp[ecial. Food was very reasonable and the 2 out of the 3 ales available we had were good.
7 Jan 2011 11:26
Superb place showcasing real ale and proper lagers to the shopping world. Even has trams passing the door. Wonder how long it'll be before the Friary centre in Guildford gets one. Don't hold your breath.
7 Jan 2011 11:21
Not the best 'Spoons we've been in and felt a bit grubby. Usual food fare and average choice of ales. Maybe supplies were a bit low after Christmas. Nice location a a square off Bradshawgate
7 Jan 2011 11:18
Barristers at the Swan Hotel is probably the pick of the bunch in Bolton. The choice was'nt great when we went but what we had was excellent. Busy place. Quite a buzz.
7 Jan 2011 11:12
Wow. Stopped off between trains and stayed quite a while. 13 ales on and between us we had 10 and all were spot on. has to be in my top ten for the UK. Although suitably low key they do food as well. Now looking for an excuse to go again....it's a long way for a Southerner.
7 Jan 2011 11:09
Our most recent visit with friends from the north of England last week was met with a less than exciting range of beers. I'm afraid I still hanker for the days when a range of beer styles would be on offer from a mild through a golden to a porter or stout. Having said that the Crouch Vale I had was superb and both us and our friends found the food good and adequate but they did baulk at the price for the "round".
26 Oct 2010 11:10
The Driftwood Spars Hotel, St Agnes
First visit here. We thought it a superb place especially if one appreciates beer brewed a few yards away. We had the porter which was superb. This was the only one of their portfolio on but it was the weekend of the Falmouth beer fest where they were well represented. The food was ok, not great, just ok, but decent portions. Gorgeous location as well, right by the bay.
26 Oct 2010 11:01
Back again for another meal with a mate. Really impressed to see Surrey Hills Mild on which has just won Gold in class and third overall at the Great British Beer Festival. We had four different beers between us and all were good quality. They have a blackboard with beer tasting notes and coming soon beers, for instance Shere Drop was mentioned.
23 Aug 2010 21:22
Back in the area on another steam trip and was pleased to see the first brew has been done........not so pleased to find it had all gone. The second brew was taking place whilst I was there....lots of lovely aromas. As slerpy says the Yeovil was very good. Others on were from Purbeck brewery and Butcombe. Wish these guys well
23 Aug 2010 21:16
Being the nearest pub to our house I wish the the new management well. Having said that we were disappointed when going for a meal and a few beers to find the choice very boring/predictable on the beerfront with 2 from Cornwall. Having said that the Tribute was excellent. it would nice to see more imagination in the choice. The competion in the revived Refectory in Milford is considerable. 2 people (the only others there) who seemed to know the new management were discussing that they couldn't see what had been done to the Refectory during it's short closure. Well whatever it was it's worked so try looking a little closer like the superb choice of beers on offer including local ales. I've been going to the Star since 1981 and we used to go twice a week for a beer and one of those would be for a meal. The choice initially wasn't good but improved immensely when the beer orders came in but then the two guys who ran it signed a new lease with S and N, I believe, limiting the choice of guest beers to that predictable list again and boy you should have seen the customers walk away. Things have really changed little despite management changes and expensive refits. It isn't always about the decor and fittings. I've been to some right dumps over the years that are heaving with customers. While I appreciate the new found quality in the ale we won't be going back often if there is nothing to excite the tastebuds and not withstanding the comments of "triumph" we probably are not alone. whilst we there a couple came in and after a look at the bar and/or menu walked out. I rest my case.
16 Aug 2010 11:16
Stopped off here whilst on a steam trip from London. Very surprised that this isn't in the GBG.....hopefully 2011? 6 ales on, 2 or 3 regulars with the balance ever changing guests from micros or small breweries with an emphasis on local. We only time for 2 each and all were in excellent condition. Spot the amazing fireplace. Position is down a passage off the pedestrianised Westgate and so very central and convenient. Helpfull and knowlegeable bar person. Deserves lots of custom.
16 Aug 2010 10:52
We in Milford have waited a long time for a decent choice of tradiotinal ale. When we moved here in the early 80s the nearby Red Lion was a Gales pub, now a Tesco. At the Refectory there are 3 permanent ales one of which is badged to the "chain" we were told is brewed by Phoenix of Heywood near Manchester, and 3 changing guests. We have been 3 times in the last 10 days so have sampled most of the beers and all have been top notch. On our first visit we suggested a local brewery they may wish to have represented was Surrey Hills and on our second visit there it was. That's impressive.
The previous incumbant, Bluebeckers, and the present Brunning and Price seem to be part of The Restaurant Group and we thank them for the very sensible and welcome change.
Although there is an emphasis on food which is very good there is plenty of room for drinkers only including a super outdoor area. Seating is 60% reservable leaving the remainder for turn-ups according to the website.
The current rating for this pub is 3.5 which seems a real shame. Is there any way it can be reset as a previous contributer suggested, as it will take a long time to rise to its just level?
2 Aug 2010 10:31
Called in here on the way back to the station as it's so near. Dissappointed to find only one ale on, Summer Lightening, instead of usual four I think. Having said that very good it was and excellent value.
27 May 2010 11:12
The Duke of Cornwall, Weymouth
Surprisingly quiet on Saturday but it was a very hot day and the beach was FULL. We only had the Dartmoor Jail ale and it was very good. Landlord was very chatty and welcoming. I'm not a great lover of Weymouth pubs but this as solid as they get. If you only have one to go to and like your ale choice this is it.
27 May 2010 11:05
Visited here last Saturday whilst on a steam train from London to Weymouth and well worth the 5 minute train journey up the hill. We didn't eat but came out looked very good. The raised patio is all very new and smart like the loos and the general presentation of the pub is very wecoming. 4 ales on tap including 2 from Dorset Piddle, 1 from Butcombe and 1 from Purbeck brewery. Looking forward to the new in house brewery starting. Landlord, keep us in touch
27 May 2010 11:00
The Old Wine Vaults, Faversham
We were also in the town on the occasion of the classic car show and were told of this pub by a friend. We liked it; the staff were civil and the the ale choice although limited did have a local micro on. Deserves to do well. They had a blackboard outside listing their current ales. We like that.
17 May 2010 21:58
Not one of 'spoons best. Beer choice bar one was predictable although very cheap.
17 May 2010 21:55
We thought on our second visit to this pub that it was much better than we'd remembered. There were 4 Kentish micro brewery beers on, all in excellent condition. Yes a welcome change from Master Brew. If you're in Faversham give it a try; you'll stay longer than you intended.
17 May 2010 21:51
Went here whilst on the museum bus running day and didn't dissappoint. It's a bit foodie/family biased but then the bar has an excellent range of beers including two from breweries on the island so it's all round appealing. We ate and the food was good, hot and substantial.
17 May 2010 21:46
This pub is good enough to post their current ale selection on a blackboard outside. That's what got us to go in and well worth it. Excellent range of beers including island breweries. And it was busy. Great atmosphere. They must be something right. It's called imaginative beer selection.
17 May 2010 21:39
We have been twice in the past 2 weeks and walked out both times as the choice of beers was predictable and boring. Start looking at LOCale guys.
17 May 2010 21:35
King Harry's Bar (Glenbrook Hotel), Shanklin
I thought I knew where most of the good pubs were in the island but thanks to BITE and the GBG this was a new one to me. Good choice of ale but sadly the island brewery beer had just run out. Take a look at the loos with a view onto the garden through the french doors. Good atmosphere. Definitely will go back
17 May 2010 21:33
OK not quite the same as when Burts of Ventnor used to be sold (showing my age) but a superb atmosphere and reasonable choice of ales in good condition. Nothing from the island breweries when we there but the "coming soon" board listed one from the latest brewery on the island. Highly recommended if you like your ales
17 May 2010 21:19
The Crab and Lobster Tap, Ventnor
Agree with addlened. Great shame about the boring and predictable range of beers. Decided on this occasion not to stay but see if we could better at other pubs in Ventnor
17 May 2010 21:15
Wow, what a super pub. Met a guy in Germany on a steam trip just before Christmas who said this was his local and we should visit it. Took us a few months but well worth the effort. Excellent beers, mostly micros, and all in super condition. Very friendly; locals came and chatted with us. Big bonus is the station in the village with direct trains from London. Beer fest on the cricket green in July
30 Apr 2010 19:11
Popped in here whilst out cycling and although it was quiet was bowled away at the sight of Ballards Mild being available......and it was in good condition. I do hope this place gets busier as it deserves to
28 Apr 2010 09:14
Popped in here whilst out cycling. It was very quiet but was a Wednesday mid afternoon. The beer was very welcoming from Bowmans and in good condition. The pub sign desperately needs renewing. If I been in a car I may have driven past thinking the pub had closed, but being on a bike paid closer attention.
28 Apr 2010 09:11
We went here after travelling on the nearby North Norfolk Railway. This pub has a good mix of locals and visitors like us. The food was excellent and there was a super choice of local micros for the beers including 2 from Woodforde's and 1 from Humpty Dumpty and 1 from Wolf, all in top condition.
28 Apr 2010 09:01
Popped in for a quick pint today. Finished spending over 3 hours at this wonderful place.....expert staff, superb choice and quality of ales and reasonably priced food.
7 Oct 2009 21:32
This Punch pub appears to have closed as of about 2 weeks ago
30 Mar 2009 22:39
The Bookshop Alehouse, Southampton
Well worth a visit but just a notch down on Olafs Tun.
16 Jul 2017 21:56