The Ramsden Arms, Blackpool

As usual when in an unfamiliar town I try to visit as many pubs in the Good Beer Guide as possible. Visited the Ramsden one evening recently whilst in Blackpool for several days. There were 3 real ales on sale and I opted for a pint Tetley�s on special at �2.30 a pint. The Tetley�s (in my opinion as the pub staff wouldn�t venture an opinion) was at best �stale� if not �off�. A look of indignation from bar staff does not stop the ale from being off. The bar maid poured a taster for the landlord to try. He declined saying he didn�t drink ale. He continued by suggesting that I stop drinking ale and should try larger! An �unfortunate� comment. I declined the offer of an alternative half to replace my part drunk pint. I don�t think any such comments have a place in a �CAMRA backed� pub or indeed any professionally run customer focused establishment.

It�s broadly against my principals to recommend a Wetherspoons over a more traditional pub. However, better beer range (and from local micros), better quality and cheaper at �1.99 a pint, makes for a compelling argument for one of the three now in Blackpool centre (plus a pleasant one in Wood St, St Annes). Alternatively, jump on a train from North station, 7 minutes to Poulton-le-Flyde for an evening in delightful pubs.
Landlords most take greater care of their hard earned patrons.

29 Jul 2012 13:47

The Crown, Birmingham

Was here at the end of June. Nice exterior and recently renovated/painted interior. White is far to bright for me. More sympethic off white or cream would have been better. Appalling "real" ale. First pint of pond water and vinegar. Second (replaced with TT landlord) poor... just drinkable as we ran out of other options.
Ignorant bar staff "agreed to differ" that blantantly off pint of beer tasted "OK". Customer is not always right but trust me on when it comes to proper beer I am. Disappointing as this could be a reasonable establishment. If you like ale avoid!!!

27 Aug 2008 12:19

The Old Harkers Arms, Chester

Exceptional ale pub with 8 regularly changing interesting real ales. Excellent tasting notes readily visible. The menu and food is fine, good value, if a bit pricey for a pub. No music, mature clientele make this a must visit pub.

20 May 2006 21:44