I’d hoped to be able to make the CBA Xmas Social today and their trip round Dudley and Netherton, but alas events conspired against me, notably the early snowfall, the need to await a delivery and lastly one’s inability to get up in the morning, plus the fact we would have had to have left quite early to attend a 50th birthday that evening.
Instead therefore I find myself in Lichfield that afternoon having attended to the morning’s activities, and so we pop into The Acorn where they were selling Titanic New York Wheat Porter. I offered the bar tender a voucher but he said to save it as it was their daily 99p a pint special anyway. Thaqt and a large coffee that Linda wanted and which a completed loyalty card took care of meant that the round came to 99p, the cheapest round ever I suspect.
That evening finds me at Tamworth Football Club for the aforesaid 50th. The atmosphere was a little downbeat given the late 3-2 defeat at Carlisle that afternoon in the FA Cup, but I partly consoled myself with Warwickshire’s Best Bitter.
Monday, 29 November 2010
Wed 24th November - Birmingham
In Birmingham for a course today (Open Educational Resources if you’re interested) which was taking place at The Studio in Cannon Street. I’d already decided to visit a couple of pubs in the evening as well as the German Market, and on arriving at venue noted a new pub, The Windsor opposite so decided to start there after completing the day’s business.
The Windsor is one of those copycat Wetherspoon type venues, with picture of food, etc. The only thing to distinguish it however was the fact that the menu’s daily specials (complete with a free pint of whatever) were in a somewhat different order, with Tuesday being Curry night, Wednesday , Grill Night and Thursday Pie night. A couple of real ales were available and I chose M&B Mild, a once common beer which I’m not seeing that much these days it appears.
Next pub was the Brier Rose, a genuine Wetherspoon for the excellent 6% Wadworth Pixley Black Current Stout.
Final pub of the evening was Baccus Bar and Brew Dog Punk IPA.
The Windsor is one of those copycat Wetherspoon type venues, with picture of food, etc. The only thing to distinguish it however was the fact that the menu’s daily specials (complete with a free pint of whatever) were in a somewhat different order, with Tuesday being Curry night, Wednesday , Grill Night and Thursday Pie night. A couple of real ales were available and I chose M&B Mild, a once common beer which I’m not seeing that much these days it appears.
Next pub was the Brier Rose, a genuine Wetherspoon for the excellent 6% Wadworth Pixley Black Current Stout.
Final pub of the evening was Baccus Bar and Brew Dog Punk IPA.
Friday 19th November - Derby
Derby provides an excellent venue for a Friday but if I do have a problem with the place its that you’re actually spoilt for choice and the venues are starting to spread just too far from the city centre.
The initial plan was to get a taxi to the furthest point and then work back but looking at the traffic we opted firstly to go to the Brunswick. An excellent select as always and I went for two halves to sample a couple of their darker beers, specifically Derby Porter and the easy drinking and so dangerous 6% Black Sabbath.
We then moved on to the Babbington Arms (Wetherspoons) where I opted for Gargoyles Chocolate Stout.
Off now to march to the somewhat 1st World War atmosphere that is Mr Gundy’s with its plethora of Film Stars, etc on the walls and a newly established micro brewery round the back. We tried to peer through the windows but the condensation from the working brewery proved too troublesome. I opted for a local beer in the form of their 3.8% Trenchfoot.
Heading back now down and across the Ashbourne Road brings us to my first new pub of the evening, The Greyhound. Liefmans Fruit Beer made for a slightly expensive but refreshing change whilst we passed a few moments with a group of what I guess were students.
A walk round some back streets cum housing estate now follows taking us to my second new pub, the Five Lamps and Buxton Best. A slightly community pub feel is supported by the hand made cards being on sale at the bar.
We head off again into the night to the Silk Mill where we order a taxi back to the station leaving just time for a swift half of Beowulf Finns Hall Porter.
So there you go, five pubs including two new ones and some excellent beers – the perfect Friday night crawl – cheers JF!
The initial plan was to get a taxi to the furthest point and then work back but looking at the traffic we opted firstly to go to the Brunswick. An excellent select as always and I went for two halves to sample a couple of their darker beers, specifically Derby Porter and the easy drinking and so dangerous 6% Black Sabbath.
We then moved on to the Babbington Arms (Wetherspoons) where I opted for Gargoyles Chocolate Stout.
Off now to march to the somewhat 1st World War atmosphere that is Mr Gundy’s with its plethora of Film Stars, etc on the walls and a newly established micro brewery round the back. We tried to peer through the windows but the condensation from the working brewery proved too troublesome. I opted for a local beer in the form of their 3.8% Trenchfoot.
Heading back now down and across the Ashbourne Road brings us to my first new pub of the evening, The Greyhound. Liefmans Fruit Beer made for a slightly expensive but refreshing change whilst we passed a few moments with a group of what I guess were students.
A walk round some back streets cum housing estate now follows taking us to my second new pub, the Five Lamps and Buxton Best. A slightly community pub feel is supported by the hand made cards being on sale at the bar.
We head off again into the night to the Silk Mill where we order a taxi back to the station leaving just time for a swift half of Beowulf Finns Hall Porter.
So there you go, five pubs including two new ones and some excellent beers – the perfect Friday night crawl – cheers JF!
Friday 12th November - Tamworth
As Dickens would have put it, “I won’t patronise the reader by recourse to a lengthy description of the proposed itinerary this evening, suffice it to say that this was to be a typical Friday night out in Tamworth visiting our usual three haunts.” However with the Wetherspoons beer festival on we decided to concentrate our efforts in the Bolebridge.
Meeting point was again the Globe where there was a rather tasty ale by Daleside (Old Lubrication.)
Onwards to the Sir Robert Peel for where this time I went for the Bishops Farewell from Oakham. RO and a rather inebriated GG were present all the merrier for an estimated 9 pints and 11 whiskies earlier that day.
Finally off to the Wetherspoons beer festival for Exmoor Dark, Bank & Taylor Black Squirrel and Jersey Liberation Ale and finished with bottle of Tyskie.
Meeting point was again the Globe where there was a rather tasty ale by Daleside (Old Lubrication.)
Onwards to the Sir Robert Peel for where this time I went for the Bishops Farewell from Oakham. RO and a rather inebriated GG were present all the merrier for an estimated 9 pints and 11 whiskies earlier that day.
Finally off to the Wetherspoons beer festival for Exmoor Dark, Bank & Taylor Black Squirrel and Jersey Liberation Ale and finished with bottle of Tyskie.
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Yard of Ale - Closed!
News reaches me c/o that the Yard of Ale in Birmingham (last visited in June) has closed - see here
Friday, 5 November 2010
3rd November - Derby
In Derby for a trip to the theatre (stage version of Keeping Up Appearances) and afterwards went to Babbington for food and chance to try some of the Wetherspoon festival beers which included :
- St Austall Coxwain Special
- Birra Del Borgo Castagnale (an excellent Italian chestnut beer albeit brewed on this occasion at Everards)
- RCH Strawberry Line
- Lion Stout (from Sri Lanka but brewed this time at Marston's)
29th October - Birmingham Beer Festival
First time for me at Birmingham beer festival, itself in a new two floor venue in the shape of the Second City Suite. We acquired a table just too close to the food stall but convenient for the locale and Vegan bars (alas most interest was upstairs where I also bumped into a lonesome , at first, Mick the Tick.)
200 beers to consider so start simply (downstairs and study the form.) Had previously decided to concentrate of porters and speciality beers so Two Towers Jewellery Porter was first up (or should that be down.)
Downton Pumpkin Ale next (yes that's got pumpkin in it!).
Hopshackle Aniseed Porter took my eye as a good compremise (yes, that's aniseed!)
Failed on the tombolla.
Nook Brewhouse Cherry Stout followed at which point we noticed that the tasting notes got fewer and fewer in the programme at this point ("must have been drunk by now!?" sugested GP.)
Dunham Massey Treacle Treat
BFG from Black Country (merely as an experiment)
Pitfield's Red ale was my one selection form the Vegan bar.
Quartz Ale-Del-Weiss (for something different)
Back to porter land via Dorset Piddle's Tunderbox Porter and then Conwy's Telford Porter.
We finished by pooling out left over tokens on Oakham's 8.8% Black Barron.
200 beers to consider so start simply (downstairs and study the form.) Had previously decided to concentrate of porters and speciality beers so Two Towers Jewellery Porter was first up (or should that be down.)
Downton Pumpkin Ale next (yes that's got pumpkin in it!).
Hopshackle Aniseed Porter took my eye as a good compremise (yes, that's aniseed!)
Failed on the tombolla.
Nook Brewhouse Cherry Stout followed at which point we noticed that the tasting notes got fewer and fewer in the programme at this point ("must have been drunk by now!?" sugested GP.)
Dunham Massey Treacle Treat
BFG from Black Country (merely as an experiment)
Pitfield's Red ale was my one selection form the Vegan bar.
Quartz Ale-Del-Weiss (for something different)
Back to porter land via Dorset Piddle's Tunderbox Porter and then Conwy's Telford Porter.
We finished by pooling out left over tokens on Oakham's 8.8% Black Barron.
22nd October - around Walsall's Backyard.
BJ's selection this evening as I join the lads at the Red Lion for a steady start via Banks's Original.
"Pretty Bricks" next was the proclamation and so we headed though various bits of the town that possibly need a regeneration grant to find "It's shut" and so we continue our 30 minute tour of industrial wastelands to finally reach the Fountain where The Hoard from Backyard went down well.
Next up to the Victoria for D&B Porter (another Backyard beer and nothing to do with Dunn and Bradstreet GP and DP!)
Lyndon House Hotel and I thought trying the house beer (Lyndon House Bitter) would be a good idea - one lives and learns. At this point TH mentions Lotus Notes - 'nough said!"
We then kicked leaves and hummed hovis theme music as we struggle up the steep cobble infested pathway past the church to the Wheatsheaf, where we samply Timothy Taylor Landlord and proved to be rubbish on the quiz machine before leaving for the Black Country Arms. Salopian Choir Porter was my personal favourite of the evening.
Time to head towards Birmingham and we finished in Bacchus Bar with Purity UBU.
"Pretty Bricks" next was the proclamation and so we headed though various bits of the town that possibly need a regeneration grant to find "It's shut" and so we continue our 30 minute tour of industrial wastelands to finally reach the Fountain where The Hoard from Backyard went down well.
Next up to the Victoria for D&B Porter (another Backyard beer and nothing to do with Dunn and Bradstreet GP and DP!)
Lyndon House Hotel and I thought trying the house beer (Lyndon House Bitter) would be a good idea - one lives and learns. At this point TH mentions Lotus Notes - 'nough said!"
We then kicked leaves and hummed hovis theme music as we struggle up the steep cobble infested pathway past the church to the Wheatsheaf, where we samply Timothy Taylor Landlord and proved to be rubbish on the quiz machine before leaving for the Black Country Arms. Salopian Choir Porter was my personal favourite of the evening.
Time to head towards Birmingham and we finished in Bacchus Bar with Purity UBU.
Friday, 15 October 2010
13th Oct - BBC
At the Coopers for the latest BBC meeting.
Commercial beer sample tonight included:
Thornbridge Lumford
Titanic Mild (not a bad beer and they'd sold out of everything else!)
Commercial beer sample tonight included:
Thornbridge Lumford
Titanic Mild (not a bad beer and they'd sold out of everything else!)
30th Sept - stafford
Lunchtime in Stafford town centre at the Picture House - Caledonian Mellow Yellow
24th Sept - Loughborough
Off with RG for a trip the Great Central Railway hosted beer festival featuring breweries that are close to where they used to run. Headed into the rushes just off the town cntre first however to The Swan in the Rushes for a couple fo Castle Rock beers (Sherriffs Tipple and Black Gold.)
Over to a Lloyds bar , The Amber Room for Thornbridge Jaipur.
Time for the festival qwhich we foud under canvas on the GCR platform. Milds and Porters typically selected resulting in:
Between beers took time to review the various engines they have stored by the station.
After the festival took the train to Beeston and the Victoria for Darkstar Hop Head and Thwaites Nutty Black.
Over to a Lloyds bar , The Amber Room for Thornbridge Jaipur.
Time for the festival qwhich we foud under canvas on the GCR platform. Milds and Porters typically selected resulting in:
- Boggart Hole Dark Mild (RG who likes mild didn't approve)
- Acorn Brewery Old Moor Porter
- Dow Bridge Bonum Mild
- Redemption Urban Dusk
- Vale Black Swan Mild (which we thought was excellent)
Between beers took time to review the various engines they have stored by the station.
After the festival took the train to Beeston and the Victoria for Darkstar Hop Head and Thwaites Nutty Black.
23rd Sept - Manchester
Its rains in Manchester!
Up north on business and after the meeting had decided to try the Jolly Anglers but alas it was shut. I therefore went to Monrone's and had a pint of Boddington's Bitter.
Every surface was adorned with pictures and like of the said film star.
Up north on business and after the meeting had decided to try the Jolly Anglers but alas it was shut. I therefore went to Monrone's and had a pint of Boddington's Bitter.
Every surface was adorned with pictures and like of the said film star.
Wednesday, 22 September 2010
18th September - The Wharf at Welford
Wanted a place to break a journey back along the A14 and the old GBG I had included reference to the small town / village of welford in Northamptonshire at the north end of which apparantly was the Wharf.
On arrival we found what appear to be a number of cotteges joined together ajacant a boat yard come wharf.
Inside a good choice of beers from which I selected a beer not featured on the brewer's web site (Langton's) in the form of Lock Keeper (a search o the web revealed it was once a festival special at Leicester - wonder if its an house beer these days?) <-- email sent to brewery to find out.
On arrival we found what appear to be a number of cotteges joined together ajacant a boat yard come wharf.
Inside a good choice of beers from which I selected a beer not featured on the brewer's web site (Langton's) in the form of Lock Keeper (a search o the web revealed it was once a festival special at Leicester - wonder if its an house beer these days?) <-- email sent to brewery to find out.
14th September - Tamworth
In town late tonight and in need of a nightcap finds me at the Bolebridge where they had Burton Bridge Stairway to Heaven.
along with RG who was with us, I cooked up a devious plan to spend an evening soon working down one of the sides of the drinks menu - watch this space...
along with RG who was with us, I cooked up a devious plan to spend an evening soon working down one of the sides of the drinks menu - watch this space...
10th September - Dave P's Whatever, Whenever Tour
Out with the Friday Night Birmingham Beer Intakers (aka GP and co albeit no GP this time). Severla others were absent (with leave) so we had decided to take things easy.
D, bro' of the aforementioned erstwhile G, had been in planning mode earlier in the week and so I joined him, TH and BJ at the Black Eagle in Hockley for his Whatever, Whenever tour. The pub, an oasis in the industial wilderness these day, was packed and so we sat outside for a while until the rain came down. Excellent beer as always in the Black Eagle with the following sampled:
D, bro' of the aforementioned erstwhile G, had been in planning mode earlier in the week and so I joined him, TH and BJ at the Black Eagle in Hockley for his Whatever, Whenever tour. The pub, an oasis in the industial wilderness these day, was packed and so we sat outside for a while until the rain came down. Excellent beer as always in the Black Eagle with the following sampled:
- Brewdog Trashy Blonde
- York Guzzler
- Bathams Bitter
- Three Tuns XXX (James Bond reference at this point lead us onto the Drawf hanging falicy in Wizard Of Oz and the bit in Star wars where the trooper banged his head on the door.)
8th September - Tamworth
en route home from a meeting finds me in the Bolebridge - Titanic Triple Screw went down well.
4th September - Lichfield
A saturday afternoon (and evening!) social outing with members of the BBC finds us first at the recently opened Malt in Lichfield. Decide to concentrate of the ABC beers as I don't get chance to try them round my neck of the woods. Rotunda Red (4.8%) is first with its subtle toffee aftertaste. A less strong Dizzy Blonde (4.4%) next. Luke was raving about one of the guests so Beartown Peach Melbear follows and to finsish the strong 6% Aston Distressway was consumed just in time to move on.
We considered visiting the Lloyds Bar and sent Paul in to research the beers (or lack there of) and so ended up instead at the QueensHead and Timothy Taylor Landlord.
One of the most improved pubs in recent years next. The Horse and Jockey used to be run down but no longer so and some excelent ales on offer including Enville Ale and Blythe's Bagot's Bitter (nice one Robert!)
Round the corner to the Kingshead which had Ringwood Showman's Tipple on.
time for some culture and a chance to visit the Captain Smith staute in the park and a review of the cathedral and Minster pool before a rest stop at the Earl of Lichfield (aka The Drum.) Marston's Bitter here (they also had the Ringwood beer as above.)
Acorn next for Shenstone's Evo followed by come tastry fish and chips on Greenhill (not been here for years, certainly the internet had not been heard of back then.)
Final port of call was the Duke of York for Bryson's Hurricane Bitter and a Trashy Blonde from Brewdog.
We considered visiting the Lloyds Bar and sent Paul in to research the beers (or lack there of) and so ended up instead at the QueensHead and Timothy Taylor Landlord.
One of the most improved pubs in recent years next. The Horse and Jockey used to be run down but no longer so and some excelent ales on offer including Enville Ale and Blythe's Bagot's Bitter (nice one Robert!)
Round the corner to the Kingshead which had Ringwood Showman's Tipple on.
time for some culture and a chance to visit the Captain Smith staute in the park and a review of the cathedral and Minster pool before a rest stop at the Earl of Lichfield (aka The Drum.) Marston's Bitter here (they also had the Ringwood beer as above.)
Acorn next for Shenstone's Evo followed by come tastry fish and chips on Greenhill (not been here for years, certainly the internet had not been heard of back then.)
Final port of call was the Duke of York for Bryson's Hurricane Bitter and a Trashy Blonde from Brewdog.
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
August 27th - Catching the Red Eye to Shrewsbury
Earlier this summer had seen me attand the 1st Red Eye cider festival at the Salopian Arms in Shrewsbury and having noticed that they were repeating it this weekend I decided to pay a return visit.
The day started badly with the train we were supposed to catch being late meaning we had time to kill in Birmingham so it was into the Shakesphere on the station for a half of Coors Light.
On arriving in Shrewsbury the 2 minutes (10 in reality) walk found us at the venue where they run a cider festival twice a year and this is the larger offering some 30 ciders in addition to what they have on the bar. The person serving recognised me and pointed me at the menu which revealed a wealth of Perry, so to keep things simple I decided to work from the bottom upwards, the first being Swallowfield Moorcroft (5.5%) which I rated 4 out of 5.
This was followed by :
We then went next door to the Shrewsbury Hotel - Wetherspoons for Wood's Shropshire Lad before the journey home.
The day started badly with the train we were supposed to catch being late meaning we had time to kill in Birmingham so it was into the Shakesphere on the station for a half of Coors Light.
On arriving in Shrewsbury the 2 minutes (10 in reality) walk found us at the venue where they run a cider festival twice a year and this is the larger offering some 30 ciders in addition to what they have on the bar. The person serving recognised me and pointed me at the menu which revealed a wealth of Perry, so to keep things simple I decided to work from the bottom upwards, the first being Swallowfield Moorcroft (5.5%) which I rated 4 out of 5.
This was followed by :
- Malvern Magic (5.5%) - 3/5
- Broomfarm (or is it Brookfarm?) Perry (6%) - 4/5
- Springhead Perry (7%) - 3.5/5
- Newforest Perry (7%) - 2.5/5
- Hecks Port Wine of Glastonberry (6.5%) - no rating recorded.
We then went next door to the Shrewsbury Hotel - Wetherspoons for Wood's Shropshire Lad before the journey home.
Thursday, 19 August 2010
August 20th - Lichfield
Friday night outing with GP, DP and TH. My turn to organise so Lichfield selected, an inspired decision given that the new Malt bar had recently opened and it was there we headed first. 14 or so hand pulls greeted us being a mix of Aston Brewing co (ABC) (who I believe run the place) and guests. I selected two halves in the form of ABC's Aston Mild and the Steam beer from Ironbridge.
Next to another up and coming venue in Lichfield, the Horse and Jockey in Sandford street where Backyard Nippin was my choice. To pass the time we played a word game where you name a country and the next person has to name one with the last letter of the previous selection (there's a lot of countries beginning and ending with A.)
Up to the Kings Head for Jennings Lakeland Stunner - we continued the game but with bugs (it started out as insects but we couldn't recall if some guesses had 6 legs or not. At one stage I offered the Elephant Beetle which was eventually accepted - they do exist...)
Earl of Lichfield next (yes it is another Marstons pub) which I think had the same guest as the previous place, so instead I went for Marston's Bitter (on the basis it appears rarer than Pedigree.)
Acorn next and another Backyard beer, D & B Porter this time.
Final port of call was the Duke of York (Joule's brewery owned place these days) and selected Thornbridge Brother Rabbit (I did ask for the perry they were adveertising but it was off.)
Off for the train and kebab en route home.
Next to another up and coming venue in Lichfield, the Horse and Jockey in Sandford street where Backyard Nippin was my choice. To pass the time we played a word game where you name a country and the next person has to name one with the last letter of the previous selection (there's a lot of countries beginning and ending with A.)
Up to the Kings Head for Jennings Lakeland Stunner - we continued the game but with bugs (it started out as insects but we couldn't recall if some guesses had 6 legs or not. At one stage I offered the Elephant Beetle which was eventually accepted - they do exist...)
Earl of Lichfield next (yes it is another Marstons pub) which I think had the same guest as the previous place, so instead I went for Marston's Bitter (on the basis it appears rarer than Pedigree.)
Acorn next and another Backyard beer, D & B Porter this time.
Final port of call was the Duke of York (Joule's brewery owned place these days) and selected Thornbridge Brother Rabbit (I did ask for the perry they were adveertising but it was off.)
Off for the train and kebab en route home.
Friday 13th - Burton (again!)
"Well the town ain't changed much" I remarked to RG on arrival at Burton upon Trent (which wasn't a surprise really seeing as it was less than 48 hours since I last left the place.
We headed first to the Old Cottage and I spied a 4.5% perry on the specials board (mid-life crisis kicking in again.) Venturing up to the bar I spied a plastic cider barrel and asked for a half of that only later to discover that is actually had Black Dragon Cider at a mere 7.2% in it. After that, back to beer via Shardlow Kiln House.
Next port of call was the Oak and Ivy (mainly because that was where my comrade used to spend lunchtimes when he worked in Burton some years previous and no, that hadn't changed much either. not much choice tonight so it was Pedigree.
Onwards to the Devonshire and Burton Bridge Porter (as I've said on here before - for a change) and finally into the Coopers for Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby, Titanic Captain Smith's and Thornbridge Jairpur.
We headed first to the Old Cottage and I spied a 4.5% perry on the specials board (mid-life crisis kicking in again.) Venturing up to the bar I spied a plastic cider barrel and asked for a half of that only later to discover that is actually had Black Dragon Cider at a mere 7.2% in it. After that, back to beer via Shardlow Kiln House.
Next port of call was the Oak and Ivy (mainly because that was where my comrade used to spend lunchtimes when he worked in Burton some years previous and no, that hadn't changed much either. not much choice tonight so it was Pedigree.
Onwards to the Devonshire and Burton Bridge Porter (as I've said on here before - for a change) and finally into the Coopers for Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby, Titanic Captain Smith's and Thornbridge Jairpur.
Friday, 13 August 2010
11th August - Burton Beer Circle
Work meant I was later than normal arriving at Burton this evening and so headed straight to the Coopers where commercial beers tasted were Red Drawf from Blackhole Brewery and then Brock Stout from Thornbridge.
Thursday, 12 August 2010
6th August - Trip round Marstons Brewery
The CBA had arranged a tour of Marston's brewery (hopefully I'll post some pictures on here at some stage), so having had breakfast at Mac's cafe, met with some of the others at Burton Railway station for the 20 minutes walk to the brewery.
The tour itself lasted the best part of 2 hours (watching the bottles whizzing round the plant was quite impressing.) They have a hand in a lot of different beers here including their rival Bass (today brewed on ex-Mansfield brewery kit).
After the tour there was time to same some beers and I had Pedigree, Oyster Stout and Diamond.
Afterwards it was off to the Coopers for Woodland Mild and Heartland Farmhouse Perry and Scropton Three Cats.
The tour itself lasted the best part of 2 hours (watching the bottles whizzing round the plant was quite impressing.) They have a hand in a lot of different beers here including their rival Bass (today brewed on ex-Mansfield brewery kit).
After the tour there was time to same some beers and I had Pedigree, Oyster Stout and Diamond.
Afterwards it was off to the Coopers for Woodland Mild and Heartland Farmhouse Perry and Scropton Three Cats.
Friday, 30 July 2010
30th July – Stafford Beer Festival - "No more Engligh, No more French...."
"No more English, No more French, no more sitting on the old school bench" was a popular ditty in my school days all those years ago and which proved to be rather apt during my brief visit at lunchtime to the Stafford beer festival held this year at Blessed William Howard School especially as , well, we ended up sitting on an old school bench.
I arrived slightly late to find G and co already sampling the wares.
The main festival was held in the School's Gym with a Locale bar on one side and the National bar down t'other.
First up was Chocolate and Vanilla Stout from Titanic, followed by Golden Pippen from the Copper Dragon Brewery and finally (I was only there in my lunch hour), Worcestershire Way from Bewdley Brewery.
Overall a nice little festival although not many beers were unknown to me.
I arrived slightly late to find G and co already sampling the wares.
The main festival was held in the School's Gym with a Locale bar on one side and the National bar down t'other.
First up was Chocolate and Vanilla Stout from Titanic, followed by Golden Pippen from the Copper Dragon Brewery and finally (I was only there in my lunch hour), Worcestershire Way from Bewdley Brewery.
Overall a nice little festival although not many beers were unknown to me.
20th July Burton
Still on staycation and this evening wanted to avoid cooking and also relaxing in pubs normally visited due toi some external agenda. Of to Burton it is and after fish and chips near the Town Hall, round the corner to the Burton Old Cottage Tavern (previously referred to on here by its old name.)
As with other recent visits, guest ales were selected and (whilst some noisy pork scratching par-takers complained of the size of their personal fly infestation) included Peakstones Chained Oak (on hearing which one regular asked, did I "want a padlock with that?") followed by the stronger Sea King from Coastal.
Next up was the Devonshire Arms for a couple of beers from its owners Burton Bridge (no guests on now I note) and which included their Porter (well it makes a change!) and also Bridge Bitter.
Final port of call was the Coopers (I like this pub). Enville Old Porter was first up. I then thought I'd tried Yew from Castle Rock's monthly wildlife series. I didn't notice the fact the sign said "cloudt wheat beer" so back it went after which I sheepishly also went back to continue what was indeed a cludy wheat beer. Final beer of the night was the strong (6.4% - well its strong enough for the summer) Howard Town Dark Peak.
As with other recent visits, guest ales were selected and (whilst some noisy pork scratching par-takers complained of the size of their personal fly infestation) included Peakstones Chained Oak (on hearing which one regular asked, did I "want a padlock with that?") followed by the stronger Sea King from Coastal.
Next up was the Devonshire Arms for a couple of beers from its owners Burton Bridge (no guests on now I note) and which included their Porter (well it makes a change!) and also Bridge Bitter.
Final port of call was the Coopers (I like this pub). Enville Old Porter was first up. I then thought I'd tried Yew from Castle Rock's monthly wildlife series. I didn't notice the fact the sign said "cloudt wheat beer" so back it went after which I sheepishly also went back to continue what was indeed a cludy wheat beer. Final beer of the night was the strong (6.4% - well its strong enough for the summer) Howard Town Dark Peak.
19th July – Bakewell and Ashbourne
Spent this part of the staycation touring the area of Derbyshire between Bakewell and Ashbourne stopping at a few pubs for a brief half.
Bakewell was busy, it being market day and also cattle auction day but after lunch we ventured into the Queen's Arms. Bakewell would make a good venue for a pub crawl except that public transport is not great for that purpose (bus service only.) A number of hand pulls greeted us and I chose Independence from Shipyard brewing. A definitely American beer, the following snippet from reer-pages.com explains all.
Next pub we stopped at was the Bently Brook at Fenny Bentley near Ashbourne, notable as being the home of the Leatherbritches Brewery from whose range I chose Goldings.
Final port of call was after walking round Ashbourne for an hour we ventured into the "Green Man and Black Head's Royal Hotel" (Derbys CAMRA pub of the year for 2010) where I had Rich Ruby from Milestone.
Bakewell was busy, it being market day and also cattle auction day but after lunch we ventured into the Queen's Arms. Bakewell would make a good venue for a pub crawl except that public transport is not great for that purpose (bus service only.) A number of hand pulls greeted us and I chose Independence from Shipyard brewing. A definitely American beer, the following snippet from reer-pages.com explains all.
Shipyards in England
 | Having kicked off on the fourth of July appropriately enough, Shipyard Brewing Company of Maine's master brewer Alan Pugsley has brough a little bit of the USA back to his home country of England. Marston's Beer Company is featuring Shipyard Independence Ale as a special collaborative guest beer at more than 500 of its pubs, and on June 15th, Pugsley will travel to Marston's Brewery in Wolverhampton to brew Shipyard Independence Pale Ale. As the fireworks were lit in the United States on July 4th, more than 250 barrels of Independence Pale Ale were simultaneously tapped at Marston's pubs. The idea for this collaborate beer stemmed out of Shipyard Brewing Company's relationship with Marston's. Pugsley, who is originally from Hampshire, moved to Maine in 1986 after working at Ringwood Brewery. Marston's Beer Company now owns Ringwood, and the brewery's Old Thumper Extra Special Ale is brewed by Pugsley in the United States. |
Next pub we stopped at was the Bently Brook at Fenny Bentley near Ashbourne, notable as being the home of the Leatherbritches Brewery from whose range I chose Goldings.
Final port of call was after walking round Ashbourne for an hour we ventured into the "Green Man and Black Head's Royal Hotel" (Derbys CAMRA pub of the year for 2010) where I had Rich Ruby from Milestone.
16th July Tamworth
Brief resume from this evening's outing around what appears to be becoming the usual selection.
Globe Inn - Holden's Mild followed by their Golden Glory
Sir Robert Peel - Church End ?? (can't recall which)
Bolebridge - Grainstore Ten-Fifty.
Globe Inn - Holden's Mild followed by their Golden Glory
Sir Robert Peel - Church End ?? (can't recall which)
Bolebridge - Grainstore Ten-Fifty.
10th July – Salopian Cider Fest
Go back a year of so on this blog and I mention a mod life crisis and the desire to drink cider, well today I achieved it!
An advert for the 1st Redeye cider festival at the Salopian in Shgrewsbury had caught my eye and with nothing else on decided to spend the day there.
20 or so ciders and perry were available and I decided to initially work backwards down the Perry from the strongest which worked well. I samped halfs of:
The train home calls at Codsall so we took the opportunity of stopping there for an hour to sample Bathams Bitter, Jelly Roll from Morton Brewery and Brough's Pale Ale.
All in all a perfect Saturday and I was still sober enough to water the garden (with an Hose!) when I got home.
The next Reyeye festival is in August and I shell certainly try and got to it.
An advert for the 1st Redeye cider festival at the Salopian in Shgrewsbury had caught my eye and with nothing else on decided to spend the day there.
20 or so ciders and perry were available and I decided to initially work backwards down the Perry from the strongest which worked well. I samped halfs of:
- Broadoak Perry (7.5%)
- Merrylegs Fred Perry (6%)
- Rathways Painted Lady Perry (5.5%)
- Ross on Wye Farmhouse Cider (6.5%)
- Broadoak Bristol Port (6%)
- Madhatters 1st in Lyme (5%)
The train home calls at Codsall so we took the opportunity of stopping there for an hour to sample Bathams Bitter, Jelly Roll from Morton Brewery and Brough's Pale Ale.
All in all a perfect Saturday and I was still sober enough to water the garden (with an Hose!) when I got home.
The next Reyeye festival is in August and I shell certainly try and got to it.
6th July – Fudge Farewell
Day of the funeral for Chris finds us at Sutton crem. Shortly after arriving and parking the car we noticed a route master bus pull in and on closer inspection noticed that it was the number 47 Fudge Farewell which had brought his work colleagues from their meeting point at the Anchor in Birmingham. Slowly the crowd grew, and grew, and whilst chatting to some old acquaintences it quickliy became apparant what there were more people than would fit. Note that the 47 was a reference to Chris's other passion of class 47 trains.
The timetable on the door to the crem normally has 30 minute slots for eqach service, but this time it was a double booking.
Anyway, the tiem arrived and we managed to get a seat although it was packed with many standing and severla tens of peoplke unable to get inside. The humanist tradition service meant no hymns and the like, rather 8 speeches on various aspects of Chris's short life after which we exitied to "Hops and Barley" (a version on YouTube here.)
On to the less formal part of the proceedings, and after dropping my car at homw wee headed to the Assesmbly Rooms where five spacial beers had been laid on either which Chris liked or had been specially produced. they included Fudge Finale form Church End, Finns Hall Porter from Beowulf and Staffie from Blythe plus one from Sheffield which I didn't get to sample.
we then headed to the Sir Robert Peel where the Church End as above was consumed plus numerous Beowulf Chasewater and Oakham JHB.
Not sure why, but for some reason we weren't not sober (maybe it was Chris guiding us home?)
The timetable on the door to the crem normally has 30 minute slots for eqach service, but this time it was a double booking.
Anyway, the tiem arrived and we managed to get a seat although it was packed with many standing and severla tens of peoplke unable to get inside. The humanist tradition service meant no hymns and the like, rather 8 speeches on various aspects of Chris's short life after which we exitied to "Hops and Barley" (a version on YouTube here.)
On to the less formal part of the proceedings, and after dropping my car at homw wee headed to the Assesmbly Rooms where five spacial beers had been laid on either which Chris liked or had been specially produced. they included Fudge Finale form Church End, Finns Hall Porter from Beowulf and Staffie from Blythe plus one from Sheffield which I didn't get to sample.
we then headed to the Sir Robert Peel where the Church End as above was consumed plus numerous Beowulf Chasewater and Oakham JHB.
Not sure why, but for some reason we weren't not sober (maybe it was Chris guiding us home?)
3rd July – MCBA – Nottingham
The meeting was in the upstairs room of the Bunkers Hill in the somewhat depressed Hockley part of the city which provides a good choice of toasted sandwiches (including one with Hartly's jam). Some of these come with chips which are pre-salted (rather too much so for my taste.)
Whilst i didn't see her before hand one of my trips to the bar was also met with discussed from a local who tried to convince me she was there before me - ce la vie!
The drinking actually started in a Lloyds No 1 Wetherspoon which was serving Nottingham Brewery's Legend (and quite tasty it was to.)
At the Bunkers Hill commercial beers tasted were Sunny Daze from Oldenshaws, Queen Bee from Slaters, and Olde Home Wrecker from Milestone.
After the meeting (which included a lengthy session on water treatment) we moved on to the Newshouse where I had Flipside's Flipping Best and then the Framboise from Timmermans.
Whilst i didn't see her before hand one of my trips to the bar was also met with discussed from a local who tried to convince me she was there before me - ce la vie!
The drinking actually started in a Lloyds No 1 Wetherspoon which was serving Nottingham Brewery's Legend (and quite tasty it was to.)
At the Bunkers Hill commercial beers tasted were Sunny Daze from Oldenshaws, Queen Bee from Slaters, and Olde Home Wrecker from Milestone.
After the meeting (which included a lengthy session on water treatment) we moved on to the Newshouse where I had Flipside's Flipping Best and then the Framboise from Timmermans.
29th June – Birmingham
Well, the end of the month when my set of Wetherspoon vouchers are about the expire so where can we go to use them up, somewhere with a number of JD's places close togther, ah yes , B'ham.
On getting to the city, first port of call was actually the Yard of Ale which was fairly quiet (it was mod-afternoon) and over a pint of Marston's Merrie Monk we settled in to watch the end of Japan v Paraguay in the world cup (not exactly a thriller!) - see later post (18th November 2010.)
Onwards, and upwards (quite literally as its the only way out of the pub and on to our first Wetherspoon, the Square Peg where Batemans Salem Porter was selected along with food (I went for the smoked haddock& mozzarella fishcakes (With spring onion, in a creamy sauce) with chips.
Next was Wetherspoons inside pardise place with Oracle from Salopian being my choice.
Finally it was into the Brier Rose for Shardlow's Hit the Spot.
Then back to wait for the train at New Street and watching the mice running about the platform.
On getting to the city, first port of call was actually the Yard of Ale which was fairly quiet (it was mod-afternoon) and over a pint of Marston's Merrie Monk we settled in to watch the end of Japan v Paraguay in the world cup (not exactly a thriller!) - see later post (18th November 2010.)
Onwards, and upwards (quite literally as its the only way out of the pub and on to our first Wetherspoon, the Square Peg where Batemans Salem Porter was selected along with food (I went for the smoked haddock& mozzarella fishcakes (With spring onion, in a creamy sauce) with chips.
Next was Wetherspoons inside pardise place with Oracle from Salopian being my choice.
Finally it was into the Brier Rose for Shardlow's Hit the Spot.
Then back to wait for the train at New Street and watching the mice running about the platform.
Friday, 25 June 2010
Chris Fudge - RIP
It was with sadness that I learned earlier this week of the death of a close friend who had a passion for real ale - Chris Fudge who passed away on 22nd June.
Its difficult to know exactly what to write other than to say that it was Chris's enthusiasm that really got me interested in seeking out new beers so I am eternally grateful to Chris who although was suffering from an illness passed away at an extremely young age.
I met Chris though the Tamworth and Sutton branch of Camra and spent many happy occasions in his company including at the Tamworth beeer festival (hence the above picture.)
Chriss - if you can see this wherever you are then cheers mate and I hope the beer festivals and nagis kebabs they have there will now improve.
Friday, 18 June 2010
Wednesday 9th June - Burton Beer Circle Meeting
Beers sampled this night were :
At the Old Cottage - Tollgate African Dream (what's that taste?)
Coopers - Newby Wyke Black Funnel and Hoskins Old Navigation (well I'm off the next day so its strength don't matter!)
At the Old Cottage - Tollgate African Dream (what's that taste?)
Coopers - Newby Wyke Black Funnel and Hoskins Old Navigation (well I'm off the next day so its strength don't matter!)
Wednesday, 9 June 2010
Friday 28th May - Wheel tapping and shunting at Hopwas Beer Festival
Not sure if there's been a beer festival at Hopwas before, certainly I don't recall any. However meeting up with RG at the Globe lets me try Wooden Hand Brewery's Cornish Bucceneer followed by Mallinsons 44yrs of Hurt.
Thence off to catch the bus out to Hopwas and a short walk finds us at the local canal side social club and a chance to catch up with several aquaintences.
Yorkshire beers featured and those consumed were:
Great Heck White Rabbit
Ilkey Pale
Bridestones Brewery Yorkshire Bitter
In between we took the option to partake of the entertainment via the compilation DVD of Wheel Tappers and Shunters ("they's all got flat caps on" commented Ginger.)
Alas we didn't have much longer so back on the bus and to the Bolebridge for Burton Bridge Stairway to Heaven.
Thence off to catch the bus out to Hopwas and a short walk finds us at the local canal side social club and a chance to catch up with several aquaintences.
Yorkshire beers featured and those consumed were:
Great Heck White Rabbit
Ilkey Pale
Bridestones Brewery Yorkshire Bitter
In between we took the option to partake of the entertainment via the compilation DVD of Wheel Tappers and Shunters ("they's all got flat caps on" commented Ginger.)
Alas we didn't have much longer so back on the bus and to the Bolebridge for Burton Bridge Stairway to Heaven.
Tuesday 25th May - Lunchtime at Silk Kite, Tamworth
Working in Tamworth today gave me the chance to pop into the Silk Kite where Titanic Golden Age was available.
Friday 21st May - Old Hill / Rowley Regis
Having taken the day off work (not a bad decision given that it touched 105 in next door's green house I headed into Birmingham to join the others at the Brier Rose and opted for Beuwulf's Finns Halls Porter - not an especially summer drink I know but seeing as I know the brewer then felt best to support him.
We then headed for Snow Hill and the train out to Old Hill Station - "crikey - that's a long way down!" as we debated how best tro safely exit the train. A brief mountaineering expedition then followed till we got to our base camp at The Waterfall. An excellent choice of beers (and good value food! greeted us. I went for Pardoe's Broughs Pale Ale.
Onwards and UPWARDS (emphasis on the upwards bit there!) , past an incredibly well parked camper van and we finally found our way to the Hawthorns where there was Enville White offered.
The Malt Shovel next and Enville Ale this time on their impressively large patio. Someone from our party let out a loud burp at this point whilst conversation included the Zx-80 computer for some reason probably best forgotten.
The Britannia next - this Wetherspoons is unusually as it probably always was a pub. Wentworth WPA was drunk whilst we continued the 80s theme - who did play Mike in the Young Ones?
Final port of call out that way was the Beach Tree for Banks's Mild and a win at darts and of yes it was Christopher Ryan.
We fianlly found the way back to Rowley Regis station and time for a quick half in Birmingham at the Old Contempables for Fuller's Chiswick, thence a quick visit into Tescos to acquire support before heading home.
We then headed for Snow Hill and the train out to Old Hill Station - "crikey - that's a long way down!" as we debated how best tro safely exit the train. A brief mountaineering expedition then followed till we got to our base camp at The Waterfall. An excellent choice of beers (and good value food! greeted us. I went for Pardoe's Broughs Pale Ale.
Onwards and UPWARDS (emphasis on the upwards bit there!) , past an incredibly well parked camper van and we finally found our way to the Hawthorns where there was Enville White offered.
The Malt Shovel next and Enville Ale this time on their impressively large patio. Someone from our party let out a loud burp at this point whilst conversation included the Zx-80 computer for some reason probably best forgotten.
The Britannia next - this Wetherspoons is unusually as it probably always was a pub. Wentworth WPA was drunk whilst we continued the 80s theme - who did play Mike in the Young Ones?
Final port of call out that way was the Beach Tree for Banks's Mild and a win at darts and of yes it was Christopher Ryan.
We fianlly found the way back to Rowley Regis station and time for a quick half in Birmingham at the Old Contempables for Fuller's Chiswick, thence a quick visit into Tescos to acquire support before heading home.
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
15th May - Midlands CBA Meeting at Burton Bridge Brewery
Attending meetings of the CBA tends to be an exception for me these days, not through choice, but I'm usually working. However today I was free and arrived in good time for the meeting.
We started with a trip round the brewery most of which is accessed via an 1823 Malt House. Bruce Wilkinson gave an introduction to the brewery (now in its 29th year) and an overview of their brewing process. The main thing I drew from this was that you can easily have too much information when brewing and taking the pragmatic (some might say "heathen") approach is probably best for one's sanity. actually there are some variables you can take account of and some you can't namely the brewer, equipment and water (liquor.)
The talk was followed by a lunch of faggotts , chips and some excellent mushy peas before getting down to business.
Along the way were sampled Damson Porter ("ours is better" remarked GP) and Bridge Bitter (merely because that was the beer that Bruce concentrated on in his talk.
We started with a trip round the brewery most of which is accessed via an 1823 Malt House. Bruce Wilkinson gave an introduction to the brewery (now in its 29th year) and an overview of their brewing process. The main thing I drew from this was that you can easily have too much information when brewing and taking the pragmatic (some might say "heathen") approach is probably best for one's sanity. actually there are some variables you can take account of and some you can't namely the brewer, equipment and water (liquor.)
The talk was followed by a lunch of faggotts , chips and some excellent mushy peas before getting down to business.
Along the way were sampled Damson Porter ("ours is better" remarked GP) and Bridge Bitter (merely because that was the beer that Bruce concentrated on in his talk.
6th May - Voting Day
For years I've already intended to walk to the polling station and then onwards to the pub afterwards and at last this year offered the chance.
After voting, we headed to the Dug Out chippy and then over to the WMC where I was happily surprised to see a real ale so sampled Marston's EPA and then over to the Bull's Head where Jennings Cocker Hoop was drunk.
After voting, we headed to the Dug Out chippy and then over to the WMC where I was happily surprised to see a real ale so sampled Marston's EPA and then over to the Bull's Head where Jennings Cocker Hoop was drunk.
Friday, 30 April 2010
23rd April 2010 - Coopers Beer Festival Burton
The Coopers in Burton always does a good job of offering a beer festival and this was no exception. arriving in good time for the train, I decided on a quick halfat my local where they were offering Morrells Oxford Blue.
From there up to the station (how that wheel trim stayed on that car is beyond me) finding my self whistling "3wheels on my wagon..."
Met up with RG on the train and thence various individuals from the Burton Beer Circle at the Coopers where beers sampled were :
Blue Monkey Amarillo
Castle Rock Black Gold Mild
Hill Island Cormorant Dark Ale
B&T Fruit Bat - Raspberry beer
Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby
Hill House Brewery Black Moss
From there up to the station (how that wheel trim stayed on that car is beyond me) finding my self whistling "3wheels on my wagon..."
Met up with RG on the train and thence various individuals from the Burton Beer Circle at the Coopers where beers sampled were :
Blue Monkey Amarillo
Castle Rock Black Gold Mild
Hill Island Cormorant Dark Ale
B&T Fruit Bat - Raspberry beer
Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby
Hill House Brewery Black Moss
Friday, 16 April 2010
14th April 2010 - Burton for Beer Circle
Arrived early in Burton for the latest beer circle meeting and after some excellent value fish and chips from near the town hall, noticed there was plenty of time to waste and so first port of call was the Old Cottage.
Brentwood brewing's Marvellous Maple Mild (3.7%) was consumed whilst browsing the various brewing history exhibits in what I suppose you would term the parlour room. The pump clip is featured here and you can certainly taste the maple syrup.
On to the Coopers and Thornbridge Lomford and Steamin' Billy Toga Tossa were the commercial offerings tasted.
Brentwood brewing's Marvellous Maple Mild (3.7%) was consumed whilst browsing the various brewing history exhibits in what I suppose you would term the parlour room. The pump clip is featured here and you can certainly taste the maple syrup.
On to the Coopers and Thornbridge Lomford and Steamin' Billy Toga Tossa were the commercial offerings tasted.
9th April - Birmingham and Metro - Cheers DL
I like the metro from Birmingham to Wolverhampton but as its a Friday night must make a mental note not to be too late back in Birmingham or risk missing the last train home.
Will we or won't we do this trip was the main conversation in the run up to this Friday night outing given the train strike that had been threatened but which never materialised. DL had organised the route and as this was probably his last Friday night outing then I was glad I was able to make it.
Will we or won't we do this trip was the main conversation in the run up to this Friday night outing given the train strike that had been threatened but which never materialised. DL had organised the route and as this was probably his last Friday night outing then I was glad I was able to make it.
Onto the Old Contempables and met to others whilst sampling Whitehorse Saracen IPA.
Time for the tram and we alight at Dartmouth Street for the ten minute stroll to the Old Crown in Sandwell Road near West Bromwich. We could pop into the New Hop pole (or is it the Old Hop Pole?) en route was commented but alas no it was shut so onwards to the Old... "wait a minute, why are our speedier walkers heading back that way?..." Crown which was similarly boarded up.
So back round the corner and the Wheatsheaf at least is open. I like this pub and must visit again in the future as the food looks to be of very good value. Holden's Mild was available and sampled.
Further up the road towards Carters Green and we decide to pop into the Old Hop Pole (which was open) for Wye Valley HPA. Yam Yam Elvis was advertised as appearing shortly - hmmm was JF's comment but it prompted the evening topic of what makes one a yam yam? - actually he's not bad - see videos e.g. here from Youtube.
Onward to Bilston and the excellent Trumpet and Holden's Mild again but this time from a hand pull and some excellent Jazz.
We then decided to head back to the Black Eagle at Hockley but not before some of the party had been tempted by the Chippy (and I have to say they were pretty good examples of how spuds should be cooked.)
Back to Hockley road and the Black Eagle (another excellent pub - the garden's lovely and perhaps out of place.) Alas I didn;t note down the beer here. Time to go, so "cheers DL" for an excellent trip and "thanks for all the fish." Crikey - is that the time!!!!!!
Friday, 9 April 2010
Monday April 5th – To / From Forest Green
Normally, dear reader, this blog concentrates on adventures involving beer, and so will the case with this blog (eventually.)
Easter Monday 2010 sees Tamworth playing away against Forest Green Rovers atop what always seems to be a small mountain on the outskirts of Nailsworth in southern Gloucestershire. Officially it was a chance to see an away game and have a day away from DIY / Gardening type activities (well its a bank holiday so bound to rain.) Actually it also gives one an excuse to visit a nice part of the country.
An early start saw us ease our way down through the Cotswold towns of Moreton in the March and Stow on the Wold (note to self, investigate public transport options for the summer) and eventually our first stop at Bourton on the Water. A sign points us to the “nearest car park to the Village” which isn’t that difficult given there aren’t from what I could see any car parks for public use in the village, only street parking which in any case was fully utilised so it was a sensible choice anyway. Bourton an idyllic Cotswold village famous for its numerous little bridges.
Too early to take in any pubs but some were noted for a daytrip later in the year (along with Moreton and Stow (they’re on the same bus route.)
Time to leave and although it had been planned to visit Sheepscombe (“most photographed pub sign in the country” states the GBG it took longer to get to Stroud than anticipated and so straight up (literally) to the football ground. There, however the Green Man offered a real ale and so a pint of Jennings Stickle Pike was consumed.
Tamworth went on to win 4-3 in a closely fought game after which it waqs time to find a convenient stop about half way home. Two options jumped out, namely the Weatheroak (been there done that) or the small riverside town of Upton-on-Severn – never been there so off we go.
Upton offers an excellent range of pubs with 7 or 8 within 5 minutes walk of the centre. We spotted Ye Olde Anchor Inn (circa 1601) which offered a couple of Theakston’s ales from which I chose XB (which I’m sure used to be more common.) A quick stroll by the river followed and thence home after an excellent Bank Holiday.
Easter Monday 2010 sees Tamworth playing away against Forest Green Rovers atop what always seems to be a small mountain on the outskirts of Nailsworth in southern Gloucestershire. Officially it was a chance to see an away game and have a day away from DIY / Gardening type activities (well its a bank holiday so bound to rain.) Actually it also gives one an excuse to visit a nice part of the country.
An early start saw us ease our way down through the Cotswold towns of Moreton in the March and Stow on the Wold (note to self, investigate public transport options for the summer) and eventually our first stop at Bourton on the Water. A sign points us to the “nearest car park to the Village” which isn’t that difficult given there aren’t from what I could see any car parks for public use in the village, only street parking which in any case was fully utilised so it was a sensible choice anyway. Bourton an idyllic Cotswold village famous for its numerous little bridges.
Too early to take in any pubs but some were noted for a daytrip later in the year (along with Moreton and Stow (they’re on the same bus route.)
Time to leave and although it had been planned to visit Sheepscombe (“most photographed pub sign in the country” states the GBG it took longer to get to Stroud than anticipated and so straight up (literally) to the football ground. There, however the Green Man offered a real ale and so a pint of Jennings Stickle Pike was consumed.
Tamworth went on to win 4-3 in a closely fought game after which it waqs time to find a convenient stop about half way home. Two options jumped out, namely the Weatheroak (been there done that) or the small riverside town of Upton-on-Severn – never been there so off we go.
Upton offers an excellent range of pubs with 7 or 8 within 5 minutes walk of the centre. We spotted Ye Olde Anchor Inn (circa 1601) which offered a couple of Theakston’s ales from which I chose XB (which I’m sure used to be more common.) A quick stroll by the river followed and thence home after an excellent Bank Holiday.
1st April 2010 - No fooling around in Tamworth
Met up with RG for a Thursday evening out. We normally go out Friday’s but as tomorrow was Good Friday and neither of us were working then this seemed a sensible alternative.
Starting at the Globe I went for opposite ends of the hopping spectrum starting with Doctor J a dry hopped ale from the Shenstone brewing company. Also sampled there several pints of Holden’s Mild whilst we watched Liverpool getting beaten by Benfica. Out seats we comfortable until the Karaoke mod took over that part of the pub so we encamped to the Sir Robert Peel. Oakham Bishop’s Farewell was sampled.
Finally, off to the Bole Bridge for Shardlow Fools Gold.
Starting at the Globe I went for opposite ends of the hopping spectrum starting with Doctor J a dry hopped ale from the Shenstone brewing company. Also sampled there several pints of Holden’s Mild whilst we watched Liverpool getting beaten by Benfica. Out seats we comfortable until the Karaoke mod took over that part of the pub so we encamped to the Sir Robert Peel. Oakham Bishop’s Farewell was sampled.
Finally, off to the Bole Bridge for Shardlow Fools Gold.
Monday, 29 March 2010
28th March - the UnCrawl - Sitting out on the Patio
First decent day of the year and so what better excuse than to have a few beers.
In these increasingly virtual days and that new fangled thing (the Unconference) I decided that Off for a beer should come live from the garden.
Two varients of my own beer were sampled - both based around a standard porter, one flavoured with Damsons, the other with Cinnamon - well it was when it was made but the spiceiness has started to wain.
In these increasingly virtual days and that new fangled thing (the Unconference) I decided that Off for a beer should come live from the garden.
Two varients of my own beer were sampled - both based around a standard porter, one flavoured with Damsons, the other with Cinnamon - well it was when it was made but the spiceiness has started to wain.
26th March - Walsall Beer Festival
Walsall is a beer festival I've not previously visited till now.
Meeting GP and the rest on the platform at New Street sees us head towards Walsall amidst discussions of what to do with broken X-Boxes.
On arrival at Walsall, we quickly revert to type and realise what a wonderful acqjuisition a copy of the A-Z might have been, but nevertheless we eventually stroll manufully toards the Town Hall.
Being part of the Black Country, one would expect that Walsall festival would offer a range of milds and whilst it is true that there were some interesting offerings the number available its was bitter type beers that dominated, a break down being as follows :
Inspired I went cak to try their Amarena cherry perry but this was sold out so instead Millwhites Apples and Pears.
By this time the sound of pianist was getting in the way of the the conversation so we moved to the room where the bottle beers were offered and found plenty of seating.
Time for some beer and first up was Coastal's Hop Monster at 3.9% followed by a porter from Downton with the apt name of Chocolate Orange Delight.
Something hoppier now so Titanic's RIPA fitted the bill.
I decided that the taste buds had taken a trashing and needed to recover so I asked the others which beer they felt was "the blandlist thing on the menu" - Highgate and Davonports Mild was the unanimous choice so that was next.
The Saxon gold hoard discovery was in the news and Backyard Brewhouse from Brownhills had produced a golden ale called The Hoard which was consumed next.
Drop of the Black Stuff , a porter from Springhead came next.
Also sampled were Heritage Mild from Ironbridge and Wild Mule from Roosters.
All in all and excellent day out and hopefully I'll be able to visit again next year.
Meeting GP and the rest on the platform at New Street sees us head towards Walsall amidst discussions of what to do with broken X-Boxes.
On arrival at Walsall, we quickly revert to type and realise what a wonderful acqjuisition a copy of the A-Z might have been, but nevertheless we eventually stroll manufully toards the Town Hall.
Being part of the Black Country, one would expect that Walsall festival would offer a range of milds and whilst it is true that there were some interesting offerings the number available its was bitter type beers that dominated, a break down being as follows :
- Mild - 8 beers
- Bitter / pale ales / golden / IPA - 57 beers
- Strong ales / premiums - 13
- Stout and porter - 11
- others - 3
Inspired I went cak to try their Amarena cherry perry but this was sold out so instead Millwhites Apples and Pears.
By this time the sound of pianist was getting in the way of the the conversation so we moved to the room where the bottle beers were offered and found plenty of seating.
Time for some beer and first up was Coastal's Hop Monster at 3.9% followed by a porter from Downton with the apt name of Chocolate Orange Delight.
Something hoppier now so Titanic's RIPA fitted the bill.
I decided that the taste buds had taken a trashing and needed to recover so I asked the others which beer they felt was "the blandlist thing on the menu" - Highgate and Davonports Mild was the unanimous choice so that was next.
The Saxon gold hoard discovery was in the news and Backyard Brewhouse from Brownhills had produced a golden ale called The Hoard which was consumed next.
Drop of the Black Stuff , a porter from Springhead came next.
Also sampled were Heritage Mild from Ironbridge and Wild Mule from Roosters.
All in all and excellent day out and hopefully I'll be able to visit again next year.
19th March 2010 - Sutton Coldfield
A nice easy Friday night outing for me sees me meet G and co in the Station in Sutton Coldfield for Adnams Broadside.
Round to the Gate Inn where they didn’t have Butty Bach but plentry of London Pride so that had to be the choice (either that of orange juice).
Up to the Bottle of Sack where there was some weird and stuff – for me it was Saltaire Rye Smile which actually was almost beer like and certainly more so than the Irish (acquired taste type) offering as part of their world beer festival.
Down a back street to the Duke for Ruddles Best and finially the Red Lion where I opted for Keltinberg Hell.
The other had to leave now so I went back to the Gate (convenient for the bus) and had another London Pride whilst taking in the sounds (well sound – only time for “I don’t want to go to Chelsea”) of the Undercocks (well ¾ of them at least.)
I’m penning this on April 9th but recall that reflecting on this on the way home I couldn’t help recalling the 1980s and that this must have be a throw back to the days when there were adds in likes of the Melody Maker for unknown (to most) acts at various bars and that at the time punk and the like was quite radical – listening to a Sex Pistols track a few weeks laters (played on Radio 2 due to Malcolm Robert Andrew McLarenI) – these days it seems quite tame by comparison.
Round to the Gate Inn where they didn’t have Butty Bach but plentry of London Pride so that had to be the choice (either that of orange juice).
Up to the Bottle of Sack where there was some weird and stuff – for me it was Saltaire Rye Smile which actually was almost beer like and certainly more so than the Irish (acquired taste type) offering as part of their world beer festival.
Down a back street to the Duke for Ruddles Best and finially the Red Lion where I opted for Keltinberg Hell.
The other had to leave now so I went back to the Gate (convenient for the bus) and had another London Pride whilst taking in the sounds (well sound – only time for “I don’t want to go to Chelsea”) of the Undercocks (well ¾ of them at least.)
I’m penning this on April 9th but recall that reflecting on this on the way home I couldn’t help recalling the 1980s and that this must have be a throw back to the days when there were adds in likes of the Melody Maker for unknown (to most) acts at various bars and that at the time punk and the like was quite radical – listening to a Sex Pistols track a few weeks laters (played on Radio 2 due to Malcolm Robert Andrew McLarenI) – these days it seems quite tame by comparison.
Monday, 22 February 2010
Sunday 21st February 2010 - En route to Villa vs Burnley
I'd got a coup,le of tickets for the Villa v Burnley match so this Sunday finds me fristly in the Wellington in Birmingham for the following
- Dorothy Goodbodys' Wholesome Stout
- Langham Hip Hop
- Timmermans Framboise
19th February 2010 - Lichfield thence off to Derby
Started late morning this time in Lichfield where we had an appointment and afterwards into Wetherspoon's for Shenstone 3spires (at £1.09 a pint.)
In the evening it was off with GP and co to Derby for a tour organised by JF.
First port of call was the Alex Hotel. As always a good choice was offered but I spied a porter and so went for Batemans Salem Porter.
The Babbington Arms next who were featuring the Summer Wine brewery so I sampled Invictus and Tiberius. The talk turned to financial matters and somehow got onto the subject of the Quarter Farthing.
Round to the Flowerpot where I had Durham’s White Amarillo as well as Headless KSA. There was also something of stupid strength (13.4% at £4.60 a pint) but TH declined the request to order a shandy (so we could see if the pub would change the same for the lemonade as the beer!). We sahred a half and the beer was sipped and tasted like neat malt whisky.
Round the corner to the Silk Mill where we visited the John Lombe bar “down the back.” Wem Cherry Bomb was on offer so eagerly ordered.
Nearing home time now so off the station via the Brunswick for a swift half of Allgates Yankee Pale ale before train home and a TV side seat for the Germany v Switzerland curling from the Olympics (not that I saw much of it.)
In the evening it was off with GP and co to Derby for a tour organised by JF.
First port of call was the Alex Hotel. As always a good choice was offered but I spied a porter and so went for Batemans Salem Porter.
The Babbington Arms next who were featuring the Summer Wine brewery so I sampled Invictus and Tiberius. The talk turned to financial matters and somehow got onto the subject of the Quarter Farthing.
Round to the Flowerpot where I had Durham’s White Amarillo as well as Headless KSA. There was also something of stupid strength (13.4% at £4.60 a pint) but TH declined the request to order a shandy (so we could see if the pub would change the same for the lemonade as the beer!). We sahred a half and the beer was sipped and tasted like neat malt whisky.
Round the corner to the Silk Mill where we visited the John Lombe bar “down the back.” Wem Cherry Bomb was on offer so eagerly ordered.
Nearing home time now so off the station via the Brunswick for a swift half of Allgates Yankee Pale ale before train home and a TV side seat for the Germany v Switzerland curling from the Olympics (not that I saw much of it.)
10th February - Burton Beer Circle
Latest visit to the Coopers in Burton for the Burton Beer Circle. Commercial offerings tasted included Oyster Stout from Adnams and EXS from Hoskins.
Some members had also brewed a clone of Castle Rock's Harvest Pale and despite using identical ingredients and folowing a standard recipe, no two were exactly the same (not even those apparantly produced jointly.)
Other own brewed beers that night included American and Chocolate Browns plus a clone of Old Tom which didn't quite have the same strength, and was probably sweeter, than the commercial varient.
Some members had also brewed a clone of Castle Rock's Harvest Pale and despite using identical ingredients and folowing a standard recipe, no two were exactly the same (not even those apparantly produced jointly.)
Other own brewed beers that night included American and Chocolate Browns plus a clone of Old Tom which didn't quite have the same strength, and was probably sweeter, than the commercial varient.
Friday, 15 January 2010
3rd January 2010 - Leicester
JF had announced he was going to arrange a post Xmas crawl for the Friday night group and partners. This turned out to be Leicester and a good sized party turned up.
After meeting up at the station, a short stroll took us to an Everard's pub (the Barley Mow) for a pint of Original.
This was followed by a walk round the block to the Ale House which must come close to being the pub with the widest Xmas tree of the season. Hoskin's beers available here so sampled EXS and Old Navigation.
Further on into the centre for a fairly new venue, The Pub on a pedestrianised street near the station. A good selection of beers was available but but me it was the Liefman's Fruit Beer that was available on draught.
Next, one of the best known Leicester pubs, the Swan and Rushes where I opted for the Christmas Ale from Berrow.
Onward to the Sir Robert Peel where Everard's Mild was consumed accompanied by various round of mixed pool.
Final port of call was the Criterion where I supped 1823 Rugby Mild whilst watching Big Mog's House Band.
After meeting up at the station, a short stroll took us to an Everard's pub (the Barley Mow) for a pint of Original.
This was followed by a walk round the block to the Ale House which must come close to being the pub with the widest Xmas tree of the season. Hoskin's beers available here so sampled EXS and Old Navigation.
Further on into the centre for a fairly new venue, The Pub on a pedestrianised street near the station. A good selection of beers was available but but me it was the Liefman's Fruit Beer that was available on draught.
Next, one of the best known Leicester pubs, the Swan and Rushes where I opted for the Christmas Ale from Berrow.
Onward to the Sir Robert Peel where Everard's Mild was consumed accompanied by various round of mixed pool.
Final port of call was the Criterion where I supped 1823 Rugby Mild whilst watching Big Mog's House Band.
Wed 30th December 2009 - Stone and Stoke
London Midlands trains were offering a special deal over Christmas - go anywhere on their trains for the day for £10. Original plan was Bedford - possible but difficult. Next choice Crewe - GP mentions he's going there some time soon to look at trains so could we try somewhere else. He's been on about Stone for some time as the Swan always get good beer related reviews so we'll go there and thence Stoke taking in the various Titanic pubs..
Various people including GP cry off so its just me and t'other half for Stone and JF joins us for Stoke.
Stone is a quaint market town in the middle of Staffordshire. A steady 10 to 15 minutes stroll finds us in the town centre and after a quick tour of the retail sector, end up in the Crown and Anchor. Jennings Cocker Hoop was consumed (alternatives being Pwedigree and Deuchers IPA).
Across the road to local Wetherspoons , the Post of Stone. Had lunch here (Steak and Kidney pudding and chips) washed down by a couple of seasonal specials, Wem's Nutcracker Ale and Fallen Angel from Springhead.
On the way back to the station, noted another Titanic house - one for the future.
No time for the Swan (alas - looks like a future trip taking shape here) so off to catch the train for the short trip to Stoke-on-Trent and thence stroll over to The White Star. The full range of titanic beers are sold here along with some guests but it was the former we were after and so tasted Captain Smith, Black Ice and Steerage.
Round the the Wheatsheaf (Wetherspoons) for Nethergate Frank Incensed.
Taxi then ordered out to the Burslem for the Bull's Head. Although another Titanic pub this time we went for the specials initially (my choice being White Horse's Rudolph the Red Hosed White Horse. JF then spotted the bar billiards table and proved a worthy opponent drawing 1 game all with me (albeit with some unique rule interpretation.)
We then selected from the foreign beer menu and for me La Trappe Blond was the choice.
We then left for home stopping in Tamworth at the Albert but alas they had sold out of real ale.
Various people including GP cry off so its just me and t'other half for Stone and JF joins us for Stoke.
Stone is a quaint market town in the middle of Staffordshire. A steady 10 to 15 minutes stroll finds us in the town centre and after a quick tour of the retail sector, end up in the Crown and Anchor. Jennings Cocker Hoop was consumed (alternatives being Pwedigree and Deuchers IPA).
Across the road to local Wetherspoons , the Post of Stone. Had lunch here (Steak and Kidney pudding and chips) washed down by a couple of seasonal specials, Wem's Nutcracker Ale and Fallen Angel from Springhead.
On the way back to the station, noted another Titanic house - one for the future.
No time for the Swan (alas - looks like a future trip taking shape here) so off to catch the train for the short trip to Stoke-on-Trent and thence stroll over to The White Star. The full range of titanic beers are sold here along with some guests but it was the former we were after and so tasted Captain Smith, Black Ice and Steerage.
Round the the Wheatsheaf (Wetherspoons) for Nethergate Frank Incensed.
Taxi then ordered out to the Burslem for the Bull's Head. Although another Titanic pub this time we went for the specials initially (my choice being White Horse's Rudolph the Red Hosed White Horse. JF then spotted the bar billiards table and proved a worthy opponent drawing 1 game all with me (albeit with some unique rule interpretation.)
We then selected from the foreign beer menu and for me La Trappe Blond was the choice.
We then left for home stopping in Tamworth at the Albert but alas they had sold out of real ale.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)