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History and Brews: Pubs in Beeston, Attenborough, and Long Eaton
Today I visit various pubs in the Beeston and Long Eaton areas, detailing their histories, atmospheres, and available beers. The Victoria Hotel, dating back to 1899, showcases local cask ales and delights with its Victorian charm. Along the way, I explore establishments like The White Lion, known for its Art Deco style, and The Star Inn, noted for its connection to TV history. Additionally, there’s a tour of Micropubs in Beeston, Attenborough and Long Eaton, emphasizing unique brews like “Murmuration” and “Reign O’er Me.” Each location offers a warm atmosphere, various cask ales, and delectable food options, showcasing the local brewing culture.
Beeston
The Victoria Hotel
My initial visit of the day in Beeston is to The Victoria Hotel. This charming late Victorian establishment, constructed in 1899 by Ind, Coope & Co Ltd, proudly displays its founding year on the front foundation stones, as well as on the brick signage adorning the upper part of the building. Historically, it was situated opposite Beeston Brewery, which subsequently transformed into Shipstone’s Maltings. After enduring years of neglect, the pub underwent restoration in June 1994. It has been recognized by CAMRA for its interior, which holds regional significance. The establishment experienced a renovation in the 1930s, blending Victorian elements with features from that period.
In a rather unusual addition, it is noteworthy that in 1971, the landlord maintained a small zoo at the back of the pub, which included a python indoors. The collection featured a puma, a lion, a leopard, and a baboon. Several incidents were reported, one of which involved the puma entering the public bar, causing alarm among patrons. Ultimately, the zoo was shut down following a complaint from an elderly couple to the police, after the baboon managed to escape, climbed a drainpipe, and attempted to enter their bedroom through the window.
Upon entering, patrons are greeted by three doors. Directly ahead, one leads to a small snug that is now utilized for storage; to the right, there is a compact, self-contained bar; and to the left lies the main bar, which has been expanded by incorporating additional rooms. At the rear, a spacious beer garden offers a view directly onto the railway line. Today, I was met with a warm welcome and prompt service.
The bar boasts an impressive selection of 11 cask ales, primarily sourced from local breweries, along with a few from more distant locations. The food menu, which sounds delectable, is currently being served and appears to be quite popular. I chose to select “Rock Session Pale” from Nottingham Brewery, located in Radford, Nottingham. This pale ale is delightful, light, and offers a smooth drinking experience.
The White Lion
A brief ten-minute stroll leads me to The White Lion. This establishment stands in place of an earlier version of The White Lion, which was established in 1855 and had a full drinks licence. The current structure, constructed in the 1930s, features an Art Deco design and previously operated as a Home Ales pub.
In 1879, it is noteworthy that the pub served as the location for an inquest regarding the death of local grocer William Coxon, who was 79 years old. He sustained a skull fracture while retrieving coal for his fire, leading to a verdict of accidental death.
The establishment is currently managed by the local Lincoln Green Brewing Company and has been refurbished to a high standard. Upon entry, patrons are greeted by a room featuring its own bar, while at the back, there is a spacious area that includes a dining room and a larger bar, which goes out onto a large beer garden. The bar offers an impressive selection of seven cask ales, although the eighth has recently been depleted, primarily sourced from their own brewery, along with a few guest options. I chose “Marion” from the Lincoln Green Brewery located in Nottingham. This exceptional pale ale boasts a full-bodied profile, featuring Citra hops and subtle notes of grapefruit. It is both delightful and refreshing.
The Star Inn
Adjacent to the establishment is The Star Inn, a former Shipstones pub, as evidenced by the original etched windows at the front. The current design, crafted by local architect Frederick Ball, was completed in 1915. Notably, Ball served as the Sheriff of Nottingham from 1906 to 1907 and as the Mayor of Nottingham from 1913 to 1914.
The pub is linked to the television series Auf Wiedersehen Pet, having been featured in the episode titled “The Return of the Seven – Part One.” Additionally, it made appearances in the 1980s television show Boon Upon entry, one is welcomed by several intimate rooms, in addition to a spacious permanent marquee that offers ample seating. This area extends into a beer garden, enhancing the overall experience. The establishment features attractive wooden flooring throughout, contributing to a delightful atmosphere.
The bar presents an impressive selection of 10 cask ales, many sourced from local breweries, including a house beer named “Starlight” from Lenton Lane Brewery, along with selections from more distant breweries. I tasted their house beer, a delightful, light, and flavourful pale ale.
The Crown Inn
A brief stroll leads me to The Crown Inn, a historic alehouse that has occupied this location since 1830 and is recognized as Grade II listed. The remnants of a former carriage entrance are still visible from the front. In 1976, the pub underwent an extension to achieve its present layout. Originally, it housed both stables and a brewhouse at the rear, with John Blatherwick operating the brewery in 1895; these areas are now utilized for storage.
Within the establishment, there are five distinct rooms, each offering a unique and inviting atmosphere, with several retaining original fittings and fixtures dating back to approximately 1880. Among these is a snug area and a three-seat confessional, reputed to have served as a retreat for the local vicar. The exterior boasts an impressive large beer garden, partially covered, which includes an outdoor bar that operates during the summer months.
Currently, the bar features a selection of 11 cask ales, 8 keg beers, and an excellent variety of ciders. A tempting menu is available daily, offering cheeseboards, pork pies, cobs, and more. Today, I selected “Into Jungle,” a tropical hazy pale ale produced by Shiny Brewery, located in Little Eaton. This beer is characterized by its substantial tropical fruit flavours.
Totally Tapped
A brief stroll towards the Chilwell Road tram stop leads me to Totally Tapped. This establishment first opened its doors in 2017 at number 23, serving as a taproom for the local brewery Totally Brewed. Following the brewery’s closure in 2023, Totally Tapped relocated to its current address at 104, which was previously occupied by Skills International Travel.
Upon entering, one is greeted by a vibrant, inviting, and cosy atmosphere, with the bar situated in the back corner. The bar itself is striking and exudes an inviting charm. At the rear, there is a small beer garden, partially covered for comfort. I received a wonderfully warm welcome upon my arrival.
The bar features a selection of four cask ales and ten keg lines, showcasing a variety of styles and strengths. Additionally, a well-stocked fridge filled with cans provides even more options for customers. There is a wide selection available; however, I opted for “Less Dangerous,” a product from Liquid Light Brewery located in Nottingham. This exceptional New England Pale Ale is double dry-hopped with Citra and Mosaic, resulting in a delightful fruity and citrus aroma.
The Pottle
My last call in Beeston was a brief 10-minute walk to The Pottle Micropub, an excellent micropub situated just off the High Street, which has been in operation since 2016. I received a warm welcome from the owner, Lee, and thoroughly enjoyed our conversation.
Upon entering, patrons are met with a charming and inviting single-room micropub adorned with wooden floors and tables. The establishment features distinctive elements, such as light fixtures crafted from cans and mini kegs, which add a unique touch to the ambience.
The Pottle offers an impressive selection of five cask ales, which increases to six on weekends, in addition to two keg beers. Furthermore, a wide variety of canned beverages is available in several fridges, with even more options located in fridges upstairs, ensuring ample choices for visitors. I selected “Sherwood Pale Ale,” produced by Milestone Brewery located in Newark-on-Trent. This pale ale is flavourful, refreshing, and light, making it a delightful choice for easy drinking.
Attenborough
The Bird Hide
A brief bus ride to the nearby village of Attenborough leads me to The Bird Hide Micro Pub, a charming micropub that commenced operations in April 2021. This establishment is situated among a small cluster of shops and businesses. Its name is inspired by the adjacent Attenborough Nature Reserve, which features several bird hides, the first of which was constructed in 1968 and overlooks the main pond.
Upon entering, one is greeted by a lengthy room adorned with various bird-themed decorations, including wall art and ornaments, creating a visually appealing atmosphere. The thematic décor significantly enhances the overall experience of the visit. Today, I received a warm welcome from Lucy, who was tending the bar.
The bar boasts an impressive selection of eight cask ales, alongside a refrigerator stocked with cans and bottles, as well as a delightful assortment of mead sourced from Apothecary Mead, located in Sherwood Forest. I began with their house beer, “Murmuration,” produced by the local Old Sawley Brewing Co. The term “murmuration” refers to a phenomenon where a large flock of starlings moves in a swirling, twisting formation, accompanied by the sound of their flapping wings. This pale ale is both flavourful and easy to drink. Subsequently, I sampled a mead from Apothecary Mead, specifically their “Signature” mead, which has an alcohol content of 10%. This traditional honey mead is rich and delightful, highlighting the unique qualities of Welbeck honey.
Long Eaton
York Chambers
A brief bus ride brings me to Long Eaton, where my initial destination is York Chambers. This micropub first opened its doors in December 2015 and, following a brief closure, resumed operations in December 2022.
The establishment occupies a former Midland Counties Bank building, constructed in 1903, which is designated as Grade II listed. Its striking Art Nouveau architecture features an impressive façade that is both beautiful and distinctive. The interior largely retains its original charm, showcasing elegant panelled walls, a panelled fireplace, and a welcoming entrance. The wooden floors, along with the tables and chairs, contribute to the inviting ambience of the pub.
I could choose from five cask ales available at the bar, all served from a temperature-controlled cool room that is visible from the seating area. Today, I selected “Hop Till You Drop” from Derby Brewing Company. This exceptional fruity blonde ale presents a delightful array of flavours, culminating in a crisp, dry finish.
The Mill & Brook
The next establishment is located just across the Erewash Canal and is to The Mill & Brook. This charming pub has undergone refurbishment and is now operated by the local Lincoln Green Brewing Company. Formerly known as The Harrington Arms, the new name pays homage to the nearby Harrington Mill, which was a significant producer of Nottingham’s lace during the 19th century. Previously named The Harrington Arms, it was refurbished in 2019 and renamed to reflect the adjacent mills that made much of Nottingham’s lace during the 19th century.
Currently, the bar is divided into two distinct rooms, featuring elegant carpeting throughout, a wooden-panelled fireplace, and an overall traditional pub ambience that is both inviting and warm. A staircase at the back leads to a beer garden, with a portion of it covered for added comfort.
The bar offers a selection of five cask ales, four of which are brewed by Lincoln Green itself, showcasing a delightful variety of styles available today. This evening, I chose “Archer” from Lincoln Green Brewery, a blonde ale hopped with three distinct varieties of American hops. It is a beer characterized by a robust body and delightful flavours.
Rowells Drinking Emporium
Returning through Long Eaton town leads me to Rowells Drinking Emporium, which opened its doors in 2021. The establishment is named in honour of the former shop “Rowells,” a drapers shop. A great warm welcome from Nigel this evening, id bumped into Phil earlier in York Chambers.
Upon entering, one is greeted by an enchanting array of items reminiscent of an Aladdin’s Cave, with shelves brimming with ornaments, knick-knacks, and a plethora of intriguing objects at every turn. Among the eclectic collection are a wooden wash mangle, a hobby horse, a street light, mirrors, and much more. The shelving originates from the original shop, and the bar is fashioned from the old shop counter. This combination fosters a remarkable, distinctive, and inviting atmosphere, making it a destination worth visiting.
The bar offers a selection of seven cask ales, six keg beers, and a variety of ciders, ensuring there is something for everyone. Alternatively, customers may simply stop by for a coffee. A beer originating from further afield, specifically Paignton, is the “Devon Dumpling” produced by Bays Brewery. This premium blonde ale offers a remarkably smooth taste, exhibiting excellent balance and prominent hop flavours.
Sawley Junction
My final call in Long Eaton involved a 25-minute walk to Long Eaton Railway Station to visit Sawley Junction. This micropub, which opened in December 2018, was previously a three-story branch of the Midland Bank. On October 30, 1964, it was the site of an armed robbery that gained attention on local television. The establishment has also served as a sandwich shop and an off-licence in the past.
The Micropub derives its name from the previous designation of Long Eaton Railway Station, which has undergone several name alterations throughout its history. In 1932, the station was renamed from “Sawley Junction” to “Sawley Junction for Long Eaton,” and in 1967, it was officially designated as “Long Eaton.”
This Micropub exudes the ambience of an exceptional traditional station bar and tea room. Its walls are adorned with an array of railway memorabilia, including signs, photographs, builder’s plates from wagons, clocks, and an extensive collection of other artefacts.
They boast an impressive selection of eight cask ales, five keg beers, and a variety of ciders. Several of the beers are sourced from their nearby brewery “Birch Cottage,” and it was a pleasure to taste one of these offerings. Additionally, they provide delectable sourdough cheese and ham toasties, which were exceptionally tasty, along with a choice of pork pies. I had the opportunity to meet the owner, Marie, during my visit, and the service at the bar was outstanding. I had the opportunity to taste one of their own beers, “Reign O’er Me,” which is produced in various iterations, each utilizing a distinct hop variety. On this occasion, it is crafted with Nelson Sauvin hops. It is an excellent, easy-drinking ale that is both refreshing and flavourful.
Micropub Adventures 