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As we approach the end of 2024, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the year by highlighting my Top 10 Blogs that you all enjoyed the most. A massive thank you to everyone I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, the pubs and breweries I’ve explored, and to all of you who have read or shared my blogs. I also want to extend my gratitude to the different CAMRA branches that featured my blogs in their magazines, with many of them published this year.
I want to take a moment to share some exciting news before diving into the Top 10. I was recently recognized on Feedspot’s Top 30 UK Pub Blogs of 2024, where I proudly secured the 8th spot! How amazing is that? Check out the link HERE. Their description being “Micropub Adventures is a blog that delves into the unique world of micropubs, small, independent establishments known for their character, community spirit, and quality beverages. Join the journey of exploring these hidden gems, their origins, and the stories behind their success. Discover the latest micropub openings, beer tastings, and experiences that celebrate the charm of these intimate pub spaces”
The Top 10 of 2024
1. Transpennine Ale Trail
A fun group outing along the Transpennine Real Ale Trail, starting in Stalybridge and making our way back to Dewsbury. This fantastic day trip features a pub at nearly every station along the route, all just a short stroll from the train station.
2. Hope Valley Ale Trail
A day out along the Hope Valley, starting at Edale and working back to Sheffield calling off at Hope, Bamford (Closed on the day), Hathersage and Grindleford. Some amazing scenery and excellent traditional pubs during the day.
3. Penistone Line Ale Trail
An attempt at an Ale Trail on the Penistone Rail Line which runs between Barnsley and Huddersfield. The first part of the line opened in 1850 between Huddersfield and Penistone, with the other part following later. It is designated as a “Community Rail Line” and covers a 27 Mile Route (from Sheffield to Huddersfield).
4. York
Today, I took a trip to York, one of the most stunning and historically rich cities in England. With its Roman heritage and Viking history, York is a treasure trove of culture and fascinating stories, with delightful surprises waiting to be discovered at every turn. The city is also home to an impressive array of pubs—so many that one day isn’t enough to explore them all! On this first visit, I checked out 16 different pubs, each offering a unique atmosphere and experience.
5. Whitby
A Friday trip to Whitby starts with a scenic ride on the X93 bus from Scarborough, which takes about an hour. Whitby is celebrated for its charming harbor, stunning cliffside vistas, and the remnants of its historic abbey. The town has a rich connection to Captain James Cook, who completed his apprenticeship there, and it also has ties to Dracula and Gothic culture. During my visit, I explored several micropubs, craft bars, independent pubs, a brewery tap, and a brewpub. There are plenty of unique shops and delightful streets to wander through as well.
6. Brampton Beer Mile
7. Cleethorpes and Grimsby
Today, my adventure begins in Cleethorpes, a town that blossomed with the arrival of the railway during the Victorian era. I kick off my day at “Cleethorpes Tap House & Kitchen,” then make my way to “Willy’s Bar and Brewery,” followed by “Nottingham House,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “The Old Vic.” I wrap up my time in Cleethorpes at the railway station, where I check out “No 1 Pub” and “No 2 Refreshment Room.” After that, I head over to Grimsby, which was once the bustling home port for the largest fishing fleet in the world in the mid-20th century. A quick trip to Grimsby Docks leads me to “Docks Beers,” where I enjoy some fantastic food from Mockingbird. I conclude my day in Grimsby with visits to “The Barge” and “Vittles & Company.”
8. Sheffield #2
I took a delightful local trip, making the most of Northern Rails’ £1 ticket deal. I began my adventure in the Banner Cross area of Sheffield, stopping by The Dark Horse and The Itchy Pig. Then, I strolled down to Nether Edge, where I enjoyed Two Thirds Beer Co, Broadfield, Turner’s Bottle & Tap, and The Bear. Next, I explored the Woodseats area, visiting The Boston Arms, Mesters Tap, and Guzzle Micropub. After that, I made my way to Ecclesall Road, checking out The Beer House, Ecclesall Ale Club, Craft & Berry, and Portland House. On my return to Sheffield, I popped into The Beer Engine, Rutland Arms, and Sheffield Tap.
9. Three Counties Ale Trail
Today, I embarked on a Three Counties Rail Ale Trail, exploring Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Greater Manchester. My journey began with a return ticket to New Mills, which has two stations, coming from the Manchester area. I kicked things off in Disley at Malt Disley, then took a quick train ride to New Mills Newtown, followed by a short walk to Torrside Brewing. In New Mills, I checked out Torr Vale Tap, The Cheese Wheel, and Beer Shed. After that, I made my way to Marple, where I visited The Samuel Oldknow, Bevi, Dig Inn, and Traders. My next stop was Romiley, where I dropped by Hop Haus and The Crafty Vendor, and finally, I headed to Bredbury to complete my adventure at The Steelworks.
10. Rawtenstall and Burnley
Today, I went to Rawtenstall and Burnley! I was excited to meet up with “Bearded Biker on Beer” and Sean and Ruth from “Brid’s Cross Brewing,” with Kinsey joining us a bit later. After a train ride to Burnley, Manchester, I hopped on a quick bus to Rawtenstall, right in the heart of the Rossendale Valley. I explored five fantastic micropubs, craft bars, and brewery taps in town before heading out to Waterfoot to check out “Whitewell.” After that, I’ took a short bus ride back to Burnley, a place known for its mill engines, with the Burnley Loom being one of the finest in the world. There, I visited another four amazing micropubs and craft bars.
Micropub Adventures 