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Liverpool’s Iconic Pubs: A Journey Through Time and Taste
Liverpool’s story kicked off in 1207 when King John gave the green light for a new town. It started off small but exploded in growth during the 18th century thanks to trade with the Americas and the West Indies, eventually becoming the second most crucial port in Britain. A big milestone came in 1830 with the launch of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, which really changed the game for transportation. After World War II, the city hit a rough patch but bounced back, especially with its rich cultural scene, being the hometown of The Beatles. Lately, tourism and revitalization projects have given the economy a boost, and in 2004, its historic docks were recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
I undertake a tour of historic pubs in Liverpool, starting with The Vines, established in 1867, known for its baroque architecture and diverse cask ales. I continue to Ma Egerton’s Stage Door, a favoured venue of renowned performers, and Doctor Duncans, honouring a public health pioneer. The Ship & Mitre and Dead Crafty Beer Co highlight the city’s maritime heritage and craft beer culture. The Vernon Arms and Brunswick Vaults showcase local charm, while The Pig & Whistle and White Star reflect Liverpool’s seafaring history. The Bridewell, The Monro, and other pubs reveal rich narratives intertwining local culture and brewing traditions, inviting visitors to enjoy their unique atmospheres.
The Vines
A short walk from Liverpool Lime Street station brought me to my first call of the day. The Vines first opened its doors in 1867, founded by Albert B. Vines to serve the expanding population and thriving commerce of Liverpool in the late 19th century. A major change occurred in 1907 when Alderman Berkley Walker took over and commissioned architect Walter Thomas to redesign the pub in a lavish baroque style. This renovation established The Vines as one of the premier show pubs in the nation, alongside its counterpart, the Philharmonic.
Inside, the pub boasts several unique rooms: a public bar that, while less ornate than the lounge, still features impressive high ceilings and decorative plasterwork; a lounge embellished with Corinthian pilasters and a stunning fireplace; and an elaborately designed smoke room showcasing intricate mahogany panelling and zodiac-themed plasterwork on the ceiling. The Heritage Suite at the back of the pub, once a billiards room around 1900, retains much of its original charm, highlighted by high ceilings, a stained glass dome, chandeliers, and extensive wood panelling. It also features exquisite plasterwork themed around “Harvest,” crafted by sculptor Walter Gilbert in 1908.
After a period of decline, The Vines underwent a refurbishment in 2023, bringing back cask beer and restoring its historic allure. Today, it proudly represents Liverpool’s rich brewing history and architectural splendour.
On the bar a fantastic line up of 9 cask ales ranging in strength and style and featuring a couple of local breweries. I kicked things off with “Quencher” from Theakston Brewery in Masham, North Yorkshire. It’s a delightful hoppy pale ale that’s super flavourful and super easy to sip on.
Ma Egerton’s Stage Door
Another short walk back towards Liverpool Lime Street station for my second call. Ma Egerton’s Stage Door which was established in 1846, is named after its longest-serving landlady, Mary Egerton. She ran the pub, which was originally called The Eagle, from the 1930s to the 1960s. Back then, the Lime Street area was buzzing with theatres and entertainment spots, making Ma Egerton’s a go-to place for performers. Mary wasn’t just a landlady; she was also a registered theatrical agent who hosted many famous artists like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, and Charlie Chaplin.
What’s cool is that Ma Egerton’s was the first pub in the UK to have a cash register, adding to its historical charm. The pub is also tied to a famous criminal case; Mary’s observations helped convict the Victorian murderer Dr. Crippen. Inside, you’ll find a lovely mix of historical features and modern updates. There are two main rooms linked by a passage with timber and leaded glass partitions. The public bar has inter-war panelling and an original counter, while the lounge offers fixed seating with bell-pushes and 1930s leaded glass panels. A reproduction Victorian fireplace adds a cosy touch. The walls are lined with autographed photos of famous performers from the nearby Empire Theatre, creating a unique vibe that honours its rich history.
A selection of 2 cask ales on the bar to choose from when I got here. I went with “Cheshire Oak” from Coach House Brewing Co. in Warrington. It’s an awesome traditional English Bitter with a ton of great flavours packed in!
Doctor Duncans
Next up is Doctor Duncans. This pub is named after William Henry Duncan, who was born on January 27, 1805, in Liverpool. He was the first Medical Officer of Health in Britain, starting his role on January 1, 1847. His efforts were crucial in shaping modern public health practices. The pub honours his significant contributions and keeps his legacy alive in the city. Beyond being a physician, Duncan was a strong advocate for public health reform. He worked hard to shed light on the poor living conditions many Liverpool residents faced in the mid-19th century. His reports revealed serious sanitation problems, like overcrowded courts lacking proper waste disposal. For example, he noted that 2,400 ‘closed’ courts were home to about 86,000 people with inadequate sanitation. His findings played a key role in raising awareness and pushing the government to take action to improve living conditions.
The building that now hosts Doctor Duncan’s pub was built in 1901 and initially operated as Pearl Insurance. Over the years, it has changed hands and names, including The Earl of St John. During World War I, it even served as a Navy recruitment centre. In 2018, the Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group took it over and invested £250,000 in renovations to enhance its charm while preserving its historical significance. The updates included restoring the beautiful tiled interior and adding features like a genuine Victorian pharmacy cabinet to pay tribute to Dr. Duncan.
Inside, the pub showcases stunning Victorian architecture. It has a multi-room layout with dark-stained wood, vaulted tiled ceilings, and original Victorian tiles that enhance its appeal. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with cosy nooks, old fireplaces, and a friendly vibe. The décor features plaid carpets and rustic touches, creating a welcoming space for customers.
A fantastic selection on the bar including 5 cask ales and a selection of keg beers to choose from. I went with a local brew from Neptune Brewery. I tried the “Kiwa,” and it was an incredibly juicy and flavourful hazy pale ale made with Nectaron, Nelson Kohia Kief, and Motueka hops.
Ship & Mitre
Near enough just over the road brings me to Ship & Mitre Liverpool. This is a historic pub that dates back to the 19th century. Located on Dale Street in the heart of the city, it has become a well-known spot in Liverpool. The name “Ship and Mitre” pays homage to its past, merging elements from its former names: “The Flagship” and “The Mitre.” Today, it stands as a 1930s Art Deco building right by the entrance to the Queensway tunnel.
The name “Ship and Mitre” highlights two key parts of Liverpool’s history. The word “ship” reflects the city’s rich maritime background, as Liverpool has been a significant port for ages. This connection is essential to understanding how pubs like the Ship and Mitre served sailors, traders, and locals in its early days. Meanwhile, “mitre” refers to a bishop’s ceremonial hat, pointing to the area’s religious heritage. Together, these elements show how both trade and faith have influenced Liverpool’s community.
In the 1970s, the downstairs bar was redesigned to mimic the interior of a ship, creating unique drinking spaces that feel like different decks on a boat. This quirky layout might be a bit confusing at first, but it definitely adds to the pub’s character.
Lots of choice on the bar here with around 8 cask ales, alongside a huge range of keg beers and ciders. On top of this an even bigger choice of bottles. Food is served from The One Pan Band and is delicious. I went with “New India IPA” for my beer choice while I was here. It’s brewed by New Brew in Newport. This IPA packs a punch with its strong hoppy taste and some really awesome flavours shining through.
Dead Crafty Beer Co
Back over the road again. Dead Crafty Beer Company has made quite a name for itself as a go-to craft beer bar in the community since it opened its doors. Launched in March 2016 by Gareth and Vicky Morgan, the bar was inspired by their vision of a special place where craft beer lovers could come together and enjoy delicious beers. The idea sparked during a trip to Houston, Texas, where they experienced an event by Goose Island Brewery that showcased the joy of sharing unique beers with others. This moment made them realise that they were missing something like this back home.
Once back in Liverpool, Gareth and Vicky took on the challenge of revamping a vacant building that had sat empty for twelve years, turning it into their ideal bar. They enlisted the help of family and friends during the renovation, which helped establish the bar’s community-focused vibe right from the start. The grand opening on March 18, 2016, was a hit, with special guests like Steve Hindy, the CEO of Brooklyn Brewery, in attendance. Since then, Dead Crafty has become well-known not just for its impressive line-up of craft beers—featuring 20 rotating taps and a wide selection of cans and bottles—but also for its friendly atmosphere. It quickly turned into a favourite spot for both locals and visitors, creating a sense of community among regulars who enjoy the quality drinks and the friendships that form there.
The bar’s interior strikes a balance between modern and cosy, designed to make everyone feel at home. With wooden furniture, soft lighting, and a layout that encourages mingling, it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a good beer with friends.
Stuart and Andy gave a fantastic warm welcome, and it was awesome to chat with them. The bar has an incredible variety of drinks, with options that vary widely in style and strength, plus there’s a great selection of cans in the fridge. I tried a couple of Vault City’s new sour beers. The first one was “Iron Brew Raspberry Ripple,” which is a tasty mix of Iron Brew and tangy raspberry sauce. The second one, “Lil’ Cheeky,” is their take on a Cheeky V cocktail—it’s got that perfect balance of tart and sweet, loaded with blackcurrants, raspberries, and grape juice.
The Vernon Arms
A short walk down the road to my next call. The Vernon Arms is a charming old pub that really captures the essence of tradition and has deep roots in the local community. It first opened its doors in the 19th century and has built a solid reputation for its dedication to real ales, earning praise from CAMRA since 2009.
One of the standout features of the Vernon Arms is its unique architecture. The pub boasts three modern etched windows on its side, proudly displaying the name “LIVERPOOL BREWING COMPANY.” These windows highlight the pub’s rich connection to the local brewing scene. There’s also a classic Tetley lantern hanging above the corner door, which adds to the pub’s traditional vibe. Inside, the Vernon Arms has a long bar area that splits into three cosy drinking spots. The back room features frosted glass windows that promote the Liverpool Brewing Company, while the main bar area is adorned with wood panelling and impressive columns, enhancing its historic feel. Plus, there’s a snug little corner that offers a more private space for customers.
A really warm welcome in here today and a great line up of 6 cask ales to choose from on the bar. I decided to grab a beer from Stonehouse Brewery, which is based in Oswestry. Their “Station Bitter” is a tasty classic English Bitter that strikes a nice balance between malt and hops, making it super easy to enjoy.
Brunswick Vaults
A bit of a walk to the next calling point. The Brunswick Vaults has an interesting and diverse backstory. It started out as a classic pub, quickly becoming a favourite hangout for locals and workers looking to unwind with a drink after a long day or to catch up with friends on the weekends. In the 1990s, when the pub was facing tough times, Jimmy and Barbara Monaghan stepped in and gave it a fresh start, transforming it into a cherished community gathering place. Over the years, the venue went through several name and management changes, including a stint as The James Monro in the 2000s and later as Kitty’s Show Bar, which was popular with the LGBTQ+ crowd. After shutting its doors in early 2024, Jimmy and Barbara came out of retirement to bring back The Brunswick Vaults, restoring its original name.
The interior is super clean and stylish, featuring two shades of green along with cream, creating a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. There’s a variety of seating options, from tables to booth-style spots, which adds to the great vibe. The walls are adorned with a nice collection of historic photos.
You’ll get a warm welcome as soon as you step in, plus there are four cask ales available at the bar today. I decided to revisit a brewery I checked out before, Coach House Brewing Co from Warrington. This time, I tried their “Postlewaites,” which is a dry and fruity pale ale. It had some awesome hop aromas and was super tasty and easy to drink.
Pig & Whistle
Around a 10 minutes walk between venues. The Pig & Whistle is situated right at the intersection of Chapel Street and Covent Garden. This place has a fascinating backstory that goes all the way back to the early 1700s when it served as both a boarding house and a brothel. In 1875, it switched gears and became a pub, taking its name from the bars that sailors frequented on ships. Its prime location near the waterfront made it a hotspot for sailors and dock workers, and it became known as the last place for seafarers to grab a drink before heading out on long journeys.
You can spot its historical importance with an old brass plaque that says “Emigrants Supplied,” showing how it helped those setting off for new adventures. Even though it’s faced some tough times, including worries about closing down recently, the Pig & Whistle is still a beloved landmark in Liverpool. It’s been updated to keep its charm while meeting today’s needs. The pub is a nod to Liverpool’s rich maritime history and continues to draw in visitors with its distinctive vibe.
When you walk in, you’ll find a quirky yet welcoming atmosphere that honours its past while incorporating modern touches. The interior features colourful murals that depict scenes from Liverpool, sparking conversations among customers. The pub strives to foster a community feel where everyone is invited to hang out and enjoy.
I got a great warm welcome as soon as I walked in today. A selection of 3 cask ales to choose from on the bar today. I went with “Shropshire Gold” from the Salopian Brewery in Shrewsbury. It’s a really delicious and hoppy brew, with a lovely golden hue and an amazing floral scent.
White Star
Another 10 minute walk brings me to the Cavern Quarter of Liverpool. White Star has been around since 1880, originally named after the famous White Star Line, the shipping company known for the Titanic. Over the years, it has become a landmark in the city, especially for its ties to The Beatles. This is where the band used to collect their pay after playing at the nearby Cavern Club. You can even find a special spot called the “Beatles back wall,” filled with memorabilia that pays tribute to their incredible legacy.
The White Star has kept its classic Victorian vibe while also embracing modern updates. Inside, you’ll find a cosy atmosphere with red leather seats and detailed woodwork, making it a great hangout for both locals and visitors. Even though it attracts tourists looking for a genuine English pub experience, it’s still a beloved spot for the locals.
The pub’s history mirrors the shifts in society and culture over the years. A notable change happened in 1987 when they added ladies’ toilets, which was a big deal for public places back then. Today, The White Star is still serving up top-notch ales and offers a unique look into Liverpool’s rich history, all while being a go-to place for Beatles fans.
Again another great warm welcome as soon as I walked in today and a choice of 4 cask ales to choose from on the bar today. Spotted “Bass” at the bar, so I decided to go for this. It’s a tasty, smooth-drinking golden ale that’s packed with flavour. Super hoppy, aromatic, and has a great malty finish.
The Bridewell
After a short walk again I came to The Bridewell. This was initially established as a police lock-up back in the mid-1800s, specifically during the 1840s. It served as a holding spot for sailors and dock workers who got into trouble with the law. The building still has its original heavy doors and cells, which have been creatively turned into cosy seating areas for guests. It was one of several similar facilities in Liverpool, strategically placed no more than 1.5 miles apart to make it easier for police to transport arrested individuals. Each month, it accommodated over 100 detainees, providing free bread while charging for other services. Interestingly, Charles Dickens worked as a special constable there for a night in 1860 while gathering material for his book “The Uncommercial Traveller.”
After it stopped functioning as a prison in 1932, The Bridewell had a variety of uses, including being home to U.S. military personnel during World War II. By the late 20th century, it had fallen into a bit of a state but was brought back to life in the 1980s as a rehearsal space for local bands like Frankie Goes to Hollywood. In June 2019, Fiona and Dominic took over and revamped it into a pub that focuses on craft beers and local brews.
The outside boasts classic red brickwork, large windows, and a welcoming entrance that nods to its history. The architecture features traditional design elements like stone detailing and arched windows, adding to the pub’s charm. The signage is eye-catching, often displaying the name “Bridewell” in a stylish font, making it easy to spot. Once inside, you’re welcomed by a warm and inviting vibe. The décor mixes modern elements with historical touches, creating a unique atmosphere. Exposed brick walls and wooden beams pair nicely with contemporary furniture, offering comfortable seating for both small groups and larger gatherings.
A very busy place but still got a great warm welcome and very quick service. On the bar a line up of 4 cask ales alongside a number of different keg beers. I went with a local beer to me from Kirkstall Brewery in Leeds. “Three Swords” has been one of my go-tos for a bit now. It’s a tasty mix of three different American hops, and it has such a crisp and refreshing flavour.
The Monro
Next up is The Monro. This has been around for over 200 years! It first popped up on maps back in 1750 and started as two homes for merchants before turning into the pub we know today. The name comes from “The James Monro,” the first scheduled passenger service from Liverpool to New York, highlighting its connection to the sea. The area really took off after the world’s first enclosed dock was built in Liverpool in 1715 by Thomas Steers, which boosted trade and activity, paving the way for places like The Monro. It began as a merchant selling beer, wine, and spirits, serving the wealthy locals with delivered ales.
Over time, The Monro shifted from a merchant’s shop to a public house, officially becoming “The Monro Tavern.” By the late 1700s and into the 1800s, it was a popular hangout for both locals and visitors. Not only is it known for its long history, but it also has architectural significance, earning a Grade II listed status in March 1975 for its historical value. Throughout the years, The Monro has seen many changes but has kept its original charm. In 2003, it transformed into a gastro pub, updating its menu and vibe.
The outside now sports a light salmon pink façade instead of the old blue, making it look fresh and welcoming. The classic Guinness branding, including the famous Toucan logo, adds to its appeal. When you step inside, you’re welcomed by a cosy, rustic atmosphere that nods to its late 19th-century roots. The interior features exposed brick and wooden beams, giving it a charmingly rugged feel. A vintage Guinness light box adds a nice touch to the décor.
A double beer garden at the back with one open and the other in a large building at the rear, both of which adds lots of extra space. Another really busy spot but again a great welcome and quick service. A choice of 10 plus cask ales on the bar to choose from. I went with “Best Bitter” from Higsons Brewery in Liverpool. It’s a solid pick—super easy to drink, really tasty, and packed with that classic English Bitter flavour.
The Red Lion
The next pub is an extra call en route to the next pub. The Red Lion transformed from a terraced house into a classic pub in 2022. Rob Gutmann, who has over 25 years of experience in the restaurant and bar scene in Liverpool, designed and owns this spot. The Red Lion’s design takes cues from the traditional British pub look, especially styles from the 1940s, while also mixing in some Victorian touches. The goal was to create a genuine pub vibe that reflects the essence of British pub culture. Gutmann wanted to make sure The Red Lion felt like a true pub, focusing on a friendly and down-to-earth atmosphere for everyone.
When you walk in, you’re greeted by a unique and welcoming space that blends modern updates with a retro feel, reminiscent of a wartime terrace pub. The cosy, narrow layout is carefully crafted to foster an intimate ambiance. Inside, you’ll find globe lamps casting a warm glow, wooden accents adding a rustic touch, and vintage signage that brings back memories of the past. The print wallpaper and comfy bench seating contribute to the inviting atmosphere. The layout includes a small ground floor area and some outdoor seating at the back, perfect for enjoying the sunshine in the warmer months. There’s also more space available upstairs.
At the bar, there’s a fantastic selection of cask ales, with four on one end and even more further down. It was awesome catching up with Steve and Ben from Bar-Trek while hitting a few pubs along my route.
I went for an Extra Strong Bitter (ESB) from Colbier Brew Co., which is based in Merseyside. This beer had some amazing flavours—super smooth and full-bodied. I really liked it!
St Peters Tavern
St Peters Tavern has quite the history, starting out as a Roman Catholic church built in 1788 to cater to Liverpool’s growing Catholic community when the area was mostly just fields. Back then, it was seen as being “out of town,” which made it tough for the church at first. Over the years, it saw a bunch of changes, especially in the early 1800s when it expanded to fit more worshippers. The original setup had a brick wall where the altar is now, and they even added a gallery on the first floor later on.
During World War II, the church took a hit from bombings that broke stained glass windows and damaged the roof. Still, it kept going until attendance started to drop after the war. In 1976, it was handed over to Liverpool’s Polish community and was deconsecrated in 1993. After sitting empty for a while, it was transformed into a bar and restaurant called Alma de Cuba in 2005, shifting from a place of worship to a lively spot for locals and tourists.
Fast forward to November 2022, when Alma de Cuba closed its doors. The 1936 Pub Company stepped in, giving the building a major facelift and reopening it as St Peter’s Tavern. The renovation focused on keeping the church’s historical charm while turning it into a grand pub that echoes the Victorian and Edwardian styles. They made sure to preserve key features like the original altar and some artwork during the makeover.
The interior is amazing, and there’s something unique to discover around every corner. The altar at one end is breathtaking and definitely catches your eye. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the ceiling and lighting to the walls and rooms. Plus, there’s an awesome selection of cask ales available at the bar! I checked out a local brew from Black Lodge Brewery. “Through the Trees” is a delicious pale ale that’s bursting with flavour, super tasty, and super easy to drink. Perfect for a chill session!
The Dispensary
Another short walk brings me to The Dispensary. This is one of the oldest pubs in Liverpool, having opened its doors back in 1857. Initially called the Grapes, it was part of the Tetley House chain before being taken over by the Cains Brewery group. About 20 years ago, when the pub changed hands, it adopted the name “The Dispensary.” Over the years, it has gone through several owners and changes. After the decline of the Cains Brewery empire, which ultimately led to its closure, The Dispensary became an independent establishment. In 2018, Trevor O’Loughlin stepped in, bringing his own vision while preserving the pub’s historic vibe. Coming from a family of publicans in Galway, Trevor sees himself as more than just an owner; he considers himself a guardian of its history.
The Dispensary boasts a lovely exterior that showcases its rich past. With its cream and dark green paint, large windows that let in plenty of natural light, and traditional signage that nods to its Cains Brewery roots, the building has a classic Victorian pub look that draws in both locals and tourists. Once you walk inside, you’re welcomed by a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The split-level layout adds a nice touch, with an old wooden bar running along one side, highlighting its age and authenticity. The space is filled with a mix of tables and chairs, creating a warm yet eclectic vibe. The walls are decorated with breweriana and Victorian memorabilia, adding to the pub’s distinctive charm.
Very welcoming and extremely quick service in here today. On the bar a choice of 7 cask ales, alongside a nice line up of keg beers to choose from. I went with “Ghyll” from Fell Brewery in Cumbria. It’s an awesome pale ale made with Amarillo hops, and it has a deliciously refreshing and smooth flavour that’s super easy to enjoy.
Ye Cracke
My penultimate call is a short walk to Ye Cracke. This is a historic pub with a rich background. Its name comes from a local Liverpudlian word for an alley, highlighting its cultural ties to the area. Founded in 1852, it started out as Ruthin Castle, a small one-room bar. The cosy size led to the endearing nickname “Ye Cracke,” which officially became its name by 1892. Over the years, the pub has seen various renovations and expansions, including the addition of two more rooms: one that serves as the main bar, featuring décor from the 60s or 70s, and another called the “War Office.” This room is particularly notable for its historical role during the Boer War in the 1890s, where it was a hub for military news and discussions.
Ye Cracke is also significant in music history, especially for its ties to John Lennon and Stuart Sutcliffe, who were art students nearby. They often hung out at the pub, using it as a social spot and even a place for art tutorials with their teacher, Arthur Ballard. A memorable moment includes Lennon spending time there with his future wife, Cynthia, before their first night together at Sutcliffe’s flat. Beyond its Beatles connection, Ye Cracke has been a part of Liverpool’s artistic scene since the beginning, attracting poets and artists from the Mersey Beat movement who found inspiration in its walls. Today, it remains a popular spot for those seeking a genuine drinking experience filled with history.
The pub’s exterior features a few beer signs that hint at its purpose, but it keeps a low profile compared to the busier establishments around it. When you step inside Ye Cracke, you’re welcomed by a warm and inviting vibe. The old wooden floors and traditional light fixtures cast a soft yellow glow, making it a cosy place to relax.
Drink wise they offer a brilliant selection of 3 cask ales alongside a selection of keg beers to choose from. I spotted a pump clip that looked a lot like Henry the Hoover, and it caught my eye. The beer was “Spring Cleaning Again” from Beartown Brewery in Congleton. It’s a super hoppy brew, bursting with citrusy freshness and a really smooth finish. Absolutely fantastic!
The White Hart/The Engineer
Last call of the evening was to The White Hart. This used to be called the Keystone. It was a favourite hangout spot until it closed down in May 2022. People loved the Keystone for its lively vibe and community events, like open mic nights. After it shut its doors, the place went through some major renovations and rebranding to become the White Hart. This makeover took about ten weeks and aimed to create a cosy atmosphere that feels like a classic British pub. The design features dark wood accents, taxidermy displays, and snug corners, giving it a charming “Dickensian snug” feel. The White Hart officially opened on January 18, 2024, kicking off a new era for the venue.
Next to the White Hart is The Engineer, a smaller pub that used to be the kitchen of the Keystone. You can get to it from Arrad Street or through the White Hart itself. The Engineer aims to offer a similar vibe with four cask lines and a warm atmosphere for those wanting a more intimate drink experience. It has several small rooms that provide privacy for groups wanting to catch a game or just chat away from the main bar. This layout really enhances the experience by catering to different visitor preferences.
When you step into the White Hart, you’re welcomed by a dark, moody vibe that feels both inviting and classy. The décor features antique furniture that adds to its historical appeal. One standout element is the taxidermy animals scattered around, including ferrets, goats, and deer heads, which give the place a unique flair. The main bar area took over ten weeks to finish and includes historical touches; for example, the front fascia was crafted from the back of a 19th-century church pew sourced from Taylor’s classic furniture. This level of detail shows a dedication to creating a genuine pub experience. Plus, it has two beer gardens! These are shared with The Engineer.
The White Hart has a choice of 6 cask ales, and walking through to The Engineer for another 3 cask ales. At the White Hart I noticed a local brew from Neptune Brewery at the bar, so I decided to give it a try. The “Cask Club Simcoe” turned out to be a tasty, easy-drinking single hopped pale ale that was really light and perfect for a session. Onto The Engineer I went with “Shropshire Gold” from the Salopian Brewery in Shrewsbury. It’s a really delicious and hoppy brew, with a lovely golden hue and an amazing floral scent.
Micropub Adventures 