Exploring Retford, Langwith and Worksop’s Best Pubs I take a tour of various pubs and bars in Retford and Worksop, showcasing their unique atmospheres and offerings. The Mallard, located at Worksop Station, combines historical significance with a modern vibe and a focus on community through a no-phones policy. Idle Valley Tap features a spacious interiorContinue reading “26/04/25 – Worksop, Retford and Langwith”
Monthly Archives: April 2025
17/04/25-20/04/25 – South East Easter Weekend
17/04/25-19/04/25 – Bexley and Sidcup17/04/25-18/04/25 – Chislehurst, Mottingham and Eltham17/04/25-19/04/25 – Hither Green, Greenwich and Dartford17/04/25-20/04/25 – Petts Wood, Crayford, Deptford and New Cross18/04/25-19/04/25 – Blackfen, Falconwood, Welling, Bexleyheath and Barnehurst17/04/25-20/04/25 – Beckenham, Bromley, Hayes and West Wickham
17/04/25-20/04/25 – Beckenham, Bromley, Hayes and West Wickham
Three Hounds Beer Company began as a market stall in 2016 and became a community hub in Beckenham by 2017, hosting events and supporting local artists. Recognised as runner-up for Bromley CAMRA’s Pub of the Year in 2024, it features a welcoming café with a lively atmosphere. Nearby, Br3wery started in 2017, transitioning to a microbrewery and taproom, now offering a variety of brews. Cork n Cask, evolving from an off-licence to a micropub, reopened in 2023 with a modern vibe. Other local spots like The Star & Garter and The Craft Beer Cabin also serve diverse beer selections, enhancing the craft beer culture in Bromley.
17/04/25-20/04/25 – Petts Wood, Crayford, Deptford and New Cross
One Inn the Wood, in Petts Wood, is a pioneering micropub established in 2014 that fosters a local beer movement with a simple, chat-friendly atmosphere and a rotating selection of real ales. At Penny Farthing in Crayford, guests enjoy award-winning ales in a cosy environment that highlights community interaction. Lucky Anchor in Deptford, opened in 2024, revitalises a former café into a vibrant pub with historical charm, offering a diverse drink selection. Finally, Shirker’s Rest in New Cross, opened in 2022 by blogging duo Andy Grumbridge and Vince Raison, emphasizes community ties through events and creative design.
18/04/25-19/04/25 – Blackfen, Falconwood, Welling, Bexleyheath and Barnehurst
I check out a bunch of micropubs around Blackfen, Falconwood, Welling, Bexleyheath, and Barnehurst, showcasing what makes each one special and their focus on the community. The Broken Drum, inspired by Terry Pratchett, creates a friendly vibe in a snug space. The Bolthole, which used to be an insurance office, features chic décor and a private lounge. The Door Hinge, the first permanent micropub in London, promotes great conversations in a simple bar setting. The Hangar combines an industrial look with a friendly atmosphere, while The Kentish Belle, is all about top-notch drinks. Both The Long Haul and Bird & Barrel are all about community, offering warm environments and strong local connections.
17/04/25-19/04/25 – Bexley and Sidcup
I check out a selection of micropubs around Bexley and Sidcup, and each one has its own cool story and vibe. The Rusty Bucket used to be a struggling real ale bar but has turned into a lively craft beer hangout. The Hackney Carriage, founded by Liz Twort, encourages people to connect without the distraction of TVs. The Halfway House is a family-run spot that keeps things cosy and focuses on local ties. The Hangar Micropub really highlights community spirit and hosts various events. The Hopper’s Hut pays tribute to local history, while the Silver Fox, which used to be a dry cleaners, has a friendly atmosphere and some unique seating options. Each of these pubs plays an important role in their community.
17/04/25-19/04/25 – Hither Green, Greenwich and Dartford
Brockley Brewery, which started in 2013 in South East London, is all about traditional cask ales and building community ties. In 2019, they moved to a bigger location in Hither Green and have since prioritised sustainability. Their taproom has a laid-back vibe, showcasing brewing equipment and serving both cask and keg beers. River Ale House, opened in 2017, turned an old lingerie shop into a trendy micropub with a sleek design and a great selection of cask ales. Growler Stop, which opened in 2021 in Dartford, transformed a former car rental spot into a chic taproom offering takeaway beer, featuring 21 keg lines. The Long Dog, Dartford’s first micropub since 2018, fosters a sense of community and hosts various events, all while showcasing a unique design that highlights cultural elements and craft beers.
17/04/25-18/04/25 – Chislehurst, Mottingham and Eltham
I checked out four micropubs in the Chislehurst, Mottingham, and Eltham areas of London. “The Cockpit” opened its doors in December 2020, turning a former florist into a cosy spot that serves local ales and ciders while celebrating the area’s history. “The Bat & Ball” made its debut in November 2023, featuring cricket-themed décor and a friendly vibe. “The Long Pond,” which started in December 2014, played a big part in revitalising the local pub scene and is cherished for its community spirit, even after the owner recently passed away. Lastly, “Berry & Barrel,” also opened in December 2020, navigated through pandemic hurdles to establish a modern, family-run pub. Each of these places focuses on community and creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for conversation without any distractions.
12/04/25 – Lancashire Beer & Buses / Leyland
The “Lancashire Beer & Buses” event, put together by the Merseyside Transport Trust, provided a delightful day out, taking attendees to different village pubs starting from Burscough. Kicking off at the historic Hesketh Arms in Rufford, everyone got to savour a variety of cask ales in a warm and inviting setting. The adventure then moved on to The Legh Arms, celebrated for its charming rustic feel, and continued to Tarleton’s The Cock & Bottle, where tradition meets a modern twist. Next up was The Vestry, a cosy micropub, followed by Hop Vine, known for its homemade brews. The tour wrapped up in Leyland, where participants explored micropubs like The Market Ale House and The Golden Tap, each offering its own unique atmosphere and locally crafted ales.
11/04/25 – Preston
Today, I’m checking out some of the standout pubs in Preston, kicking things off at The Black Horse. This historic Grade II spot has been around since 1898 and is famous for its stunning Victorian architecture and great ales. Next up is Guild Ale House, a beloved micropub that’s won awards for its craft beers. The Orchard is another gem, known for its friendly community vibe and live music. The Moorbrook brings a touch of Victorian charm, serving up craft beer and delicious wood-fired pizzas. If you’re looking for a cosy atmosphere, Vinyl Tap has a music theme that makes it a great hangout. PLAU is notable for its rich history and unique décor. Other places worth visiting include Chain House Brewing Co, Hopwoods Tap House, Wings & Beer Co, NIKO, and Winckley Street Ale House, each offering a diverse range of beers and lively atmospheres.
Micropub Adventures 