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Exploring Lancashire’s Best Beer and Buses Event
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.
The Merseyside Transport Trust (MTT) was established in 1970 with the goal of preserving the area’s rich public transport history, especially its buses. Initially called the Merseyside Bus Club, it transformed into a charitable trust focused on restoring and maintaining historic vehicles that were once operated by local companies like Liverpool Corporation and Crosville. The trust boasts an impressive collection of vintage buses, some of which date back to the 1940s. Located in Burscough, MTT hosts open days, events, and educational programs to engage the community. Thanks to the hard work of volunteers, the trust ensures that Merseyside’s transport heritage remains vibrant for future generations to enjoy.
Preston to Burscough
A day out named “Lancashire Beer & Buses”, run by Merseyside Transport Trust running buses around various village pubs on two routes from Burscough. Feeder buses were provided from Preston, Leyland, Southport and Ormskirk into Burscough for the start of the event. I got the feeder bus from Guild Ale House in Preston along with Rob and Alistair.
The Hesketh Arms
After I got to Burscough, I switched buses to Route A, which runs through Rufford, Mere Brow, and Tarleton, and I hopped off in Rufford. There, I checked out The Hesketh Arms,, a historic coaching inn that dates back to the 18th century. It originally catered to travellers on the old Liverpool to Preston route and became a key stop for those looking to rest and grab a bite. The pub is named after the notable Hesketh family, who were significant local landowners connected to the nearby Rufford Hall.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy, traditional pub vibe with exposed wooden beams, open fireplaces, and a stone-flagged floor. The spacious interior features intimate dining nooks, a curved bar with brass accents, and a rustic charm that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere full of character.
On the bar a choice of 5 cask ales in a range of styles, alongside a couple of ciders and a keg beer selection. I went with “Cumbria Way” from Robinsons Brewery in here. Previously brewed by Hartleys. A delicious full bodied golden ale.
The Legh Arms
Next up is onto Mere Brow and into The Legh Arms. This began as the Horse Shoe Inn in the early 19th century, operated by blacksmith Richard Molyneux. By 1851, it was renamed the Legh Arms, honouring local landowners George Anthony Legh Keck of Bank Hall and Sir Thomas George Hesketh of Rufford Hall . Situated in an agricultural village known for its fertile soil and farming heritage , the pub has long served as a community hub. Since 2014, it’s been managed by the team behind the Hop Vine in Burscough, offering cask ales from Hop Vine Brewery.
Inside you’ll find a rustic yet stylish setting with exposed brickwork, timber beams, and a cosy, country-pub feel. The main bar area has a mix of comfy sofas and seating. The dining areas feature warm lighting, wooden furnishings, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying hearty, home-cooked meals.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales including 3 from Hop Vine Brewery. I went with “Best Bitter” from local Hop Vine Brewery. A delicious traditional English Bitter, full bodied and tasty.
The Cock & Bottle
Just a quick bus ride over to Tarleton, and my first stop was The Cock & Bottle. This place has been a staple of village life since at least the mid-1800s. The name “Cock & Bottle” comes from the old-school practice of serving drinks both on tap (“cock”) and in bottles. Over time, this spot has adapted, merging its rich history with a modern touch.
Inside, The Cock & Bottle strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and contemporary comfort. You’ll find original elements like exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and cosy log-burning fireplaces that create a warm, traditional vibe. The bar area feels welcoming, while the dining spaces are stylish and relaxed, featuring soft lighting and comfy seating. The tasteful décor, with vintage prints and subtle colours, enhances the inviting atmosphere. Plus, there’s a fantastic outdoor beer garden both in the front and back.
On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales, alongside a number of keg options. “Darwen Tower” from Thwaites Brewery was my choice of ale In here. A light, sessionable and refreshing Blonde ale.
The Vestry
Just a short bus ride down the road takes me to The Vestry. Since its opening in March 2019, this place has turned a former tapas restaurant into a snug micropub. Mark and Toni Lawson started it, and it quickly became a beloved spot in the community. The name “The Vestry” reflects the village’s church history, especially St. Mary’s Church, which has been around since 1719.
The exterior is simple yet welcoming, featuring red-brick walls and classic signage that hints at the charm inside. It perfectly combines village character with a contemporary feel. Once you step inside, you’ll find a warm and intimate space, with exposed brick, wooden details, and soft lighting that creates a cosy vibe. The layout is compact, promoting conversation around a central bar. At the back, there’s a beautiful beer garden with several shed-style seating areas.
On the bar a choice of 3 cask ales alongside a nice selection of keg beers. I opted to go with “LB207 – Citra Sonic” from Lancaster based Lune Brew Co. A single hopped pale ale using Citra hops giving off some citrus, lime and grapefruit notes.
Hop Vine
Back in Burscough, you’ll find Hop Vine, which first opened its doors in 1874 as the Royal Hotel. It was a vital stop for goods traveling along the old Turnpike road, now known as the A59. In 2010, the Burscough Brewing Co. was established in the old stable buildings behind the pub. After the original brewery shut down, The Hop Vine started brewing its own beers in 2017, using a four-barrel system.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a friendly and charming atmosphere that combines classic pub vibes with modern comforts. The interior boasts exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and vintage fireplaces, all contributing to a cosy, rustic feel. The dining area is both spacious and inviting, featuring wooden tables, soft lighting, and stylish décor that pays homage to the building’s history. Plus, there’s a fantastic front beer garden that’s perfect for soaking up the sun.
On the bar a choice of 5 cask ales alongside a nice selection of keg beers. I went with “Hoppy Blonde” from Hop Vine Brewery. A super easy drinking, hoppy and tasty blonde ale.
Eagle and Child
I changed onto Route B and made my way to Bispham Green. Eagle and Child, is a charming country pub with a history that goes back to the early 1700s. It was originally part of the Derby estate and had a brewery and malt kiln where the car park is now located. The Harrison family ran the pub throughout the 1800s while also managing the nearby farmland. In the 20th century, Threlfall’s Brewery from Liverpool took it over and gave it a major facelift in the 1950s.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a wonderfully preserved country inn vibe, radiating warmth and rustic appeal. The interior boasts exposed wooden beams, stone floors, and cosy log fires, creating a classic countryside atmosphere. Vintage photos and rural-themed decorations add a touch of character and history to the place. It’s a friendly and laid-back environment.
On the bar a selection of 6 cask ales alongside a keg beer selection. Here I went with “Golden Sands” from Southport Brewery. A tasty triple hopped traditional bitter which is very full bodied and easy drinking.
The Wayfarer
A quick bus ride away is Parbold, where I checked out The Wayfarer. This family-owned pub and restaurant is rich in history and community vibes. It’s located in one of the village’s oldest structures, which started as 18th-century stone cottages. It transitioned into a restaurant in the 1960s and was revamped into The Wayfarer in the 1990s by Mel and Nadine Street. Their daughter, Rachel Birkett, now co-manages it with her sister Katie. In 2010, Rachel’s husband, Jonny Birkett, launched the on-site microbrewery, Problem Child Brewing, giving the place a special twist.
Inside, the pub feels inviting with its low-beamed ceilings, exposed stone walls, and snug corners that create a cosy vibe. The dining spaces are elegantly decorated, featuring tartan carpets and soft lighting that enhance the rustic feel. Plus, there’s a large outdoor beer garden that complements the indoor seating perfectly.
On the bar a selection of 6 cask ales with 4 of them brewed onsite alongside a keg beer selection. I went with one of their own beers in here, “Shenanigans” from Problem Child Brewery. A delicious hazy pale ale hopped with Mosaic, Nectaron and Citra.
The Thirsty Duck
I headed back to Burscough for one last stop before catching the feeder bus. The Thirsty Duck opened its doors in 2020, nestled in the historic Burscough Wharf complex, and is located in a beautifully restored warehouse by the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
Burscough Wharf used to be a bustling industrial hub along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, playing a significant role in Lancashire’s transport and trade during the 19th century. After its restoration in the 2010s, it now features shops, restaurants, and community spaces.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy, rustic vibe with wooden floors, eclectic furniture, and a real fire that adds to the warmth. Plus, there’s a fantastic outdoor seating area with lovely views of the canal at the back.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales alongside a keg beer selection featuring a number of Belgian and German beers. I noticed the new Thornbridge Brewery Union beer on the bar here in collaboration with Burning Sky Brewery. A fantastic, full of flavour American Pale ale.
Bus to Leyland
I returned on the feeder bus to Leyland to visit the two Micropubs that Leyland has to offer.
The Market Ale House
I headed out of Burscough on the feeder bus this time back to Leyland. My first visit of 2 here was to The Market Ale House. This opened in December 2013 as the area’s first micropub. It occupies a former travel agency and milk bar premises and us Situated near the entrance to the former Leyland Motors North Works, now the town’s market hall. the pub underwent refurbishment in 2020, updating its signage and interior and has more recently taken over the adjacent unit to create more space.
Inside you’ll find a cosy, welcoming atmosphere with wooden tables and stools arranged in an open-plan layout. The décor features simple, rustic touches and local artwork adorning the walls. An upstairs lounge offers additional seating, while the front boasts an outdoor area with ample seating.
On the bar a selection of 6 cask ales alongside a brilliant choice of keg beers. “Beach House” from Rivington Brewing Co was my beer of choice in here. A tasty, sessionable and easy drinking American pale ale hopped with Motueka, Mosaic and Simcoe.
The Golden Tap
Just an 8-minute stroll from my last call, you’ll find The Golden Tap, which opened its doors in April 2016 as the town’s second micropub. This building has quite the backstory, having started out as a residence in the 1800s before transforming into a chemist and then a shop.
Once you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a snug, single-room layout featuring rustic wooden tables and tall stools, perfect for creating a friendly and intimate vibe. The simple decor highlights the pub’s purpose, making it a laid-back spot that’s great for chatting.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales (usually 5 but one had just gone) alongside a brilliant choice of keg beers. “Whats Your 20?” was the beer of choice in here from Farm Yard Brew Co. A hazy, tasty and flavourful New Zealand Pale ale, with some fantastic flavours shining through.
Micropub Adventures 
Great write up of the event !,my favourite visit on the day was the Wayfarer, and its adjacent Problem Child Brewery,a great visit and I look forward to next years event and glad it all went well.
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