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Beer, Buses and Brilliant Pubs: A Journey Through South Ribble’s Ale Trail
The South Ribble Beer & Buses day paired classic buses with pubs across Leyland, Penwortham, Bamber Bridge and Lostock Hall amongst others. Free vintage services ran lunchtime into early evening, creating a relaxed, community feel while linking more than twenty venues pouring quality cask and craft beer. The Merseyside Transport Trust, founded in 1970 to preserve regional bus heritage, ran this event with lovingly restored vehicles. Highlights included Hopworks, Bar 47, Beer Box, Withy Arms, venues along Liverpool Road in Penwortham, and welcoming stops in Lostock Hall and Leyland. A friendly route for real-ale fans, transport enthusiasts, and anyone up for a wander.
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.
Hopworks Brew Co
First up was Hopworks Brew Co. They started up in early 2023 over at Walton Summit after the crew behind Beer Brothers decided to branch out and do their own thing. They kept the same site, gave it a bit of a makeover, and fired up the brewery again under the new name. It’s a small, hands-on operation making proper craft beer for local drinkers. Even though Hopworks is pretty new, it’s got solid roots in Preston’s beer scene — same people, same passion, just a new chapter. Think of it as Beer Brothers’ next evolution, with a fresh name and plenty of local pride.
The Hopworks taproom has a proper laid-back, no-frills vibe. It’s right in the middle of the brewery, so you can see all the tanks and gear while you’re sat having a pint. The place has that cool, industrial look — brick walls, metal bits, big wooden tables — but still feels warm and welcoming. There’s some outdoor seating for when the weather plays nice, and it’s usually buzzing with locals and regulars. Nothing fancy, just a good, relaxed spot where you can chill out, chat beer, and feel part of what they’re brewing right there on site.
A great line up on the bar with 2 of their own cask ales, alongside 10 keg lines, a mix of their own beers aswell as a number of guests. I went for one of their keg beers “Bubble and Squeak”. A fantastic American IPA, packed full of flavour, juicy and very easy drinking.
Bar 47
On the bus from Hopworks Brew Co to Higher Walton to visit Bar 47 – Higher Walton. Bar 47 in Higher Walton has a bit of local charm behind it — the place started out as a hardware shop years ago, then became a café before being turned into a cosy little micropub in 2018, first called the Cann Bridge Ale House. It changed hands and got a fresh new look in 2020, reopening as Bar 47. The building sits right in the heart of Higher Walton, a village that grew up around an old cotton mill back in the 18th and 19th centuries, so there’s a touch of industrial history mixed in with its laid-back, community feel today.
Inside Bar 47 things feel warm and unpretentious. You’ll find exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and wooden tables that invite relaxed chats rather than formal dining. The space is compact but cleverly laid out so it doesn’t feel cramped — there’s room for small groups, couples, and solo visitors alike. It’s the kind of place where you can come in, sink into a chair, and linger for a while. The décor mixes a bit of rustic charm (think reclaimed wood, simple finishes) with personal touches like framed prints, giving it genuine village-pub character.
On the bar a selection of 2 cask ales, one of which is their own brew “One Man and His Dog Brewery – Pale Ale”, which I went with. A very light, refreshing and tasty Pale Ale, alongside a range of keg beers.
Beer Box
Next was along to nearby Bamber Bridge. My first of two visits here was to Beer Box. This is a laid-back little micropub that opened in 2018, taking over a spot that used to be a domestic services shop on Station Road. It was started by a couple of locals who wanted to create a friendly, no-fuss place for the community to gather. The space is small but welcoming — perfect for chats and catching up with familiar faces. Every so often, they host quirky local events, keeping things interesting. It’s right in the heart of Bamber Bridge, a town with roots stretching back centuries and even a story tied to WWII’s “Battle of Bamber Bridge.”
Inside the Beer Box, the space is simple, bright, and welcoming. A large front window lets in plenty of natural light, with small tables and stools lined neatly along it, giving a clear view of Station Road outside. Pendant lights hang evenly from the ceiling, casting a warm, mellow glow that keeps things relaxed without feeling dim. The walls are light and uncluttered, creating a clean, open feel, while the floor is smooth and practical — no raised sections or fussy décor.
Drinks wise on the bar a fantastic line up of 5 cask ales, each from a different brewery and a range of styles. A number of keg options are available in addition. I went with “Dead Moon” from Brid’s Cross Brewing. A fantastic malty and smooth Best Bitter, full of flavour and super enjoyable.
Withy Arms
Over the road brings me to Withy Arms. The Withy Arms has been a local landmark for nearly two centuries. Originally known as the Withy Trees Inn, it took its name from the surrounding area, once called Withy Trees, which appears in records as far back as the early 1800s. The pub was listed in 1834 under landlord Richard Fairclough, serving locals during the height of Bamber Bridge’s cotton-mill era. Over the years it’s seen plenty of change, from a traditional coaching inn to a modern community pub. After a major refurbishment in 2011, it reopened as the Withy Arms, keeping its friendly, down-to-earth character.
Inside, the Withy Arms blends modern style with traditional charm. The space is open and airy, with a mix of wooden floors, exposed brick, and neutral tones that give it a warm, welcoming feel. Cosy booths and polished tables line the walls, while soft lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere. Subtle touches—like framed local photos and simple décor—add character without feeling cluttered. The overall look is clean, comfortable, and contemporary, with enough classic pub features to keep its heritage intact.
Drinks wise a selection of 5 cask ales including their own house beer, alongside a range of keg options. I went with “Blimey” from Northern Whisper Brewing. A super smooth, malty and tasty Bitter. Full bodied and full of flavour.
1260 – Craft & Crust
Back on the bus again, this time to Penwortham. The first of 3 places next to each other was 1260 – Craft & Crust. Craft & Crust sits in Penwortham’s old Booths supermarket on Liverpool Road – a 1930s building that later picked up single-storey extensions as the town expanded. After Booths moved out around 2014, the place stood empty until 2018, when plans were approved to split the site into three units, paving the way for a new restaurant. In December 2019, it reopened as 1260 Craft & Crust – the name nodding to the year Penwortham was first recorded. Keeping its open, industrial feel, it’s since become a local favourite for pizza, craft beer, and relaxed get-togethers.
Inside, Craft & Crust gets the balance just right – industrial yet inviting. Exposed brick walls, dark wood, and soft lighting give it a warm, modern feel, while the open kitchen brings a bit of theatre as pizzas are stretched and fired in full view. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside, with a mix of large tables for groups and cosy corners for quieter chats. It’s relaxed, buzzy, and unpretentious – the kind of place where you can settle in easily, whether you’re out for a bite with friends or just fancy something freshly made and comforting.
Drinks wise on the bar a cask ales, a hand pulled cider and a great line up of craft keg lines. There is even a huge can and bottle range if you are stuck for choice. “This Circle Is You” from Pentrich Brewing Co was my beer choice. A super sessionable Pale Ale brewed using Citra and Nectaron hops. Juicy and tasty.
Gin Jar Ale
Onto Gin Jar Ale next. Gin Jar Ale, on Liverpool Road in Penwortham, opened on 19 December 2019 in part of the former Booths supermarket building, which had stood empty for several years. Local developer Warren Ward purchased and transformed the site in 2018 as part of wider efforts to revitalise this end of the high street. The bar, independently owned and family run, brought new life to the area with its relaxed, quirky atmosphere and focus on quality drinks. Since opening, Gin Jar Ale has become a key part of Penwortham’s thriving social scene and its broader independent-business revival.
Inside Gin Jar Ale feels warm, intimate, and thoughtfully styled. The décor leans toward deep blues and muted tones, with soft lighting from exposed filament bulbs creating a mellow, inviting glow. Walls are accented with greenery and wall art, giving a modern, cosy touch. Seating is casual — a mix of sofas, low tables, and high stools encouraging relaxed conversation. The bar counter is modest but neatly finished, with careful attention to rustic textures and materials. Overall the space feels like a boutique gin lounge: laid-back, comfortable, and designed for lingering over a drink.
Drinks wise a selection of 3 cask ales, alongside a range of craft keg beers to choose from. I went with “Henry’s IPA” from Wadworth. A delicious, easy drinking IPA.
No 16 on the Hill
Onto No. 16 – On The Hill. No. 16 Liverpool Road, now known as No. 16 On the Hill, began life as part of a row of early 20th-century houses before the area turned more commercial. Over the decades, the property shifted from residential use to various small shops and services. It has being home to the Grate English Fireplace showroom, then a cake and bakery outlet linked to Rachel’s Cakes and Greenhalgh’s. By around 2018, it was trading as Bread and Butter, a small café, before being refurbished into its current form. Despite the changes, the building still keeps its original corner position and much of its early brick character.
Inside No. 16 On the Hill feels warm and relaxed, with a mix of old charm and modern touches. The space keeps some of the building’s original character – exposed brick, big windows looking over the crossroads, and cosy corners that make it feel homely. There’s a long counter along one wall, soft lighting, and a mix of high stools and comfy seats for chatting or watching the world go by. It’s stylish without being fancy, the kind of place that feels just as good for a quiet catch-up as it does for a lively evening out.
On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales to choose from, alongside a choice of keg beers aswell. “Hay” from Gan Yam Brew Co was my beer choice. A super tasty and juicy Pale Ale brewed using Jester Hops.
Tap and Vine
Back on the bus for a short journey up the road to Tap and Vine. The Tap & Vine in Penwortham opened in 2018 as the town’s first micropub, occupying what was once an old arts and crafts shop on Liverpool Road. The building itself has early 20th-century origins and appears on local maps from the late 1920s, hinting at a long and varied past in the heart of the community. Before its transformation into a pub, it served several local businesses over the decades, reflecting Penwortham’s steady growth from a quiet suburb to a lively town centre. Since opening, Tap & Vine has become a much-loved local, praised by CAMRA and named Pub of the Season in 2019, known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional charm.
Inside the Tap & Vine, it’s cosy and relaxed — the kind of place where you instantly feel at home. There’s a warm, rustic feel with wooden tables, simple décor, and friendly chatter filling the air. A small back room with a wood burner adds a snug touch in winter, while the bar area keeps things lively without being loud. It’s unpretentious, welcoming, and full of character — more like popping round to a mate’s living room than your typical high-street pub.
A great line up on the bar of 4 cask ales along with a selection of keg beers. I opted to go with “Panic at the Costco” from Big Trip. A fantastic New England IPA, juicy and bursting with some great flavours. Super tasty and very easy drinking.
The Sir Tom Finney
On the bus for a short ride to The Sir Tom Finney. The Sir Tom Finney on Central Drive, Penwortham, first opened on 20 March 1975, with the legendary footballer himself there to cut the ribbon. Originally called The Tom Finney, it was renamed Sir Tom Finney after he received his knighthood in 1998. Sir Tom was a Preston North End and England hero, known for his incredible skill, sportsmanship, and down-to-earth nature. Over the years, the pub’s become a real community favourite – a proper local where people gather for a pint, to watch PNE games, and to admire the murals celebrating one of Preston’s finest ever lads.
Walking into the Sir Tom Finney pub in Penwortham feels a bit like stepping into a familiar friend’s living room – warm, welcoming, and full of local charm. It’s bright and nicely kept, with comfy seating and a mix of open spaces and cosy corners that make it easy to settle in. The walls are decorated with photos and murals celebrating Sir Tom himself, giving it a real Preston touch.
A great line up of 4 cask ales available on the bar, along with a keg beer selection. I opted to go with “Montgomery” from Wantsum Brewery. A super tasty American IPA, well balanced and very easy drinking.
Lostock Ale
Our final call before heading back into Leyland is Lostock Hall. Managed to visit 3 places here, the first being Lostock Ale. Lostock Ale sits on Hope Terrace in the old Tardy Gate parade, a row that’s seen plenty of changes over the years. The building was a small gift shop for a long while before being converted into a micropub in early 2020. A year or so later, they expanded by knocking through into the charity shop next door, giving it a bit more space but keeping the same simple frontage. Before its retail days, the parade stood close to where the old Tardy Gate Inn once traded, so the area’s had a link to pints and locals for generations.
Inside, Lostock Ale feels like someone’s front room — small, cosy and full of chatter. There’s a little wooden bar, a mix of stools, benches and mismatched chairs, and walls dotted with old photos and local odds and ends. The lighting’s warm and gentle, and there’s no music or screens, just the sound of people talking. It’s the kind of place where everyone says hello, newcomers get welcomed straight in, and time seems to slow down a bit. Simple, friendly and full of character, it’s got that proper local feel that’s getting harder to find these days. The sign in the toilet is pretty funny aswell!
Drinks wise on the bar a great line up of 6 cask ales, alongside a wide range of keg options. I went with a beer from Darkland Brewery. “Bullion” is a delicious well balanced Golden Ale, very sessionable and full of flavour.
Pleasant Retreat
Over the road to Pleasant Retreat. The Pleasant Retreat on Watkin Lane in Lostock Hall has been serving locals for nearly 200 years, first popping up around 1841 with Thomas Johnson as landlord. Over the decades it’s passed through plenty of hands – from William Robinson and Benjamin Balshaw to Thomas Bretherton in the late 1800s – and has always been a friendly spot at the heart of the Tardy Gate community. These days it’s a classic village pub with a modern twist, keeping its cosy, welcoming vibe while being spruced up to suit today’s crowd.
Inside has that proper local-pub feel – warm, welcoming, and full of character. There’s plenty of wood around, from the bar to the tables, giving it a cosy, traditional look. You’ll find a mix of regulars and visitors chatting away, with the friendly staff keeping things lively. It’s been spruced up recently, so it feels fresh without losing its charm – lighter colours, comfy seating, and a few modern touches.
On the bar a line up of 2 cask ales, alongside a variety of keg options. I went with “Bass” in here. A beer that’s always good, tasty, refreshing and easy drinking.
Our Lady and St Gerard’s Parochial Centre
Last up in Lostock Hall was Our Lady and St Gerard’s Parochial Centre. This adjoins the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes and St Gerard Majella, has been a cornerstone of the local Catholic community since the early 20th century. Originating from a school-chapel built in 1890 and a church opened in 1913 under the Benedictines of Ampleforth, the centre evolved into a thriving social hub. Known locally for its friendly atmosphere, real-ale events, and the popular Autumn Beer Festival, it welcomes both parishioners and visitors. Today, it continues to embody the parish’s long tradition of faith, fellowship, and service at the heart of Lostock Hall.
The place has a warm, welcoming feel, with a central bar, big function room, and plenty of space for parties or quiet drinks. It’s famous for its real ale and the much-loved Autumn Beer Festival. Whether you’re a regular or just dropping in, everyone’s treated like family — it’s a proper local spot with history, heart, and plenty of character.
Drinks wise a line up of 3 cask ales to choose from along with a variety of keg options. In here I opted to go with “White Witch” from Moorhouse’s Brewery. A very refreshing, easy drinking and sessionable Blonde Ale.
The Market Ale House
Headed into Leyland on the bus from Lostock Hall. The first of 2 places here was The Market Ale House. The Market Ale House in Leyland opened in December 2013, transforming what was once Robinson’s Milk Bar and later a Co-Op travel agency into one of Lancashire’s first micropubs. It was started by Alison and Danny Hindle, who wanted to create a relaxed, friendly spot for locals to meet and chat. Sitting on Hough Lane near the old Leyland Motors North Works site, it quickly became part of the community’s social scene. The place has won local awards and is known for its cosy atmosphere, local pride, and simple, down-to-earth charm that fits perfectly with Leyland’s character.
Inside, the Market Ale House has that proper cosy, no-nonsense British pub feel. It’s small but welcoming, with wooden tables, stools, and benches set close enough to get people chatting. The décor is simple — local photos, bits of brewery memorabilia, and plenty of character without trying too hard. Warm lighting and friendly faces make it feel more like someone’s front room than a bar. There’s a snug area upstairs for a quieter pint and a few seats out front when the weather’s decent. It’s relaxed, unpretentious, and exactly the sort of place you can settle into for hours.
On the bar a great selection of 6 cask ales, alongside a great keg line up of different styles. I chose “Waiheke Island” from Weekend Project. A super hoppy, juicy and tasty IPA hopped using Nelson Sauvin hops.
The Golden Tap
Second up in Leyland was to The Golden Tap. The Golden Tap Ale House in Leyland occupies a historic building at 1 Chapel Brow that dates back to the 1800s. Originally built as a private residence, it was later converted into a chemist’s shop, serving the local community for many years. In the 20th century, it became a general retail shop, reflecting the town’s growing commercial character. The premises eventually fell vacant before being transformed into a micropub, officially opening as the Golden Tap in April 2016. Retaining its intimate one-room layout, the pub continues the building’s long tradition of local enterprise, now as a hub for real ale and conversation.
Inside the Golden Tap, it’s warm, relaxed, and friendly — the kind of place where you feel right at home. The single-room layout makes it cosy and sociable, with wooden tables, a small bar, and plenty of chat between regulars and newcomers alike. There’s no loud music or flashing screens, just a laid-back atmosphere and the buzz of conversation. The décor is simple but full of character, with bits of local charm dotted around and a welcoming, down-to-earth feel. It’s the sort of spot where time slows down and everyone’s up for a good natter.
A great selection on the bar featuring 6 cask lines, a range of keg beers and a fridge full of cans and bottles. “Well, Well, Well” from Ridge Brew Co was my selection of beer. A very sessionable, light and tasty pale ale.
Crafty Beggars Ale House
Two extra visits last night when I got back into Preston. The first being to Crafty Beggars Ale House. Crafty Beggars Ale House, on Garstang Road in Fulwood, Preston, opened in July 2020. The site was previously an estate agent’s office before being transformed into a relaxed micropub with a friendly, community atmosphere. It quickly became a popular local spot for those seeking a laid-back alternative to busy city pubs, known for its welcoming vibe and regular events. Over time, it’s become part of Preston’s growing independent scene, often hosting live music nights and themed celebrations like Oktoberfest.
Inside it’s small, open, and full of character. There’s exposed brick, wood-panelled walls, and industrial-style lighting that gives it a warm, rustic feel. The main bar sits right as you walk in, with high tables, benches, and stools dotted around for a relaxed setup. The décor mixes cosy pub touches with a hint of steampunk style, using warm tones and metal details. It feels down-to-earth and welcoming — the kind of place people come to talk, laugh, and stay for a while.
A selection of 4 cask ales on the bar in here, alongside a selection of keg options to choose from. “Sunwave” from Fierce Beer was my choice. A fantastic hazy New England IPA. Juicy, tasty and quaffable.
The Tap End
Last up was The Tap End. The Tap End is a friendly little micropub on Blackpool Road in Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston, that opened in June 2021 after pandemic delays. It took over what used to be Robby’s Cards & Gifts, giving the place a new lease of life with its warm, dark-wood interior and relaxed, chatty atmosphere. Since opening, it’s become a local favourite and was even named CAMRA Central Lancashire’s Best New Cask Outlet in 2022, a nod to its welcoming community feel and character.
Inside it’s all about a cosy, relaxed feel. The old shop has been turned into a warm little space with dark wood, soft lighting, and a mix of bar stools and snug tables. The bar’s tucked to one side, and the whole place has that easy, chatty atmosphere where you can actually hear yourself talk. Simple touches of metal and timber give it a modern-but-homely feel, and it’s always comfortably cool, even when it’s busy. It’s the kind of spot that feels instantly familiar — like a proper local, just a bit smarter.
Drinks wise a range of 4 cask ales to choose from on the bar, alongside a selection of keg options. “Charmed by Ernest” was my choice of beer, from a new brewery for me, Coley’s Brewery. This was a very easy drinking, full of flavour Pale Ale.
Micropub Adventures 