Author Archives: scottspencer001

14/02/25 – Wakefield

Wakefield’s drinking scene is rich in history, showcasing its journey from Roman times to a lively cultural hotspot. The city has a strong connection to forced rhubarb, celebrated through its yearly festival. Some must-visit spots include Harry’s Bar, famous for its welcoming vibe and ever changing cask ales; The Hop, a live music venue featuring multiple stages; and The Black Rock, a classic pub with a fascinating past. Don’t miss out on Luis Bar at Fernandes Brewery, known for its distinctive drink options, and The Red Shed, a pub with significant political roots. Each place gives you a taste of Wakefield’s unique heritage.

08/02/25 – Chesterfield Beer Festival and Dronfield

The Chesterfield Beer Festival, hosted at the historic Winding Wheel Theatre, showcases a diverse range of UK beers and offers delicious food options. The festival promotes local and further afield brews and features talks, including one on haunted pubs. Nearby, Drone Valley Brewery stands out as the UK’s only community-owned brewery, involving locals in brewing and profits reinvestment. The Coach & Horses pub, with a long history dating back to 1795, maintains its welcoming charm and features a selection of Thornbridge beers. Other local spots, like The Beer Stop and The Underdog, contribute to a thriving craft beer culture in Dronfield, enhancing the community experience.

01/02/25 – Bakewell and Sheffield

Bakewell, a historic market town in Derbyshire dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, features landmarks such as the Bakewell Parish Church and a 13th-century bridge. It’s famous for its Bakewell pudding, created accidentally in the 1800s, and a strong brewing culture exemplified by Thornbridge Brewery, founded in 2005. The brewery utilizes a historic Burton Union system for fermentation, enriching its beer flavours. Local pubs like the Joiners Arms and The Peacock emphasize community and craft beers. Bakewell’s vibrant history includes events like the Militia Riots of 1796 and unique stories tied to establishments, enhancing its charm and appeal.

25/01/25 – Burton-Upon-Trent

Burton-on-Trent was historically significant in the brewing industry, known for its mineral-rich water that contributed unique flavours to beers like IPAs. While over thirty breweries thrived in the 18th and 19th centuries, post-World War II mergers and changing preferences led to many closures. Local pubs like The Elms, Burton Bridge Inn, and The Olde Royal Oak showcase the town’s brewing heritage, each with unique backstories, while newer establishments like Beeropolis and Inn Uendos reflect a resurgence in craft beer. The combination of historic charm and contemporary offerings illustrates Burton’s rich brewing legacy and evolving pub culture.

18/01/25 – Skipton and Barnoldswick

Skipton and Barnoldswick are steeped in history, with Skipton Castle standing as a key landmark and a lively market scene that dates back to the Domesday Book. You can check out local spots like The Boathouse Bar, Hickey’s & Friends, and Wax and Taps, each with its own vibe and selection of beers. Barnoldswick, with its industrial roots, features places like The Barlick Tap and Chewies that focus on local brews. The Beer Engine and The Narrow Boat, along with other pubs in Skipton, really capture the community spirit while offering a variety of ales. All in all, exploring these towns showcases their rich history and vibrant beer culture.

11/01/25 – Peterborough

A day exploring various pubs and taprooms in Peterborough, each with unique atmospheres and histories. Starting at The Shed, which features vintage railway memorabilia, the journey continues to The Wonky Donkey, known for its community feel, and The Yard of Ale, showcasing a rich backstory. Other spots like Palmerston Arms and Charters Bar offer historical charm and details, while others, like Bottle and Board and Tap & Tandoor, highlight modern concepts like craft beers and Indian cuisine fusion. Each venue boasts friendly welcomes, diverse drink selections, and a commitment to local culture, making the exploration a delightful experience.

04/01/25 – Doncaster, Sandtoft and Goole

This blog takes you on a fun tour of pubs and breweries around Doncaster and North Lincolnshire, showcasing the local drinking scene. It kicks off at Don Valley Brewery Tap, famous for its sleek brewing setup and awesome beer choices. It then dives into spots like The Leopard and The Little Plough, sharing their interesting backstories, cool architecture, and lively vibes. I taste a bunch of local ales, highlighting how much the community values quality craft beer. The adventure wraps up at Goole’s Tom Pudding micropub, which paints a picture of a cosy, welcoming atmosphere among the patrons.

14/12/24 – Loughborough and Barrow Upon Soar

Loughborough is noted for its significant history, particularly as home to the largest bell foundry and notable advances in engineering during the 19th century. This rich heritage is complemented by its vibrant beer scene, featuring various pubs and breweries such as Charnwood Brewery, which celebrates ten years of operation. Visitors can explore a range of unique establishments, each with its own history and character, from The Swan in the Rushes to The Needle & Pin, showcasing local beers alongside cosy atmospheres. The town also marks historical events, including a World War I zeppelin attack, reflecting its industrial significance.

16/11/24 – Leith

Historic Pubs and Craft Beer in Leith A journey through Leith, Scotland, which showcases its transformation from a historic trading hub to a vibrant cultural centre. Starting from the Roseleaf Bar Café with its unique drinks and vintage ambiance, the tour includes stops at various pubs like Teuchters Landing, Lost In Leith, and the ShoreContinue reading “16/11/24 – Leith”