I provide a detailed exploration of various pubs and breweries in Whitley Bay, Monkseaton and Tynemouth, highlighting their unique histories, décor, and beer selections. Starting with Whitley Bay Brewing Co, which features local ales, I move through several establishments, including Cafe Amsterdam, The Dog and Rabbit, and others, each offering distinctive atmospheres and delightful craft beers. Highlights include Platform 2’s transformation from a coffee shop to a craft beer hub and the welcoming vibe of newer spots like The Crafty Cold Well. Overall, I capture the local brewing culture and community spirit in these lively establishments.
Author Archives: scottspencer001
14/11/24 – Gateshead and Newcastle
I explore various pubs and breweries in Newcastle and Gateshead, highlighting their unique characteristics and offerings. Crown Posada, an older pub with historical ties, features beautiful stained glass and a warm atmosphere, while Microbus, a quirky new venue, embodies a campervan theme. The Central Bar, known for live music, and Station East, set on the site of a former railway station, are also mentioned. Other locations such as The Bridge Hotel, Newcastle Tap, Mosaic Tap, and more showcase diverse craft beer selections. The visit concludes with The Carriage, a pub steeped in railway history, and introduces Talking Tides Brew Co, which blends craft beer with food.
9/11/24 – Ilkeston, Heanor and Loscoe
A day spent visiting various pubs in Ilkeston, Heanor, Loscoe and Langley Mill starting at The Burnt Pig, a popular micropub. I explore several other venues, including The Crafty One, Stanton Cask, Beestonia Brewing Company, and Marlpool Ale House, highlighting their distinctive atmospheres, local cask beers, and warm welcomes. Each pub features a selection of cask artisans, unique brews, and cosy environments. The tour includes newer establishments like The Crafty Tap and Dead Man’s Tankard, alongside those with historical significance. Conclusively, it reflects a vibrant beer culture in the area with friendly community vibes.
2/11/24 – Sheffield “Little Chicago”
The walk through Sheffield, known as “Little Chicago,” highlights its history of gang violence in the 1920s while exploring iconic pubs. Notable stops include The Crow Inn, a historical meeting spot, Shakespeare’s, a long-standing coaching inn, and Kelham Island Tavern, recognized for real ale. The narrative showcases the evolution of these establishments, from their original functions to their present-day charm. Distinctive art and historical landmarks enhance the stroll, and each pub offers a diverse selection of beers. The journey encapsulates Sheffield’s rich heritage, community spirit, and love for traditional pubs amid a backdrop of turbulent history.
26/10/24 – Ulverston (and Blackpool)
After exploring the new Nuclear Submarine in Barrow-in-Furness, I ventured to Ulverston, known for its Laurel & Hardy connection. My first stop was The Mill, a historic pub with Grade II listing and a selection of eight cask ales, including “Apprentice” from Wibblers Brewery. I then visited Gather Beerhouse, a cosy craft ale venue offering friendly service and unique pizzas, where I sampled a flavourful sour beer. My final Ulverston visit was the Devonshire Arms, an old pub featuring local cask ales. Concluding the day in Blackpool, I checked out Railside Brewhouse.
18/10/24-19/10/24 – Derby #2, Spondon and Draycott
I explored several traditional pubs and breweries around Derby, highlighting their unique histories and offerings. Falstaff Pub & Brewery, originally a hotel from 1886, features a cosy atmosphere and four cask ales. The Smithfield, established in 1840, boasts ten cask beers and multiple accolades. The Old Silk Mill and The Flowerpot showcase attractive interiors and local brews. Other notable stops include The Furnace Inn, Shiny Brewery, and The Hoppy Place, each offering a range of beers and welcoming environments alongside others. The tour concludes at The Victoria Inn, known for its music history and diverse beer selection. Each venue reflects Derby’s rich pub culture.
12/10/24 – Derby #1
Today I explored various micropubs and real ale establishments in Derby, starting with The Royal Standard, a historic pub with Victorian architecture and ties to Queen Victoria. Following a visit to The Greyhound, with its rich history and modern enhancements, the journey continues to The Last Post, a cosy micropub showcasing local ales. The Pothole and The Creaky Floorboard offer unique atmospheres and selections, highlighting the community spirit. Five Lamps stands out with its spacious layout, while the Little Chester Ale House, Derby’s first micropub, presents a warm ambiance. The day concludes at 189 Allestree, offering a vibrant selection of craft beers.
10/10/24 – Beeston, Attenborough and Long Eaton
Today I visit various pubs in the Beeston and Long Eaton areas, detailing their histories, atmospheres, and available beers. The Victoria Hotel, dating back to 1899, showcases local cask ales and delights with its Victorian charm. Along the way, I explore establishments like The White Lion, known for its Art Deco style, and The Star Inn, noted for its connection to TV history. Additionally, there’s a tour of Micropubs in Beeston, Attenborough and Long Eaton, emphasizing unique brews like “Murmuration” and “Reign O’er Me.” Each location offers a warm atmosphere, various cask ales, and delectable food options, showcasing the local brewing culture.
9/10/24-10/10/24 – Nottingham Robin Hood Beer & Cider Festival
The Nottingham Robin Hood Beer & Cider Festival, now in its 48th year, has moved through several locations before settling at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. This historic venue, the world’s third oldest test ground, enhances the festival’s charm, offering guided tours to explore its rich history. This year’s layout boasts significant improvements, featuring multiple bar sections with a diverse range of UK and US beers, including a special focus on breweries with female participation. Attendees can enjoy various food options, live music, and a dedicated cider area. Overall, the festival creates a vibrant atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to reconnect and explore new brews.
03/10/24-04/10/24 – Dublin
The Ultimate Dublin Pub Crawl: History, Beer, and Atmosphere Upon arriving in Dublin, I explored numerous pubs, starting with the iconic Temple Bar, known for its live Irish music and excellent Guinness. I also visited J.R Mahon’s, a historic venue with an extensive beer selection, including in-house brews. Tapped Late Bar impressed with its modernContinue reading “03/10/24-04/10/24 – Dublin”
Micropub Adventures 