I explore various pubs and bars in stations along the Penistone Line Ale Trail, emphasising their unique histories, atmospheres, and drink selections. The White Hart, an 18th-century coaching inn, combines historical charm with modern comfort. Bottle & Co, established recently, offers a cosy, rustic vibe. Penistone Beer Shop provides a broad selection of local and international craft beers. The Penistone Tap & Brewhouse highlights community involvement. The Station Inn, a long-standing village pub, and Dodworth Tap blend tradition with modern amenities. Other notable venues in Barnsley, including Nailmaker Tap 1, Old No 7, Jolly Tap, and Bar Ruelle, showcase welcoming atmospheres and diverse ale options.
Category Archives: Brewery Taps
10/05/25 – Cambridge
Today I have a tour of various historic pubs and breweries in Cambridge, each with unique backstories and atmospheres. Starting with The Elm Tree, known for its vintage décor and selection of cask ales, the journey highlights The Cambridge Brew House’s microbrewery and quirky interior, as well as Pint Shop’s blend of historical charm and modern design. Other notable stops include The Free Press, The Tram Depot, and The Blue Moon, each featuring distinctive features and local brews. I emphasise the community vibes, live music, and a variety of beer choices across these establishments, culminating in a visit to The Broken Seal Tap Room in Stevenage.
03/05/25 – Farm Yard Brew Co
Here I share my experience on the “Farm Yard Beer Bus,” travelling to Farm Yard Brew Co, a craft brewery in Cockerham, Lancashire. Founded in 2016 by Steven Holmes, the brewery evolved from traditional farming into brewing, rebranding in 2021. It focuses on quality and sustainability with eco-friendly practices. The on-site taproom features a rustic design and serves food from the vendor ‘Marrow,’ which offers locally sourced dishes. A variety of beverages are available, including cask ales and craft beers.
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.
05/04/25 – Broadstairs
Mind the Gap, a micropub that opened its doors in July 2016, boasts a distinctive railway theme adorned with memorabilia, creating a nostalgic vibe for its guests. The Royston, another micropub that debuted in June 2021, combines Victorian, Steampunk, and Art-Deco elements, providing a cosy atmosphere along with a varied drink menu. Gadds’ Brewery, which started in 2002, sparked renewed interest in real ale locally, overcoming initial doubts by prioritizing sustainability and quality. The Magnet, a vibrant micropub that launched in February 2019, offers a welcoming ambiance with its quirky décor. Lastly, The Four Candles, known as Britain’s smallest brewpub, opened in 2012 and emphasizes community and unique brewing experiences, serving homemade ales straight from the cellar.
04/04/25 – Margate
NorthDown Brewery, launched in Margate in 2018 by Jonny and Katie Spanjar, has breathed new life into the local brewing landscape. The brewery boasts a friendly taproom known as the “NorthDown Saloon,” which accommodates about 45 guests and features local art. Alongside this, other spots like Banks Ale & Wine House and The Tap Room play a significant role in Margate’s lively ale scene. Community spirit shines through in venues such as The Laughing Barrel, The Fez, and The Two Halves, each offering a distinct vibe and a selection of craft beers. Moreover, establishments like Little Swift and Ales of the Unexpected prioritise sustainability and variety in their drink menus, contributing to a vibrant pub atmosphere.
02/04/25 – Folkestone, Hythe and Dymchurch
The Firkin Alehouse, Folkestone’s first micropub, kicked off in 2012 and has moved around a bit, now settled at Number 21. Founded by Neil King, it focuses on local ales in a laid-back, community-oriented setting. The Bouverie Tap, which opened in 2017, offers hearty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, The Hidden Treasure, a micropub that started in 2019, boasts a lovely beer garden next to a historic Martello Tower. Other noteworthy spots include The Potting Shed, Docker Bar, The Blind Pig, The Beer Shop Folkestone, and Kipps’ Alehouse, each providing its own unique vibe and selection of local brews, contributing to a lively pub scene in the area.
29/03/25 – Manchester
Today I visited several pubs in Manchester, showcasing their unique atmospheres, histories, and beer selections. I highlight The Oxford Road Tap, a craft beer pub inspired by its popular sister locations, featuring a train theme and a welcoming vibe. The Gas Lamp offers a cosy subterranean setting with an eclectic décor, whilst Café Beermoth combines style with a wide beer selection. Other notable options include Fairfield Social Club, emphasising community, and historic spots like The Marble Arch and Crown & Kettle. Each venue delivers a distinct experience, reflecting Manchester’s rich culture and brewing scene.
15/03/25 – Sheffield to Retford Ale Trail (Worksop to Sheffield)
Explore the Sheffield to Retford Rail Ale Trail The Sheffield to Retford Rail Ale Trail is a beautiful train route that links some great spots, starting from either Sheffield or Retford. Notable stops along the way include The Mallard, a unique pub at Worksop Station that encourages community interaction with its no-phones policy. Then there’sContinue reading “15/03/25 – Sheffield to Retford Ale Trail (Worksop to Sheffield)”
Micropub Adventures 