Category Archives: Merseyside

12/09/26 – Liverpool

I had a really enjoyable day exploring some of Liverpool’s pubs, starting at the Ship & Mitre and finishing at Dead Crafty Beer Company. I loved how every stop felt different, from the cosy traditional rooms at places like the Roscoe Head and Belvedere to the unusual setting of The Bridewell and the more relaxed feel of Dead Crafty. There was plenty of history to take in along the way, as well as some great cask and craft beers to try. It was one of those days where I could just wander, enjoy each pub and really take in Liverpool’s character.

22/08/26 – Southport

I headed over to Southport for a brilliant day exploring some of the town’s pubs, joined along the way by David and Pete from Southport and District CAMRA. I worked my way through nine venues, from newer places like The Bugle Tap to proper historic gems including The Guest House, Windmill and Bold Hotel. There was a great mix of traditional pubs, independent beer bars and plenty of local character, with a good choice of cask and keg beer throughout. Finishing beside the Marine Lake at the tiny, Grade II listed Lakeside Inn was a lovely way to round off the day.

25/07/26 – Warrington and Newton-le-Willows

I spent the day exploring the independent beer scene across Warrington and Newton-le-Willows, visiting a great mix of pubs, bars and a brewery tap, each with its own character. It was brilliant to catch up with members of North Cheshire CAMRA and meet plenty of friendly locals along the way, making the day even more enjoyable. From modern venues in Warrington Market to historic pubs full of character and welcoming community locals, there was plenty to discover. With excellent cask ale throughout and a warm welcome everywhere I visited, it proved to be another fantastic day out exploring two thriving beer destinations.

14/02/26 – Wallasey, Liscard and New Brighton

I spent a full day exploring Wallasey, Liscard and New Brighton, meeting up with followers and visiting a brilliant mix of independent bars and micropubs. From the intimate Hawkwinds & Jokerman in Wallasey to Liscard favourites like Twelve-Sixty, The Lazy Landlord and The Scrap Yard, each stop offered a warm welcome, good conversation and well-kept beer. I finished in New Brighton at The Bow-Legged Beagle, Homebrew Tap and SUP, enjoying everything from traditional milds to modern pale ales. It was great meeting owners, chatting with locals and seeing these places thriving.

29/12/25 – St Helens

I spent the day exploring some of St Helens’ pubs, and each one had its own feel. I kicked things off at The Royal Alfred by the station – proper old-school and full of history. The Turks Head was a highlight, packed with character and brilliant beer. Next door, The Cowley Vaults felt instantly welcoming, like somewhere you could lose track of time. Back in town, The Lamb Inn had that relaxed, cosy feel, while The Tipsy Tap was a newer, easy-going spot. The Cricketers Arms stood out with its on-site brewery – really impressive. I ended at Skew Bridge Alehouse and Beer EnGin, both small, friendly, and great for a quiet pint.

28/12/25 – Waterloo and Crosby

I started off around Waterloo, first popping into The Shipwreck – proper friendly, dead relaxed, and a cracking pint of Ice Queen from Ossett to get going. Then it was round to Always Sometimes, super chilled with great beer – went for Neptune’s Cask Club Luminosa. The Old Tap and Four Ashes kept things ticking nicely, both great spots, and I ended up at Trap & Hatch for a lovely juicy pale from DEYA. Then over to Crosby – The Coop was a standout, proper community feel and a boss Black IPA. Finished up with classic cosy pints at The Corner Post and The Volunteer Canteen.

11/10/25 – Southport and Formby

I spent the day exploring Southport’s best micropubs and traditional locals, each with its own character and charm. I started at The Beer Den, a cosy spot with great ales, then wandered to The Barrel House in Birkdale — small but buzzing. From there, I visited The Grasshopper, Beer Station, and The Tin Shed, all welcoming and full of personality. Back in Southport, I called into Tap & Bottles, Masons Arms, The Guesthouse, and The Windmill before finishing at The Lakeside Inn — Britain’s smallest pub. Every stop had a great pint, a friendly atmosphere, and that proper local feel I love.

01/03/25 – Liverpool

I undertake a tour of historic pubs in Liverpool, starting with The Vines, established in 1867, known for its baroque architecture and diverse cask ales. I continue to Ma Egerton’s Stage Door, a favoured venue of renowned performers, and Doctor Duncans, honouring a public health pioneer. The Ship & Mitre and Dead Crafty Beer Co highlight the city’s maritime heritage and craft beer culture. The Vernon Arms and Brunswick Vaults showcase local charm, while The Pig & Whistle and White Star reflect Liverpool’s seafaring history. The Bridewell, The Monro, and other pubs reveal rich narratives intertwining local culture and brewing traditions, inviting visitors to enjoy their unique atmospheres.

21/10/23 – Liverpool and Ormskirk

A day out in Liverpool, heading up to the top of the Radio City tower, before heading to “Liverpool Brewing Co” Tap Room, “St Lukes Bombed Out Church”, a bar set in the grounds of a bombed out church, heading out to Cains Brewery Village, with lots of different bars, markets and eating spots, and finishing in Ormskirk with “Tap Room No 12”.