I spent the day drifting around Harrogate, popping into a mix of old favourites and newer independent spots, and it was a really easy way to see how good the town’s drinking scene has become. From historic pubs and station bars to laid-back craft places and micropubs, everywhere felt different but welcoming. Some were cosy and full of character, others lighter and more modern, but all were places you could happily sit and stay a while. The beer was consistently solid too, with great cask and keg choices throughout. Overall, it just felt like a relaxed, confident scene that’s grown naturally over time.
Category Archives: Railway Station
06/12/25 – Havering and Brentwood
A relaxed wander through Essex and London’s beer spots, starting in Upminster where the Taproom’s laid-back vibe set things off nicely. Each stop had its own personality — the friendly Hop Inn in Hornchurch, Gidea Park’s cosy front-room feel, and Brentwood’s farm brewery festival with plenty of good chat and great beer. The Peasants’ Revolt added a fun mix of history and warmth before I finally rolled into the Euston Tap, tucked inside its quirky little stone lodge. By the end, it all felt less like a planned trip and more like drifting from one good story to the next.
10/10/25 – Skegness and Grantham
I popped into two cracking Lincolnshire micropubs that mix history with proper community spirit. First up was The Crafty Local in Skegness, which opened in October 2023 and has quickly become a friendly little spot. The place has had all sorts of past lives, but now it’s buzzing again with good beer and a laid-back vibe. Later, I headed to The Whistle Stop Micropub in Grantham, tucked inside an old railway parcels office. It’s full of character, with railway bits on the walls and a cosy feel. Both pubs served great, easy-drinking ales and were perfect for a relaxed pint and a chat.
08/10/25-09/10/25 – Nottingham
Two days in Nottingham trace a pub crawl through history and beer. From the Vat & Fiddle’s Castle Rock tap roots to Brew Tavern in the old Cabman’s Shelter, venues blend canals, lace-market heritage and sandstone caves. Highlights include Canalhouse’s warehouse, Ye Olde Salutation Inn with caves, and Canning Circus stalwarts Sir John Borlase Warren, Falcon Inn and Organ Grinder. Interiors swing from snug nooks to airy, brick-and-beam spaces. Cellars, courtyards and roof terraces abound. Pints range from classic bitters to hazy pales and zesty sours—local, guest and collaboration brews poured with easy warmth. Across the city’s welcoming beer scene.
13/09/25 – York
I spent the day exploring York’s pubs, bars, and drinks spots, each packed with history and character. I started at York Tap in the old station tearooms before heading to both House of the Trembling Madness venues, each quirky in their own way. I sampled rum at Villains Rum, browsed gin at York Gin, and visited unique pubs like The Blue Bell, Golden Ball, and The Falcon. Stops like Brew York, Market Cat, Valhalla, and Spark showed off York’s modern craft scene, while places like Pivni, Walmgate Alehouse, and The Ackhorne oozed old-world charm. A perfect mix of history, atmosphere, and great drinks.
09/08/25 – Shrewsbury
A vibrant pub tour showcases historic venues like Cromwell’s Tap House, a Grade II listed site with a cosy mix of old and new. Three Fishes, a smoke-free pioneer, offered a quaint atmosphere with traditional décor. The Nag’s Head, with Tudor charm, featured a 14th-century hall, while the Henry Tudor Inn combines medieval history with modern comfort. House of Grain maintained its industrial roots post-renovation. Cross Foxes preserves brewing heritage, while Masonic Arms balances tradition with modern touches. The Prince of Wales celebrated community ties through a bowling green. Lastly, RAD Beer and The Chester Station Tap Room highlight craft offerings and revitalised spaces.
12/06/25-13/06/25 – Exmouth and Axminster
Here I visit several pubs in Exmouth and Axminster, each with unique features and importance to local culture. Bicton Inn dates back to the early 1800s, reflecting its agricultural roots and featuring a cosy, traditional atmosphere alongside a good selection of ales. First and Last Inn, established in 1822, maintains its charm with a warm ambiance and a brewing onsite. The Grapevine Brewhouse, transformed in 2010, is known for its food and vibrant community events. Lastly, The Ale Way in Axminster, a micropub in a historic station, offers a welcoming vibe and local food. Each location emphasises history, community engagement, and beers.
07/06/25 – Penistone Line Ale Trail (Part 2)
The Penistone Line Ale Trail showcases several historic pubs, each with unique charm and rich backgrounds. Starting with The Farmers Boy in Shepley, significant refurbishments have modernised its inviting atmosphere while preserving its history. The Bull serves as a traditional village pub with a warm feel, while The Rising offers stunning views across Holme Valley. The Clothiers Arms functions as a community hub, and Rock Inn boasts a classic look with riverside views. Continuing to The Railway highlights railway heritage, and the Shoulder of Mutton reflects timeless character. Finally, Huddersfield’s Arcade Beers, The Kings Head, and Head of Steam provide diverse selections of both craft beers and cask ales alongside vibrant environments.
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.
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 