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.
Tag Archives: beer
18/07/26 – Reading
Reading really delivered with a brilliant mix of traditional pubs and modern craft beer venues, each with its own character and story to tell. I started at The Greyfriar before calling in at The Nag’s Head, Castle Tap, The Alehouse, Blue Collar and finishing at Siren RG1. Along the way I caught up with Keith, Shield and Richard from Reading & Mid-Berkshire CAMRA, enjoyed some fantastic beers and explored pubs packed with history, character and welcoming atmospheres. From centuries-old locals to modern brewery bars, Reading offers something for everyone and is definitely a town I’d recommend spending a day exploring.
18/07/26 – Swindon
Swindon turned out to be a brilliant day exploring a mix of historic pubs, modern taprooms and independent breweries. From the railway heritage of the Great Western Hotel and The Glue Pot to the growing beer scene in Old Town, every stop had its own story and personality. I enjoyed meeting some lovely people along the way, including Jamie, Kate and James, who all made me feel very welcome. There was a fantastic choice of cask and keg beers throughout the day, with plenty of local brews to try. It was another great reminder of just how strong and varied Swindon’s independent pub scene has become.
17/07/26 – Oxford
I had a brilliant day exploring Oxford, discovering a fantastic mix of historic pubs, cosy taprooms and independent bars, each with its own character and story to tell. It was great to meet up with members of Oxford CAMRA along the way, who made the day even more enjoyable by sharing their local knowledge and recommendations. From centuries-old pubs to modern brewery taprooms and the unique venues inside the Covered Market, there was so much variety to enjoy. Of course, there were plenty of excellent beers too, making it another memorable day that showed just how special Oxford’s pub scene really is.
11/07/26 – Windermere and Kendal
Kendal, Windermere and Ings each tell a different part of the Lake District’s story. Kendal grew into one of Cumbria’s most important market towns, becoming famous for its woollen industry and the snuff-making trade that made the town known across Britain. Windermere developed rapidly after the railway arrived in 1847, transforming a small settlement into one of the region’s best-known tourist destinations. Between them, the quiet village of Ings has remained a peaceful farming community for centuries, surrounded by beautiful countryside. Together, they offer a wonderful mix of history, heritage and welcoming pubs, making this part of the Lake District a joy to explore.
04/07/26 – Sheffield
I had a brilliant day exploring Sheffield with Niall from From Sheffield with Pubs, Aaron from Ale About Leicester, and Dan along with his brother Ash from Find Me in the Pub. We packed plenty into the day, visiting a fantastic mix of traditional real ale pubs, historic favourites, modern craft beer bars and independent breweries across the city. From characterful old boozers full of history to taprooms serving some of Sheffield’s best local beers, there was something different at every stop. It was great to see how much variety the city has to offer, with each pub having its own personality and story to tell. As always, there were plenty of quality pints, lots of good conversation and a fair few laughs along the way. Sheffield never disappoints, and spending the day exploring it with good friends made it even better. It’s definitely a city I’ll never get tired of visiting.
27/06/26 – York
I spent the day exploring York with Neil from Neil’s Real Ale & Pub Page, visiting a fantastic mix of historic pubs, modern taprooms and breweries, each with its own story to tell. From beautifully restored railway buildings and centuries-old timber-framed inns to quirky beer bars and welcoming brewery taprooms, every stop offered something different. Along the way I enjoyed a brilliant range of cask ales, craft beers and even a sparkling mead, while taking time to appreciate the history and character behind every venue. It was one of those days where York reminded me why it’s one of my favourite cities for a pub crawl, with great beer and fascinating history around every corner.
26/06/26 – Pontefract and Castleford
Friday was a great chance to explore some fantastic independent pubs closer to home, starting in Pontefract before heading over to Castleford. Along the way I enjoyed a brilliant mix of historic pubs, modern bars and welcoming taprooms, each with its own story and character. From centuries-old buildings to lovingly restored venues, there was plenty to discover beyond just the beer. I sampled some excellent cask and craft beers throughout the day, with every stop offering something different. It was another reminder that you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a brilliant day out filled with history, great pubs and friendly hospitality.
20/06/26 – Borough Market and Bermondsey Beer Mile
I spent the morning exploring Borough Market before making my way onto the Bermondsey Beer Mile for the rest of the day. Borough Market was as busy and colourful as ever, with plenty to see as I wandered between the independent traders, food stalls and specialist shops. Along the way I enjoyed breakfast, called into Utobeer and The Cider House, and couldn’t resist a visit to The Rake for a beer.
From there I headed into Bermondsey, working my way through a fantastic selection of brewery taprooms, bars and cider makers beneath the railway arches. A stop at Maltby Street Market added even more variety, with its collection of independent food and drink businesses bringing plenty of character to the area. Throughout the day I enjoyed some excellent beers, friendly welcomes and a wide range of venues, finishing at The Kernel Taproom after a brilliant day exploring one of London’s best beer destinations.
19/06/26 – Chelmsford
I spent the afternoon and evening exploring Chelmsford, visiting a great mix of pubs, taprooms and railway-arch bars across the city. I started at The Hop Beer Shop, Essex’s first micropub, before heading underground to the unique Voodoo Keller Bar. From there I called in at The Railway Tavern and Brewhouse & Kitchen, both packed with character and great beer. The evening took me to the railway arches, where I visited Radio City Social, The Ale House and Thirst Drinks Syndicate. Along the way I enjoyed some excellent beers, received some fantastic welcomes and discovered plenty of characterful venues.
Micropub Adventures 