Today I explore several pubs and breweries in Penryn and Falmouth. I begin with Verdant Brewery, established in 2014, known for its innovative hop-forward beers and community engagement, followed by Seven Stars, which blends historical brewing traditions with modern craft. The Front pub, steeped in maritime history, and The Seafood Bar, a cosy venue pairing seafood with Verdant beers, highlight local culture. Falmouth’s Seaview Inn, recently revitalised by Verdant, maintains its historic charm. Further visits include Beerwolf Books, a unique pub and bookstore, and The Moth & The Moon, showcasing evolving pub culture with an inviting atmosphere.
Tag Archives: beer
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.
31/05/25 – Penistone Line Ale Trail (Part 1)
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.
24/05/25 – Sheffield #3
The Fulwood Ale Club, a unique micropub in Sheffield, combines vintage charm with a friendly atmosphere, offering a variety of cask ales. Nearby, The Rising Sun, a historic pub dating back to 1859, features a welcoming vibe and a great selection of cask ales. The Wonky Labrador is a community-driven micropub dedicated to inclusivity, serving keg beers in a cosy setting. Other notable visits include The Itchy Pig Ale House with its quirky décor and Two Sheds, a rustic spot with a bottle shop. The Nottingham House is famed for its hearty pies, while The Hallamshire House maintains its Victorian charm. The journey ends at Hop Hideout, showcasing over 200 beers in a relaxed space.
15/05/25 – Barrow Hill Rail Ale Festival
The Rail Ale Festival at Barrow Hill Roundhouse in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, celebrates the fusion of railway heritage and real ale culture. Established in 2000, the festival, which reached its 25th anniversary in 2025, takes place in the historic roundhouse, the UK’s last operational railway roundhouse built in 1870. It has expanded significantly, featuring over 400 beers and ciders in 2025, along with live music performances from diverse genres. This year, a VIP event included a multi-course meal and a selection of local breweries. Everyone enjoyed the festival’s atmosphere, connecting with fellow beer enthusiasts and industry figures.
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.
02/05/25-03/05/25 – Fylde Coast
I cover various micropubs and bars across Blackpool, St Anne’s and Lytham, detailing their unique characteristics and offerings. Albert’s Ale Micropub stands out for its cosy atmosphere and newly introduced “Tapas” menu. Raleside Brewhouse features a live train departure board and collaborates with local brewers. The historic Rhythm & Brew Room pays homage to Blackpool FC, while Shickers Tavern focuses on live music. Cask and Tap offers a minimalist interior with an impressive beer selection. New establishments like Lytham Hop House and Bierhaus emphasise community and good beer. Each venue showcases a selection of cask and keg beers, promoting local breweries.
17/04/25-20/04/25 – Beckenham, Bromley, Hayes and West Wickham
Three Hounds Beer Company began as a market stall in 2016 and became a community hub in Beckenham by 2017, hosting events and supporting local artists. Recognised as runner-up for Bromley CAMRA’s Pub of the Year in 2024, it features a welcoming café with a lively atmosphere. Nearby, Br3wery started in 2017, transitioning to a microbrewery and taproom, now offering a variety of brews. Cork n Cask, evolving from an off-licence to a micropub, reopened in 2023 with a modern vibe. Other local spots like The Star & Garter and The Craft Beer Cabin also serve diverse beer selections, enhancing the craft beer culture in Bromley.
17/04/25-20/04/25 – Petts Wood, Crayford, Deptford and New Cross
One Inn the Wood, in Petts Wood, is a pioneering micropub established in 2014 that fosters a local beer movement with a simple, chat-friendly atmosphere and a rotating selection of real ales. At Penny Farthing in Crayford, guests enjoy award-winning ales in a cosy environment that highlights community interaction. Lucky Anchor in Deptford, opened in 2024, revitalises a former café into a vibrant pub with historical charm, offering a diverse drink selection. Finally, Shirker’s Rest in New Cross, opened in 2022 by blogging duo Andy Grumbridge and Vince Raison, emphasizes community ties through events and creative design.
Micropub Adventures 