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.
Tag Archives: travel
31/03/25-03/04/25 – Maidstone, West Malling, Charing and Ashford
In this blog, I explore a variety of pubs in Kent, sharing their backstories, atmospheres, and what makes them special. The Malling Jug is a historic hangout known for its cask ales and welcoming atmosphere. Low Key Taproom is all about community vibes and a great selection of craft beers. The Charing Bar Company has strong connections to horse racing, while The Flower Pot has been exuding cosy charm since the 1830s. Craft Brewed is a lively spot that combines coffee with craft beer, and Rifle Volunteers Inn has a rich military heritage. Finally, The Olde Thirsty Pig boasts a rustic design, and The Cellars Alehouse brings back the traditional pub feel with its excellent ales.
31/03/25-03/04/25 – Swanley, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells
The Cotton Mill Micro Pub in Swanley, which opened its doors in June 2018 thanks to Dave and Sasha Miller, turned an old restroom into a lively spot dedicated to local craft beers. Over in Sevenoaks, the South Park Tap made its debut in May 2023, featuring a welcoming vibe and unique décor in what used to be a café. In Tunbridge Wells, the Allkin Tap & Bottle opened in 2023, serving as a community-focused taproom for Allkin Brewery and promoting inclusivity. Meanwhile, Fuggles Beer Cafés, founded by Alex Greig, have been delighting customers in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge since 2013 and 2017, respectively, offering a fantastic range of British and European beers while blending the feel of a traditional pub with a café 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.
01/04/25 – Walmer, Deal and Dover
The Freed Man is a cosy little micropub located in Walmer, which opened its doors in January 2016, thanks to former licensee Ian Goodban. The place is all about giving customers more freedom in their drink choices. With its nautical-themed décor and historical touches like a Victorian Beer Engine, it really has a unique charm. Over in Deal, The Just Reproach encourages socializing without any distractions, boasting a no-phone policy and serving up four cask ales. Meanwhile, Smugglers Record Shop merges a bar and a record store, complete with live music. The Hoptimist in Dover offers a contemporary vibe and a diverse selection of beers. Lastly, The Staggered Inn is a family-run micropub that hosts community events and has a welcoming atmosphere, while Breakwater Brewing Company features a chic taproom that emphasizes local ingredients and includes a pizzeria.
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.
22/03/25 – Elsecar, Hoyland and Chapeltown
Elsecar, which evolved into an industrial village in the late 1700s thanks to the Earl of Fitzwilliam, played a crucial role in coal mining and iron production. Even after facing economic struggles in the 1980s, it has managed to keep its historical appeal. Recently, the area has seen a boost from heritage tourism. The Milton Arms, dating back to the early 1800s, combines a classic pub vibe with modern touches, while The Market serves as a historic meeting place. Maison Du Biere showcases the local craft beer culture, and other pubs like The Furnace Inn and Tap & Brew emphasize the community spirit and the changing landscape of drinking spots in the area.
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)”
08/03/25 – Matlock
A Guide to Matlock’s Best Beers and Pubs Matlock started off as a tiny farming village until thermal springs were found in 1698. It transformed into a trendy spa town during the 19th century, thanks in part to John Smedley opening his hydrotherapy centre in 1853. The railway’s arrival in 1849 really helped tourism takeContinue reading “08/03/25 – Matlock”
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.
Micropub Adventures 