View Full Version : PuG crawl to Norwich - Friday 14th April 2023
Bucking Fastard
01-01-2023, 11:58
Thought it worthwhile kicking off the discussion about the next crawl given that advanced fares are already on sale for March.
Major cities that have never been blessed with a PuG tour seem to include Cardiff,Norwich,Lincoln,Durham and Newcastle .
The North/Midland/South rotation is a good idea ,and there were some pleas to avoid the South in June/July due to the temperatures experienced in the past in Oxford,Reading and Winchester.That still leaves a free hand as far as this spring is concerned .
On dates I note that Easter is April 7th - 10th so thats best avoided ,outside that apart from the odd Saturday footie match I'm pretty free.
We can conduct polls to get to a democratic decision ,but any initial thoughts ?
The Camra AGM & Conference / Members’ Weekend is in Sheffield from 21 to 23 April 2023, so several people might rather avoid that?
Mobyduck
01-01-2023, 13:50
Thought it worthwhile kicking off the discussion about the next crawl given that advanced fares are already on sale for March.
Major cities that have never been blessed with a PuG tour seem to include Cardiff,Norwich,Lincoln,Durham and Newcastle .
The North/Midland/South rotation is a good idea ,and there were some pleas to avoid the South in June/July due to the temperatures experienced in the past in Oxford,Reading and Winchester.That still leaves a free hand as far as this spring is concerned .
On dates I note that Easter is April 7th - 10th so thats best avoided ,outside that apart from the odd Saturday footie match I'm pretty free.
We can conduct polls to get to a democratic decision ,but any initial thoughts ?
Norwich was 2012. before my parcipitation in events so no problem with the option.
Norwich was 2012
I think only four of us went on that one...
Mobyduck
01-01-2023, 14:46
I think only four of us went on that one...
Ah yes, as summarised by Roger Button on post#48 on this page (http://forums.pubsgalore.co.uk/showthread.php?9770-Norwich/page5), other participants being Richard himself, Paul Of Horsham and some Hatter bloke .
sheffield hatter
01-01-2023, 18:30
Ah yes, as summarised by Roger Button on post#48 on this page (http://forums.pubsgalore.co.uk/showthread.php?9770-Norwich/page5), other participants being Richard himself, Paul Of Horsham and some Hatter bloke .
Not me! According to Roger's write up there were only three of them on this trip: himself, Richard and Paul. (I commented at the time that Roger's report was almost like being there, but in reality I wasn't!)
I think it's scandalous that we haven't done an "official" trip to Norwich, one of the very top beer and pub cities in England. It's about time we put this right
I propose a visit to Norwich in Spring 2023.
Mobyduck
01-01-2023, 19:53
Not me! According to Roger's write up there were only three of them on this trip: himself, Richard and Paul. (I commented at the time that Roger's report was almost like being there, but in reality I wasn't!)
I think it's scandalous that we haven't done an "official" trip to Norwich, one of the very top beer and pub cities in England. It's about time we put this right
I propose a visit to Norwich in Spring 2023.
Don't know where I got that Idea from, you must be lurking in my sub-conscious somewhere! :eek:
Norwich is not a bad shout though I gave it a good bash the summer before last albeit with covid restrictions, I think Quinno went a month or so after me and wasn't overley impressed with the beer quality in general, I found both good and not so good.
More than happy with a trip to Norwich as long as we can avoid the weekend of the 28th April as that’s Cheltenham Jazz festival for me.
Used to do Norwich a lot in the early 80’s when I had a couple of mates at UEA. Haven’t really been back since those days.
Would be nice to go back to the Murderers and not get in a ruck, as the landlord in those days was a right wing NF supporter and his like minded locals didn’t much like students, especially if they were a bit off colour….
Thought it worthwhile kicking off the discussion about the next crawl given that advanced fares are already on sale for March.
Major cities that have never been blessed with a PuG tour seem to include Cardiff,Norwich,Lincoln,Durham and Newcastle .
The North/Midland/South rotation is a good idea ,and there were some pleas to avoid the South in June/July due to the temperatures experienced in the past in Oxford,Reading and Winchester.That still leaves a free hand as far as this spring is concerned .
On dates I note that Easter is April 7th - 10th so thats best avoided ,outside that apart from the odd Saturday footie match I'm pretty free.
We can conduct polls to get to a democratic decision ,but any initial thoughts ?
Can we try and avoid holding a southern crawl in the summer? We've had at least two occasions (Oxford, Winchester) when the weather was sweltering.
Some observations;
1. Summer crawls should no longer take place in South, we've regularly melted and had some ropey beer as well as a consequence of the heat/poor day time turnover. Plus there's the concern that someone could take a funny turn if they overdo it in the heat without realising (it's happened to me before and I'm young(ish) and can take a few pints!).
2. As I'll be into my contracting work I'm highly unlikely to make a Friday. Regular bookable leave isn't really a thing in this game.
3. Norwich has plenty of good pubs over a surprisingly large footprint, but I found the beer quality a bit hit-and-miss when I went. No reason not to go, but it isn't the utopia that perhaps it maybe was 15-20 years ago. Pick carefully or just concentrate on the immediate centre via the Fat Cat.
Some observations;
1. Summer crawls should no longer take place in South, we've regularly melted and had some ropey beer as well as a consequence of the heat/poor day time turnover. Plus there's the concern that someone could take a funny turn if they overdo it in the heat without realising (it's happened to me before and I'm young(ish) and can take a few pints!).
Yes. I got very nasty heat/sunstroke in Oxford in July and I hadn't been drinking anything and wasn't out for long either.
Pangolin
03-01-2023, 18:09
I am quite happy with Norwich if that seems to be the trending option. Note that the clocks go forward on March 26 so we probably wouldn't want to go before then, Easter and the CAMRA AGM fall in April as mentioned, and there is a certain event planned for May 6 best avoided.
sheffield hatter
04-01-2023, 12:27
Some observations;
1. Summer crawls should no longer take place in South, we've regularly melted and had some ropey beer as well as a consequence of the heat/poor day time turnover. Plus there's the concern that someone could take a funny turn if they overdo it in the heat without realising (it's happened to me before and I'm young(ish) and can take a few pints!).
2. As I'll be into my contracting work I'm highly unlikely to make a Friday. Regular bookable leave isn't really a thing in this game.
3. Norwich has plenty of good pubs over a surprisingly large footprint, but I found the beer quality a bit hit-and-miss when I went. No reason not to go, but it isn't the utopia that perhaps it maybe was 15-20 years ago. Pick carefully or just concentrate on the immediate centre via the Fat Cat.
1. It got stupidly hot in the north last summer, too! The best way of avoiding the possibilty of excessive heat is probably to aim for mid-June, but even that's no guarantee. Avoiding the south seems sensible.
2. We've debated Friday vs Saturday a couple of times. One of my reasons for being against Saturdays was, when I was still working, not being in a position to take the day off. These days I try to avoid trains on Saturdays as they can be ridiculously crowded, especially with people going on pub crawls! And more expensive than Fridays.
3. Sound advice - and although there are some very nice pubs further out, sticking to the centre makes sense.
sheffield hatter
04-01-2023, 12:40
No one has objected to Norwich, so are we going for this?
How about agreeing the date? We have previously had the spring crawl as early as Cheltenham week, the Friday of which this year will be St Patrick's Day (March 17th), so maybe that should be avoided, along with Easter (April 7th/8th) and Camra members weekend (April 21st/22nd). On March 24th the sun sets in Norwich at 18:14, and it won't be dark until about 19:00, so I would suggest that would be a possibility.
Can someone set up a poll please.
Mobyduck
06-01-2023, 12:10
So is Norwich in the Midlands? :whistle:
Bucking Fastard
06-01-2023, 12:27
So is Norwich in the Midlands? :whistle:
Where is the can of worms emoji when you really need it ? :D
sheffield hatter
06-01-2023, 12:54
So is Norwich in the Midlands? :whistle:
#geographygalore
Maybe we should have a new category and just say it's in the East (along with Lincoln and Chelmsford)?
Mobyduck
06-01-2023, 13:01
#geographygalore
Maybe we should have a new category and just say it's in the East (along with Lincoln and Chelmsford)?
Just call it East Anglia I suppose, and Wales Wales and Cornwall.........
Just call it East Anglia I suppose, and Wales Wales and Cornwall.........
I think that this is the East of England, with the Midlands to the right and West Midlands between the Midlands and Wales. :confused:
Norwich lies at about the same latitude as Walsall and Shrewsbury... just saying!
sheffield hatter
06-01-2023, 17:32
... this is the East of England, with the Midlands to the right ... :confused:
Well, no wonder you can never find your way out of London!
sheffield hatter
06-01-2023, 17:41
Just call it East Anglia I suppose, and Wales Wales and Cornwall.........
...is Kernow.
And of course Wales is Cymru, but I'm sure you're just attempting to wind me up by calling it Wales. (Which is a village (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/areas/wales/south-yorkshire/) between Sheffield and Worksop.)
Cider Drinker
21-01-2023, 09:10
Hello you lovely people, I hope you all had a wonderful Xmas and Nye. I was just wondering if you have decided on a date yet? I would like to request it be as late as possible. Xxx
Mobyduck
21-01-2023, 09:45
Hello you lovely people, I hope you all had a wonderful Xmas and Nye. I was just wondering if you have decided on a date yet? I would like to request it be as late as possible. Xxx
Friday 14th April (http://forums.pubsgalore.co.uk/showthread.php?39613-Spring-2023-Crawl-Norwich) :drinkup:
Bucking Fastard
22-01-2023, 13:14
Friday 14th April (http://forums.pubsgalore.co.uk/showthread.php?39613-Spring-2023-Crawl-Norwich) :drinkup:
Is there someone who can change the title of this thread to reflect the decision to visit Norwich on Friday April 14th ? There seem so many pubs in that city that a decussion of where to go should be lively.
ROBCamra
22-01-2023, 15:10
Is there someone who can change the title of this thread to reflect the decision to visit Norwich on Friday April 14th ? There seem so many pubs in that city that a decussion of where to go should be lively.
Yes :p
Bucking Fastard
22-01-2023, 16:20
Yes :p
:notworthy:
Strongers
08-02-2023, 19:53
So is it now official that we're going to Norwich on Friday 14th April?
Mobyduck
08-02-2023, 20:25
So is it now official that we're going to Norwich on Friday 14th April?
Yes.
Although If I don't get some proper work soon I may well be sitting this one out.
Strongers
10-02-2023, 07:33
Yes.
Although If I don't get some proper work soon I may well be sitting this one out.
OK, great. Good luck with the job hunt, been there and done that a few times so know it can be soul destroying.
Bucking Fastard
07-03-2023, 11:08
Very much looking forward to this crawl,it's now not too far away. I've never been to Norwich :o so have no idea about the must visit pubs.The 2023 GBG has 31 entries which would have defeated even Mr Winfield,but I suspect several of these are in outlying areas.I think the original idea was to tackle the city centre based pubs .
For once I've decided to stay overnight so it would be helpful to get some idea of which pubs are to be visited on Friday April 14th so that I can plan my method of attack on those not included on the main crawl.
Anyone pretty familiar with the City Centre pubs ?
Yes also making a weekend of it as I haven’t been in the centre of Norwich since my 20’s.
The official Norwich Cityofale web site has the city handily divided up into 7 trails organised by historical trades and handy google map for them and although includes several on the outer reaches will give some indication of those that fall into the city centre. I guess one key consideration is whether we are going to attempt on the day either (or both) of the Fat Cats, as they are a fair walk out of the centre and on opposite sides of the City..
Yes also making a weekend of it as I haven’t been in the centre of Norwich since my 20’s.
The official Norwich Cityofale web site has the city handily divided up into 7 trails organised by historical trades and handy google map for them and although includes several on the outer reaches will give some indication of those that fall into the city centre. I guess one key consideration is whether we are going to attempt on the day either (or both) of the Fat Cats, as they are a fair walk out of the centre and on opposite sides of the City..
Having done Norwich not too long ago, I would strongly advise that you do Fat Cat HQ. It really is Norrch's standout pub.
It'd be like going to Swindon and not doing the Glue Pot.
trainman
09-03-2023, 12:54
Having done Norwich not too long ago, I would strongly advise that you do Fat Cat HQ. It really is Norrch's standout pub.
It'd be like going to Swindon and not doing the Glue Pot.
I concur, it would be a scandal to visit Norwich and not go to the Fat Cat. On my last visit I had a plusbus but, not knowing the services I ended up walking the whole day, including Fat Cat (played a couple of jokers) and Fat Cat and Canary, the latter, I admit, was a little further the other side of station than I remembered. 2.3 miles between the two pubs.
ps, Quinno, is there a reason other than Glue Pot to go to Swindon? I've never been but recall having that on an old target list for ages...
Mobyduck
09-03-2023, 13:28
ps, Quinno, is there a reason other than Glue Pot to go to Swindon? I've never been but recall having that on an old target list for ages...
I went for the first and only time so far just over a year ago, wasn't expecting much but thoroughly enjoyed the following.
Glue Pot (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/41815/)
Beehive (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/41774/)
Hop Inn (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/41824/)
Little Hop
(https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/78965/)
A couple of other half decent pubs and one stinker (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/41884/) on the day.
I concur, it would be a scandal to visit Norwich and not go to the Fat Cat. On my last visit I had a plusbus but, not knowing the services I ended up walking the whole day, including Fat Cat (played a couple of jokers) and Fat Cat and Canary, the latter, I admit, was a little further the other side of station than I remembered. 2.3 miles between the two pubs.
ps, Quinno, is there a reason other than Glue Pot to go to Swindon? I've never been but recall having that on an old target list for ages...
I was in Swindon last Saturday and did the GBG'23 pubs. The Glue Pot was the only one doing a combination of GBG beer in good surroundings. The others were either like drinking in a squat or were serving flabby sub-standard beer (or in the case of the Beehive, on the turn). The GP is nearest the station and is the only reason to get off the train IMHO.
ps, Quinno, is there a reason other than Glue Pot to go to Swindon?
The GP is nearest the station and is the only reason to get off the train IMHO.
There's always this. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Roundabout_%28Swindon%29)
Was in Great Yarmouth last weekend and whilst there managed to pick up the winter edition of Norfolk Nips whilst hiding from the bracing sea chill in the towns excellent Mariners Arms.
For Norwich obviously the Fat Cat(s) feature prominently. But also the Eaton Cottage, also to the west of town, the Trafford Arms, the Kings Arms on Hall Road, the Leopard on Bull Close Road, the Vine on Dove Street, the Kings Head on Magdalen Street ( made it into the top 4 for 2022 National Pub of the year)
and the Duke of Wellington and the Brewery Tap to the North of town all feature as worth visiting for their real ale selections.
Also it notes that the Steam Packet in the centre of town is now freehold and totally refurbished with a couple of ales on, so probably not warranting a stop on the day, those staying in town may want to pop in and take a look for research purposes.
And a bit of Google work would indicate that the Ribs of Beef, The Murderers, St Andrew’s Brew House, the Rose pub and Deli and the Plasterers Arms are worthy
And for those who like micropubs and bottle shops, Sir Toby’s Beers and the Malt and Mardle stand out. Hope those with a better knowledge of current Norwich can confirm which of these should be included.
I have been looking into this a bit more and trying to put a crawl together and now fully appreciate why the Norwich City of Ale organisation divides the city up into 7 Real Ale Trails. Yes the City has some heavyweight pubs, but a lot are spread in the outskirts and miles from each other, and no way to do all in a day unless you have a designated driver or a jet pack.
Now taking Quinno's advice that you cannot go to Norwich and not go to the Fat Cat (handily one of the destination pubs furthest away on the other side of the city to the train station), my cunning plan would be to bus it out here early and then have a more leisurely stroll back to the train station.
Therefore my proposal would be meet in the City Centre and, for nothing more than my personal historical connections, i propose The Murderers (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28488/).
Then stop BG on Rampant Horse Street is just around the corner and busses 21, 23 or 24 will take us to stop ID on Adelaide Street.
Its a short walk to the The Alexandra Tavern (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28367/) from here and then 5 minutes back across the road to The Fat Cat (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28468/).
Afterwards I have plotted a route across the north of the city back to the train station and, after the initial 15 minute walk to The White Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/65548/), every other pub is under a ten minute walk.
Kings Head (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28536/)
The Plasterers Arms (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28599/)
The Leopard (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28548/)
Adam & Eve (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28364/)
The Red Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28621/) on Bishopsgate
Coach & Horses (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28431/)
and then 5 minutes back to the station.
I appreciate most of these have already been visited by those that have been to Norwich but this northerly route does afford plenty of Wild Card options as well for those that dont want to visit these again.
If people think this is a dooable proposal then I'll work out the route and also to squeeze a couple more in as this is currently 10 pubs..
Bucking Fastard
15-03-2023, 17:12
I have been looking into this a bit more and trying to put a crawl together and now fully appreciate why the Norwich City of Ale organisation divides the city up into 7 Real Ale Trails. Yes the City has some heavyweight pubs, but a lot are spread in the outskirts and miles from each other, and no way to do all in a day unless you have a designated driver or a jet pack.
Now taking Quinno's advice that you cannot go to Norwich and not go to the Fat Cat (handily one of the destination pubs furthest away on the other side of the city to the train station), my cunning plan would be to bus it out here early and then have a more leisurely stroll back to the train station.
Therefore my proposal would be meet in the City Centre and, for nothing more than my personal historical connections, i propose The Murderers (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28488/).
Then stop BG on Rampant Horse Street is just around the corner and busses 21, 23 or 24 will take us to stop ID on Adelaide Street.
Its a short walk to the The Alexandra Tavern (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28367/) from here and then 5 minutes back across the road to The Fat Cat (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28468/).
Afterwards I have plotted a route across the north of the city back to the train station and, after the initial 15 minute walk to The White Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/65548/), every other pub is under a ten minute walk.
Kings Head (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28536/)
The Plasterers Arms (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28599/)
The Leopard (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28548/)
Adam & Eve (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28364/)
The Red Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28621/) on Bishopsgate
Coach & Horses (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28431/)
and then 5 minutes back to the station.
I appreciate most of these have already been visited by those that have been to Norwich but this northerly route does afford plenty of Wild Card options as well for those that dont want to visit these again.
If people think this is a dooable proposal then I'll work out the route and also to squeeze a couple more in as this is currently 10 pubs..
Great work Gann.I know nothing about Norwich but I like the idea of visiting the Fat Cat reasonably early into the crawl so that it can be properly appreciated ,followed by a leisurely stroll among the northern pubs before dropping back to the station.The bus from the Murderers sounds very sensible .If there are two additional candidates close to that route,I would say that's then a very cunning plan indeed.:cheers:
Thanks Neville:::
I am more than tempted to try and squeeze in https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubmap/28516/ and the Fat Cat Brewery Tap (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28709/) between the White Lion and the Kings Head.;Unfortunately it’s another 15 minute walk out to the Duke of Wellington but then you can get a bus from the Brewery Tap to the Kings Head virtually door to door in six minutes.
This may make it a long day for those that need to catch a train home, so will need to work out the timings of that option.
Bucking Fastard
16-03-2023, 10:06
Thanks Neville:::
I am more than tempted to try and squeeze in https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubmap/28516/ and the Fat Cat Brewery Tap (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28709/) between the White Lion and the Kings Head.;Unfortunately it’s another 15 minute walk out to the Duke of Wellington but then you can get a bus from the Brewery Tap to the Kings Head virtually door to door in six minutes.
This may make it a long day for those that need to catch a train home, so will need to work out the timings of that option.
Yes agreed it all depends on when folk are departing.I'm relaxed due to the overnight stay but it would be helpful to get an idea of constraints that may exist.
Strongers
17-03-2023, 14:49
Yes agreed it all depends on when folk are departing.I'm relaxed due to the overnight stay but it would be helpful to get an idea of constraints that may exist.
I'm staying in Norwich East so no constraints from me.
sheffield hatter
17-03-2023, 20:31
Therefore my proposal would be meet in the City Centre and, for nothing more than my personal historical connections, i propose The Murderers (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28488/).
Then stop BG on Rampant Horse Street is just around the corner and busses 21, 23 or 24 will take us to stop ID on Adelaide Street.
Its a short walk to the The Alexandra Tavern (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28367/) from here and then 5 minutes back across the road to The Fat Cat (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28468/).
Afterwards I have plotted a route across the north of the city back to the train station and, after the initial 15 minute walk to The White Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/65548/), every other pub is under a ten minute walk.
Kings Head (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28536/)
The Plasterers Arms (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28599/)
The Leopard (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28548/)
Adam & Eve (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28364/)
The Red Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28621/) on Bishopsgate
Coach & Horses (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28431/)
and then 5 minutes back to the station.
This looks like a very good framework for the crawl. Thanks for your efforts so far!
Just one suggestion that I hope you'll think helpful: how about meeting nearer to the station and then moving on to the Murderers? I found the Compleat Angler (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28437/) surprisingly congenial when I was very briefly in Norwich this time last year. Thinking back to my visit to the Murderers a few years prior, it seems to me that is likely to be a bit busier and (with it being a smaller pub) pretty crowded. The Angler seems more likely to be quieter, less crowded, and easier for people to find each other.
And for a Greene King pub, it has surprisingly good beer, and from local breweries too.
This looks like a very good framework for the crawl. Thanks for your efforts so far!
Just one suggestion that I hope you'll think helpful: how about meeting nearer to the station and then moving on to the Murderers? I found the Compleat Angler (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28437/) surprisingly congenial when I was very briefly in Norwich this time last year. Thinking back to my visit to the Murderers a few years prior, it seems to me that is likely to be a bit busier and (with it being a smaller pub) pretty crowded. The Angler seems more likely to be quieter, less crowded, and easier for people to find each other.
And for a Greene King pub, it has surprisingly good beer, and from local breweries too.
Good input and we can do that. Not sure we can meet here and do the Murderers as well if we want to visit The Duke of Wellington (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28516/) and Fat Cat Brewery Tap (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28709/). I’ve worked out how to incorporate these but it does have us finishing in the Coach and Horses around 10 past 8 that may be too late for some who need to leave by train earlier than that.
We could go direct from the Complete Angler to the Alexandra Tavern as there are two busses from virtually outside the Complete Angler which will do this for us.
Anyway I’ll put together some timed options and we can decide when we know what peoples travel arrangements are and more importantly that the rail unions are not going to bugger things up for us…
sheffield hatter
18-03-2023, 20:15
We could go direct from the Complete Angler to the Alexandra Tavern as there are two busses from virtually outside the Complete Angler which will do this for us.
That seems like an elegant solution, especially as I'm inclined to think the Murderers is not all that essential. But didn't like to mention it until you mentioned how easy it is to skip it!
I'm also a little wary of jumping in to this discussion, because as things stand I won't be making it to Norwich. I feel bad about this because I followed up Nev's suggestion at the start of the thread very enthusiastically and had been expecting to go, and was looking forward to meeting up with everyone again.
Mobyduck
19-03-2023, 08:11
I'm also a little wary of jumping in to this discussion, because as things stand I won't be making it to Norwich. I feel bad about this because I followed up Nev's suggestion at the start of the thread very enthusiastically and had been expecting to go, and was looking forward to meeting up with everyone again.
Unfortunately the same goes for me, although I was in Norwich about 18 months ago and doing around 20 pubs there is definitely some unfinished bussiness.
Unfortunately the same goes for me, although I was in Norwich about 18 months ago and doing around 20 pubs there is definitely some unfinished bussiness.
Ah that’s a real shame guys. I also know Tammy and Dave can’t make this one so get the feeling it’s going to be quite a small and bijou crowd for this one.
Perhaps it’s pertinent to get a show of hands for who else is intending to attend outside of me, Strongers and Nev. Because if it’s only us who are intending to stay over then we can finalise the plan now.
Bucking Fastard
19-03-2023, 10:47
Ah that’s a real shame guys. I also know Tammy and Dave can’t make this one so get the feeling it’s going to be quite a small and bijou crowd for this one.
Perhaps it’s pertinent to get a show of hands for who else is intending to attend outside of me, Strongers and Nev. Because if it’s only us who are intending to stay over then we can finalise the plan now.
My friends Brian,Steve and Ian are all coming on the crawl and are staying overnight,although not all of them will be as keen as me on more pub visits on the Saturday !. Nige and Clive are aware but not signed up as yet and wont be staying overnight if they do decide to turn up for the Friday crawl.
Pangolin
19-03-2023, 11:25
I shall be there but likely to be leaving early evening.
Real Ale Ray
19-03-2023, 13:28
We're staying in Norwich for 2 nights, but leaving about 7ish on the Friday evening. We've done a lot of the pubs in the past so we'll just go with the flow.
Looking forward to it
Ok, there will be a few of us then...
Lets meet up in Compleat Angler (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28437/). It opens at 11.00AM and my running order has us leaving at 12.30 to catch the bus to the West side of the City.
Hopefully that will be alright for everybody..
I'll post my proposed running order with Wild Card suggestions nearer the day..
Oh bugger it.. 'll [post now so that those interested can peruse..
V1 is the 12 pub running order and V2 has some possible wildcards..
Strongers
20-03-2023, 16:47
Oh bugger it.. 'll [post now so that those interested can peruse..
V1 is the 12 pub running order and V2 has some possible wildcards..
Haha, that works out well.... the last stop, Coach & Horses, is across the road from my hotel!
Haha, that works out well.... the last stop, Coach & Horses, is across the road from my hotel!
Now we all have a floor to crash on - and a mini-bar. ;)
Strongers
20-03-2023, 18:15
Now we all have a floor to crash on - and a mini-bar. ;)
I think the room may be too combustible in the morning!
I think the room may be too combustible in the morning!
Ah yes. The perils of a night on the pickled eggs...:(
sheffield hatter
20-03-2023, 19:37
V1 is the 12 pub running order and V2 has some possible wildcards..
Nice one, Steve! Even sorrier than I was that I can't make it...
sheffield hatter
07-04-2023, 13:42
V1 is the 12 pub running order and V2 has some possible wildcards..
A bit late, but I've been talking to my nephew, who lives in Norwich and likes his real ales. He says the Red Lion is not as good as it used to be, and the Adam & Eve is a bit touristy rather than a specialist ale house. He recommends the Ribs of Beer (which is on your V2 list) and a micro called Malt & Mardle.
Pangolin
08-04-2023, 12:28
Whatever happened to Dave's tool ? (ooh err missus!)
It was looking good at Preston (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pub-crawl/d743a0d3-6217-4544-92ee-5108cb472538/) and would be really handy.
A bit late, but I've been talking to my nephew, who lives in Norwich and likes his real ales. He says the Red Lion is not as good as it used to be, and the Adam & Eve is a bit touristy rather than a specialist ale house. He recommends the Ribs of Beer (which is on your V2 list) and a micro called Malt & Mardle.
Many thanks Will, cant beat local Knowledge. I suggested the Malt and Mardle as a possibility back in post39 on this chain and then promptly forgot all about it, even though its on route between the Brewery Tap and the Leopard.
I will do a V3 with these two substituted for the Adam and Eve and the Red Lion and then people can decide which option to take on the day...
Wittenden
08-04-2023, 18:54
I will do a V3 with these two substituted for the Adam and Eve and the Red Lion and then people can decide which option to take on the day...
Pity about the Adam and Eve, used to be very atmospheric back in the day, no cask beer though in my time!
sheffield hatter
08-04-2023, 23:06
...the Ribs of Beer...
Not sure if it's my one track mind, 40 years of vegetarianism, or just fat fingers that caused that typo. :o
The Ribs of Beef (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28629/)
sheffield hatter
08-04-2023, 23:07
I will do a V3 with these two substituted for the Adam and Eve and the Red Lion and then people can decide which option to take on the day...
Sounds like a plan!
Not sure if it's my one track mind, 40 years of vegetarianism, or just fat fingers that caused that typo. :o
The Ribs of Beef (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28629/)
Don’t worry Will, we knew what you meant…
My only concern with this one is they have ditched the table service only policy Scrumpy reported last year.
I came across a pub in Llangollen last summer that had decided to make the table service only and no standing at the bar permanent, and it’s a complete nonsense…….
I came across a pub in Llangollen last summer that had decided to make the table service only and no standing at the bar permanent, and it’s a complete nonsense…….
Yup. The Gardeners Arms (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/31724/) has taken the same approach. I spent much of the summer in Oxford and I refused to go in; there's even a silk rope across the door, so you have to wait to be allowed to enter.
Bucking Fastard
10-04-2023, 09:25
This looks like the roll call.
Gann
rpadam
Strongers
Pangolin
Real Ale Ray
Mrs Ale
Tris 39
Bucking Fastard
Brian
Steve
Ian.
Any other takers ?
This looks like the roll call.
Any other takers ?
I probably hadn't previously said that I was coming, due to complications about fitting this around work.
However, these are now resolved, so I am coming via Oakham and Peterborough and due to arrive at 12:14 (and must leave on the 18:00 train).
Whatever happened to Dave's tool ? (ooh err missus!)
It was looking good at Preston (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pub-crawl/d743a0d3-6217-4544-92ee-5108cb472538/) and would be really handy.
Ooops, sorry still not made it so you can create a crawl from scratch, I just can't work out in my head how to start it.
But I've created one for this crawl which you should all be able to amend for your own versions.
https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pub-crawl-planner/view-crawl.php?uuid=d743a0d3-6217-4544-92ee-5108cb472432
sheffield hatter
10-04-2023, 17:56
Possibly the longest walk of the day is between the White Lion (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/65548/) and the Duke of Wellington (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28516/). (My nephew pointed this out to me the other day, but I didn't pay much attention.) It is nearly 3/4 of a mile, and the route picked out on Dave's excellent map is along the dual carriageway (eastwards) and then north until meeting Waterloo Road. Whereas the route described on Steve's V1 document is "Go North on Oak Street across main road. The second right into St Martins. Then at end left into St Augustines St then immediately right into Waterloo Road", which looks slightly better.
However, I've just had a look at street view (https://www.google.com/maps/@52.6353795,1.2889633,3a,75y,334.97h,85.35t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sSpuuTh1yOm5kbztWOTSAQA!2e0!7i1 3312!8i6656), and the crossing of the main road looks like it might be more safely accomplished at the pedestrian crossing on the left, near the bridge over the river, rather than just "straight across".
I'm not going to be there to hold anyone's hand, but I don't want to read any reports on this thread of one or more of you causing damage to any cars on this busy dual carriageway.
I don't want to read any reports on this thread of one or more of you causing damage to any cars on this busy dual carriageway.
Or being caused damage by any cars.
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 07:21
Was in the Ribs of Beef last night and happy to report that we sat at the bar, so the nonsense seems to have disappeared. Some good beers on too, see below
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 07:32
Can't post the photo but it was a really good selection of beers. Called into the micropub too, at 9.55pm they wouldn't serve us, despite a closing time of 10.30pm. Someone called in after us and had no problem, so maybe they don't want any riff raff in there :moremad:
trainman
13-04-2023, 07:53
Called into the micropub too, at 9.55pm they wouldn't serve us, despite a closing time of 10.30pm. Someone called in after us and had no problem, so maybe they don't want any riff raff in there :moremad:
Bloody scandalous! Hope it's not on anyone's list for Friday then, doesn't deserve your custom...
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 08:03
Unbelievably the girl behind the bar said she'd 'had a bad day' and didn't want to serve anymore! The place was busy too...
Strongers
13-04-2023, 11:49
Unbelievably the girl behind the bar said she'd 'had a bad day' and didn't want to serve anymore! The place was busy too...
I'll pop in tonight to block their toilet!
sheffield hatter
13-04-2023, 12:31
I'll pop in tonight to block their toilet!
Too much information!
Bucking Fastard
13-04-2023, 12:51
This looks like the roll call.
Gann
rpadam
Strongers
Pangolin
Real Ale Ray
Mrs Ale
Tris 39
Bucking Fastard
Clive
Brian
Steve
Ian.
Any other takers ?
Clive will be a daytripper which takes us up to a round dozen.
See you all in the Compleat Angler.
We should be in the City by 4.00pm
Anyone out tonight and got any targets planned ?
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 14:22
We should be in the City by 4.00pm
Anyone out tonight and got any targets planned ?
We're in Stowmarket at the moment and calling in at Diss on the way back. Staying at the Premier Inn opposite the Compleat Angler (good beers in there last night), so may see you later at some stage
Strongers
13-04-2023, 14:56
I'll be knocking about :)
Currently in the Murderers…
Called into the micropub too, at 9.55pm they wouldn't serve us, despite a closing time of 10.30pm. Someone called in after us and had no problem, so maybe they don't want any riff raff in there :moremad:
This is appalling behaviour; perhaps you should take it as a compliment that you don't look NFN :confused: What's the name of this tabernacle of serpents? We should all review it (even if we don't go in), giving it a roasting.
I'll be knocking about :)
...or blocking toilets? ;)
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 19:23
Is anyone still out at the moment?
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 19:43
Going up to the King's Head
Strongers
13-04-2023, 20:48
The Belgian Monk has done me, see you all tomorrow
Real Ale Ray
13-04-2023, 21:07
The Belgian Monk has done me, see you all tomorrow ������
Cheers mate, see you tomorrow :cheers:
Sorry I shan't be joining you chaps, but have a great day.
In the cold light of a Norwich morning I make my personal tally for yesterday:-
10 pubs visited
12 ales sampled, the majority local Norfolk breweries, and none from Woodforde
1 average mass produced pork pie
1 absolutely superb home made cheese and onion pie
1 local Norwich CAMRA branch member attracted
2 gooners from Stoke Newington ticked off.
Not a bad days crawling even if I say so myself.
Bucking Fastard
15-04-2023, 10:37
Huge thanks to Gann for the expert guidance and keeping the crawl on the move. No one managed to get run over ,quite an achievement. Visited 12 pubs but a very short stay in the Mart & Mardle not due to a blocked loo but to register a complaint !
If anyone is up for more beer from noon Brian and I are visiting the Golden Star ,Vine,Walnut Tree Shades,Coach & Horses ( Bethel Street ) and the Murderers before heading off to the riverside pubs starting at the Wig & Pen.
Strongers
15-04-2023, 14:18
Thanks everyone, it was a great day out. A special thanks to Gann, the people man, for shepherding us from pub to pub whilst picking up local pissheads on the way.
I think my highlight of the day was the woman in the Artichoke who didn't like our conversation about shifting weight and blocking toilets... serves the nosey cow right for eavesdropping!
Looking forward to the next one :)
Pangolin
15-04-2023, 15:11
A very good day indeed, helped by the weather being kind, and I not only made my train but caught an earlier (late-running) connection which saved me 45 minutes in Peterborough! I was especially impressed at the range of beers (I don't think I duplicated once) and only had one that was below par, but serves me right for going off piste.
Here's the group pic outside the Alex. 2807
In the cold light of a Norwich morning I make my personal tally for yesterday:-
10 pubs visited
12 ales sampled, the majority local Norfolk breweries, and none from Woodforde
1 average mass produced pork pie
1 absolutely superb home made cheese and onion pie
1 local Norwich CAMRA branch member attracted
2 gooners from Stoke Newington ticked off.
...and a partridge in a pear tree.
I count 13 pubs but no food.
Bucking Fastard
16-04-2023, 08:31
2808
Thanks to the helpful landlady .
Real Ale Ray
16-04-2023, 12:21
A nice unexpected surprise to see both Tammy and Dave in the Compleat Anglers at the beginning of the crawl. Big thanks to Gann and Dave for navigating us around. It has been a good few years since my last visit to Norwich and have to say it still ticked all the boxes. This certainly was a most enjoyable and entertaining crawl, and great to see you all.
trainman
16-04-2023, 15:31
If anyone is up for more beer from noon Brian and I are visiting the Golden Star ,Vine,Walnut Tree Shades,Coach & Horses ( Bethel Street ) and the Murderers before heading off to the riverside pubs starting at the Wig & Pen.
That's quite a listing for a de-brief day BF, fair play..!!
trainman
16-04-2023, 15:35
1 local Norwich CAMRA branch member attracted
2 gooners from Stoke Newington ticked off.
You mean you attracted a local branch member Gann? You smooth operator!
The 2 gooners are certainly gonna be ticked off now, hehehe, c'mon you Irons!
Thanks everyone, it was a great day out. A special thanks to Gann, the people man, for shepherding us from pub to pub whilst picking up local pissheads on the way.
I think my highlight of the day was the woman in the Artichoke who didn't like our conversation about shifting weight and blocking toilets... serves the nosey cow right for eavesdropping!
Looking forward to the next one :)
A nice unexpected surprise to see both Tammy and Dave in the Compleat Anglers at the beginning of the crawl. Big thanks to Gann and Dave for navigating us around. It has been a good few years since my last visit to Norwich and have to say it still ticked all the boxes. This certainly was a most enjoyable and entertaining crawl, and great to see you all.
...and the rest. That Woke 'menu' board right in front of the entrance was a bit much; I've never seen a sign which says 'Racists Welcome' and I doubt that anyone approaching would say to themselves: 'I'm a racist/homophobe/abelist (?), so I'd better go somewhere else'. The mention of the full name of the former dolls sponsored by a jam manufacturer's recent appearance in a pub made her eyebrows nearly hit the roof. A most enjoyable crawl, navigational tools working overtime, thanks to Dave and Gann.
Bucking Fastard
16-04-2023, 18:21
That's quite a listing for a de-brief day BF, fair play..!!
It got worse,after the Wig &Pen we went off to the Adam & Eve,Red Lion and finally the Coach & Horses for a two day tally of 22.....and not a duff beer anywhere :)
Real Ale Ray
17-04-2023, 20:14
2809
2810
2811
2812
2813
an_ecumenical_matter
17-04-2023, 22:50
Glad ye had a great time folks. The little wan said it was too far for her but she made it I see ;)
Pangolin
18-04-2023, 13:21
One more I had forgotten about! 2814
2809
2810
2811
2812
2813
One more I had forgotten about! 2814
:cheers:
Strongers
21-04-2023, 07:09
So where's the next one then? Oop North?
Bucking Fastard
21-04-2023, 15:44
So where's the next one then? Oop North?
That would make good sense as we had agreed to avoid the South in possibly high temperatures during June/July.
Is Newcastle a runner ?
So where's the next one then? Oop North?
That would make good sense as we had agreed to avoid the South in possibly high temperatures during June/July.
Is Newcastle a runner ?
Whey aye. It'll probably be a weekender for many.
Mobyduck
21-04-2023, 18:17
Whey aye. It'll probably be a weekender for many.
Nose bleed territory.
Strongers
22-04-2023, 14:55
I could make Newcastle work, would have to drive though because train price is ridiculous.
Had a few come down to Brighton from the north so only fair that I reciprocate.
trainman
22-04-2023, 15:01
It got worse,after the Wig &Pen we went off to the Adam & Eve,Red Lion and finally the Coach & Horses for a two day tally of 22.....and not a duff beer anywhere :)
ReeeSPECT!!! :notworthy:
trainman
22-04-2023, 15:26
By the way, who has thoughts on Top3?
Surely Fat Cat has to be number one by a landslide, even among seriously good competition?
Mobyduck
22-04-2023, 15:37
By the way, who has thoughts on Top3?
Surely Fat Cat has to be number one by a landslide, even among seriously good competition?
Only been the once (solo trip) but on that experience...
1 Fat Cat (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28468/)
2 Alexandria Tavern (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28367/)
3 Kings Head (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/28536/)
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.1.11 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.