Micro Pub

[PaulOfHorsham]

"...a new model for the pub business, one that is already proving influential across the country..."

I see that the Butchers Arms (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/64090/) mentioned extensively in this article (http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/features/a-local-pub-for-local-people-micropubs-are-catching-on-2217205.html) in the Independent is 'never open', but a very interesting article nonetheless, particularly if you've ever thought "I could open a pub - easy!".

[gillhalfpint]

I love the Rat Race in Hartlepool. Been a few times now, and it is great for conversation the way the few tables are placed. Good beers from 4 micro breweries usually and a couple of real ciders too. They do take outs for train journeys.

http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/68607/

[Quinno]

http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/72058/

Good 'un, and new

[aleandhearty]

I initially overlooked this article, but twigged what it was about when Roger posted a link to the Daily Mail article, in the 'Record Breakers' thread. (Very similar to the Indy's) http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1360127/Britains-tiniest-pub-At-12ft-14ft-Hernes-big-success.html

Potentially, I think it could be a very exciting development. However, being a world weary old cynic, I could see the big breweries opening the pub equivalents of 'Tesco Express' if they became too successful.

[rpadam]

I initially overlooked this article, but twigged what it was about when Roger posted a link to the Daily Mail article, in the 'Record Breakers' thread. (Very similar to the Indy's) http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1360127/Britains-tiniest-pub-At-12ft-14ft-Hernes-big-success.html

Potentially, I think it could be a very exciting development. However, being a world weary old cynic, I could see the big breweries opening the pub equivalents of 'Tesco Express' if they became too successful.
About the best thing I've ever read in the Daily Mail! Having visited the Butchers Arms, I welcome this positive publicity for the trail-blazing micro pub. (I was also at the CAMRA AGM in Eastbourne when Martyn Hillier gave his now-famous speech on this subject.)

[Pubsignman]

There seems to have been a mini explosion of new micro pubs which went on beneath our collective radar during 2012.

Whilst doing a bit of research into the Rat Race Ale House in Hartlepool, which I hope to visit (weather permitting) on Tuesday, I stumbled across this web site that listed six micro pubs not currently on PG, most of which opened in the last six months or so. Our Kent based correspondents look to now be particularly spoiled for choice.

http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdated/4564894644

[Wittenden]

There seems to have been a mini explosion of new micro pubs which went on beneath our collective radar during 2012.

Our Kent based correspondents look to now be particularly spoiled for choice.

http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdated/4564894644

We are!, and I've still never been in one-I don't really get into the far eastern reaches of the county, and if I do, we are working. Thanet is an acquired taste, but I shall do my best this year!

[Spinko]

I quite like this place in the Arndale Manchester, Micro Bar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/70131/). Decently cheap, good pints due to good throughput, and the choice of food from about 30 different market stalls (goat curry and porter go together well!).

[Bucking Fastard]

I was really impressed with The Treacle Tap (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/74159/) and thought it was a great model for success for any micropub ,this place being formerly a small shop.They aren't in the Micropub Association but The Treacle Tap could teach Just Beer Micropub(I Just didnt like it at all ) a thing or two about creating a positive atmosphere.

[Al 10000]

I know of two of these new type of pubs one in Nottingham and one in Derby,i have not been in one yet but i have my doubts about them.

Will they become more like a private members club where only the well imformed about beer are allowed in,and normal drinkers like myself will be frowned upon when going into one of these places because i dont know what type of hops is in a certain drink.

I hope i am wrong,but i do think there are too many beer snobs about these days and this sort of establishment will be ideal for them to tell everbody in the room about this beer or that beer,that would bore me to tears.

[Spinko]

Al10000, I suspect a few of these places will be certifiably locals only, shut at 9pm, and then become smoke-ins....

[Bucking Fastard]

I know of two of these new type of pubs one in Nottingham and one in Derby,i have not been in one yet but i have my doubts about them.

Will they become more like a private members club where only the well imformed about beer are allowed in,and normal drinkers like myself will be frowned upon when going into one of these places because i dont know what type of hops is in a certain drink.

I hope i am wrong,but i do think there are too many beer snobs about these days and this sort of establishment will be ideal for them to tell everbody in the room about this beer or that beer,that would bore me to tears.

Some very fair points there.Looking at the Micropub Association website their

RULE NUMBER 1..........NO LAGER *

does reminds me of a famous Monty Python sketch about life in Australia.

Too close an association with CAMRA hardliners may make a micropub feel exclusive when any decent pub should always feel inclusive ,especially to strangers who just pitch up.

For a micropub to be sustainable ,it may well need to cater well beyond friends and family of the entrepreneur who set it up,hence why I was extolling the virtues of The Treacle Tap,in Macc.

Hopefully as more of these micropubs get onto Pubsgalore and get reviewed,a better picture may emerge of which ones are worth a visit.I have a soft spot for this kind of new venture and hope as a group they dont fall into the traps you mention,Al.



* OK i was using a bit of license there

[ROBCamra]

I'll be in Derby next month, so I'll see if I can get to the Little Chester Ale House. :cheers:

[Al 10000]

I'll be in Derby next month, so I'll see if I can get to the Little Chester Ale House. :cheers:

If you do get to the Little Chester Ale House Rob,when on the way back into town try the Smithfield,i have heard that it has reopened,i was going to give it a try in a few weeks time.
I have not passed or been near to it to comfirm wether it is open or still closed.

[Bucking Fastard]

on the way back into town try the Smithfield,i have heard that it has reopened

That's potentially very good news.On my one and only trip to Derby ,I thought this pub was the best on the crawl.A bit rough and ready but their beer............. mmmmmmmmm.

[ROBCamra]

http://www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/New-owner-wants-pub-ale-trail/story-17236973-detail/story.html

It should have opened last month according to this piece.

[Gann]

Had the opportunity to visit this one http://www.thebrewhousebolton.co.uk/ on Tuesday when I was in the area visiting a customer.

Nice comfortable place, although it may not qualify as a Brew Pub now that brewing has moved up the road to a larger micro set up (Dunscar Bridge Brewery) on a nearby business park. But the original copper is still visible behind glass from the main bar.
Beers were pleasant , but the ones on were all a bit samey being light and fruity, and could have done with something with a bit more body on a day when snow was laying all around..
Anyway, will post its inaugural review on PuG when I get a chance.

[Al 10000]

Well i did my first micro pub today,the Doctors Orders in Nottingham.

No bar, no music,no tv,so not really my sort of place to have a drink in,there were five real ales on all from micro brewerys with another five waiting to come on,the beer i had was very nice, but the barman questioned me when i asked for a porter,probably because i did'nt fit in with his usuall crowd and did'nt look like a real ale drinker.

So to sum my micro pub experience,nice beer,no atmosphere,and i felt a bit out of place having a drink in this room.

[Mobyduck]

Well i did my first micro pub today,the Doctors Orders in Nottingham.

No bar, no music,no tv,so not really my sort of place to have a drink in,there were five real ales on all from micro brewerys with another five waiting to come on,the beer i had was very nice, but the barman questioned me when i asked for a porter,probably because i did'nt fit in with his usuall crowd and did'nt look like a real ale drinker.

So to sum my micro pub experience,nice beer,no atmosphere,and i felt a bit out of place having a drink in this room.
What did the barman question you about?

[Al 10000]

What did the barman question you about?

I asked for a drink of Flipside Rusty Penny,i did'nt know this was a porter but i do like porters,stouts,milds just the same as my normal bitter.

I got the feeling he would'nt have asked any other customers who were in on my visit if they had asked for that beer that it was a porter.

I may be wrong and he could have been trying to be helpfull,but my gut feeling was that he would'nt have asked anybody else.

[london calling]

I asked for a drink of Flipside Rusty Penny,i did'nt know this was a porter but i do like porters,stouts,milds just the same as my normal bitter.

I got the feeling he would'nt have asked any other customers who were in on my visit if they had asked for that beer that it was a porter.

I may be wrong and he could have been trying to be helpfull,but my gut feeling was that he would'nt have asked anybody else.

Sometimes when a beer doesn,t indicate a style such as Rusty Penny good barstaff try to help by telling you what it is.Of course its the way they say it that can offend.

[Pubsignman]

A new micro pub, inspired by the Rat Race in Hartlepool, has opened in the real ale hotbed that is Midddlesbrough.

http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/dr-phils-real-ale-house-5749838

[Pubsignman]

A new micro pub, claiming to be Liverpool's first, is due to open in Crosby on Friday.

http://liverpoolpigeon.co.uk/

[Soup Dragon]

I have been to a couple now; the Dr's Orders in Nottingham a week or so ago, and then Hail to the Ale in Wolverhampton on Friday. They offer a quiet haven - something different and neither were full of beer tickers. I like them. After Hail to the Ale, I went just around the corner to the big 1930s estate and now Marston's foody pub, the Cleregate - and I enjoyed that too.

[london calling]

I have been to a couple now; the Dr's Orders in Nottingham a week or so ago, and then Hail to the Ale in Wolverhampton on Friday. They offer a quiet haven - something different and neither were full of beer tickers. I like them. After Hail to the Ale, I went just around the corner to the big 1930s estate and now Marston's foody pub, the Cleregate - and I enjoyed that too.

(Neither full of beer tickers)-As a ticker it doesn,t bother me if a pub is full of normals..I prefer tickers but you normals can be quite intereresting.cheers john

[Aqualung]

(Neither full of beer tickers)-As a ticker it doesn,t bother me if a pub is full of normals..I prefer tickers but you normals can be quite intereresting.cheers john

I don't really regard myself as a ticker either for pubs or beers as I don't keep a permanent record of where I've been or what I drank, but I do have a Spoons list with the ones inside the M25 ticked.

I do find the thought of being associated with a group of people referred to as "the normals" somewhat alarming. It sounds like something out of Doctor Who.

On the original subject, I do have the Door Hinge in Welling on my to do list for when I visit the Spoons there. I just hope it opens at 12:00 on Friday as advertised.

[Al 10000]

(Neither full of beer tickers)-As a ticker it doesn,t bother me if a pub is full of normals..I prefer tickers but you normals can be quite intereresting.cheers john

What does that make me then,i am a real ale drinker but dont mind going in keg only pubs if they are new to me,probaly a subnormal.

I will hopefully be at the Nottingham beer festival on Saturday i have got tickets for me and the wife,we usually walk round but i think i might have to sit at one of those tables that the beer tickers always take over,it will be interesting to hear what crap they talk about,when they are doing their tasting notes.

[london calling]

What does that make me then,i am a real ale drinker but dont mind going in keg only pubs if they are new to me,probaly a subnormal.

I will hopefully be at the Nottingham beer festival on Saturday i have got tickets for me and the wife,we usually walk round but i think i might have to sit at one of those tables that the beer tickers always take over,it will be interesting to hear what crap they talk about,when they are doing their tasting notes.

There are no rules for beer tickers but in general its the amount of different beers you try rather than the taste.Its nice when you get a obscure beer or brewery and the beer is good but even if its crap the thrill is in the chase.I would imagine with pub tickers(is that the correct title) its the same when you arrive at a new out of the way or a legendary pub.

[london calling]

Going back to the original thread the Butchers arms is credited as a new concept but surely the Rake bar in London was the original with a tiny café turned to a tiny bar.I also remember the Micro Bar in Lavender hill which may have been earlier.Anyone reviewed the origonal Micro Bar.

[gillhalfpint]

I like the Rat Race, Hartlepool Railway station. It used to be a newspaper kiosk I believe, and serves beers from micros and real cider.

[Al 10000]

There are no rules for beer tickers but in general its the amount of different beers you try rather than the taste.Its nice when you get a obscure beer or brewery and the beer is good but even if its crap the thrill is in the chase.I would imagine with pub tickers(is that the correct title) its the same when you arrive at a new out of the way or a legendary pub.


I am not a pub ticker,but i do like visiting new pubs to me,i also get a buzz out of going to a new town i have never been to knowing that all of the pubs there are new to me.

I managed to get to the Nottingham beer festival,my 31st and i sat down except for getting drinks and lots of toilet visits,most people near me were beer tickers who seemed friendly enough,though one chap took an age to decide what half to get,it was more like military planning,he then got wet through going to the lower tent for one half,this ticking business must be serious,i would never have walked down there with it raining like that.

You should try the Nottingham beer festival some time,there were over 1,000 beer's on this year,,there should be a few new ones that you have not tried yet.

[london calling]

I am not a pub ticker,but i do like visiting new pubs to me,i also get a buzz out of going to a new town i have never been to knowing that all of the pubs there are new to me.

I managed to get to the Nottingham beer festival,my 31st and i sat down except for getting drinks and lots of toilet visits,most people near me were beer tickers who seemed friendly enough,though one chap took an age to decide what half to get,it was more like military planning,he then got wet through going to the lower tent for one half,this ticking business must be serious,i would never have walked down there with it raining like that.

You should try the Nottingham beer festival some time,there were over 1,000 beer's on this year,,there should be a few new ones that you have not tried yet.

Its the best ticking fest in the country. I probably needed 50 + breweries and hundreds of beers.The problem now with ticking is you can get loads of beers in London so to travel to Nottingham is a big expense.Sometimes when you go to big fest its like shooting fish in a barrel too easy.The thrill to me is walking into a pub and finding a monster winner. cheers john

[Pubsignman]

A new micro pub opened this week in Chesterfield

http://www.chesterfieldalehouse.co.uk/

[Pubsignman]

First micro pub opens in Wigan

http://whatpub.com/pubs/LAS/16885/doc-s-symposium-wigan

[Pubsignman]

The Kentish micropub phenomenon is starting to creep into the county's Greater London territory. In addition to CAMRA's Greater London POTY, The Door Hinge (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/79845/) in Welling, and One Inn the Wood (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/81932/) in Petts Wood, two more have emerged. The Penny Farthing opened in Crayford last week (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Penny-Farthing/777562915621454) and The Broken Drum is scheduled to open any minute now in Blackfen (http://www.thebrokendrum.co.uk/).

The rest of Kent doesn't miss out though, with The Potting Shed also opening last week down in Hythe. Other micros are set to open in Gravesend (The Compass) and Eltham (The Long Pond).

Further afield, micro pubs have opened over the summer in Chorley, Swansea (the first in Wales), Shoreham, Berwick, Newcastle Under Lyme and Warwick among others.

[aleandhearty]

Further afield, micro pubs have opened over the summer in Chorley, Swansea (the first in Wales), Shoreham, Berwick, Newcastle Under Lyme and Warwick among others.

Although I've never visited a micro pub, I do find the concept fascinating. Would love to visit Great Ale Year Round (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82117/) in Bolton, a micro bar and real ale off-licence, housed in the indoor market. Just think of the pies you could get, to help the beer go down!

www.greataleonline.co.uk

[Pubsignman]

Would love to visit Great Ale Year Round (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82117/) in Bolton
www.greataleonline.co.uk

Oh, I've not heard of that one. I'm hoping to be in Bolton later this month, so this has now shot to the top of my 'to do' list. Thanks!

[london calling]

An acquaintance of mine has opened a micro pub in Worthing.As you would expect no music(I like music .it creates an atmosphere in a quiet pub but its a hard one to get right.No standing at the bar table service only.(I usually stand up in pubs).5 cask beers from around the country (none of the usual suspects so that's good) no keg beers as people who drink keg even craft wouldn't like to sit and chat presumably. Limited opening hours 11-14.30 and 17.00 -21-30 not open Mon.Sounds like a village pub in the 1940,s to me.Still horses for courses and all that.

[Mobyduck]

An acquaintance of mine has opened a micro pub in Worthing.As you would expect no music(I like music .it creates an atmosphere in a quiet pub but its a hard one to get right.No standing at the bar table service only.(I usually stand up in pubs).5 cask beers from around the country (none of the usual suspects so that's good) no keg beers as people who drink keg even craft wouldn't like to sit and chat presumably. Limited opening hours 11-14.30 and 17.00 -21-30 not open Mon.Sounds like a village pub in the 1940,s to me.Still horses for courses and all that.
sounds alright to me.

[Gann]

Not strictly a Micropub but came across here at the weekend..

https://www.facebook.com/cheshambrewshop/info

Clearly primarily a shop but it positions itself as a "tasting bar and bottle shop"

and the about us section on the facebook page says
"There is also to the option to buy Red Squirrel and guest beers straight from the cask (£2 per pint!) at our in store tasting bar for drinking in or taking away in 2 - 36 pint containers."

So the question is should it be added to PuG ?.. I vote for yes, but primarily because that will mean I will have to return with my carmera...:drinkup:

[ROBCamra]

Yes, it deserves to be on here more than ANY Cafe Rouge IMO.

[Gann]

Yes, it deserves to be on here more than ANY Cafe Rouge IMO.

Marvelous, will add with review and hopefully take a major detour home from work later in the week with Camera..

[Aqualung]

The Micropub Association have updated their list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdated-nov-2014/4564894644) this month with additions for Kent, W Sussex, Notts and Derbyshire.
In the London area there are three in the pipeline, The Long Pond in Eltham SE9 and two Broken Drums, one in Blackfen a short bus ride from the Door Hinge and the other in Whyteleafe just outside London.

[Blackthorn]

Two new ones in Bedfordshire -

http://whatpub.com/pubs/BEE/524/old-transporter-ale-house-lower-stondon

http://whatpub.com/pubs/BES/526/cuckoo-toddington

Both added on here but not approved yet.

[hondo]

Still don't like the ban on lager

[london calling]

Just looked at that list and surprised to see Beer Rebellion on it.I am sure they had music on and am definite they had keg lager as I had a half as the 2 cask beers I tried were filthy.And they had a kitchen doing food.

[london calling]

The Micropub Association have updated their list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdated-nov-2014/4564894644) this month with additions for Kent, W Sussex, Notts and Derbyshire.
In the London area there are three in the pipeline, The Long Pond in Eltham SE9 and two Broken Drums, one in Blackfen a short bus ride from the Door Hinge and the other in Whyteleafe just outside London.
Also awaiting planning permission is the Pickled Polecat in Kentish Town.

[Aqualung]

Also awaiting planning permission is the Pickled Polecat in Kentish Town.

I've only just found out about this place, it would be the first one in North London.
According to the Wikipedia page about micropubs it has planning permission but I'm not sure if that is correct.
It's typical of the snooty Camden brigade to oppose it when their braying in the existing pubs can be heard for miles around.

[hondo]

Still don't like the ban on lager


Had a quick look on website looks like lager ban dropped will have a better look when on a computer

[oldboots]

Had a quick look on website looks like lager ban dropped will have a better look when on a computer

wouldn't the investment/space required for gas equipment rule it out for most? Keykegs might work of course.

[hondo]

wouldn't the investment/space required for gas equipment rule it out for most? Keykegs might work of course.

I'm sure I remember reading on the website " no lager whatsoever" which seems to have been dropped but between using an iPod and dodgy train connection I'll have a look at work tomorrow

Did find this
http://www.bakeandalehouse.com/micropubs.php
And does look like a change in wording
Some nice bottled lagers available but by the sounds of it probably don't have fridges in micro pubs(not visited one yet)

[london calling]

I'm sure I remember reading on the website " no lager whatsoever" which seems to have been dropped but between using an iPod and dodgy train connection I'll have a look at work tomorrow

Did find this
http://www.bakeandalehouse.com/micropubs.php
And does look like a change in wording
Some nice bottled lagers available but by the sounds of it probably don't have fridges in micro pubs(not visited one yet)

It was on that link yesterday about no keg/lager and its been changed today.

[Thuck Phat]

The excellent Rugby Tap (http://www.rugbytap.co.uk/), currently selling beer in casks and bottles amongst other things, has taken the building next door, previously a shop, and has started refurbishment to convert it into a micropub. It's expected to open in early December and, given the shops current offer, is likely to have the widest range of ale available in Rugby albeit largely bottled.

This will be the first micropub in Rugby and I wish them the best of luck with the new venture.

[Aqualung]

Also awaiting planning permission is the Pickled Polecat in Kentish Town.

According to a local rag Camden Council has refused planning permission due to "noise" concerns, which is a joke.
I've only been to two micro pubs and neither were at all noisy.

[Aqualung]

The list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdated-nov-2014/4564894644) has been updated again with additions in the North West, Buxton, Chelmsford, Newbury and two at Henlow in Beds.

[Blackthorn]

The list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdated-nov-2014/4564894644) has been updated again with additions in the North West, Buxton, Chelmsford, Newbury and two at Henlow in Beds.

I've added both the Henlow ones after reading about them elsewhere although they are still waiting approval.

Any reason why there seems to be a disproportionately high number of micro-pubs in Kent?

[Aqualung]

I've added both the Henlow ones after reading about them elsewhere although they are still waiting approval.

Any reason why there seems to be a disproportionately high number of micro-pubs in Kent?

I was told somewhere on these forums that it's because they started there, which seems a fair enough reason.

[london calling]

According to a local rag Camden Council has refused planning permission due to "noise" concerns, which is a joke.
I've only been to two micro pubs and neither were at all noisy.

The locals are concerned that if the pub fails or is sold the next owners may not be so considerate.

[Aqualung]

The locals are concerned that if the pub fails or is sold the next owners may not be so considerate.

Well the less snooty, braying and rich residents of Eltham weren't worried as the Long Pond at 110 Westmount Road opens at 17:00 on Friday the 12th December. I've added it but does anyone know why there is such a large backlog of added pubs awaiting approval?

[sheffield hatter]

...does anyone know why there is such a large backlog of added pubs awaiting approval?

I imagine Dave is busy with other stuff. I know he usually tries to get new pubs on the site within 7 days, but I've got one outstanding from 3rd November.

[Aqualung]

The list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdate-dec-7th/4564894644/) has been updated yet again today with new ones in Billericay, Burslem, Ashford (Kent) and Market Harborough making a total of 95. Can they get to 100 by year end? I've added the Billericay one and will try and get there next week.

[Aqualung]

The micropub association have announced the 100th outlet, the Lanes in Dover. The number has near enough doubled this year. The story is here (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/100-micropubs/4587749377) and the updated list is here (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdate-dec-27th/4564894644).

The growth in these places has become exponential in the last two years, I reckon 2015 will see at least another 50 open.

[oldboots]

‘Slightly larger’ micro-pub opens in Nottingham city centre:

The first micro-pub, The Barrel Drop, has opened in Nottingham city centre, occupying a site in Hurts Yard. It offers 11 cask ales from around the country – and describes itself as “slightly larger” than the normal micro-pub. Chris Farman, who is originally from Scotland, is the owner of the pub and opened it after visiting Nottingham to see friends and spotting “a gap in the market”. “It’s about creating somewhere that’s nice and relaxed,” he said. “It’s niche – it’s a beer festival in your front room. That’s what we want to achieve. People can come in on their own or with friends, and chat and relax. It seems to be working – the feedback has been really positive, people say it’s what Nottingham has needed and it’s been very positive. We’ve been extremely busy since it opened. We will always have a local ale on and the rest will be from all around the UK – we want to give people as wide a variety as possible so we’ll have different styles and strengths on and people can try different breweries.” Farman has been working in the industry since he was 18 and has spent the last ten years working for a national beer company. He added: “Real ale has always fascinated me. I didn’t want to be with a big company any more so decided to set up an independent. We have decided to go for a traditional cask bar because we are slightly larger than the normal micropub. Usually micro pubs are out of town.”

There's also a new one in Middlesbrough (god knows it needs it although that makes 4 in the god forsaken hole) not listed on our site or I think the association one.

I heard a story that there will be 5000 micro pubs within five years - watch this space.

[london calling]

‘Slightly larger’ micro-pub opens in Nottingham city centre:

The first micro-pub, The Barrel Drop, has opened in Nottingham city centre, occupying a site in Hurts Yard. It offers 11 cask ales from around the country – and describes itself as “slightly larger” than the normal micro-pub. Chris Farman, who is originally from Scotland, is the owner of the pub and opened it after visiting Nottingham to see friends and spotting “a gap in the market”. “It’s about creating somewhere that’s nice and relaxed,” he said. “It’s niche – it’s a beer festival in your front room. That’s what we want to achieve. People can come in on their own or with friends, and chat and relax. It seems to be working – the feedback has been really positive, people say it’s what Nottingham has needed and it’s been very positive. We’ve been extremely busy since it opened. We will always have a local ale on and the rest will be from all around the UK – we want to give people as wide a variety as possible so we’ll have different styles and strengths on and people can try different breweries.” Farman has been working in the industry since he was 18 and has spent the last ten years working for a national beer company. He added: “Real ale has always fascinated me. I didn’t want to be with a big company any more so decided to set up an independent. We have decided to go for a traditional cask bar because we are slightly larger than the normal micropub. Usually micro pubs are out of town.”

There's also a new one in Middlesbrough (god knows it needs it although that makes 4 in the god forsaken hole) not listed on our site or I think the association one.

I heard a story that there will be 5000 micro pubs within five years - watch this space.

If he has gone for a traditional cask bar and is larger than the usual micro is it not just a small pub.?

[Aqualung]

The list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdate-march-2015/4564894644) has been updated with new venues in Strood, Bournemouth and Daventry. The Bournemouth (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82775/) one has already been added and reviewed by a fan as has the Daventry (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82823/) one.
The Broken Drum at Blackfen near Welling is hoping to open at Easter but it isn't certain.

[Thuck Phat]

The list (http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdate-march-2015/4564894644) has been updated with new venues in Strood, Bournemouth and Daventry. The Bournemouth (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82775/) one has already been added and reviewed by a fan as has the Daventry (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82823/) one.
The Broken Drum at Blackfen near Welling is hoping to open at Easter but it isn't certain.

I'm a fan in as much as Early Doors is a fine addition to Daventry, a town notoriously poor for decent beer. I'm surprised that The Rugby Tap Room (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82634/) hasn't been added as they've been open since early December and are, I believe, a member.

Good news for the Midlands though with recent micropub openings in Warwick, Stratford, Kenilworth, Rugby, Market Harborough and Daventry. Many of those towns without a great selection of real ale pubs.

[Aqualung]

I'm a fan in as much as Early Doors is a fine addition to Daventry, a town notoriously poor for decent beer. I'm surprised that The Rugby Tap Room (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82634/) hasn't been added as they've been open since early December and are, I believe, a member.

Good news for the Midlands though with recent micropub openings in Warwick, Stratford, Kenilworth, Rugby, Market Harborough and Daventry. Many of those towns without a great selection of real ale pubs.
It costs £30.00 a year to get Recognised Micropub Member Status which really just means that the pub appears on their list and they get a certificate. It costs jut £10.00 a year to gain access to the forums. Maybe a few think that it's just not worth it and it does seem poor value.
This (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82432/) place is very much a micropub to me and by far the cheapest I've been to but isn't on the list.

[hondo]

i notice it now says "mainly serves cask ales" http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#/micropubsupdate-march-2015/4564894644

[Dave M]

It costs £30.00 a year to get Recognised Micropub Member Status which really just means that the pub appears on their list and they get a certificate. It costs jut £10.00 a year to gain access to the forums. Maybe a few think that it's just not worth it and it does seem poor value.
This (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82432/) place is very much a micropub to me and by far the cheapest I've been to but isn't on the list.

Is it just me or does it seem like there is the opportunity to create the 'Pubs Galore Micropub' list?

[aleandhearty]

Is it just me or does it seem like there is the opportunity to create the 'Pubs Galore Micropub' list?

Strangely enough, I was going through the association's list when you posted. I've added six that were missing from PuG, so they should all be on our database pretty soon. (Although there are still a couple described as details pending, on the association's site).

[Dave M]

http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pub-features/micropubs/

[Aqualung]

Is it just me or does it seem like there is the opportunity to create the 'Pubs Galore Micropub' list?

It did cross my mind! I assume it wouldn't take a great deal of effort.

EDIT: Obviously not as it has been done!!!

[Aqualung]

http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pub-features/micropubs/

Are we free to add for example the two mentioned above in Rugby and Chesham that are not in the association?

[Dave M]

Are we free to add for example the two mentioned above in Rugby and Chesham that are not in the association?

Yes very much so! I was kind of hoping we'd end up with the more comprehensive and up to date listing of micro pubs.

To add to the list there is just another option under the pub facilities section. (not an ideal way of doing it, but made it very quick for me to implement - and then an hour for me to check off the association list)

[Al 10000]

Ive just had a quick look at local micro pubs and i think i have found two that are not on the list yet

Beer Shack in Mansfield is the smallest micro pub i have been in

Last Post is in Derby not been in it yet but Will has.

[Delboy20]

Masons microbar in Quinton - Masons Microbar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82760/) can be added.

Not sure how ?

Del.

[Aqualung]

Masons microbar in Quinton - Masons Microbar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82760/) can be added.

Not sure how ?

Del.

I would query that it is a micropub in the spirit of what they are supposed to be. Their Farcebook page advertises Sport which along with national keg brands would completely disqualify it. To be fair to them they DO call it a microbar rather than a micropub.

[Thuck Phat]

I wonder if The Olde England (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/75432/) qualifies?
Unlike most micropubs it is arranged over three, albeit very small, floors of a former shop conversion. In all other respects it is typical - small, quirky, lots of local beer, no music or fruit machines and a friendly welcome.

[Quinno]

I would query that it is a micropub in the spirit of what they are supposed to be. Their Farcebook page advertises Sport which along with national keg brands would completely disqualify it. To be fair to them they DO call it a microbar rather than a micropub.

Ah the joy of prescriptive rules about who can and can't join the club!

If I ran a micropub I would definitely show some sports - but of a minority pursuit. Easy way to get in some customers who otherwise would be watching at home! I'd also play music of a classical and jazz variety at other times.

I would be satan :)

[aleandhearty]

I'd also play music of a classical and jazz variety at other times.

As someone with a sizeable Blue Note collection, I'd be there faster than a rat up a drainpipe, but I can think of no other genre that would piss off potential punters as quickly! :D

[Aqualung]

I wonder if The Olde England (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/75432/) qualifies?
Unlike most micropubs it is arranged over three, albeit very small, floors of a former shop conversion. In all other respects it is typical - small, quirky, lots of local beer, no music or fruit machines and a friendly welcome.
The stumbling point would be if it also serves nationally branded keg beers and/or spirits.

[Aqualung]

Ah the joy of prescriptive rules about who can and can't join the club!

If I ran a micropub I would definitely show some sports - but of a minority pursuit. Easy way to get in some customers who otherwise would be watching at home! I'd also play music of a classical and jazz variety at other times.

I would be satan :)

It wouldn't be a micropub! Many of them bar the use of mobile phones etc.
The Masons microbar is clearly a small Sports Bar and is making no pretence of anything else.
The bloke in the Worthing Anchored was not happy with micropubs that had a formal bar saying they aren't "proper" micropubs.

[sheffield hatter]

I would query that it is a micropub in the spirit of what they are supposed to be. Their Farcebook page advertises Sport which along with national keg brands would completely disqualify it. To be fair to them they DO call it a microbar rather than a micropub.



I wonder if The Olde England (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/75432/) qualifies?
Unlike most micropubs it is arranged over three, albeit very small, floors of a former shop conversion. In all other respects it is typical - small, quirky, lots of local beer, no music or fruit machines and a friendly welcome.




Ah the joy of prescriptive rules about who can and can't join the club!

If I ran a micropub I would definitely show some sports - but of a minority pursuit. Easy way to get in some customers who otherwise would be watching at home! I'd also play music of a classical and jazz variety at other times.

I would be satan :)

...and already it's started: that one's not a micropub because they do this and don't do that! Sports, sir? You cannot be serious! An easy way to p*ss off customers who might otherwise have called in for a drink.

The Beer House (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82637/) has a quiz on Wednesdays.

Stanley's Alehouse (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82604/) (review to follow) has background music.

Walkley Beer Co. (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82500/) calls itself an off-licence (although I've called both this and The Beer House "Sheffield's first micropub", so I guess I'll have to amend one review or the other.)

[Aqualung]

...and already it's started: that one's not a micropub because they do this and don't do that! Sports, sir? You cannot be serious! An easy way to p*ss off customers who might otherwise have called in for a drink.

The Beer House (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82637/) has a quiz on Wednesdays.

Stanley's Alehouse (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82604/) (review to follow) has background music.

Walkley Beer Co. (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82500/) calls itself an off-licence (although I've called both this and The Beer House "Sheffield's first micropub", so I guess I'll have to amend one review or the other.)


I don't see that a weekly quiz is a problem, I assume they don't need to use an amplifier for the quiz host.

Stanley's Ale House use of background music is not compatible but do they compund that by selling national keg brands or having electronic machines?

The two micropubs in Essex are as much off licences as micropubs but the important thing is that there is the option to drink the bottles on site rather than take away instead of the cask offerings.

TV screens go totally against the original concept.

[Al 10000]

I would query that it is a micropub in the spirit of what they are supposed to be. Their Farcebook page advertises Sport which along with national keg brands would completely disqualify it. To be fair to them they DO call it a microbar rather than a micropub.

As you now seem to be the judge and jury as to what is a micro pub or not i thought i had better run this one past you for judgement The Barrel Drop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82706/), it is on two levels which might condem it to normal pubdome and there is background music and god forbid food,i await your judgement.

[oldboots]

'A Micropub is a small freehouse which listens to its customers, mainly serves cask ales, promotes conversation, shuns all forms of electronic entertainment and dabbles in traditional pub snacks' - http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#

Personallly I like this definition as it pretty much delivers what I look for in a pub. The Barrel Drop appears to meet most of it, WhatPub says bar snacks and calls the background music "unobtrusive" but doesn't say if it's electronic or a bloke fiddling in the corner ;).

[Aqualung]

As you now seem to be the judge and jury as to what is a micro pub or not i thought i had better run this one past you for judgement The Barrel Drop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82706/), it is on two levels which might condem it to normal pubdome and there is background music and god forbid food,i await your judgement.

I didn't make the definition as OB confirms. A TV screen is clearly electronic entertainment. The spirit behind the micropub would suggest that they shouldn't be selling your least favourite beer (John Smith's Smooth crap) or for example Heineken lager. The fact that your Barrel Drop is on two floors is irrelevant as it makes it a larger two storey micropub but if there are fruit machines and TV screens all over the place then it isn't a micropub.
I would have thought that the whole point of the new feature is to highlight places that for whatever reason don't appear on the Association list but do fit in with the original concept, so that means small Sports Bars (of which there are many) do not count.

[Quinno]

The issue we are all going have - irrespective of our rattlings above - is that the micropub market will, like any concept in a capitalist free market economy, have people who use the term but do one or two things that make the purists spit feathers for differentiation/local market/be damned reasons

See 'craft beer' as the previous beer-related example. Or 'Black IPA' :evilgrin:

It's all good as it means innovation. And if that means better beers in decent little alehouses, then it's fine by me and 99% of the ale-drinking population.

[Wittenden]

'A Micropub is a small freehouse which listens to its customers, mainly serves cask ales, promotes conversation, shuns all forms of electronic entertainment and dabbles in traditional pub snacks' - http://micropubassociation.co.uk/#

Personallly I like this definition as it pretty much delivers what I look for in a pub.
















Good definition, but is http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/59104/ a micro?No fizz,no grub,good beer and chat,but in a timehonoured pub building.

[london calling]

Good definition, but is http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/59104/ a micro?No fizz,no grub,good beer and chat,but in a timehonoured pub building.

no. Its a small pub.

[london calling]

Surely if you add pubs that are not members of the association you will muddy the waters as to what is a micropub.They will only let pubs that fit their definition join hopefully.

[Wittenden]

no. Its a small pub.
That's what I'd call it.

[Aqualung]

Good definition, but is http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/59104/ a micro?No fizz,no grub,good beer and chat,but in a timehonoured pub building.

Intersting point!
I think you know I've been to this place a few times but it is an existing pub and has been for decades. I suppose the crunch may be as to whether they sell spirits and I can't answer that because I've never bothered to look!

[sheffield hatter]

http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pub-features/micropubs/

Nice one Dave. I can find this list by clicking on the link in your post above, but there doesn't appear to be a permanent link from the Stats & Features page. This despite the link's URL, which would seem to suggest it should be there...

[Dave M]

Surely if you add pubs that are not members of the association you will muddy the waters as to what is a micropub.They will only let pubs that fit their definition join hopefully.

There was an implication that pubs would only be listing on the association website if they have paid a fee and joined the association. I'm not sure if that is the case but I thought it would be nice to have a list that members here can use


Nice one Dave. I can find this list by clicking on the link in your post above, but there doesn't appear to be a permanent link from the Stats & Features page. This despite the link's URL, which would seem to suggest it should be there...

Good point, added to the list now. There are several other things I need to add at some point, I do keep creating pages and then forgetting about them.

[Thuck Phat]

The stumbling point would be if it also serves nationally branded keg beers and/or spirits.

It (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/75432/) doesn't serve any keg beer or any spirits. Just 25 real ales all from the barrel and mainly local.

If it walks like a duck........

[Dave M]

Just been looking at some of the data I've got handy, here are pubs that are describing themselves as micropubs but aren't listed. I know some have been mentioned and I'm not suggesting they should be listed - just sharing the information.
Ye Olde White Lion Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82028/)
Cap & Collar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82582/)
The Bank Micropub (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82042/)
The Barrel Drop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82706/)
The Devil's Advocate (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82673/)
The Beer Shop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82702/)

Then there are these Twitter feeds of places I don't think we have listed yet
https://twitter.com/arvonales
https://twitter.com/TheBrokenDrum42
https://twitter.com/TavernCrown
https://twitter.com/TheWightBear
https://twitter.com/lazylandlord2

And one from Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/cafemetrobilston

[Thuck Phat]

Surely if you add pubs that are not members of the association you will muddy the waters as to what is a micropub.They will only let pubs that fit their definition join hopefully.

"I DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO ANY CLUB THAT WILL ACCEPT PEOPLE LIKE ME AS A MEMBER". Groucho Marx 1959

[hondo]

Surely if you add pubs that are not members of the association you will muddy the waters as to what is a micropub.They will only let pubs that fit their definition join hopefully.

the definition on the website seems to change frequently

[Dave M]

And some more to possibly look at:-
The Arlington (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/15934/)
Bob Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82636/)
The Borough Arms (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82576/)
Masons Microbar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82760/)
The Queens Head (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/80980/) (https://www.facebook.com/queensheadchepstow/timeline)
Stumble Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82734/)
Tap & Bottles (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82727/)


https://twitter.com/TheDogButchers (In my queue of new pubs with postcodes that don't work)
https://twitter.com/thegravitystn
https://twitter.com/R_fordsMicropub

[Aqualung]

There was an implication that pubs would only be listing on the association website if they have paid a fee and joined the association. I'm not sure if that is the case but I thought it would be nice to have a list that members here can use



Given the number of outlets that look on the face of it to be genuine micropubs that are not on their list I can only think that is the case. I wonder if any current members will decide not to renew their subs. Will they remove them from the list? I did look at the signing up process and it said that for the £30 a year subscription they would receive a certificate and a place on the official list.

[Aqualung]

Just been looking at some of the data I've got handy, here are pubs that are describing themselves as micropubs but aren't listed. I know some have been mentioned and I'm not suggesting they should be listed - just sharing the information.
Ye Olde White Lion Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82028/)
Cap & Collar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82582/)
The Bank Micropub (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82042/)
The Barrel Drop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82706/)
The Devil's Advocate (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82673/)
The Beer Shop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82702/)


They all seem plausible to me, although that is not based on an actual visit. The White Lion is an odd one as it appears to be a multi function venue but the real ale and cider section seems genuine enough.

[Aqualung]

Just been looking at some of the data I've got handy, here are pubs that are describing themselves as micropubs but aren't listed. I know some have been mentioned and I'm not suggesting they should be listed - just sharing the information.

Then there are these Twitter feeds of places I don't think we have listed yet
https://twitter.com/arvonales
https://twitter.com/TheBrokenDrum42
https://twitter.com/TavernCrown
https://twitter.com/TheWightBear
https://twitter.com/lazylandlord2

And one from Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/cafemetrobilston

I intend to add the Broken Drum in Blackfen when it announces a definite date unless someone does it before that.
It looks like the one in Whyteleafe which had decided to become the Radius Arms to avoid confusion will be following fairly sonn after.

The Cafe Metro sounds to me like a standard Cafe / Bar rather than a micropub. They don't appear to be claiming to be a micropub.

The rest look like the genuine thing to me.

[Aqualung]

And some more to possibly look at:-
The Arlington (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/15934/)
Bob Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82636/)
The Borough Arms (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82576/)
Masons Microbar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82760/)
The Queens Head (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/80980/) (https://www.facebook.com/queensheadchepstow/timeline)
Stumble Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82734/)
Tap & Bottles (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82727/)


https://twitter.com/TheDogButchers (In my queue of new pubs with postcodes that don't work)
https://twitter.com/thegravitystn
https://twitter.com/R_fordsMicropub

My only issue is Masons Microbar which has been mentioned above. It bills itself as a microbar rather than a micropub and appears to be a Sports Bar with a single real ale.

[PaddyMick]

I bought access to the Micropub Association online forum for a tenner and it's useful stuff if your planning to open one. If I did open one, I don't know whether i'd sign up for the £30 accreditation, or even if i'd qualify. But I do like their definition, sounds reasonable enough and the kind of place i'd drink in. I've made the point to them though that the actual term Micropub might be too generic (although it's catchy and has served it's purpose in spreading the word).

[oldboots]

Just been looking at some of the data I've got handy, here are pubs that are describing themselves as micropubs but aren't listed. I know some have been mentioned and I'm not suggesting they should be listed - just sharing the information.
Ye Olde White Lion Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82028/)
Cap & Collar (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82582/)
The Bank Micropub (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82042/)
The Barrel Drop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82706/)
The Devil's Advocate (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82673/)
The Beer Shop (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82702/)

Stumble Inn (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82734/)



The Cap & Collar is definitely a micro pub, I must write a proper review for it as it's excellent. The Fox (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/80927/) up the road should qualify as a micro as well just on size but it sells some "craft" keg if we're being picky. Off the Tap (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/79058/) is biggish but on reflection I'd say it's a micro pub as well due to what they sell and the decor/furnishings etc.

The local paper always calls the Devil's Advocate a micro pub along with the others in Middlesbrough, but I haven't been in it, ditto the Stumble Inn which I keep driving past but can't park in bloody Falsgrave Road.

[sheffield hatter]

The Borough Arms (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82576/)


Thanks, I'd forgotten about that one. Now added to the list, making 114.

[gillhalfpint]

I like the Rat Race on Hartlepool Station. Great little place.

[Aqualung]

BF threw up an interesting point with his update for the Rake in Borough Market.
He says that today it would be classed as a micropub but the owners don't make that claim. Should it be classed as a micropub? My instinct says no unless the owners decide to claim it as one but it doesn't help that I've never been there.
This is a tricky one!

[Lady Grey]

Another one to add to the list.
Cobblers, Cinderford
Cobblers (http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/82335/)

[rpadam]

BF threw up an interesting point with his update for the Rake in Borough Market.
He says that today it would be classed as a micropub but the owners don't make that claim. Should it be classed as a micropub? My instinct says no unless the owners decide to claim it as one but it doesn't help that I've never been there.
This is a tricky one!
It's certainly smaller inside than some members belonging to the Micropub Association.

[Bucking Fastard]

BF threw up an interesting point with his update for the Rake in Borough Market.
He says that today it would be classed as a micropub but the owners don't make that claim. Should it be classed as a micropub? My instinct says no unless the owners decide to claim it as one but it doesn't help that I've never been there.
This is a tricky one!


I just thought it had all the elements,

Didn't used to be a pub,conversion from a shop (bookshop ?)
Small interior and serving bar.
Focus on real ale
Sign saying "No crap on keg"
Most punters drinking either cask ,keg or bottled beers (including the many women customers)
No flatscreens or gaming machines


However I take your point that the owners may not feel the term micro pub sits well with their vision of what they are offering,there were a lot more young men with beards than older CAMRA types with beards on my visit yesterday.;)

[london calling]

Looked In there tonight but didn't need any of the 3 cask beers but they have about 8 keg beers so they fall at the first hurdle for micro pubs.Evil keg?Also they are open all hours which is not the micro pub concept.

[Wittenden]

Yes,it's "micro", but I think it is part of a larger business:beer wholesaling and the Tap East bar and microbrewery at Stratford,so not exactly a one man band.

[london calling]

Used to visit the Microbar around Lavender hill way but again would not make the list.Had some great beers in it though.

[oldboots]

http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/11875104.Real_ale__no_lager_and_a_ban_on_smartphon es__meet_the_people_looking_to_revive_the_British_ pub/

[Thuck Phat]

I'm sure that I'd heard that Banbury had a micro pub opening but having trawled the interweb, this thread, the micropub association list and PuG list I can't find any reference to one in Banbury.

Perhaps I'm going sealion but has anyone else heard of a micro pub in Banbury?

[oldboots]

and another proposed, Newcastle upon Tyne this time,

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/could-newcastles-first-micro-pub-8905128

[Aqualung]

and another proposed, Newcastle upon Tyne this time,

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/could-newcastles-first-micro-pub-8905128

Only an idiot journalist from the frozen North could come up with this ridiculous statement about a micropub :-


A application has been submitted to Newcastle City Council for a new boozer that looks to ape some of London’s trendiest breweries and bars.

He can't even write proper as it should be AN application.

[Al 10000]

Only an idiot journalist from the frozen North could come up with this ridiculous statement about a micropub :-



He can't even write proper as it should be AN application.

Are yoe dilbaratly trieing to wind peple up North about bad spelling and caalling Leeds a Northern backwater and the north frorzon.

[Aqualung]

Are yoe dilbaratly trieing to wind peple up North about bad spelling and caalling Leeds a Northern backwater and the north frorzon.

You may well think that but I couldn't possibly comment.

[trainman]

and another proposed, Newcastle upon Tyne this time,

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/could-newcastles-first-micro-pub-8905128
Bet it won't be using the word trendy or, worse, London, in the advertising blurb round the toon!

[london calling]

Aping the trendy bars of London? They are in for a shock in that case.

[oldboots]

London murky anyone? Doubtful in the toon. BTW no matter how frozen the North East no coats are needed😀

[oldboots]

http://thewightbear.co.uk/

this one got its premises license today, opening end of May.

A member of the Association but selling wines, spirits and "real" lager in bottles.

[hondo]

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/micro-pub-explosion-hits-north-east-8981296

[oldboots]

http://www.thesouthernreporter.co.uk/what-s-on/scotland-s-first-micro-pub-to-open-in-kelso-1-3741650

[Aqualung]

The broken Drum in Blackfen (near Welling) finally opened on the 17th of April.
In Hove the Watchmakers Arms is due to open on Friday (1st May). This is a handy one as it is only a stone's throw from Hove Station.
In Whyteleafe (just outside Croydon) the Radius Arms is set to open on Monday 4th of May. This was going to be called the Broken Drum as well but the owner decided to change it to avoid confusion. This one is also handy as the bus stop with buses from Croydon or Purley is a couple of doors away.

[Aqualung]

The new Hove micropub the Watchmakers Arms did not impress a correspondent on the Dark Side (http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/44/44361/Watchmakers_Arms/Hove).
I would like to make it clear that the person outside was NOT me.

[Aqualung]

The Micropub Association have finally released an update to their list, the first since March. There are only a few entries all of which are already listed here apart from the one in Kelso.
Notable absentees are the Broken Drum in Blackfen which I was in on Saturday and the Radius Arms at Whyteleafe. I'm pretty sure there are other absentees from outside the London area. I wonder if those not listed are refusing to keep up the annual subscription as they have to pay that to be included on their list.

[Mobyduck]

The Micropub Association have finally released an update to their list, the first since March. There are only a few entries all of which are already listed here apart from the one in Kelso.
Notable absentees are the Broken Drum in Blackfen which I was in on Saturday and the Radius Arms at Whyteleafe. I'm pretty sure there are other absentees from outside the London area. I wonder if those not listed are refusing to keep up the annual subscription as they have to pay that to be included on their list.

Sounds the likely reason.

[Al 10000]

Ive just been looking through the Micro pub list,this pub http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/25052/is on the list, i am pretty sure this is not a micro pub.

[Aqualung]

Ive just been looking through the Micro pub list,this pub http://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/25052/is on the list, i am pretty sure this is not a micro pub.
I totally agree, I don't think they would ever claim to be one and if it were a micropub then so is the Southampton. I've changed it back at the risk of upsetting Tris C.
There isn't a completely clear definition of what one actually is, just a set of guidelines. I've been to enough now to see that there are huge differences between them. Some are just off licences selling cask and bottles to drink on the premises while others are more like small pubs. Some sell keg ("Craft" only) and I think some sell limited spirits, probably not the mainstream stuff.

[london calling]

I totally agree, I don't think they would ever claim to be one and if it were a micropub then so is the Southampton. I've changed it back at the risk of upsetting Tris C.
There isn't a completely clear definition of what one actually is, just a set of guidelines. I've been to enough now to see that there are huge differences between them. Some are just off licences selling cask and bottles to drink on the premises while others are more like small pubs. Some sell keg ("Craft" only) and I think some sell limited spirits, probably not the mainstream stuff.
He probably meant a brewpub rather than a micropub.The fee to join the assoc is only £50 or so.I think a few people like the idea of a micropub but don't want to stick to the rules of no music,etc so wont bother joining.

[Aqualung]

He probably meant a brewpub rather than a micropub.The fee to join the assoc is only £50 or so.I think a few people like the idea of a micropub but don't want to stick to the rules of no music,etc so wont bother joining.
Last time I looked it was only £30.00. The Broken Drum in Blackfen is an archetypal micro pub. The Radius Arms is one I'm hoping to combine with a farewell visit to the Purley JDW. If it turns out not to be a standard micropub then I will be astonished.

[Aqualung]

http://www.canterburytimes.co.uk/Mac-s-Music-Store-Herne-Bay-Parkerville-micropub/story-28971728-detail/story.html

This will surely make Herne Bay the Micropub Capital of the UK as well as it's spiritual home. I was told they hope to do some interesting gins and wines as wll as the usual ale and cider.

[oldboots]

Other side of coin here,

http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Little-cheer-micropub-calls-orders-just-months/story-29308670-detail/story.html

[Aqualung]

Other side of coin here,

http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Little-cheer-micropub-calls-orders-just-months/story-29308670-detail/story.html

This is the only one I've heard of. I was in Hanley on a Saturday afternoon last year but didn't really get much of an impression of the place. Maybe the owner is a miserable old git like me!!

[london calling]

Other side of coin here,

http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Little-cheer-micropub-calls-orders-just-months/story-29308670-detail/story.html

The city centre was the wrong location? What an excuse for failure.

[london calling]

On a happier note we are getting 2 micropubs near me in Ealing this year.First in West London I think.One of them is going to brew their own beer.Can this be the start of the micropub/microbrewery concept or is it a brewery tap.

[Aqualung]

On a happier note we are getting 2 micropubs near me in Ealing this year.First in West London I think.One of them is going to brew their own beer.Can this be the start of the micropub/microbrewery concept or is it a brewery tap.

Any more details? There is only one London one North of the river and most people would call Upminster Essex.

[Oggwyn Trench]

Not exactley a Micro Pub but a new Parlour style pub has opened in Ludlow , http://www.doghousemagazine.co.uk/parlour-pub , looks an intresting addition to Ludlows pub scene .

[Bucking Fastard]

Not exactley a Micro Pub but a new Parlour style pub has opened in Ludlow , http://www.doghousemagazine.co.uk/parlour-pub , looks an intresting addition to Ludlows pub scene .

That's very different and intriguing,wonder which reviewer will get there first ?

[Wittenden]

That's very different and intriguing,wonder which reviewer will get there first ?

We're planning to go to Shropshire for our annual week's holiday in October,but we'll probably hit Ludlow at the wrong time!

[london calling]

Any more details? There is only one London one North of the river and most people would call Upminster Essex.
First one will be called the Owl and the Pussycat on Northfields ave previously a book shop of that name and they will be brewing as the Marko Paulo brewery.Hopefully opening july.The other still looking for a premises is called Dodo.

[Aqualung]

First one will be called the Owl and the Pussycat on Northfields ave previously a book shop of that name and they will be brewing as the Marko Paulo brewery.Hopefully opening july.The other still looking for a premises is called Dodo.


Thanks!

[london calling]

Now got 2 micropubs near me but the problem is they are too micro. Not a comfortable drinking experience when they are busy and no outside space for when the weather is nice or if you are a leper(moi) who smokes. Also they sold the dearest pints of the six local pubs I tried.

[Aqualung]

Also they sold the dearest pints of the six local pubs I tried.

That is unusual but not unique. Usually the dearer micropubs give CAMRA discount.

[london calling]

That is unusual but not unique. Usually the dearer micropubs give CAMRA discount.
I did ask about a Camra discount in the Dodo but they only give it when the local Camra members come in on a local crawl.So that's the pub into the last 3 of the pub of the year local awards then. I did point out the local and more expensive Grovesnor gives 10% off and the beer is then cheaper than the Dodo. The Owl and the Pussycat actually put the price up on one beer after I had bought it as they thought for a 5.0 it was underpriced £4.10 changed to £4.20.Rising inflation gone mad.

[Aqualung]

I did ask about a Camra discount in the Dodo but they only give it when the local Camra members come in on a local crawl.So that's the pub into the last 3 of the pub of the year local awards then. I did point out the local and more expensive Grovesnor gives 10% off and the beer is then cheaper than the Dodo. The Owl and the Pussycat actually put the price up on one beer after I had bought it as they thought for a 5.0 it was underpriced £4.10 changed to £4.20.Rising inflation gone mad.

That's ridiculous and £4.00 for a 5% beer is daylight robbery anywhere in my book. I haven't been to a London Micropub for a while but the One Inn the Wood was one of the dearest but does 20p CAMRA discount. You can see the prices before discount on their twitter feed and it's £3.20 for the cooking one up to £4.00 for a 6.0% one.
In the Sedgley Beacon Hotel on Saturday the Sarah Hughes Surprise (5.0%) was £2.80 and the Ruby Mild (6.0%) £2.90.

[hondo]

"six or seven micro bars opening in Chorley town centre in the space of eighteen months"
http://www.chorley-guardian.co.uk/news/landlord-devastated-at-plight-of-pub-1-8510887

[hondo]

"met the exceptional circumstances criteria for applications within the saturation zone "
http://www.nottinghampost.com/pub-the-size-of-a-living-room-next-to-nottingham-station-gets-go-ahead/story-30412497-detail/story.html

[Oggwyn Trench]

Not a Micro Pub but a Micro Bar , not sure what the difference is :confused: , The Vault has opened in Ellesmere , Shropshire .

One for Real Ale Rays ever expanding list :D

[AlanH]

Not a Micro Pub but a Micro Bar , not sure what the difference is :confused: , The Vault has opened in Ellesmere , Shropshire .

One for Real Ale Rays ever expanding list :D

He will have to stay thirsty until The Dwarfs add it to the site

[rpadam]

He will have to stay thirsty until The Dwarfs add it to the site
It's been done, already!

[AlanH]

It's been done, already!

It wasn't done at 21.02
, 'cos I looked! :D :D

but you were still quick. :notworthy: :drinkup:

[hondo]

The Cabman’s Shelter
http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/eastmidlands/news/2006011-nottingham-station-pub-gets-green-light

[sheffield hatter]

I went for a trip to the PotHole yesterday. This micropub is closed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday so I had planned my trip for Thursday when the pub was due to open at 12 noon. My bus out from Derby arrived at 12:20 and I was at the pub taking a photo at 12:25. It was at this point that it dawned upon me that it was not open - through the shop window I could see that someone was wiping down the tables. On closer inspection, there was a note taped to the glass of the door, saying it would be open at 2pm on Thursday 28th. What ensued can be read in my review (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/85925/).

Now there may be technical, cellar-keeping reasons why inviting me in for a beer would have been difficult. But it seems to me there was an overriding customer service need to do so - and if I'd been in his shoes that is definitely what I would have done. Even if it meant pouring me a half direct from the barrel, if the lines hadn't been pulled through.

Also, it seems to me they've missed an opportunity here. This is the only pub for miles around (I subsequently visited the Markeaton (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/7142/), an Ember Inns pub, which was very busy, and the Woodlands (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/86018/), a Stonegate pub, which was less so) and surely there are a few beer drinkers in Allestree who would welcome the chance of a drink on Boxing Day or the day after? If I had a business like this one, I would certainly have been open those days, and possibly Christmas Day too. And opening at 2pm instead of noon? Sheer laziness.

As I always say, if you're not open you can't sell any beer.

[Aqualung]

I went for a trip to the PotHole yesterday. This micropub is closed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday so I had planned my trip for Thursday when the pub was due to open at 12 noon. My bus out from Derby arrived at 12:20 and I was at the pub taking a photo at 12:25. It was at this point that it dawned upon me that it was not open - through the shop window I could see that someone was wiping down the tables. On closer inspection, there was a note taped to the glass of the door, saying it would be open at 2pm on Thursday 28th. What ensued can be read in my review (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/85925/).

Now there may be technical, cellar-keeping reasons why inviting me in for a beer would have been difficult. But it seems to me there was an overriding customer service need to do so - and if I'd been in his shoes that is definitely what I would have done. Even if it meant pouring me a half direct from the barrel, if the lines hadn't been pulled through.

Also, it seems to me they've missed an opportunity here. This is the only pub for miles around (I subsequently visited the Markeaton (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/7142/), an Ember Inns pub, which was very busy, and the Woodlands (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/86018/), a Stonegate pub, which was less so) and surely there are a few beer drinkers in Allestree who would welcome the chance of a drink on Boxing Day or the day after? If I had a business like this one, I would certainly have been open those days, and possibly Christmas Day too. And opening at 2pm instead of noon? Sheer laziness.

As I always say, if you're not open you can't sell any beer.


Welcome to the world of micropubs! The most common reason for not opening is when the owner goes on holiday but I had something similar in Herne Bay last New Years Eve (it shut earlier than usual). The one in Melton Mowbray didn't open at all on a Saturday afternoon, no note, no explanation. The one in Coalville has opening times of 17:00 Fri & Sat, 18:00 Sun and 19:30 Tue-Thu. When I was in Colwyn Bay a few months ago the owner of that one said he may close down for the first two weeks of January as there's so little trade.

[Real Ale Ray]

Great review Will!

I've had this lots of times with micros, it's very frustrating especially if you've travelled a good distance and have a thirst! Some of them seem to run their micro as a hobby and not a business, hence the strange opening hours. Whatpub can also be misleading re. opening times, I've been caught out a few times.

Nowadays I tend to double check the times, to avoid disappointment...

[rpadam]

Some of them seem to run their micro as a hobby and not a business
Which is exactly the situation in many cases, I suspect...

[Mobyduck]

I have tried to have a go at this one (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/83128/) over the last two years , four attempts and 0 success, annoyingly the opening times are displayed in a window and not once have they proved to be the case. Obviously its not being run as a serious business.

[Tris39]

Welcome to the world of micropubs! The most common reason for not opening is when the owner goes on holiday but I had something similar in Herne Bay last New Years Eve (it shut earlier than usual). The one in Melton Mowbray didn't open at all on a Saturday afternoon, no note, no explanation. The one in Coalville has opening times of 17:00 Fri & Sat, 18:00 Sun and 19:30 Tue-Thu. When I was in Colwyn Bay a few months ago the owner of that one said he may close down for the first two weeks of January as there's so little trade.

What exactly is a micropub? I thought, irrespective of size, this was a pub with an on-site micro brewery or is there a specific size for a micropub? And if they add a conservatory, does it cease to be a micropub?

[rpadam]

I have tried to have a go at this one (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/83128/) over the last two years , four attempts and 0 success, annoyingly the opening times are displayed in a window and not once have they proved to be the case. Obviously its not being run as a serious business.
It seems to have active Twitter and Facebook pages and an up-to-date website with post-Christmas opening times (all now added), so have you checked these before visiting?

[Aqualung]

What exactly is a micropub? I thought, irrespective of size, this was a pub with an on-site micro brewery or is there a specific size for a micropub? And if they add a conservatory, does it cease to be a micropub?

Brewing doesn't come in to it at all although a few are connected with small brewers. The original template comes from the Butchers Arms (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/64090/) at Herne Village which just sells real ale and real cider plus maybe a couple of soft drinks. There should be no music or TV but try telling that to the Teesside and other ones. Many do a few specialist spirits often gin. Some do "craft" keg but it shouldn't be to the detriment of Real Ale. Mainstream keg brands should be off limits and apart from the odd case are. Some of them are off licences that sell beer on the premises more as a side line. Your best bet would be to go somewhere like Herne Bay, Margate or plan a bus trip around some of the outer SE London ones and see for yourself how they vary. There is actually no specific size for a micropub, but the larger ones are more like "normal" pubs Just adding a Conservatory would be irrelevant.

[Aqualung]

I have tried to have a go at this one (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/83128/) over the last two years , four attempts and 0 success, annoyingly the opening times are displayed in a window and not once have they proved to be the case. Obviously its not being run as a serious business.

It does say on What Pub that opening times are "weather dependent"!

[london calling]

Why should the owners of micropubs care about one in a lifetime pub tickers like us.The locals presumably know the hours.They are the lifeblood.My owner of my local micropub said to me he hadn't seen me for a while so I told him you shut too early midweek and you aren't open sunday night so your hours are not my hours.His loss as I really like his beer.

[Mobyduck]

It seems to have active Twitter and Facebook pages and an up-to-date website with post-Christmas opening times (all now added), so have you checked these before visiting?


It does say on What Pub that opening times are "weather dependent"!

Every time I have tried to get a drink there the place has been closed despite being within the advertised opening hours with no sign of life except once when the bloke turned up 15 minutes after the stated opening time and upon my enquiry told me it would be another half hour before he was ready to serve, I couldn't hang around. It was nothing to do with the weather , just a casual outlook toward business I suspect.

[trainman]

a casual outlook toward business I suspect.
Yes, and a casual disregard for punters, regular or otherwise, some of whom may have travelled for a specific visit. I don't like that.
At all.

[sheffield hatter]

Why should the owners of micropubs care about one in a lifetime pub tickers like us.The locals presumably know the hours.They are the lifeblood.

You can't pick and choose when it comes to customer service. You have to treat each and every customer as though you really like them, you have to welcome the ones you recognise like they're your best friend, you have to truly hope that they come back again and that they spread the word to all their friends. If you can't do that with all sincerity then you shouldn't be in a customer service job.

[london calling]

The problem with Micropubs and their concept is you and your wife can run it without staff overheads but the owners soon realise that 70-80 hours a week are too much so they tend to run it on an ad hoc basis.

[london calling]

You can't pick and choose when it comes to customer service. You have to treat each and every customer as though you really like them, you have to welcome the ones you recognise like they're your best friend, you have to truly hope that they come back again and that they spread the word to all their friends. If you can't do that with all sincerity then you shouldn't be in a customer service job.
With Micropubs you can pick and choose as testified by earlier posts.Went to one of the two local ones to me and it was closed on a Saturday with a notice saying they had gone to a wedding. This is the problem.Do you keep the pub open or miss friends and family occasions.Best if you can trust someone to run it for you but that negates the concept of mum and pop micropubs.

[Aqualung]

Despite the dodgy opening hours the total of these places seems to be spiralling and is now 441. One was added today by a name I don't recognise at a place called Milford On Sea near Lymington in Hants. I've certainly not been to this town in fact I'm not sure that I'd even heard of it! It opened last summer so has escaped detection for 6 months which probably means there are others undetected.

[NickDavies]

With Micropubs you can pick and choose as testified by earlier posts.Went to one of the two local ones to me and it was closed on a Saturday with a notice saying they had gone to a wedding. This is the problem.Do you keep the pub open or miss friends and family occasions.Best if you can trust someone to run it for you but that negates the concept of mum and pop micropubs.

I suppose a pub shutting because the owners have gone to a wedding is slightly less annoying then the pub shutting because the entire joint has been booked for a wedding.

[london calling]

I suppose a pub shutting because the owners have gone to a wedding is slightly less annoying then the pub shutting because the entire joint has been booked for a wedding.
So true.

[hondo]

https://www.expressandstar.com/news/business/2018/06/29/new-micro-pub-in-old-wolverhampton-bank-will-create-five-jobs/

[Aqualung]

https://www.expressandstar.com/news/business/2018/06/29/new-micro-pub-in-old-wolverhampton-bank-will-create-five-jobs/




Mr Wright said he was grateful to the Coors and Wye Valley breweries which were both providing technical assistance to The Starting Gate.

I dread to think what advice they've been taking from Mouldy Corpse especially given this following statement.


The micro pub will have five hand pumps circulating 30 to 40 local and sought-after real ales.

I'm partial to the odd Wye Valley beer, the thing I disliked most about them was the naff rather than sexist Dorothy Goodbody brand which they've done away with. Given their beers are commonly found in many W Midland outlets, I wouldn't call them "sought after" or even all that "local".

I've only been through Penn on the bus and not really spotting anything worth getting off for. In that respect it fits the template for micropubs in that and other areas being set in rather dull suburbia.
I'm sure I'll darken it's door after it opens!

[Quinno]

https://discourse.camra.org.uk/t/the-onwards-march-of-micropubs/7106

1648

[Aqualung]

https://discourse.camra.org.uk/t/the-onwards-march-of-micropubs/7106

1648

I'm finding it increasingly difficult defining what are or are not micropubs, especially without visiting them. What about this (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/86704/) place in Hucknall? It seems to be a cross between a pub, café and bike shop!
The only rigid guideline I can come up with for a venue is that if it doesn't have at least one cask ale then it isn't a micropub.

[oldboots]

https://discourse.camra.org.uk/t/the-onwards-march-of-micropubs/7106

1648

Nice to get the exposure I suppose, I also notice it predictably degenerates fairly quickly into a tiff about definitions. I'm surprised people still read that Discourse tosh.

[Spinko]

I'm finding it increasingly difficult defining what are or are not micropubs, especially without visiting them. What about this (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/86704/) place in Hucknall? It seems to be a cross between a pub, café and bike shop!
The only rigid guideline I can come up with for a venue is that if it doesn't have at least one cask ale then it isn't a micropub.

One of my concerns is it's becoming more difficult to find good real ale places which happen not to be tiny. Moving to Stockton shortly and I'll be starting my search at well publicised micropubs and will probably stumble on larger places later.

[Aqualung]

One of my concerns is it's becoming more difficult to find good real ale places which happen not to be tiny. Moving to Stockton shortly and I'll be starting my search at well publicised micropubs and will probably stumble on larger places later.
When I was in Teesside I don't think I went to anything other than JDWs and various flavoured micropubs.

[Tris39]

I'm finding it increasingly difficult defining what are or are not micropubs, especially without visiting them. What about this (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/86704/) place in Hucknall? It seems to be a cross between a pub, café and bike shop!
The only rigid guideline I can come up with for a venue is that if it doesn't have at least one cask ale then it isn't a micropub.

Like Real Ale (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/85778/) . I can't make out if it's a micro. CAMRA says it sells real ale but I'm not convinced that what I had was cask real ale; there certainly aren't any pumps.

[Aqualung]

Like Real Ale (https://www.pubsgalore.co.uk/pubs/85778/) . I can't make out if it's a micro. CAMRA says it sells real ale but I'm not convinced that what I had was cask real ale; there certainly aren't any pumps.

It looks as though the local CAMRA branch haven't actually reviewed it yet. It appears to me to be an off licence /craft keg venue.

[london calling]

Its a bottle shop not a micro pub and it will be keg beer rather than cask.

[Aqualung]

Its a bottle shop not a micro pub and it will be keg beer rather than cask.

Thanks for the clarification. The fact it's just keg excludes it as a micropub, not because of the CAMRA revitalisation debate but simply because it's so far removed from the original micropub concept.

[Soup Dragon]

Thanks for the clarification. The fact it's just keg excludes it as a micropub, not because of the CAMRA revitalisation debate but simply because it's so far removed from the original micropub concept.

I know this will anger some people, but I just review it for what it is. It isnt because i dont care, i just dont care in the same way anymore (like photographers putting completely shi*e places on PG as 'pubs'). Priorities change as you experience different things in life.

[Aqualung]

I know this will anger some people, but I just review it for what it is. It isnt because i dont care, i just dont care in the same way anymore (like photographers putting completely shi*e places on PG as 'pubs'). Priorities change as you experience different things in life.

You certainly don't anger me with your viewpoint. The problem is that there's a site option that says Yes or No for a micropub. Dave M added this in the days when they were fairly easy to define without realising unintended consequences!. He added this so that a list of micropubs could be accessed. The micropub model has expanded considerably and there are many borderline cases. What Pub's views on this vary from branch to branch and they don't have an option for it anyway. Given that someone has quoted this site as a good source for getting a list of them pleased me no end so I hope we can carry on marking them even though it's a daunting task!

[Soup Dragon]

You certainly don't anger me with your viewpoint. The problem is that there's a site option that says Yes or No for a micropub. Dave M added this in the days when they were fairly easy to define without realising unintended consequences!. He added this so that a list of micropubs could be accessed. The micropub model has expanded considerably and there are many borderline cases. What Pub's views on this vary from branch to branch and they don't have an option for it anyway. Given that someone has quoted this site as a good source for getting a list of them pleased me no end so I hope we can carry on marking them even though it's a daunting task!

To be honest, I would accept Micropuby what ever you or Real Ale Ray (in truth, Mrs Real Ale) said about a micropub as you care more and visit more. I did one in Ironbridge today not reviewed by either of you, I thought it ticked the boxes but was also a craft beer place - so all i can do is say what i think (also did the new one in Wolverhampton!). I think with a ticklist of choices it comes down to whoever reviews it last and if they want to argue the toss - i dont, i dont score pubs etc as they will be seen differently by others and am not as scathing as perhaps i could or should be (other than the odd comment!)

[Real Ale Ray]

To be honest, I would accept Micropuby what ever you or Real Ale Ray (in truth, Mrs Real Ale) said about a micropub as you care more and visit more. I did one in Ironbridge today not reviewed by either of you, I thought it ticked the boxes but was also a craft beer place - so all i can do is say what i think (also did the new one in Wolverhampton!). I think with a ticklist of choices it comes down to whoever reviews it last and if they want to argue the toss - i dont, i dont score pubs etc as they will be seen differently by others and am not as scathing as perhaps i could or should be (other than the odd comment!)

Mrs Ale here, had quite enough of micropubs after going all the way to Burslem yesterday to visit Johny's Micropub, and finding the dreaded closed sign on the door. Of course there was no note on the door to let people know, other than it was supposed to be open at 12. Chatting to the barman in the Bull's Head across the road, he told us it's been closed all week :moremad::confused::

Another annoying thing about micros is they might say open at 3pm on their site, you get all the way there and there's a note on the door open at 5pm...rant over

[bcfczuluarmy]

Here's a conundrum....

This place https://twitter.com/bottlesbooks?lang=en opened recently at the bottom of my road as a bottle shop. I've subsequently come back from holiday to now find they serve beer but class themselves as a Tasting Room and have expanded into next door as main room and original shop as storage. So is it a Micropub which I think it may be to an extent but beer is served from taps built into the wall so keg/cask? I'm not sure what it needs to be. After speaking to the owner on the way back from my local and popping in for a 2/3 pint he called it a Tasting Shop.

Whatpub haven't caught up with the changes so may email my contact to let them know of the changes.

https://whatpub.com/pubs/AVN/1220/bottles-books-bristol

So add it, which I think should be, but call it a micropub and annoy Aqualung and Mr & Mrs Real Ale Ray? Although I think the opening times may be consistent as per link above as I was delayed in making my enquires with the owner as he was putting the tables and chairs back inside after we'd had a conversation about underage drinking pre 2000 and how it shaped us as men and trying to boot me out at 9pm...

[Aqualung]

To be honest, I would accept Micropuby what ever you or Real Ale Ray (in truth, Mrs Real Ale) said about a micropub as you care more and visit more. I did one in Ironbridge today not reviewed by either of you, I thought it ticked the boxes but was also a craft beer place - so all i can do is say what i think (also did the new one in Wolverhampton!). I think with a ticklist of choices it comes down to whoever reviews it last and if they want to argue the toss - i dont, i dont score pubs etc as they will be seen differently by others and am not as scathing as perhaps i could or should be (other than the odd comment!)

I agree with you entirely but the only way to have an accessible list is to maintain the button on this site, albeit with all the pitfalls and grief involved! I'm glad you liked the Keg and Comfort although it's a poor choice of name for a micropub! It's one I will be going back to.

[Aqualung]

Mrs Ale here, had quite enough of micropubs after going all the way to Burslem yesterday to visit Johny's Micropub, and finding the dreaded closed sign on the door. Of course there was no note on the door to let people know, other than it was supposed to be open at 12. Chatting to the barman in the Bull's Head across the road, he told us it's been closed all week :moremad::confused::

Another annoying thing about micros is they might say open at 3pm on their site, you get all the way there and there's a note on the door open at 5pm...rant over

Opening hours are the curse of the micropub! I'm surprised you javen't come unstuck before.
It sounds like Johny is on holiday, he probably smashed the hotel door in with an axe and declared "Here's Johny!".

[Aqualung]

Here's a conundrum....

This place https://twitter.com/bottlesbooks?lang=en opened recently at the bottom of my road as a bottle shop. I've subsequently come back from holiday to now find they serve beer but class themselves as a Tasting Room and have expanded into next door as main room and original shop as storage. So is it a Micropub which I think it may be to an extent but beer is served from taps built into the wall so keg/cask? I'm not sure what it needs to be. After speaking to the owner on the way back from my local and popping in for a 2/3 pint he called it a Tasting Shop.

Whatpub haven't caught up with the changes so may email my contact to let them know of the changes.

https://whatpub.com/pubs/AVN/1220/bottles-books-bristol

So add it, which I think should be, but call it a micropub and annoy Aqualung and Mr & Mrs Real Ale Ray? Although I think the opening times may be consistent as per link above as I was delayed in making my enquires with the owner as he was putting the tables and chairs back inside after we'd had a conversation about underage drinking pre 2000 and how it shaped us as men and trying to boot me out at 9pm...

It's not likely to annoy me as I'm losing the will to live over this subject! I think it's reasonable to say that if they don't have a cask ale then they are not a micropub. It doesn't sound like this one is even claiming to be one. If there's doubt over a venue and they are not claiming to be a micropub then the easy answer is to say it isn't one! How did you cope with the 2/3 glasses?

[bcfczuluarmy]

I was over egging a pudding I think slightly awaiting a response and yours seems very constructive. It serves beer doesn't claim Micropub but some may think it could be one. It's a place open seemingly 9 hours a day, which is longer than the Micropub 100m further up the road from my house.


How did you cope with the 2/3 glasses?

Regarding 2/3 pints my original quest was 1 pint of draught lager/beer where served in 1996 but times are/have changed now in 2018 and any pump which serves wet stuff in a glass needs to be embraced over bottle only which I still won't venture into and purchase a drink from.

A Millennial probably doesn't even know what a pint is anyway so I'm old school carrying my Begbie glass around in hope of finding what really was a pub years ago out of the newer additions.

[Aqualung]

It's a place open seemingly 9 hours a day, which is longer than the Micropub 100m further up the road from my house.



That's the one thing I'm waiting for, a proper reasonably priced micropub to open near me. Apart from SE London (and I'm sure most people that live there would say they are in Kent) micropubs just haven't taken off. I've no idea why that is as there are huge swathes of London suburbia where the only choice is a rubbish barn or if you're lucky a JDW. There seems to be loads of new or old shop premises available.

[london calling]

They don't seem to have caught on in West London either.Only two and they are as if not more expensive as the other pubs.Got caught for £5 a pint for a 4.4 beer brewed on the premises (with mushrooms).Told the owner I would not have bought it if I had realised the price.Clearly marked prices so my fault.

[Aqualung]

They don't seem to have caught on in West London either.Only two and they are as if not more expensive as the other pubs.Got caught for £5 a pint for a 4.4 beer brewed on the premises (with mushrooms).Told the owner I would not have bought it if I had realised the price.Clearly marked prices so my fault.

It should have been magic mushrooms at that price! Over 25 years ago now I did hear of someone who had brewed some magic mushroom wine. It was in Wales (where else?)!!!

[london calling]

It should have been magic mushrooms at that price! Over 25 years ago now I did hear of someone who had brewed some magic mushroom wine. It was in Wales (where else?)!!!
They were magic mushroom for the owner.Increased his profit margin I would imagine.Know a guy who grows then .Think its legal to do so.

[Aqualung]

Know a guy who grows then .Think its legal to do so.

I don't know if it's legal but I do know like any other mushroom they grow in the wild especially in wet places like Wales where it's always raining!

[Mobyduck]

It should have been magic mushrooms at that price! Over 25 years ago now I did hear of someone who had brewed some magic mushroom wine. It was in Wales (where else?)!!!

Tried some magic mushroom tea once, stuck to beer ever since.