A pub is for life not just for Christmas
Turned 41 a couple of weeks ago and somehow managed to get 14 of the family along, for a celebration "back home" in Manchester.
I started at Brewdog for an 11am half, followed by another at Oast House. The crowd started to gather at Gas Lamp, and more at Cask on Liverpool Road.
We went on to The Wharf Castlefield, where we met everyone else for lunch. Ages 4 to 71 were well served.
And so it is The Wharf. Beer - the usual Brunning and Price staple. Cheshire Cat.
An all-too brief visit to Wigan Central. With another trip up north this week, a re-visit is already on the cards
"Breakneck speed we drown ten pints of bitter"
Ewe & Lamb This is a pub that I rarely pass, but have known about for years,and used back in the day.Recently reopened, and ticking over nicely on a mid week lunchtime.
"At that moment I would have given a kingdom, not for champagne or hock and soda, or hot coffee but for a glass of beer" Marquess Curzon of Kedlestone, Viceroy of India.
Against some stiff competition, some of which missing out due to being repeat nominations, POTM goes to the Black Lion, Leighton Buzzard.
From the Merchants and Malt Shovel stable, the Black Lion always has a decent range of beers on, a convivial welcome and is invariably busy with a good atmosphere.
"Beer is food." Morse, Colin Dexter
The Boleyn Tavern
My first visit ,as much heritage as you could wish for and a respectful homage to the departed Hammers.
"Good people drink good beer" Hunter S Thompson
Nine years after my first visit it has to be The Seven Stars , decent beer and good company on the day.
"Everybody's got to believe in something. I believe I'll have another beer."
-W.C.Fields
18 new pub visits this month in Ludlow and the East End, with eight above average:
The Black Lion
The Festival Inn
The George
The Gun
The Queens
The Wheatsheaf Inn
Ye Olde Bull Ring Tavern
POTM goes to The Blue Boar
A long overdue revisit to Sheffield in early November, so my POTM has to be Kelham Island Tavern, fabulous pub, fabulous ale. An absolute gem
'I only drink on two occasions, when I'm thirsty and when I'm not'
Brendan Behan