Lichfield:
Lovely micropub right in the middle of town. We got in on our second attempt; like most micropubs the popularity exceeds the capacity. Great beer, very riendly staff and no music or machines to drown out conversation. About the only problem was having to stand at the bar.
Beverley:
Listed as a micropub but less micro than others, this was a real find. Pleasant bar staff and locals and a great selection of well-kept beer (including a 7.2% IPA that had a bit of a kick…) no music, no TV, no machines, just conversation. Nice looking pie selection too, but we’d just eaten.
Carnforth:
A micropub at Carnforth station, and a fine example too: great beer, conversation, no TV, no music, no gaming machines. Casks stored in a chiller at the back of the room. About the only criticism I could make is tall chairs and tables, but besides that, perfect. Short opening hours: 12-2 lunchtimes, 5-9pm Tues-Sat, 12:30-4:30 Sunday.
Claregate, Wolverhampton:
A lovely micropub in a Wolverhampton suburb. One room inside, but a little more atmosphere than The Turtle’s Head. Great beer, great snacks, friendly locals and staff. Part of our tap house tour, and the tap house for Morton Brewery.
Croft Parade, Aldridge:
There’s a temptation to say this pub stands out 😉
The thing is, it does. Given it is occupying a former hairdresser’s shop in Aldridge’s 1960s shopping centre, you’d have low expectations, and be very, very wrong indeed. It’s lovely. The interior is basic, but clean and tidy, and comfortable. There’s music, but quiet enough to talk over, and the beer is great. There’s pork pies and cobs on offer too, and a very friendly landlord and great prices. It was full too, which has to be a good sign.