The Kings Head, Abergavenney

Must be the equivalent of the town's nightclub and didn't really resemble a pub last night. Did spot Butty Bach on draught but the bar was almost impossible to get to through the throng of local Tony Maneros. The Indian restaurant next door is worth a visit and it was the live music that we could hear whilst eating there that drew us through the internal connecting doors into a scene that I thought had disappeared in the UK by the 1990s. Or maybe I don't get out enough.

27 Jan 2019 18:45

Monkland Arms, Monkland

Probably around 25-30 people in yesterday lunchtime with half of those drinking rather than eating. The Hobsons Best and Swan Neck Oil were both decent rather than excellent; I didn't try the Old Speckled Hen or the offering from Ludlow Brewery (think it was "Gold").

21 Jan 2019 10:09

The Rose and Crown, Ratley

Visiting another pub on our way home or a National Trust property was today's 3pm conundrum - Upton House lost and the Rose & Crown won. Others must have reached the same conclusion as the narrow village lanes were parked full of cars - the locals must love their transient guests. A 17th century coursed ironstone freehouse that was selling Tribute, Purity Mad Goose, Wye Valley Bitter/Butty Bach and Church End Goat's Milk today. Surprised at the range on offer, I tried the last named of these ales and it was worth the slight wait at the tiny bar as the diners paid their Sunday lunch bills.

13 Jan 2019 17:19