6.6 The Number of The Beast.....Flipside "From Russia with Love"

Saturday 4th October.

очень хорошо (Very Good)

Ahh, a weekend off. Working a 4 on, 2 off shift system means I get a Saturday and Sunday off once every 6 weeks. I am not one who lives and dies for weekends, I can enjoy a pint whenever my rest days fall, but the rest of civilisation, without who my games of “Likey, Likey”, (where we try to determine who in the pub looks famous, or infamous, with everyone from Kate Bush to Saddam Hussein has been “spotted”) seem not to be able to function without the weekend break and are somewhat lacking in numbers midweek. Still, we were both off on Saturday, and with The Nottingham Hotel in Cleethorpes staging a Beer Festival over the following two weeks, we knew where we were going to be going. The Notts is a regular in the Good Beer Guide and was voted, by the local CAMRA branch, POTY this year. Situated just off the seafront, at the top of Seaview St in the resort, this popular boozer is far enough away from the “Meggies Strip” so as not to attract too many of the Young Guns and Lager Louts usually found there. Snobs? Probably not, but we do prefer a quiet beer in a busy pub to a loud pint in a rowdy atmosphere as the Stags, Hens and Wannabe Gangsters vie with each other to be the most outrageous. Been there, done that! We jumped on the train from Grimsby and were soon there. After a bit of shopping (Irish Lotto from Betfred bought!!) we were at The Notts. This is one of the few pubs to retain 3 separate rooms in the area, most giving way to “open” plan styles, but a plain, but welcoming, public bar, warming snug and back bar all give there own special feel to the place. The selection of beers was quite good, with 7 or 8 pumps serving different ales on the bar, with most of the rest on the list on tap in the cellar. Started out on Black Hole “Cosmic” a 4.2% amber coloured Ale with a warm malty taste that gives way to a nutty lingering finish. A very rounded taste but not too complex. T'other 'arf went for Franklin's' “Citra” which was a much lighter beer and almost punched you with the citrus flavours and long,dry and hoppy finish. Certainly a contrast for our starters. We sidled from the Public Bar to the Snug and spotted almost the full cast of “Are You Being Served?” from our vantage point as we played “Likey Likey”. Mollie Sugden was a definite doppelgänger. Away from our childish chuckles, we chose our second drinks of the day. Mine was a 7.3% Russian Imperial Stout from the Flipside brewers called “Russian Rouble”. Wow. Dark,fruity and a lasting liquorice aroma made this extraordinarily smooth stout very moreish. I have never had a beer so smooth at this ABV. My half pint tester chose Coach House “Blueberry Bitter” at 5%. What can you say to explain the bleedin' obvious. It was a light hoppy bitter that tasted of …. erm... bluberries. Nice though. Next on the agenda were Castle Rock's “Black Gold” a spicy tasting 3.8% ale with a satisfying malty finish and, Titanic's Wheat Beer styled “Iceberg” for the Lady. Dry,zesty but extremely refreshing, this 4.1% ale certainly hit the mark. To finish our little festival appearance, I chose Exmoor “Beast” and T'other 'arf went for Goose Eye “Chinook Blonde”. As fruity and aromatic as a slab of the richest of fruitcakes, my 6.6% brew was certainly an acquired taste, and the flavour lasted well past the empty glass and seemed to include a cup of coffee too. I enjoyed it, but T'other 'arf's comments cannot be repeated after the initial “ Yaargh” She was quite happy to envelop the dry bitterness of her 4.2% Blonde. Time was ticking, and Young Mr Rumbold had given way to “..that bloke in Storage Hunters..??” when we decided to hit the chippy and head back home. On the way back we popped into JDW's The Coliseum Theatre, which was quite busy, for a quick beer. I had a lovely pint of Marston's 5.7% “Old Empire” whilst Jane had her favourite “Abbot Ale”. I can take or leave Abbot Ale, which always seems to lack a certain something, to me, but, after having the Marston's OE in bottles many times it was nice to taste the cask variety again. Almost IPA in style this Strong Ale has a wonderful spicy aroma followed by a lovely malty finish with a refreshing bitterness.

The Number 1, Cleethorpes Station.

Last stop in Cleethorpes was the No 1 ( the old Refreshment Rooms on the station) We haven't been in here for years. It is totally different from the No 2, also on the station. The No 2 is rather small and quite modern in décor, whereas the No 1 is very expansive and, I would say, a bit more “beaten up”. It also offers 2 separate bar areas, one available for private hire,and a pool table. Both offer a friendly welcome and between them a good selection of beers. Now the beer tasted. Bateman's was the prominent brew here with “XB” and “XXXB” on the pumps,opted for the “XXXB”. This malty, well balanced classic of a Best Bitter always goes down well. With a light, but noticeable, hopped aroma to it, the flavours linger in the mouth long after your initial tasting. We did have a “nudge, nudge” moment in here. “Would you dare to wear a onesie to come out drinking in? “ was whispered in my ear, after an elbow to the ribs detracted my attention from my ale. “Huh? What...........Oh erm...no!” I replied as I saw the young lady in question, looking like she was ready for an early night. “.........and she's got her slippers on.......oh no, don't look now, her mate's wearing something like a dressing gown!!!! and I am sure that's a teddy!”. As I was not looking now, as instructed, I let T'other 'arf describe the scene, vividly and with greater shock and surprise with every sentence. I finished my beer, smiled then pointed to the notice on the wall, proclaiming the Charity Sleep Walk. Nuff said..

Thursday 9th October
Just finished my Earlies so I decided to call in at Morrison's for some refreshment for this evening. After carefully scanning the shelves, I chose these little beauties

6 brown bottles sitting on the wall( ok, not the wall) But which one will fall 1st?

.My tasting notes are as follows:-
1 Wold Top "Headland Red". 4.3 % A rich and malty brew which leaves you with a warm glow. (Shared this one with T'other 'arf, or rather the other way round!)
2 Guinness "West Indies Porter" 6% This bottle, at only £1-50 a chuck, is a most excellent brew. A ressurection beer from The Emerald Isle, the flavour is mellow, with rich chocolate and toffee or maybe a carameled taste dancing in your mouth.What a belter.
3 Guinness "Dublin Porter" 3.8%. A lower ABV than the other beers today, but still undeniably smooth and rich. The caramel taste compliments the smooth malty finish. A good session beer.
4 Marston's "Stout" 4.5% Brewed for Morrison's, this is a lovely, velvety stout goes down very easily. The taste is not so intense as the WI Porter, but is quite similar. It does lack a little in the finish, which seems very short lived.
5 Acorn "Old Moor Stout" 4.4% The label stated the liquorice and chocolate flavours of this brew. I think I got the diet version! Rich, malty and full of the liquorice flavouring as promised, but try as I might, even sharing a few mouthfulls with T'other 'arf, the chocolate hint was just not evident to me (us). Not a bad drink though, far from it, and what it lacked from the label was made up for in that rich liquorice aroma and finish.
6 Greene King "Yardbird" 4% Ah, the last one, another to share, this was supposed to be an American Styled IPA. Heavy on the hops and full of flavour? No. This was a rather thin interpretation of what I have tasted, albeit on cask, and was lacking all round in taste and aroma to those robust US craft ales.

Overall not a bad line up, and I loved the West Indies Porter. Me and T'other 'arf gonna chill now with some Bob Marley on in the background and dream of drinking that porter in the sun, on a far away beach..If the lazy sod will hurry up and  get my LP's down from the loft of course.
Cheers and keep it "Real"

Food Glorious Food.

Monday 29^th September

An afternoon of gentle allotmenteering had been the order of the day. T'other 'arf had thrown herself into clearing away the spent Dwarf French Beans and intertwined weeds whilst the Alpha male, me, chopped and hacked at the raspberry canes, brambles, gooseberry bushes and anything else that would leave me looking like I had a pet tiger with a grudge! What a late summer's day we were experiencing. Temperatures in the high teens and mossies certainly enjoying the warmth and, unfortunately my uncovered legs and arms. Bloodied, bitten and bruised (not to mention the aches and pains in my back and joints) I called a halt to all this enjoyment. Now to manipulate one's hard working, but unscathed and wound-less partner into a trip to the pub. “Oh, Jane, my petal” “What?” “Have you thought about what we are having for Dinner tonight?” “No, not really. What are you thinking of cooking me?” Well.........Do you fancy going to...” “Oh God. I thought you would never ask!!” Sometimes I need not bother with the soft soap approach and just put my foot down with a firm hand (or just do as I'm told if all else fails)

I was on a training course at work the following day, the preparation of winter procedures are clearly on the horizon, so we agreed that we would  only be out for a couple of hours. We decided on having a look at Millfields Hotel in Bargate. We had visited here before a good while ago and, since then, the place had been spruced up and the bar re-branded as Bar 53. On entering, the beer selection was either “Black Sheep Bitter” or Timothy Taylor's “Landlord”, we chose the latter. The barman poured our drinks, and just like Mr Ben's shop-owning friend (the children's TV cartoon character who lives at 57 Festive Road, not the former Labour MP and renouncer of his peerage), disappeared, as if by magic. We decided to sit outside and watch the world scurry by, on their way home from the day's toils. Unfortunately our beer was not at its best, I would suggest it had not settled yet or was the bottom of the barrel and lacked clarity and the crispness associated with this prize winning brew. With disappearing staff, barely drinkable beer and an appetite cheaper than the menu here, we left. Another visit is on the cards to evaluate if we just came on an off day. The Wheatsheaf was next for a swift drink. Just down the road, we were soon at the bar and we were drawn to Adnams' 4.5% Blonde Ale, “Ghost Ship”. We have had this before in its own back yard, Southwold, and I can confirm that it certainly does travel well. The maltiness gives way to an almost pithy citrus finish and I love the fruity aroma that lingers to the end. Next stop was to be to Grimsby's oldest pub, The White Hart. Situated opposite Grimsby Minster (Yes, Minster) the building dates back to the 1750's, which is almost stone-age to this area of historical cleansing, and is now more noted for its first class meals than the bar. It was an O'Neill's pub a few years ago, but is now in private ownership and a Freehouse. They do always carry at least 2 real ales though, Black Sheep and a guest. We chose the guest, Sharp's “Doom Bar”.

The White Hart in Bethlehem St.

No introduction needed here. This beer seems to be everywhere at the moment. I did find the almost caramel taste quite short lived as was the light hopped finish,but, as we were having a meal with it (or it with food!) it made a good accompaniment. The food? Well, as I normally do, I chose the Grimsby Haddock, chips and peas (mushy, of course) whilst T'other 'arf chose the Goulash, with Bread Dumplings from the specials board. Both meals were fabulously tasty, fresh and served by extremely friendly staff. For good food and drink, this is a must visit. Our meals, and two drinks each for less than £25. Bargain. The warmth of summer had now turned to the damp of Autumn, so, we started our squelch home, looking forward to our next little session.

Cheers and keep it “Real”

Summer days drifting away To, uh oh, those summer nights

As we slide into the dark, damp and soulless abyss of Autumn's leafless trees, and the certainty that, however warm the days are, the evenings will persuade you to the contrary, I have found it necessary to wear short sleeves over denim jeans as a matter of course. My arms my not tan in the "Indian Summer" sunshine , but one's knees won't knock in the cooling temperatures of dusk either. With this gradual weather change, our outings have become, well somewhat, sparse.My first week back at work were enjoyed by easing into a bottle or two of my remaining homebrew, topped with the odd glass of Lidl's vino. Catch-up TV was caught up with and, to be honest, I did have quite a boring and sanity filled week. We did venture out after an early afternoon swimming, or rather resembling dumplings in a very thin stew, at Scartho Baths. All that exercise meant a replenishment of strength juice of sorts somewhere along the line!! We decided to pop to The Yarborough for a quick tea-time tipple, before settling down at home for the usual pee-poor Late Summer/Early Autumn televisual offerings and repeats.
We started this mini session with a pint of Rooster's "Yankee", a Pale Ale of 4.3% and a worthy starter. Dry, crisp and a bitter aftertaste defy you not to like this beer, and We certainly enjoyed it.

This was swiftly followed by the curiously strong "Mermaid Red Ale" from the US Coronado

brewery, in conjunction with Wadworth's. A 5.7% Amber Ale, this beer displayed a very malty taste which was complimented by a fruitiness with a caramel kick, finishing with a hint of hops. I would have liked another to help decide if I liked it or was just intrigued by it's complexity but, as work beckoned the following day for both of us, a re-test would have to wait. T'other 'arf's opinion? "S'alright". Thank you to the Beertasters' female equivalent of Simon Cowell's judgemental utterances. With the wonderful early evening sun giving way, well, yielding easily, to the dampening spectre of Autumnal drizzle, we vacated our cosiness and made our way to The Parity. This being a Wednesday, it was very quite in here, in fact dead. I do feel for these pubs who try to offer what the public wants (food, football, music and real ale along with friendly bar staff in a trouble free environment covers most of what people I know crave for in a pub) only to be found empty at certain times. The pressures of Government taxing and beer levies certainly doesn't help OUR Locals either, and I sense more and more pubs, clubs and drinking establishments falling by the wayside unless changes are made, demanded by us, Joe Public. Rant over.We just had one each in

here, the fantastically tasty Oldershaw's "Old Boy" and a half of Tom Woods' "Harvest Bitter"  My beer was a 4.8% Premium Ale, with a lovely maltiness and a quite nutty aroma. The "Harvest Bitter" was smooth and flavoursome, with a piquant of florality to this 4.3% staple of TW's seasonal brewing programme.Drinks finished, and drizzle descending, we made our soggy way home. " Is this drizzle or Indian Showers?" I offered on the walk home. "What's Indian Showers?" came the reply. " Apache (A-patchy??!!) Rain" was the response. Tee Hee.

Saturday 28th September

A long planned, altered, re-planned and finally executed afternoon out with Dave from work was to occur today. We had both been on the early shift and arranged to meet in The Parity at 2pm. After arriving home to T'other 'arf and our Granddaughter, Grace, I reclined in my hot relaxing bath, feeling almost cocooned in its soothing salts and bubbles, in the certain knowledge that Dave would be lugging buckets of water up and down stairs as his boiler was on the blink. Almost a Hamlet moment.Suitably attired and clod, I was away to town, and before long, nestled outside in the warm, but noticeably weaker sun.I had chosen "The Rev James" one of Brains' brews, which I have reviewed before and a fizzy apple juice called Strongbow for the immanent arrival of Dave. My beer was as it should be, dark, smooth and full of flavour. As it was the Merseyside Derby, and with N.E.Lincs filled with so many Premier supporters (and it is a shame I am not talking about the "other" Premier.....yes, the Vanarama Conference Premier) the pub was quite full, so an outside perch was most welcome. On Dave's arrival, we supped up and decided to move on to The Yarborough. It was
fairly busy with shoppers in here, but far from full as we sidled up to the bar. Dave's eyes lit up with the 7.4% "Old Rosie" cider, whilst I gladly accepted a pint of Jenning's "Blazing Saddles", a 4% Golden Ale from this popular Cumbrian brewery. A lovely citrus taste accompanies the bitterness of this brew with a slight sweetness to help balance it.Dave stayed with his cider, whilst I let my hair down to Wychwood's Status Quo backed "Piledriver".4.3% and a very malty tasting Amber Ale. Not a head banging brew, but nonetheless, quite satisfying. After this I chose, and stayed on Springhead's "Roaring Meg" This beer has a honey sweetness to it, accompanying a bitter, citrus taste that makes it so refreshing. 5.5% and one of the best Golden Ales around. As the afternoon turned to early evening, we were joined by T'other 'arf and after Dave's unique brand of humour had now started to surface, insult and immediately found the nearest gutter, we decided that food was to be sought and homes headed for.
(Now, I have heard this saying many times. ".....as soon as the air hit me.." I can assure you all that the air does hit you most of the time. It is what air does. It moves whether it is on the gossamer breath of the lightest summer breeze or in the cold icy blasts of a winter storm.When the air hits you, it doesn't make you leglessly drunk. YOU did that bit.) After several 7.4% ciders, on leaving the sanctuary of the "airless" hostelry of choice, it was alledged that some stray bit of air chased relentlessly after Dave, cornering him near the taxi rank, and unceremoniously assaulting the poor man.He did not stand a chance. Even the kebabs we purchased failed to protect him from the criminality of the air.Alledgedly. We walked and lurched our way to the subway, thinking this would be were our ways parted and, with Dave leading the way T'other 'arf mentioned we may have to see him home. "Nah, he's alright" said I. We then watched as Dave negotiated the gradual slope like Bambi on ice mixed with a touch of a penguin in a head wind. "Yeah, we better see he gets home ok" I declared.We were soon in view of Dave's abode and we were duly invited in very insistantly for a drink.We agreed and were soon served with a glass of wine. An apology to Jackie, Dave's wife. Sorry we spoiled the X factor and the peace.We drank up, realised our host was almost asleep and bade farewell. Those early starts do get you in the end.
Cheers and keep it "Real"

Take Me Home Country Roads

Friday 5/9/14

On our arrival back in NE Lincs from them there Southern climes, we felt that, after a short period of re-acclimatisation, Northern beers needed taking back on board. With this in mind, on Friday Evening, T'other 'arf and I found ourselves on the Waterfront in Grimsby, staring, nay, salivating at The Ice Barque. This enigmatic watering hole never fails to amaze me. Either the “clientèle” is loud, offensive and colourful, or the atmosphere is as relaxed as a Horlicks addicts' pyjama party. This evening, the latter applied. The only beer to really grab our eyes was “Kalamazoo Amber Ale” from the Bell's Brewers Inc. in the US.

This 5.8% brew was produced in conjunction with Wadworth's in Devizes and Bell's John Mallett, and came across as sweet and biscuity, with very little hopiness. Not an unpleasant beer, despite a strong, almost fruity taste, but a style that needs some getting used to. Before the snoring started, we left and headed to The Friary in Victoria Street. The beer here can be “hit and miss”, but the welcome is generally warm and friendly. The choices are also somewhat limited. Greene King IPA or Well's “Bombardier” the usual offerings. This visit we had just one, the “Bombardier”, to pick from. I am quite indifferent about this beer. It is malty, with an underlying caramel taste and, although not a favourite, I have had a few nights in the past solely on this brew. This pint was as average as most pints of this are. Our drinks finished, we headed out the back door,across the road to The Yarborough Hotel. Aha, this is where everyone is hiding on this fine evening. A good range of beers was on display at both bars, and we plumped for a pint of Summerskill's “Ninja Beer” a light coloured 5% Premium Bitter, and a half of Wharfe Bank's “Rye Stone Cowboy” an Amber Ale of the same strength. Mine was clean tasting with a pronounced fruity bitterness in the finish, whilst the half was similar but with a spiciness to the taste. We then had “Celt Native Storm” from Wales' Celtic Experience Brewery, a dry tasting ESB with a 4.4% ABV and a spicy/biscuity finish, while T'other 'arf went for Otter Brewery's Otter Ale a fruity and malty 4.5% Premium Ale. We finished off in JDW's with a pint of Backyard's “Hellbound”( an Old Ale of 5.4% which reminded me off a thick slice of fruit cake, in a glass. Not very aromatic but a big gob-full of flavours) and a half each of Cameron's “Strong Arm”, an old favourite which,sadly, died in the glass, and Burton Bridge “Battle Brew”. The latter is a bitter tasting Pale Ale, packed with hops, and ,at 5%, certainly not a session beer. Time was, unfortunately, ticking and we left to hunt down a bag of chips for our return home. A typical beery night out in Grimsby complete. Enjoyable? Well, to be honest, just comfortable, and probably predictable.

Saturday 6/9/14

Today, we had our Grandson for a few hours. As usual, swimming was on the agenda. I decided to go down my allotment whilst T'other 'arf did the dutiful stuff ,the first time I have visited the plot for 8 days. Shame on me!! I have a few fruit trees on the plot. Although quite new, only 3 years in the ground, my pear tree has produced very well this season. When we left, there was a good 20 almost ripe pears dangling from the laden branches. My growing season has been somewhat poor this year, due to flooding and unpredictability of the weather, so we were looking forward to our pear harvest, those sweet, juicy fruits. Arriving at the plot, I hastened to the top, near the shed, to check on the progress...............only to find ALL apart from one were were missing from the branches. Oh dear. They must have dropped off whilst we were away. As I approached the tree, I was expecting to gather a few bruised fruits at the bottom, on the ground. Not one in sight. We had been robbed. Yes. Fruit rustlers. How pee-ed off was I ? With plenty of fruit trees full, and within arms length, down on our allotment site, to single out ours was, I believe, particularly despicable. Oh well, I hope our little pear tree produces fruit as plentiful next year, and I hope this years fruit was full of bugs and insects.

Feeling fed up, after swimming and dropping off of our charge, we found ourselves in The Parity.

Anonimity assured !

On offer were a couple of Brains' beers, the ever popular “Rev James” and the Dylan Thomas inspired “Organ Morgan”. A thirst quencher of a Golden Ale, at 4%, this subtly citrus beer has a good aroma and clean taste. We stayed with this brew for the duration. On remarking about the beer's name and its origin, I was surprised to find that the young lady who served me had not even heard of Mr Thomas!! “He was one of our (British) most famous writers and poets” I offered. “Nah, never heard of him” Again I offered some clarity “ Have you heard of “Under Milk Wood” or “And Death Shall Have No Dominion” ?” “Nope” “You can Google his name if you want” I conceeded. “Did he play rugby or something?” I left with my glass to the brim with goodness, and sat, cogitating on the fact that the literature taught in modern English probably ain't wot it oughta be, innit! I wonder when the X-Factor inspired beers will appear.

Saturday 13/9/14

Work on Monday. Just over two weeks of annual leave were coming to an end.The last 3 days, I had been reduced to my knees, grazed and bloodied, with hands in a similar state, laying a patio at home. This had also allowed my troublesome achiles to flare up yet again. Now, it was time to ease my aches and pains with the last ales of my holiday. T'other 'arf and I started out at The Parity, and were not surprised that Dylan Thomas was still quite anonymous, and his “Organ Morgan” may gone, but it had been replaced by the equally light and refreshing “Heavenly Blonde”. A zesty fruitiness complements the dry, crisp finish of this 3.8% Golden Ale from Oldershaw's. There were a few in here catching the football on Sky but the atmosphere was very low key. After a couple of these refreshing ales on board, we bade farewell and left the dejected Liverpool fans to water down their beer with tears (Villa were 1-0 up). The other day, I had noticed The Ice Barque had a beer “available soon” that I was anxious to taste. As we entered, its pump clip seemed to shine out, like a beacon, drawing us ever closer to its expectant pleasures. Another American craft beer, brewed exclusively for Wetherspoon's at the Caledonian Brewery, Barley Brown's “Black I.P.A.” at 5.2% poured

A lovely dark brew
from the USA.

beautifully in the glass. The taste was, at first, quite ordinary, but then, the complexity of its flavours and depth of the aroma hits home. Smoothness gives way to a wonderful hoppy bitterness in the finish. A beer well worth waiting for. I forced another down, gratefully, and we wandered the little way up to JDW's other pub, The Yarborough. In here, I opted for Naylor's “Old Ale”. A strong , 6.2% full bodied ale, with a long fruity finish. Nice, but not special. The half was Goff's “Jouster” A much lighter, tawny coloured ale with a well balanced maltiness and bitterness. The hops gave it a fresh after-taste. 4% ABV. To finish, I went for Hawkshead “Red Ale” , a 4.6% Premium ale. I found the flavour good, but also a little sweet and overpowering. The round was completed by “Terrapin Red”, a slightly stronger ale at 5.3%. This has a rather biscuity aroma and a citrus flavour which leads to a satisfying spiced rye finish.The balance seemed spot on, and it was pleasing to finish on an ale like this.

Where and when next, I cannot say. With Summer now at an end and the darker nights now enveloping us, gradually, the draw of the closed curtains, and the warmth within, may be stronger than the gravitational pull felt by the local hostelries. There will be breaks in it, that I am sure, but maybe not so frequent. Until the next time, Cheers and keep it “Real”

A Canterbury tale.......via Broadstairs and Westwood Cross.

After a quiet morning, a couple of Daily Mail cryptic crosswords and endless cups of coffee, we popped onto the Thanet Loop bus (an excellent service which can be used for the purpose of damn good pub crawls around the area.) for the 15 minute trip to nearby Broadstairs. Famous for being the place that Charles Dickens holidayed in and based the novel "Bleak House" on, as well as "Morning Cloud" Skipper and former PM, Edward Heath's birthplace (among other numerous notables) this is a very old style resort, steeped in history. On the way to the seafront, we stopped at the Chapel Pub in Albion Street, the sister pub of Margate's Lifeboat. This little micropub has been created in an old bookshop and still hosts many traits of its past including the mustiness particular with these establishments. We chose the Hopdaemon "Incubus" a 4% copper coloured bitter which was smooth and malty. Again, all beers are straight from the barrel in here, a sight I wish we had back home. We took the early afternoon air along the promenade and onto the pier before heading for an ice-cream in the drizzle. Then the stroll back,taking in the deli's and cakeshops, in search of Gypsy Tart. No, not one of those ladies one bumps into down Freemo (Freeman St in GY) on payday...allegedly, but the very sweet,sickly favourite of Kent's school dinners (so I am told). I experienced this once before when "T'other 'arf" baked one at home. That must be at least 4 years since and I can still detect the cloying sweetness on the back of my teeth. I managed to steer the tart hunter towards another "must visit" inn on my mental list and soon we were admiring the vast display of beers behind the bar in The Thirty-Nine Steps.

A small selection of beer pump clips
at the Thirty-Nine Steps

The name comes from the John Buchan novel. The steps are supposed to be those still there at North Foreland and this tale of espionage has been lapped up by many through a few film varients (Kenneth Moore's was my favourite), stage plays,TV series et al.The beer?? Well, straight from the barrel and perfectly served. I understand that this micropub features beers from a particuler brewery en-bloc which, I believe, is a good way to get a full taste of the different varients in ales from each area. York's Rudgate Brewery beers were well in evidence here with 7 of their brews on tap.I chose the "Chocolate Stout" whilst a half of "Jorvik Blonde" was also quaffed.Mine was smooth, full bodied and very flavoursome, with a wonderful chocolate finish and was very moreish, and, I am told, the lighter beer had a lovely freshness to the taste with a bitter finish( still training T'other 'arf's tastebuds, but were are getting there!) It was a shame to have to go after just one, but we had arranged to have a meal out that evening.Leaving, we admired the 800+ pump clips from over 500 breweries to have been presented at this gem of a pub since opening a mere 2 years ago.And so that was that for this tour of Broadstairs.We never managed the welcome in The Tartar Frigate, the view from The Charles Dickens or the relaxing atmosphere of The Dolphin as we have in the past, but these guilty pleasures are to come. That evening we went out collectively for a meal.We first tried the Toby Carvery at Westwood Cross but an hour for a table on a Monday night?? We set off back towards the coast and ended up at The David Copperfield, a Harvester pub. The meal was adequate, and drinks (including my coke!) ok but the company present,relaxing and most welcome. Tomorrow is Canterbury.

Canterbury.

One thing about Kent is evident. The public transport system is great. We boarded the number 8,"The Breeze" service from the Thanet coast to Kent's capital, and within 50 minutes we had arrived. After a bit of window shopping and trying to find an ankle support for my troublesome leg,we settled down in The City Arms, Butchery Lane. After a fire in 2001, this alehouse re-opened in 2004 and is a showcase for Canterbury Brewery's beer and local ciders. I had a pint of the very aromatic "Little Red Rye" 4.5%, whilst a half of Henderson's "Toffee Apple Cider" ,a 6% delight, was also taken. A busy pub and a pure gem with knowledgeable staff and a friendly feel.After this,we popped around the corner to The Old Buttermarket. A pretentious looking pub and bland tasting ale was my summing up once we had struggled to finish a pint of Nicholson's "Pale" at 4% and half of the 4.4% Woodfordes' "Norfolk Hawker". Both lacked that fresh taste of a good conditioned beer.A disappointment.In the meantime we had received an expected phone call from "T'other 'arf's" brother and sister-in -law  Andrew and Jayne , who, along  with Tom their son,would be meeting us for a few.Did we know where The Parrot pub was? Of course we did. The Beermonster had sniffed this one out on a previous visit. Canterbury's oldest pub was soon on the horizon and we were presently sat in the comfortable beer garden enjoying various measures of  Shepherd Neames "Whitstable Bay Pale ale" , 3.9%  and "Spitfire"at 4.2% along with the 4.8% "Samuel Adams Boston Lager" brewed under licence by the same brewers. These went down well and we accompanied these with some rather filling posh sarnies from the lunch menu. We decided to walk round to The Foundry Brew Pub in White Horse Lane,

The bar at The Foundry.

home of The Canterbury Brewery. A full collection of therir wares were on display and during our visit we tried sampled the Amber ale "Torpedo" 4.5%, "Street Light Porter" an excellent dark beer of 5.8%, ,the Golden Ale,"Foundry Man's Gold" 4% 5.6% "Red Rye", "Topaz", "Hop Doctor" and, somehow I managed to down two pints of the 7.4% and very smooth drinking "Revenge". For such a strong  set of beers, these are all very enjoyable on the tastebuds and all go down a little too easily. This is the perfect showcase for these ales and I will never tire of visiting The Foundry. We left late in the afternoon to visit, if memory serves me right,The Bell & Crown in Palace St. Here I had, according to my notes Wantsum "Red Raddle" a 5% Summer Ale , and the same strength Old Dairy brew "Gold Top".My notes suggest one of our company,at least, chose the Old Fountains' brew of "Whitstable EIPA" a +4% IPA. My memories at this point are somewhat sketchy and with my achilles throbbing like Billy-o, my capacity of alcohol almost exceeded, we should have popped on the bus back to Margate. We should have,I know but with such great company, we went back to Fordwich and The George and Dragon where we met up with the final family member, Ellie.I have been to

The George & Dragon,Fordwich.
If memory serves me right !!!

The George a few times, and a lovely family pub it is. It always carries a good range of local ales, and one can struggle to leave the welcoming atmosphere here. After quite a while and a few more beers (can't remember exactly which but I do remember a lovely Porter), we went back,or struggled back, to our hosts' for an improvised supper of pizza,chips etc. as the Chinese Take-Away was shut. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and, as we set out for the last bus back, we felt absolutely shattered. With the motion of the bus, a loving and long suffering partner to rest my weary head on,& enough booze in my bloodstream to float the QE2,I was soon embarrassingly snooring my way back to Thanet. Ooops.The next day we had planned a crawl on The Loop. I was aware, as we entered Margate at 00-10, this may not happen!!

Ramsgate

On Wednesday, we had a run out in the car to Ramsgate, only a couple or so miles away. As expected, we did not partake of the liquids but, on first appearances, it certainly has much to offer the connoisseur of ales. We had a lovely "Whippy" ice-cream by the harbour,a wonderful area with so much maritime history abounding it, and watched the people go by.The range of real ale pubs around the harbour area was many and varied. We promised ourselves an afternoon in this historical resort next time we visit, but our time in Thanet was coming to an end.It is nice to leave a couple of places on ones "list" to re-visit in the future. All that Shepherd's Neame, Gadd's and the rest of the Kentish brewers' wares, would have to wait. The next day, we were heading back to North East Lincolnshire. 

We left Kent, and Tony to a bit of peace and quiet, just before 09-45, gypsy tart safely stowed for the long journey home. We made good time, and, after a 15 minute stop for fuel near Peterborough, arrived back home around 2pm.Another trip over,and another tasting session ! Roll on the next one.

Cheers and keep it "Real"

Wherefore art thou!

Sunday.

Birds singing, 

Sun shining like an Inca god's jewelled adornments

Giggsy, Tony's cat (Yes, another “Sarf East Man Utd fan!!), farting and sprawling in the garden. Time for a walk into town. We scrubbed up, dressed and, by 2pm we were on the right Northdown Rd heading towards the Seafront.

Spencer Finch's cloud thingy. I got this.
But the rest...????

We decided to give the Turner Centre a coat of looking at. Now, I know I am not an expert, but I do appreciate art. I used to be a keen photographer, and I can hold a pencil but, what is this modern stuff about. Some pieces are very clever and thought provoking, others........I won't comment because I just fail to grasp what they are about. Good job it was free. With our minds expanded, we wandered back down to the Harbour Arms and whilst Jane enjoyed another “Gold Digger” I sampled a Burton Bridge “Porter” an extremely dark, but not black pint at 4.5%. A good tasting beer but I was not sure that the Southern style of serving it, headless, or dropping it from the barrel, fully complemented this beer. I wasn't disappointed by it, but having tasted it in the Midlands before, it did lack just a little something. Just a little aside here. Margate on this particular Sunday had a live artist at the Lighthouse bar, whilst outside the “cafe” area on the seafront, several acts performed live throughout the day. It made it busy and pleasant. Free live entertainment fetches in the people who stay and enjoy it AND the other facilities. Maybe other resorts need too take that on board. We headed next, after a lovely toasted

panini in the ever popular Huckleberry's cafe, to Barnacles, overlooking the Harbour. This pleasant boozer seemed to be a good locals' meeting place and was quite busy. The beer we chose was Adnams' “Fat Sprat” as the only other cask was from Courage, and I am not a fan. Personal taste I know, but I have heard stated before that “you need courage to drink Courage”. Our beer was light in colour, but tasted superb and was really refreshing, commanding a long hoppy finish. At 3.8% it would be a good summer session beer. We finished our drinks and then wandered (or in my case,winced and hobbled on a rather sore Achilles) our wary way home. Another wonderful day in Thanet.
Cheers and keep it "Real"

We're going down to Margate .

The trip to visit T'other 'arf's spiritual home and birthplace,Kent, was on. We were staying with Jane's dad, in Margate, while we were here, and visiting relatives, so best behaviour expected. As if I know any other way of behaving.

The promised early departure failed to happen. The 06-00 start ended up 08-10 !!Never mind. At least the weather was set fine and we only had 250+ miles to journey. I usually travel via the A46/A1/ route, but, with time on our hands, we decided on the A16/A17 route down to Peterborough before joining the A1. Although we probably didn't save much time in reality, it did seem quicker somehow, and more pleasant. After a rather uneventful journey we approached the outskirts of Margate, the birthplace of Buster Bloodvessel (Douglas Trendle), Ballard Berkeley of “Fawlty Towers” fame (The Major) and actor Peter Barkworth, then, customarily, we got, well not lost, more misplaced!!We hove to 5 hours after leaving, which wasn't too bad if you are not suffering with Achilles Tendonosis. Ouch. Thank you painkillers.

What is it? Not seen at home in years!

After dropping off our bag and presenting “The Ol' Man” (Tony) with his trophy of Lincolnshire's finest Haslet, Pork Pie and Plum Bread ( all sadly lacking in our homestead,I might add. Even after regular protestations and much begging by the Author!!!!) we walked the 100 yards or so to “The Wheatsheaf” on Northdown Park Road. A Hungry Horse eatery, this was definitely a “locals” boozer which, sadly, was reflected in the service. Whilst we waited for our “Old Speckled Hen” and “Greene King IPA”, one of said locals just walked up, tapped his glass on the bar and was served his lager straight away. As I mentioned earlier, Douglas Trendle used to frequent the area. His band anyone??? The beer was no more than OK and although welcome, not outstanding in anyway, so we left and rallied the troops, in the form of Tony's stepson and wife, Darren and Wendy.We arranged to tour the seafront and Old Town area, a place I have wandered round before.

We arrived at the “Turner Contemporary” and first, ventured down the Harbour arm.At the bottom was the “Lighthouse Bar” a very nice establishment, but no real ale, just “posh” bottled beers. I had already espied the “Harbour Arms” micropub on our walk past, so we encamped back to there. Wow! What a boozer. All

Says it all,really.
 Margate's Harbour Arms
on the harbour arm at Margate

beers straight from the barrel. All £3 a pint. “Get in there, my son” I thought. This refurbished fishermens store is wonderful. Nothing flash. No toilets (public lavs next door) but the ale sold it.I started on Cumberland Breweries “Corby Noir” an Irish style Stout at 4.5%. I was joined in the round by halves of “Raspberry Twist” cider, 4% and “Gold Digger” from Northumberland also weighing in at 4%.Wendy, our “des”, was on soft drinks for the evening I finished off in here with a beer from Lancashire's Old School Brewery, “Textbook”, a pale bitter and only 3.8%. A repeat perscription, with an increased dosage on the cider,was the rest of the order.This is a must visit pub. I will be visiting again soon.

The Lifeboat micropub.

After these, we made our way to a favourite place of mine,The Lifeboat, in Market St. Another straight from the barrel micropub, serving good beer. We chose Wantsum's “Dynamo”, 4.6% and quite fruity tasting Golden Ale, Hook Norton's 5.3% "Flagship" Pale Ale and Gadd's 3.8% "FestivAle", another quite fruity pale beer.All enjoyed immensely and hats off to these little micropubs and their understanding of what "serious" drinkers want.

T'other 'arf and I stayed in town for one more, and headed for Margate's oldest pub, The Northern Belle. We were quite surprised at the lack of people in this once popular inn. A place that has a good range of Shepherd Neame beers on should attract a few more followers. Anyway, we opted for the "Brilliant Ale" a 4% beer that was a brilliant ale to look at and taste.We certainly enjoyed the atmosphere in all the pubs visited in the "tourist" area, and I am sure that this area has the potential to pull in ale drinkers from far and wide with the offerings we experienced. Well, now the walk back, kebab in hand. Nothing can go wrong. A word to the wise. Northdown Road and Northdown Park Road are different roads.They sort of go the same way but end in differing areas. Get them wrong and it's microwaved kebab time. "DING" Oh dear!!
Cheers and keep it "Real"

The Northern Lights (and "Heavies")

Inveralmond's
"Stone of Destiny"

The prelude to our Kent excursion was spent in Good 'ol GY by the sea!!.T'other 'arf was preening herself and having the old Barnet trimmed(Cockney/Kentish rhyming slang: Barnet Fair = hair) so off I popped to sample Northern beer for the last time for a week. I try not to be predictable but' as this was just a quick taster before the journey “Darn Sarf”, I entered The Parity. This week the offerings were Tom Woods' “Harvest Bitter” or Brains' “The Reverend James”. I decided on the “Harvest” and it was thoroughly enjoyable.As this was a Friday night, there were a few more “patrons” in. Although a good atmosphere was in flow, I chose to give The Yarborough a look and wandered across. I started here on Inveralmond “Lia Fail”.I am reliably informed this means "Stone of Destiny" in Gaelic. I would describe this wonderfully aromatic beer as a “heavy” and the flavour was full and satisfying.I followed this with a beer I sampled many years ago. Elgood's “Cambridge Bitter”. An old fashioned tasting bitter, this ale transports you back to smokey rooms and wooden floors covered in sawdust.This beer has a rather dry and long finish and was as good as it was when I first experienced it. To finish the night I decided on Tom Woods' wonderfully dark “Bomber County”. This is always a good ale to finish on and, like a fine port, always leaves you with a warming glow. With an early start the following day, I was soon on my merry way home. Next port of call? Margate. The Jewel of Thanet.
Cheers and keep it "Real"

An afternoon by the Seaside.

With an upcoming trip to Kent on the horizon, it was decided some acclimatisation to the rarefied air of the South was sought. So, after a bit of deliberating, we set off to Grimsby Town railway station to start our southern fact-finding expedition. On the way, we popped in The Parity. Another pint of Springhead's "Leveller" was sampled along with half of Tom Woods "Lincoln Gold", a 4% pale bitter. Again, this busy, sports orientated boozer came up trumps and both drinks were eagerly enjoyed.Glasses emptied, off we went to the station. Tickets in hand. Destination?? Cleethorpes! Ok, I know it ain't that far south but it is a heady 3 miles further south than Grimsby town centre, and only £2-30 return each on the choo choo. T'other 'arf was at work the following day,so this was to be a small session.We started off in The Coliseum Picture House. I opted for the award winning "Pale Rider" from Kelham Island, whilst my lovely assistant went for Adnams' "Broadside". The place was heaving mostly due to it being Bank Holiday weekend. Our beers were eventually drawn, and a perch found.It is strange how these places, with no juke boxes or loud television sets blaring out, generate such noise.The art of conversation may not be dead..........even if people are just talking about the latest app or that text/facebook message from someone or other!
Within 30 minutes of our arrival,most of the beers on the bar had changed.T'other 'arf stayed with "Broadside" while I chose Tom Woods "Melton Mild". This, I was told  "wasn't on yet" "Lincoln Gold? " I enquired. "No, not yet" I therefore ended up with TW's 3.8% "Best Bitter" I can assure you this wasn't "on" yet either. Slightly clouded,a speedily dying head and no freshness to the taste.Not being bothered to queue up again, I forced about half of my pint down and we left. These seaside drinking establishments  MUST watch their beer quality because the winter months only bring locals out to play and we are very discerning.Our next port of call was "The Nottingham" in Sea View Street. Local CAMRA pub of the year 2014, this is an absolute gem of a pub.Very busy on Saturday nights, we squeezed inside and ordered our drinks

"Probably the best porter I have tasted!"

.We both had a dark vanilla porter by Box Steam Brewery called "Funnel Blower" A new one for me, this 4.5% brew was, probably, the best pint of porter I have tasted in quite a while. I was very surprised my half pinter enjoyed it too,as she isn't a lover of this beer style. The taste and aroma were full but not overpowering, and there was a creaminess to the long finish.We would have stayed longer but,alas, the train beckoned.Grabbing some excellent chips on the way, we set off back to the station for the 19-26 back to GY.With 25 minutes to spare,we popped into the No 2 Refreshment Room (or Under The Clock as it is also called.) Another regular in the Good Beer Guide and previous POTY, this tighly spaced little boozer always has a good selection of ales on.York Brewery's 3.6% Golden ale "Guzzler" was the half pint of choice, and I arrowed in on another Golden ale, Phoenix Brewery's "Sticky Wicket" at 4.7%. My pint had a faint fruitiness to it.whuch, I admit, was not unpleasant. Quite the opposite in fact.The "Guzzler" was clean tasting and very refreshing. Finishing our drinks, we trotted the 30 yards or so to our waiting train, and 10 minutes later, we were "Back up t'North" in The Yarborough.Our "ones for the road" were the 5% "Stormstay" from Hanlon's, a good flavoursome Premium Ale,which tasted rather like an American IPA styled beer to me, and "Vengeance". This brew was from the Nelson Brewery in Kent.A 4.8% Premium bitter,this had a subtle sweetness to it. With a trip to Kent upcoming, a Southern expedition to Cleethorpes (3 miles away!) completed, how very apt to finish with a Kentish Ale.
Cheers and keep it "Real"

Summertime Blues

After the truly awful weather that August has thrown at us, and beginning to suffer from "cabin fever" having been either at work or stuck at home, looking out on the effects of Hurricane Bertha, we decided to see if the world was still revolving around Grimsby's wonderful night scene.......even if it was a Sunday!!The first disappointment was the fact that, although still Summertime, my shorts were to be ignored and jeans worn. God, I really do not like the days of change from shorts to jeans. It makes one realise that Autumn is not too far away.I shall try to brave it out for a few more weeks though.

The Hope and Anchor

First stop was The Parity.This being week 1 of the Premier League, the remnants of the live match were still present in various states of sobriety. This never seems to be a problem in here, and within 30 minutes of the end of the game,the place was quite empty. We decided on "The Leveller" at 4.8% and a half of "Robin Hood" bitter(4%) for the lady. Both were from the Nottingham brewers "Springhead" and both enjoyed immensely.The Leveller is a smooth,dark brew and, when served right, an excellent year round ale.After finishing our drinks,we headed over to JDW's The Ice Barque, at the Riverhead. There was a very disappointing selection of ales when we arrived and I opted for Sharp's "Doom Bar" at 4%. Unfortunately it was in poor condition and had to be replaced for a pint of Marston's "Pedigree" which also was not it's usual condition.It fell flat quickly and lacked taste.The half of Abbot didn't seem to have much life either. I gave up,leaving a good measure in the glass we decided to give this establishment a wide berth for a while.Now to a pub we haven't visited for ages. The Hope and Anchor in Victoria Street. A single roomed pub,just off the main shopping area,this used to be a busy little boozer,but,as managers came and went,clientele changed and it began to lack an identity.It used to have a quiet little snug years ago.I once enjoyed a couple of pints in this little room,late one evening. As people bade their farewells, I just chilled out.Now all alone in the bar, I was suddenly thrown into darkness as the staff, assuming everyone had left, turned off the lights and readied the pub for closing.I not sure who was the more surprised, me from the indignity of finding myself in the darkness or the barmaid who suddenly became aware that something was stirring in the gloom!!Back to the present. Although only a few people in, one ,Big Gaz,has always found time to "have a yarn" with us and we enjoyed our visit back here.The only ale on was Well's "Bombardier". Another beer that when served well is a bloody good pint.This was a bloody good un. Next stop was The Yarborough.Here we had Robinson's "Trooper". A beer developed with Bruce Dickinson, of Iron Maiden fame and a real ale enthusiast, amongst other things.A good Premium bitter with quite a citrus subtleness to the finish.Very nice.T'other Arf went for Adnams' "Broadside",another favourite of ours.We finished off the evening with a pint of " SA Gold" from Brains' brewery and 1/2 of "Summer Valley" from the Caledonian stable. Both Golden ales,both over 4% and both very enjoyable. Next was to face the cool,unseasonal breeze on our stagger home, and to allow our thoughts to drift away to a warmer place, where shorts are most definitely required.
Cheers and keep it "real"

Back to Life. Back to Reality

It's Friday, I'm Knackered, and we are home.

After a nightmare drive home from Norfolk, a drive of about 3 hours normally but because of those lovely ongoing roadworks at King's Lynn,2 toilet stops and a drop-off in the sticks, we took over 4 and a half hours to reach home.First job? Crack one of my bottles of Home Brew open. Unfortunately,in our absence, the warm weather had had a slight effect on my "Wilko Pilsner Lager". After cleaning up the puddle, removing the glass shards imbedded in the outside of the fridge and opening a couple of bottles outside, I managed a 1/2 pint of this amber dynamite.Sod it. Bath (much missed whilst away).Dressed.Pub.

We were out by 6-30pm and approaching the Parity.We opted for Oldershaw's "Barkston's Bitter" for our refreshment. A smooth tasting bitter,and ,at 3.6%, a good session beer. Although "Caskade" ,from the same brewery, was also on tap, we stayed with our original choice. Try the window seats in this pub if possible on "going out" nights. The sights can be quite , erm, how shall I put it,surprising? Funny?Scary? Diplomatically, I would suggest the word interesting. Hens,Stags, those young and not so young.Those who should know better,those that obviously don't. A good snapshot of most Towns at a weekend.I'm sure I didn't go out like that ............Aaah, besides that time......nevermind. A couple of tipples later and we were on our weary way across to The Yarborough Hotel. A bit quieter than most Friday nights in here but still a few "interesting" people coming and going. As always, a good selection on the bar. I started with "King of the Rocket Men" from Kelham Island's brewery. A Pale Ale of 4.5%, this was a refreshing drink with a good bitter-sweet aftertaste. Very nice.T'other arf chose Loddon "Bamboozle" 4.8% Another Pale Ale,this one was a lot crisper in the finish. Both were enjoyed immensely.After these we went for Mallets "Kalamazoo"  an American style IPA which was typically aromatic, as this style always is, with a surprisingly dry finish and, I think, around 5%, and Grafton's "Lady Mary. This Golden Ale also came in at 5% an had a very fruity aroma to go with the bittersweet finish.We finished off with two more of the same before we went to "The County" to see a local covers group called Loose Ends. If you like 70's/80's rock anthems, like I do, these are a band to catch. Usually The County offers 3 or 4 good real ales. Tonight, unfortunately, none. We were told that they had got problems with it at the moment. I do hope that whatever that is,it will soon be rectified.It was past Mid-night by the time we left, so healthy food was in need. We chose the Salad, with side helping of kebab, chips and sauces!!! Oh the bliss of crap food after a night out is so wrong. 

It's so shiny and new!!!

On Saturday, we had arranged to meet our friends, aka Butler and Olive, at JDW's new pub in Cleethorpes. Going by the name "The Coliseum Picture House", this High Street pub has been very tastefully refurbished. With 3 levels, one a No Smoking Roof Garden, there is plenty of room in this pleasant boozer. The staff, mostly new starters, were a little slow at times but always apologetic and polite.It'll come. Now, the beers we chose as a group were all from the Newby Wyke Brewery. I have simplified my tasting to name,style and strength. All were excellent and I would encourage anybody to try these beers when available.

Marie Celeste (Golden Ale) 4.6%

Kingston Topaz Gold  (Golden Ale) 4.2%

Black Beerd (Stoat) 4.6%

HMS Shannon (Pale Ale) 5.2%

HMS Resolution  (Golden Ale ) 4.2%

RMS Olympic (Pale Ale) 4.8%

We also sampled Adnams Broadside,whilst Butler quaffed a couple of  Tuborgs' (apparently it was good) and Olive enjoyed her bottle of wine. (Bargain. Only £7-50 and very nice too) Then, it was all over. Back to our friends for a spot of food and a few bottles of beer. Lovely. It was just before 10-30pm I first got kicked under the table.A gentle nudge to suggest I should wake up. Almost awake we left, arriving home about 11-30.

 A long,long week of early mornings and late nights on the Norfolk Broads,followed by 2 nights out had done us both in. Lay in tomorrow........................At 5am the phone screamed at us. "Oh OK Alright don't worry. Of course we will. Yes,yes ok see you soon" It was T'other arf's daughter.She was just about to go in to Hospital. Grandchild No 4 was on it's way.We would be babysitting this bright and beautiful day. Hangover or not. Well, who needs recovery at our age, and it only lasted one more very noisy, sleepless night. 30 odd hours later we were presented with a beautiful healthy Grandson. I wonder when his educational forays into Ales will start?

Cheers and keep it "Real"

On the Broads with Sapphire 2

DAY ONE Friday 25/07/14

Anchor's Aweigh on Sapphire 2

 The Beermonster, T'other arf and Grandchildren had been waiting for this little trip for AGES. I have always had a passion for boats and this was my 6 or 7th time on the Broads, whilst it was t'other arf's 3rd time and the 2 little monsters first.We arrived at Richardson's Stalham yard about 2pm and were very efficiently dealt with within an hour. Most of this time was taken up by loading our luggage and fishing bits n bobs. I cannot praise this boatyard enough. We had chosen the budget priced Sapphire 2 and were surprised at the quality of such an old boat. A little heads up here. CAMRA members are entitled 10% discount on all Hoseason's holidays. We saved over £70. Anyway, we set off shortly after 3-30pm,after a bait hunting mission into Stalham. A nice market town with 2 or 3 pubs,plenty of shops and a Tesco's. Although untried this time, I have sampled a couple of the pubs here in the past and not been disappointed.Our aim for the first night was to reach Thurne. We made good progress and although slowed down by the yachts on Barton Broad,we still managed to reach the end of the River Ant by about 5-30. The boating traffic was not as heavy as I thought it would have been, Friday's seem to be a good choice for departure day.Soon we had slung a left (turned to port) and joined the Bure. A bit busier now but still manageable.After another hour,another left up the River Thurne, we had arrived in our chosen area and we were surprised to find more than adequate spaces for mooring in Thurne Dyke. Up we sailed, turned at the head and moored for the night.It is £5 to moor here the night but well worth it, as the next moorings, although still with access to the pub are a 20 min walk away.
At the head of this Dyke is the Lion Inn. An excellent family pub, offering a wide choice of Real Ale, food and amusements for the young uns. Showers are also available. The staff were very friendly and, I suppose, have seen it all over the years. Not an eye was raised when a group of 10 or so pirates alighted their jolly craft and "Aaarred" there way into this hostelry.
Whilst the 2 Grandchildren spent part of their inheritance in the slotties, we sampled the ale. Adnams Southwold at 3.8% was my starter, whilst my half pint taster chose "Woodforde's Wherry" Both good and served to perfection. I followed this up with a "Nelson's Revenge" Woodfordes 4.5% full bodied bitter and finished with the same brewer's offering of "Bure Gold" a golden beer of 4.3 %. Lovely. The "Bure Gold" certainly hits the spot when the summer is here with its slightly citrus aroma and a floral after taste to the bitterness. We played a couple of games of pool on the well worn table and chatted to the locals and fellow boaters alike. What ambiance. A tranquil setting and great company with a selection of excellent local beers. Bliss. But time was up and as one famous diarist once penned "....and so to bed"

DAY TWO Saturday 26/07/14

After a broken nights sleep (I am 6ft whilst the bed is probably 5ft 11 and a fag paper) I was up bright and early for a spot of fishing. I caught a few but not a lot. Whilst sampling the delights of these famous fishing rivers,one of the crew from our neighbouring boat, who had helped us moor the previous night, walked past on the way to the services at the Lion. After a quick yarn or two about the joys of boating, it was their first trip, we discovered that we were fellow "Grimbarians". There turned out to be a least another couple of parties from good old Grimsby moored in the Dyke.Small world???

A hearty breakfast was prepared, eaten and "Buurrppp" regretted "Afore ye cast off a rope. Aaarrgh" Sorry. Forgot to tell you we bought a Skull and Crossbones flag in the shop last night.I may slip into that Piracy talk now and then. We left the moorings and headed back down the Thurne to rejoin the Bure as we were looking to moor at Acle. The kids had been promised a day at the seaside, so instead of messing about judging tides and what have you, we decided to moor as close to the bridge at Acle and use public transport.

Mooring up after an hour or so at the stretch before Horizon craft (£4) we started the stroll into the village. This amble turned into a 25 min tortured heat march."Are we nearly there yet?" was the anthem. Eventually our departure point was found and soon we were on our way to Great Yarmouth by bus. Yippee. The kids sort of enjoyed it, especially the shops of tat! After agreeing to let me have a free hour before our return, I headed to the Troll Cart. a JDW's near the Market Gates shops.

The Troll Cart

Clean, friendly and a good selection of beers. I only sampled 2 here. Great Newsome's "Harvests Gold" a lovely clean tasting ale packing a punch at 4.7% and Woodforde's Nelsons Revenge. Both served to perfection at this vibrant and busy pub. Then it was time to head back to Acle.Off we went on the bus and only fifteen minutes later we had reached our stop. We decided on a taxi back to Acle Bridge and we were quite happy with the £4 fare. We decided to have our meal on the boat and stay the night here.A couple of hours fishing was well worth it. A dozen reasonable fish on the feeder was more than satisfying.The Bridge Inn was only a 5 min stroll down the bank and had plenty for the kids to tire themselves out on. A "Wherry" and a "Adnams Broadside" later we were back on our boat.The Bridge Inn is quite a busy place, and offers good moorings outside. Obviously a magnet for families, a quiet night here may be a rarity.Nice place though.

DAY THREE Sunday 27/07/14

Another day dawned.Another dozen fish bagged and then it was time to go.We left our moorings, hoping to take on water but the queue of boats for the same service deterred us.Showers would have to wait! Back up the Bure was the plan, and the increase in boats was evident.After a couple of hours or so, we came upon the Ferry at Horning and the adjacent free moorings. We took on water here and stayed for a the afternoon. Beautiful sunshine beating down, we decided to venture around the area.An excellent stop here. The pub has a bouncy castle and slide, swings and other kids rides.The boatyard has a few facilities as well including an indoor pool.The kids loved it and I dreamt of owning one of the boats in the nearby sales yard.......next year, if I get those 6 numbers.We ate here and the food was quite adequate, reasonably priced and served in good time.

Enjoying The Ferry at Horning.

Carvery meals are also available. We only sampled the "Bure Gold",  "Wherry" and "Nelson's Revenge" although "Gold Speckled Hen" was also on the pumps.Again, good conditioned ales.Bootifull.

On a Sunday afternoon, The Ferry has a "turn" on. A very witty group who kept us entertained on the outside stage.After our refreshments, we set off up to the outskirts of Wroxham. We came upon the Salhouse Broad Island moorings, and decided to moor here, as we couldn't be sure of any spaces if we went on further. For £6 a night which goes to the upkeep of the Broad it was well worth it. The fishing was very good and we soon had a good 20lb of skimmers and roach before nightfall.With nothing on the island besides fellow boaters and trees, this is a very quiet idyll. Ssshhhh.

DAY FOUR Monday 28/07/14

The Famous Roy's

Monday came and after another 20lb of early morning fish, we left to reach Wroxham an hour later.The journey was a little uninspiring, due to the lack of sunshine and a gathering gloom of rainclouds.We moored in Faircraft Loynes boatyard, took water and headed into Wroxham and, of course, Roy's.This family certainly have a good selection of shops and were probably entrepreneurial before the word exsisted.As soon as we entered the Roy's Toys "Booooom" The thunder storm hit us.Now. I am all for self preservation, but to be stuck in a toyshop with 2 kids, pocket money ready is not my idea of fun.We eventually extracted ourselves from the varied riches on offer, via the foodhall for provisions, and Roy's McDonald's, headed back to the boat and were fortunate to run into the Bridge pilot.He had just refused to take one of the hire boats under Wroxham Bridge, due to its height, and agreed to take us through, if ready.Quickly we were.Now that is an experience.These pilots are so good at teir job and make it look so easy." Thank you Skipper." and off he hopped to do the reverse trip with someone else.

We carried on to the free moorings at Coltishall. A quaint place but it can be noisy moored near the road.We wandered to the nearby "Rising Sun" had a swift couple of drinks before staging the FA Cup final on the grass.That was it really.The beer was "Wherry" good. The football Knackering and the night came and went.8-7 ........8 sodding 7. I lost due to being kind, maybe unfit and oh ok older.

DAY FIVE Tuesday 29/07/14

We set off up to Hoveton Viaduct free moorings about 9am as we had planned a day out at Bewiderwood Adventure Park. After waiting for a bus, we were advised that we could walk there. Only 20 mins. Wrong! At least 35 mins later 4 sweaty figures arrived. We paid and entered this kids wonderland, with story tellers, slides, climbs, mazes and all manner of adventures. Even I had fun. If you have kids, it is worth a visit.We spent a good 4 hours here and only left because of the need to catch the bus back.Back in Wroxham, I went for bait whilst T'other arf got bread and milk. We met back at the "King's Head" by the river. I sampled a "Charity Ale" here which went down very well.The pilot had agreed to take us back through the bridge in 30 mins so lucky again.Once through the bridge, we headed down to the moorings at Malthouse broad. Unfortunately they had already filled up, so we tried those at South Walsham. Same here but we did manage the last of the mooring posts and let the rhond anchors do the rest.Early night tonight.........after fishing.

DAY SIX Wednesday 30/07/14

After a bit more fishing we set off for water and with plans to end up back at Salhouse, this time across the broad.Stern on mooring.We took on water at Ferry Marina and then continued to Salhouse. Arriving shortly before mid-day we duly paid our £6, showered, and then walked into the village to catch the bus to Norwich outside the Bell. Because we took the wrong road after the wooded footpath from the broad, we missed the 1-15 bus so had to wait an hour for the next one.We popped into the Bell and I had a pint of "Lancaster Blonde" a golden ale of 4% which was a little too citrusy for my taste.Half a Timothy Taylor's 3.5% "Golden Best" was also sampled. A lovely refreshing drink. Most would not believe it is a mild.This has a big area outside for playtime.Football and cricket ball supplied.

Sunset over Saphire 3 at Salhouse Broad.

After much shop looking and a tantrum or two, we decided to eat out and after our first choice, The Ribs of Beef, had stopped serving (real shame as it is one of my favourite pubs in the City and always has a good range) we ended up in "The Glass House" just down the road. Another of JDW's outlets,this one was typical of most.I enjoyed a  peri-peri chicken with a free pint whilst the boss woman had the Southern fried style chicken strips with the same drink. You can't knock these places for value for money. It isn't ever going to feature on Masterchef but you know it is going to fill you up.Next was the finding of the bus stop for our return.Easier said than done! Eventually we found the correct stop and were soon back in Salhouse. A swift pint later at The Bell and we set off back to Salhouse.Watching the sun set over this area is always special. Coincidently, after spotting our sister ship, Sapphire 3 the day previous on the Bure, She was moored next to us at Salhouse! We also spotted Sapphire 1 on the Bure earlier that day.We fished for a couple of hours and caught a few decent roach on sweetcorn.Tomorrow we would be cruising all day so an early night was planned..

DAY SEVEN Thursday 31/07/14

I awoke at 5-30, got the fishing gear ready and waited for the rest of the tired motley crew to come to.By 8am we were all up.I had a few fish and we started to formulate a plan for our last full day. My lovely partner had earlier asked about putting the water on." You know were the switch is" I replied. "On the dashboard" she confirmed.As I settled back down to fish, and the rest of Salhouse slumbered...."PAAARP" "I think I pressed the Horn!!" Silly woman. I think most of us got up early that day.We set off after taking water at Salhouse.A bit of advice. Mooring at the end 2 or 3 spaces will mean that the water pipe doesn't reach,so repositioning before you leave is necessary.We headed for Ludham via Womack water and after a couple of hours we arrived. We decided on the free moorings before the boatyards. Good choice as the

The Crew of Sapphire 2

stern on moorings at the top of the staithe were almost full. We wandered into Ludham, a beautiful village with friendly locals.We had a drink in the lovely King's Arms with its outside dining area,children's play area and good range of ales.Again I plumpted for "Bure Gold" and again it was well delivered. Back to the boat and time to cruise back down the Thurne,up the Bure and then up the Ant.We had planned a couple of stops on thev way, but decided to find somewhere to moor for our last night on the boat, near an eating house.We ended up at Wayford Bridge and its adjoining public house of the same name.Another pleasant location and a large pub to cope.The staff were excellent, and service very good but we did find it a tad expensive for what was served.Not a moan but a niggle. The beer we chose was "Best Bitter" a malty brew from The Grain Brewery of Norwich.A full rounded flavour, this amber coloured beer was as good as anything we tasted all week.4.2% Very nice and moreish.We settled down back on board after paying our £8 mooring fee and fished one last time.The fishing didn't last long because the weather turned squally but not before our Grandson,Lennon caught his whopper of a roach.

DAY EIGHT Friday 01/08/14

Going up the River Thurne.

And so that was that.We left our moorings feeling pretty miserable that it was only less than an hour away from our boatyard and we quietly cruised along past our memories of one week before.Not a lot was said just contented sighs.We got back at Kingfisher quay at 9am and were professionly booked back in.Within half an hour we were back on the road to Grimsby.We had been given almost half of our fuel deposit back so the cost is not always as high as it seems. We had had a brilliant time.We obviously got on each others nerves at times, but that is part and parcel of it.We could have done more cruising and boozing but for the children but that did not deter from the experience.It was after all a Family Holiday.The beer and pubs visited were excellent and the food delicious.Fishing was enjoyable and there was always something for the junior crew members.I for one cannot wait to return.If you haven't been,go if you went years ago, renew your love of this area.You will not be disappointed.Oh and we did happen upon Sapphire 4 on our travels too.A full set of Sapphires. Is there a prize for that??