South Clwyd Pub News

south clwyd area news and reports

► Deeside Foray (12 December 2011)
Saturday was a rare wind-free and rain-free day so it was an ideal chance to get out for a crisp winter cycle. The plan was to take in some of our GBG2013 contender pubs but take a circular route so I'd never be too far from Chester. The first pub on the plan was the White Lion at Childer Thornton (right). Avoiding the canal route through Ellesmere Port, I instead took the more picturesque country lanes through Stoak, Capenhurst and Ledsham. From the usual Thwaites range here I opted for the Wainwright (a quality ale! - Web-Ed) and also the Greene King St Edmunds beer, good choices as it turned out. This really is a nice welcoming pub and it was a wrench to leave the toasty fire and get back out into the cold.

Retracing my steps, I then turned off through Ledsham and down to the dangerously fast and busy A540. A short trundle along here then a turn off down Woodside Lane took me to the monstrous junction of the A550/A5117. Thankfully a dedicated cycling lane keeps you away from the traffic and even takes in some welcome greenery. In fact, after turning a sharp corner I came virtually face-to-face with a Buzzard that was perched on the fence. I don't know who was more startled - me or the bird!

Sadly the stretch through the Deeside Industrial Estate to get onto the Greenway resulted in a fast-deflating rear tyre. An emergency repair got me to Shotton where the splendid chaps at Graham Weigh cycles made sure I'd got the right pressure in the tyre (thanks guys). Needing a morale booster it was an easy decision to nip down a couple of doors to the Central Hotel Wetherspoons to tuck into an all-day brunch. Christmas beers were very much in evidence here, mostly at high strength though, so I opted for the more quaffable Reindeer's Revenge at just over 4%.

Crown & Liver, Ewloe Suitably refuelled it was a short pedal along the main road to reach the GBG-listed Castle Inn. A flavoursome pint of Jennings The World's Biggest Liar was duly despatched while an argument raged over which match should be shown on the telly - Liverpool or Manchester United. Not being fussed about either of these namby-pamby Premiership teams it was back on the bike to tackle the short but steep climb up to Ewloe. Normally a stop at the Boar's Head would be next but with the daylight starting to fade it was straight to the Crown & Liver instead (left). This pub has recently been refurbished and it was good to see six handpumps on the bar. The beers were mainly Nationals such as Wychwood and Marston's but a small pumpclip at the end revealed York Guzzler. Sadly this wasn't as good as I had hoped but the Wychwood Dog's Bllx (not spelling this in case work email rejects it!!) was actually well-named, being my choice for beer of the day. The refurbishment looked to be of a high standard and a glamorous group of 'ladies who lunch' highly recommended the food. Certainly a pub to keep an eye on. On leaving here the darkness had descended quickly so it was lights on for the speedy downhill run back in to Chester. (Mr W)

► Wrexham Rural South East Survey (02 December 2011)
A full minibus of 16 people left the Ship Victory for a tour of the pubs in the Southern part of our Welsh branch area. First stop was the Boat at Erbistock and though not currently in the GBG or nominated, it deserves a visit to check beer quality and see how the new landlord is coping. Three ales available: Weetwood Bitter and Cheshire Cat plus Conwy Bitter. The latter was the popular choice so we must have relieved them of a couple of gallons. Quality was good and there appeared to be about a dozen other people in, mostly dining in a very cosy pub with two real fires. (I must mention the Czech barmaid at this point. Tremendously friendly and who could refuse her offering of free Bombay mix? - Web-Ed)

A short journey brought us to the Cross Foxes at Overton, an intensely food-led pub with very little drinking space. Beers available, (most at £3.55/pint!) were: Titanic White Star 4.8%; York Guzzler 3.6%; Evan Evans Warrior 4.6% and Brakspear Bitter 3.4%. Among the 16 of us I think we tried at least 3 of the beers and general opinion was that quality could be better. Have to re-visit before GBG selection day.

Next stop was the White Horse at Overton-on-Dee (pictured), a popular Joules pub serving their full range of beers: Pale Ale, Blonde and Slumbering Monk. A fine pint of the latter, served up by the enthusiastic landlord, suited me and my fellow travellers confirmed the other beers were also in good condition. We set off for the Hanmer Arms at Hanmer, but our driver’s sat-nav must have had a bad day (****ing sat-navs; we were by the damn pub - web-Ed) as we found ourselves driving along narrow country lanes but eventually arrived at our destination. Darwins Origin and Stonehouse Station Bitter were the two beers available and both were on excellent form. At this stage there was a temptation by some of the group to settle in to the comfy seats by the real fire but I had to goad them into drinking up and move onwards to the next pub; the Buck House Hotel at Bangor-on-Dee. This is a popular two-room establishment with the lounge ceiling covered in decorative china teapots! Beers on were: Tetley Bitter and Dark Mild; St. Austell Dartmoor Bitter 3.9%; and Station Bitter. Whilst most enjoyed a splendid drop of Station the Dark Mild was OK for me.

Our final stop of the evening was the Peal’o’Bells in Holt. From a choice of: Ossett Nervous Turkey 4.3%; Ringwood Best Bitter 3.8%; and Hawkshead Windermere Pale 3.7% I had the Nervous Turkey, (don’t you just love the names of these Christmas seasonal beers?). It was a bit too hoppy for me but on good form. A good evening’s work surveying pubs that are a bit tricky to get to without own transport, so thanks to Jim our driver who always gets us home. (John Bowyer)

► Ffrwd Glorious Ffrwd (18 November 2011)
The branch's Winter Pub of the Season award for 2011 has gone to the Good Beer Guide listed Ffrwd near Cefn-y-Bedd. This cosy freehouse primarily makes its business from diners drawn back repeatedly for the well-proportioned home-cooked food but that's not to say cask beer is neglected. Typically on the bar you'll find two changing ales, usually from micros anywhere in the UK, alongside a cider. It's not just for the beer though that the pub deserves this award. A stand alone building, in a wooded valley on the Cefn-y-Bedd to Minera road, with very little customer footfall, the Ffrwd would surely not survive without the hard-working, enthusiastic family that run the place. This award, to be presented in the near future, is our way of giving them some deserved recognition.

Branch Awards

Golden Lion, Wrexham ► Golden Lion Roars (08 November 2011)
The Golden Lion in Wrexham re-opened yesterday, following a major (and very expensive looking) refit, having been closed for about twelve months.

The frontage on High St gives no clue as to the large floor space inside, now boosted by clever adaption of a former alleyway-cum-yard. The pub was bought by business partners Martin and Carl, both of whom have been in the pub game for over twenty years, and they reckon it has enormous potential despite competition close by.

On opening day, there were four cask ales; Sandstone Edge, Plassey Bitter, Sharp’s Doombar and Tetley Bitter (!). The newly-relaunched Wrexham Lager was available, and selling an a ferocious pace. It looks like the marketing ploy is to sell good quality food while seeking to maintain the essential pub atmosphere, and this will be helped by the long thin pub layout, where there are three distinct areas (four if you include the reclaimed alleyway). Absolutely a welcome addition to the Wrexham scene. (as reported by "King Power")

► Golden Pheasant (02 November 2011)
After having some extremely erratic opening hours of late, plus one or two stinging reviews on the national Trip Advisor website, a notice has now appeared on the door of the Golden Pheasant Hotel in Llwynmawr (Ceiriog valley) stating "Closed for the season 30/10/2011 to 30/03/2012". Some locals were concerned that it will not re-open as a hotel / restaurant / pub but Joanna Daxell from the Golden Pheasant has allayed those fears with the following response:-

“We are delighted to have been included in recent CAMRA publications highlighting our commitment to maintaining high quality real ale for residents and non-residents visiting the glorious Ceiriog Valley. Naturally we were disappointed with a couple of Tripadvisor reviews during October however we are keen to point out that the vast majority of reviews are extremely positive. Having taken the commercial decision to close the inn for the winter period (as is custom and practice throughout north Wales) and clearly stating we will reopen March 30th 2012, when will be looking forward to welcoming customers from all over the world to Llwynmawr, we welcome this opportunity to thank locals and visitors for their patronage and look forward to welcoming them back in 2012 and ask they visit our website www.goldenpheasanthotel.co.uk for regular updates regarding our activity during the winter working at the hotel on improvements and events planned for 2012."

► McGivern Brewery / Bridge End Award (Part 3) (29 October 2011)
Despite the drizzle and brisk wind there was a good turnout of locals and CAMRA members to witness the opening of the new McGivern brewery located behind the Bridge End at Ruabon. However, before the grand opening another ceremony had to be performed, presentation of the Merseyside, Cheshire & North Wales CAMRA Pub of the Year 2011 award by regional director Ian Saunders. Speeches were kept short because of the weather conditions but Ian said how pleased he was to present the award to a pub which once had been closed down by the then Pubco who owned it citing there was no demand for real ale in the area. How wrong they were! With moral and financial support from his family, landlord Matt McGivern bought the pub and turned it into a real ale drinker’s heaven providing a varied and interesting range of beers. The pub is popular with locals from Ruabon and Wrexham area and easily accessed by public transport for those travelling from further afield. After receiving the award Matt, and his father Peter, cut the ribbon to open the new brewery equipped with a 2.5 barrel plant.

Customers were pleased that this was for ceremonial purposes only as Matt had been busy brewing a number of beers over the past few weeks. On the bar were five beers from the McGivern brewery, ranging from Pale Ale, Stout, Best Bitter and Bridge End Red. Other guest beers were also available providing a wide choice for the customers in a very packed bar. Later reports of the event indicated a firkin of beer lasted less than an hour, so who said real ale wasn’t popular in the area? Real food was provided in one of the marquees outside to fill in the gaps between pints, with a choice of pork or ham baps and later beef carved off the joint. A brass band huddling in the covered area at the front of the pub kept the smokers entertained while the other customers preferred the buzz and bonhomie of a thriving bar. Needless to say, condition of the beers was superb and with such a variety to choose from, and different types still to be brewed, I feel another visit can’t be too far off.

CAMRA National Pub of the Year 2011 - Regional Winners

Seven Stars, Wrexham ► Seven Stars (18 October 2011)
More news from Wrexham town centre. The Grade II listed Seven Stars on Chester Road, which has been closed since 2009, has been earmarked for conversion to a Welsh cultural centre by Canolfan Gymraeg Wrecsam, a locally based cooperative. The pub, which will become known as Y Saith Seren, is to hopefully re-open as early as December as a cafe-bar offering local Welsh food and real ale. Afterwards the intention is for other rooms to be utilised for, amongst other things, Welsh language classes and the screening of major Welsh sporting events.

From the real ale perspective, Pene Coles from Jolly Brewer is a board member and she harbours plans for a micro-brewery in the cellar. All in all excellent tidings as Wrexham continues to improve on the cask front.

► Eureka Moment (14 October 2011)
Marvellous news of the Golden Lion on High Street, Wrexham. The pub has been bought (freehold) by the Eureka Pub Company who tell us they are "dedicated to the promotion of traditional pub values, ethics and products".

The pub was purchased from Enterprise Inns in September having previously fallen on sad times and been closed for over twelve months. A refurbishment has since been carried out tastefully to ensure this Grade II listed building is in tip top shape to cope with its next 400 years of trading and the intention is to open in November.

As with their only other pub, the Eureka in Ormskirk, the aim is to support local breweries. Some ales we can therefore expect to see on the bar include local niceties as Sandstone (various), Plassey (various), Offa's Dyke Ale, Brimstage (Trappers Hat, Sandpiper, Scarecrow), Spitting Feathers (various) and McGivern (various).

The renaissance of the Golden Lion makes High Street a good place to be in Wrexham for cask. Wetherspoons North & South Wales Bank is literally next door while the GBG listed and Joules owned Royal Oak is opposite as is the Cask Marque accredited Yates's.

It goes without saying but we wish Carl and Martyn from Eureka every luck with their venture.

White Horse, Overton ► South Clwyd Cycle (2 October 2011)
With the planned social trip of the South Clwyd area postponed, there was nothing for it but to do it by bike instead. After all, when it's 26C in October you have to take full advantage!

The plan was to head into the wind to the furthest point south at the Hanmer Arms before heading back but such was the effort that the Bull at Shocklach was a welcome stop for beer and a rest! This has always been a favourite pub of mine and I was keen to see how it was getting on under new management. It wasn't as busy as I'd expected for a sunny Saturday lunchtime but from the people dining there were several appreciative comments regarding the food and service. On the beer front I had Stonehouse Station Bitter and Taylors Golden Best. Both were very good but I shouldn't really have needed to ask for top-ups when the drinks were served without the head even reaching the top of the glass!

Setting off into the wind again was hard going and I'd decided on a change of plan by the time I reached the Queen's Head at Sarn (such a shame they don't open Saturday during the day!). A brief food stop overlooking the lovely brook behind the pub then it was off along some delightful country lanes through new places for me (Mulsford and Cloy) before arriving at the White Horse in Overton (pictured). A very friendly and helpful welcome here plus two excellent beers in the Joules Pale and Blonde. They certainly hit the spot for a thirsty cyclist!

With the wind now behind it was a very satisfying downhill run past the racecourse into Bangor to the Buck Hotel. A Wild-West themed marquee was up in the back garden and many drinkers were taking advantage of the sun in the seating area. I joined them and swiftly downed a very nice pint of Cambrian Gold. Suitably refreshed it was back onto familiar roads again on to Holt and the Peal O Bells. It was a chance to soak up the last of the rays in the beer garden whilst enjoying a pint of Purple Moose Glaslyn.

The final stop was at the Grosvenor Arms in Aldford. The beer choice wasn't ideal for hot cycling with many darker ones on but the Eastgate and Deuchars were very good. A cracking way to finish off the ride sitting outside in the warm evening air as the sun went down. (Mr W)

The Glyn Valley Hotel, Glyn Ceiriog ► Ceiriog Tour (30 September 2011)
A precis of events from our recent rekke of the Ceiriog Valley pubs:-

a) The Glyn Valley Hotel in Glyn Ceiriog (pictured right) served up Sandstone Post Mistress, Hanby Summer Belle and Draught Bass. Who brews Hanby stuff now? Plassey? Whoever it is it was very pleasant. Whilst here, a crude attempt to re-enact a scene from the Naked Gun movie was ruined when Heidi, the highly affable 'landlady' informed us that the decorative stuffed animal was in fact a marmot and not a beaver.
b) Staying in Glyn Ceiriog the smaller, more food-led Oak, pleasantly filled with the light aroma of hickory smoke, had an excellent pint of self-styled golden spicy Three Tuns 1642 on handpump. Thumbs up from all.
c) Off to Llanarmon DC which, by contrast to the Glyn Ceriog duo, proved disappointing. The rambling, rather posh West Arms only had Fullers Organic Honey Dew - the Stonehouse Cambrian Gold having recently run out while the replacement Station Bitter wasn't ready. The GBG listed Hand for once didn't have Weetwood on. Instead the surrogate cask was Tidy Pint from the Powys-based Waun microbrewery. In truth nobody thought it was tidy and probably wished they'd not had a pint. At least CAMRA Stiffs beat Pied Bull Staff 2-0 at pool.
The Swan, Pontfadog d) Onward, well backward actually to the Swan at Pontfadog (left) which had one handpump dispensing an excellent Stonehouse Off the Rails. Pity therefore it ran out before we all got served. Youngs Bitter came on and was OK but poor consolation for those too polite not to have scrambled unceremoniously off the minibus to get to the bar first.
e) Final stop was the Hand in Chirk. Three Stonehouse beers and all in splendid nick - Cambrian Gold being pick of the bunch and this correspondent's beer of the trip. We stuck in the lounge side as the locals bar hardly exuded bonhomie.
f) An agreeable evening all told. This is a pleasant place to explore and sup. Experience tells that you could visit again in a fortnight and there would be different beer and tales to tell in all of the pubs.

Offa's Dyke, Broughton ► Special Offa (26 September 2011)
Pub co John Barras (aka Punch Taverns) are staging a real ale promotion at the Offa's Dyke in Broughton over the next six weeks. Running from 26th September to 9th November three handpumps will be working at any one time and the landlord welcomes any requests and guidance over what to select. The choice is Hook Norton Old Hooky, Wells Bombardier, Greene King IPA and Gangly Ghoul, Black Sheep Bitter, Everards Tiger, Shepherd Neame Spitfire, Wychwood Hobgoblin, Adnams Ghost Ship and Tetley Headless Huntsman.

While this range might not attract scoopers or those gorged on sundry micros in the pubs of Chester, it represents a veritable cornucopia of cask for the area so, if you live or work locally call into this pleasant watering hole and show your support. The No 3 Mold bus service will drop you off outside.

► LocAle Update (24 September 2011)
The Glyn Valley Hotel in Glyn Ceiriog is now on the LocAle scheme. Beers from Sandstone, Llangollen and Stonehouse can typically be found on the pumps.

LocAle Pubs

► Tyn-y-Capel Update Two (24 September 2011)
A verbatim report from our special agent...

Attended an open meeting last night. Very impressed by the growth in professionalism of the locals’ committee fighting to re-instate the pub. A large (11) committee has been formed with specific roles identified, and amongst them are a solicitor and an accountant.

Following the successful appeal against the planning application for conversion of the building, the committee sought to lease the building and reinstate the pub. The owner rejected this approach, and has now appealed against the planning decision. The appeal goes to central (Wales) government in Cardiff. Meanwhile, the locals are actively looking in to buying the pub, which is on sale for the ludicrously high figure of £499,000.

They have identified that if the local community can raise £100,000 through a co-operative share issue (each share will be £100), other funding mechanisms can be triggered including grants and a commercial mortgage. More than one source of the latter has been identified and approached. The indications are that up to 70% of the purchase price could be borrowed from these sources which specialise in funding community-led buy-outs.

The strength of locals’ financial commitment is now being assessed. As well as Minera and surrounding village residents (Minera reckoned to be in the region of 1000) local business will be approached for pledges of share purchases. The committee is quite optimistic that sufficient money can be promised to trigger the other funding channels.

It is now more than ever important that the present owner is not successful in his appeal, and previous objectors to the planning application are urged to repeat their representations, this time to central government. It is thought unlikely that the owner will find an outsider the buy the pub at £499k, and that the price is set to deter purchasers.

RIP The Derby Arms, Caergwrle ► Demolition Derby (20 September 2011)
Well, maybe not so dramatic as demolition, but certainly conversion to residential use is on the cards at the Derby Arms off the main road in Caergwrle. The pub, which closed in recent weeks, was once the tap for the neighbouring Caergwrle Brewery (bought and then closed by Burtonwood in the 1940s; demolished without trace in the 1970s).

Shame this. Even though the Derby sold no cask the place had a bit of character. With some investment and in the right hands who's to say that it couldn't have become the next Lazarus revivalist like the award-winning Bridge End, Ruabon. Lest we forget, that was another former keg pub that few had heard of let alone cared about.

Boat, Erbistock ► Boat Refitted (20 September 2011)
One of the most wonderfully located pubs for miles around has new owners and new ales on the bar. The Boat at Erbistock, a 17th century sandstone inn set on the banks of the Dee, now sells up to four cask ales. Replacing Hydes on the handpumps are local ales from the likes of Plassey, Weetwood, Gertie Sweet and Facers.

With a marvellous sylvan / riverside setting, as well as flagstone floors and captivating log fire, you really ought to get this one regularly on your drinking circuit.

Boat, Erbistock

Tyn-y-Capel Campaigners ► Tyn-y-Capel Update (16 September 2011)
The fight to save the Tyn-y-Capel in Minera goes on. The pub, which closed abruptly in February 2011, has been run as a day care centre ever since despite planning permission being refused by Wrexham councillors in July. The owner has appealed against that decision whilst putting the pub on the market at what is deemed by many at a prohibitively expensive guide price of £499,000.

Locals still aspire to run the pub as a community venture on similar lines to the Raven at Llanarmon-yn-Lal and, to this end, a public meeting will be held at 7pm on Thursday 22 September at Minera School, where the committee will update people and discuss options. Any folk eager for the survival of the pub are urged to attend.

Save The Tyn-y-Capel

► McGivern Brewery Re-Launch (16 September 2011)
After what seems like an eternity in the making, the McGivern brewery has finally been moved and upgraded from the family home to out housing at the rear of the Bridge End pub in Ruabon. First taste from the 2.5 barrel plant is scheduled for Saturday October 29th (no idea what the ales will be) with both food and live music on the agenda. And for those of you who like to strut the high streets showing your allegiance to the malt and hop, new McGivern Ales T-shirts will be available.

► Glynne Arms (27 August 2011)
Work continues, albeit at a slow pace, on the renovation of the scaffolding enshrouded Glynne Arms in Hawarden. New owners of this listed building are Charlie and Caroline Gladstone who opened the award-winning Hawarden Estate Farm Shop a few years back. Charlie, who also happens to be great great grandson of former PM William Gladstone, says...

"I’m sure Hawarden residents will welcome the reopening of The Glynne. It will quickly develop a reputation for superb food, and I’m sure will attract people to the village from far and wide, just as the Farm Shop has done. We have the opportunity to build upon the Farm Shop’s success in curating and showcasing wonderful local produce and artisan products. We’ll also be looking for staff who are passionate about food, and can deliver outstanding customer service in this wonderful old pub."

Let's hope they're equally enthusiastic about sourcing and looking after local ales! The Glynne is scheduled to re-open in February 2012.

Bridge End, Ruabon ► More Success for the Bridge End (16 August 2011)
We're pleased to declare that the Bridge End in Ruabon, the branch's Welsh area pub of the year for 2011, has now gone on to win the Merseyside, Cheshire and North Wales Regional PotY award. Having seen off the challenge from the excellent Hops at Crewe (the overall Cheshire winner) and Gallaghers in Birkenhead (Merseyside PotY - which curiously doubles up as a barbershop), they now enter the Super Regional Round taking on the Beacon at Sedgley, the Crown at Beeston (Notts not Cheshire!) and the Rose & Crown at Rawcliffe near York. Best of luck with that.

In the meantime, the Bridge End team will officially receive their award at 16:00 hrs on Saturday 27th August in the middle of it's August Bank Holiday beer festival. Your support would be welcome.

The White Bear, Mancot ► A Lecher In Sandycroft and Mancot (29 July 2011)
a) Bridge Inn, Sandycroft: Sharp's Doombar (good). Pastel-painted modern renovation with the lights turned down to accommodate a singer who's not bad but barely noticed. Locals ignore the Norway attacks repeatedly playing on Sky News. Music fills the gap left by the singer and an oaf cackles forced laughter at the bar as he attempts to entertain a woman in a red dress clinging to her comely form.

b) White Bear, Mancot (pictured): Jennings Snecklifter (good). Pastel shades evidently the order of the area, this one a modern renovation of a village local into a pseudo stately house with high ceiling, false cornice & raised attic shelf. Undemanding landscape pictures run around the walls. End of a party & karaoke and the bar room full, the lounge quieter with the birthday woman supping relatively undisturbed with her mate. We decline a free Jagerbomb but would not decline the blonde barmaid in the black & white hoopy, figure-hugging frock.

► Back From the Dead (15 July 2011)
After years of abandonment, the former Mount Pleasant pub on the Rossett to Llay road, has surprisingly re-opened. It is now the Croes Howell - a bar, restaurant and grill. Not sure about real ales. More info required! Elsewhere, more good news, after the arson attack the Nag's Head at Ridleywood has re-opened. Greene King IPA.

► Saltney Gets Real (12 July 2011)
The Saltney Ferry re-opened as a freehouse on the 7th July and we're pleased to report that four handpumps (two on, two 'in waiting') now provide much needed irrigation to the whole Saltney area. The ales on sale during our visit were Tetley cask -very nice and £2,45 a pint and Tetley`s Midsummer Madness £2,45 while Rudgate Jorvik Blonde and Worthington Summer Shield were next in line.

As for the pub itself, it retains its traditional two room layout. Decked out in a cream and maroon decor, the bar (which is only keg / smoothflow) has boxing and snooker prints on the walls and a large screen TV showing Sky sports. The lounge, now more opened out making it brighter and airier, still keeps its bell pushes for table service (which obviously don't work) and has a similar colour scheme buit decorated this time with black and white photos of old Chester.

You win some you lose some though. Apparently further down the road to Broughton, the Glynn Arms in Bretton is reportedly to be no longer selling cask.

Black Lion, Bersham ► Bersham Beer Fest (02 July 2011)
Almost sneaking under our radar - Lord knows why pubs don't tell us about such things (don't answer that) - the GBG listed Black Lion in Bersham held another of its mini-beer festivals over the weekend. As before, this snug little Hydes tenancy had set up stillaging in the pub's rear patio. Amongst the ten or so cask ales on the beer menu were Taffy's Tipple - a 5.8% creation from Hydes - and an intriguing Big Bog Bitter from the Big Bog brewery at Waunfawr in Snowdonia.

Incidentally, the Black Lion (also known locally as the Hole in the Wall) ought to do very well out of the forthcoming 2011 National Eisteddfod (self proclaimed as one of the world’s greatest cultural festivals). From 30th July to the 6th of August, Wrexham is to be the host or more specifically a farmer's field a few hundred yards from the pub.

► Briefly From Bwlchgwyn (02 July 2011)
Disappointing news from one of the claimants to be the highest village in Wales where the Hydes owned Kings Head in the centre of Bwlchgwyn is currently closed. Not good considering the Westminster up the road has been abandoned since 2005 and the nearby Joiners Arms was demolished in 2001.

Fortunately the Moors Inn, admittedly well out of the village, survives. A thoroughly decent simple bar and lounge combo, on a recent visit it was selling Thwaites Bomber and an excelllent Facers Landslide as the guest ale.

UPDATE (Aug 2011): Hydes assure us the Kings Arms remains open. No idea why it was shut when we visited on one particular Sunday and why a sincere local landlord had also heard it was closed. Whatever, we're glad it lives on.

Cross Keys, Llanfynydd ► Festive Plans in Llanfynydd (30 June 2011)
Good news from the Cross Keys in Llanfynydd where plans are underway for staging a beer festival in this highly attractive village pub. The intention is to have nine real ales on at any one time - four on the pumps and five direct from the cask - plus one cider. Hopefully the branch will be running a mini-bus to support this event (hint hint social sec) which is scheduled for Thursday 4th August - Thursday 11th August.

While there has been some concern both locally and in CAMRA circles that permission for change to residential use had been sought for the pub, we have been assured that this was always to be used as a safety net and was never going to be a carte blanch decision to make the changes. Proof of this is a recent re-decoration and modernised ladies and gents toilets while there are plans to update the kitchen, install log burners and re-tarmac the beer garden area. This is good news as lots of other pubs are closed or are struggling nearby and it would be a shame to lose this one which is to be praised for selling two beers ( usually three at weekends) including guests.

► Success for Local Brewer at Cardiff (28 June 2011)
Sandstone Brewery have won the Best Bitter category in the Champion Beers of Wales competition, held at the Great Welsh Beer & Cider Festival in Cardiff over 16 – 18 June. Based on the Wrexham Industrial Estate, Sandstone have been operating since late 2008, and their beers have been on sale at various outlets across North Wales, Cheshire, Liverpool and Manchester.

The winning beer, Postmistress, a dark bitter originally created by brewer Pene Coles of Jolly Brewer fame, was lovingly vreated by James Bendall who has now taken over as head brewer. The Sandstone team are delighted with their award and hope that it will be a springboard to further success ... and, no doubt, lots more local pubs stocking their ales !

► Boars Head Closes (23 June 2011)
You could argue being selected for the 2011 edition of the Good Beer Guide has proved the kiss of death for some. Hot on the heels of the Bull at Shocklach ceasing trading, and before that the sudden demise of the Tyn-y-Capel at Minera, we've now learnt that another GBG entry, the Boars Head at Ewloe, has called time probably on a permanent basis.

We've no idea of the ins and out of what's gone on but the pub had been up for sale for quite some time now and suspect the recent opening of the so-called Marston's superpub on St David's Park, the Running Hare, will have been the death knell. What will become of the Boar then? Is it listed for its interior - most noticeably it's curious mezzanine lounge?
UPDATE: The Boar's re-open again. No need to panic.

Inside the Royal Oak, Wrexham ► Recognition for the Royal Oak (22 June 2011)
Congratulations to the Royal Oak in Wrexham and, in particular, the pub's owners Joules Brewery who must be chuffed to learn that it has effectively come second nationally in CAMRA's Pub Design Awards for 2010 in the 'Refurbishment' category.

Judges for the competition, run in association with English Heritage and the Victorian Society, marked the pub as 'Highly Commended' for 'turning around the fortunes of a building which at one point had fallen on hard times.'

Joules have had similar success with the White Horse at Overton so you can see why we have high hopes of their recent acquisition of the Cross Keys in Chester.

CAMRA National Pub Design Awards 2010

► Fun to the Sun? Didn't Feel Like It At Times (20 June 2011)
Having cycled to most of our branch GBG pubs this summer, only the gruelling climbs or long treks into Wales remained. The hardest on paper being the massive climb up the Clywdians to the delightful village of Eryrys.

Not being able to put it off any longer it was with a huge amount of trepidation and a bagful of rations that I set off to reach it, in thankfully warm and still conditions. All was well until a surprisingly stiff climb up lower mountain just beyond Kinnerton. With the forboding Clwydian Range looming ahead it wasn't a nice thought that the climbing was only getting started! A chance to get my breath back came along some lovely country lanes before a couple of major roads took me to the first stop at the Druid at Pontblyddyn. A very friendly welcome here and a very nice drop of Facer's Flintshire Bitter to boot. A nice comfy seat in the sun outside made it very hard to leave.

The Sun, Eryrys A scary short section of dual carriageway was soon dispatched and it was back on to the rural roads once again as the route gradually rose up to Nercwys. From here things got difficult as almost all approaches to Eryrys take in at least a couple of chevron climbs. With teeth gritted it was time for a slow slow grind up the main road. Several stops were needed to take in the fantastic views and allow the lungs to reinflate but what a feeling of relief after the last climb to finally reach the Sun Inn - I celebrated like I'd won a stage in the Tour!

A pint of Theakston's Best was thrown down in no time at all but with the weather starting to turn there was no time to waste before the last section to the Rose & Crown at Graianrhyd. I made it just in time as the heavens opened and was able to enjoy some superb Salopian Lemon Dream knowing a lift home was in the bag! (Mr W)

► Castle Re-Fortified (12 June 2011)
The Castle Inn on Brook Road Shotton, known locally as "Hendies" reopened on May 24th 2011 after being closed for a week or so following the retirement of the previous landlord .

The pub is now being run under Marstons Pheonix Project. This is a joint venture with the new Landlady Sharon Kewn and Marstons Pub Co and has been given a new lease of life under the new regime. The place is spotlessly clean in all areas and the beer garden is being revamped. The pool table has been reintroduced into the bar area and the quiz has started up again on Sunday evenings with a first prize of a gallon of beer (not cask though!).

I have taken a look at a copy of the agreement of the Pheonix Project and have cherry picked the following information with regard to cask ale. The ultimate aim is to have two bitters and at least one guest ale on sale. This may take some time to establish, but the plan is to build cask ale reputation with the real stuff representing 50% of wet sales.

Currently there are two ales on the bar. Marstons EPA 3.6 ABV and Jennings Tizzie Wizzie 3.9ABV. Both ales being in top condition during my mid week visit. The place feels like a pub that caters for all tastes. I was asked upon my arrival (before mentioning CAMRA or my association with it ) if I would like a taster of either or both of the ales on offer. And the guest beer selection for the month of June was pointed out to me.

This all looks very promising as the pub was really struggling prior to this new venture .The Castle Inn is a valuable community pub which needs to be kept open and the old saying still rings true ... use it or lose it. It's to be hoped that the local people will once again start using the pub, and early signs are that many regulars who voted with their feet prior to the closure, are now returning to what is after all a nice local. (Edwincad)

► Moss Loss (9 June 2011)
Sadly we have to report that the planning application for change of use for the Clayton Arms at Moss from public house to residential dwelling has been granted. The loss of this free house, which was in the Good Beer Guide as recently as 2009, means that Moss's four surviving pubs from the 1980's are now all closed. Who remembers the Kings Head, the Bird in Hand or most recently the Grapes? With the Castle Inn at nearby Brynteg also boarded up the future doesn't look promising for those other pubs clinging on in the vicinity.

► Another Welsh Bike Ride (5 June 2011)
Despite the odd spit of drizzle in the air, the trusty Fondriest racer was back in action on Sunday to pedal out to explore a few more pubs in the foothills of Hope Mountain, the fringes of Wrexham and the flatlands of Holt.

First theoretical refreshment stop was the isolated (and hence understandably food-led) Golden Groves at Burton Green. Offerings here were Marston's Pedigree, Bitter and Jennings Cumberland which weren't sufficiently tempting to detain me so it was a case of push on to Caergwrle where it was good to see the Cask Marque sign at the Bridge Inn. This has been a Chinese / Thai restaurant for many years now and they seemed somewhat surprised that their first punter of the day didn't want to look at the menu but try the ale out. Two choices, Brakspear or Jennings Bitter - the latter was most pleasant and probably goes down well with a Sizzling Special Szechuan.

The Ffrwd A right-turn at Cefn-y-Bedd onto the Minera road and, after a short pedal down the cool shaded river valley, the excellent family-run Ffrwd free house came into view (right). For June only, the pub is offering all real ales at £2.10 a pint which is a bargain judging by the Brentwood Marvellous Maple Mild that truly lived up to its name (the other ale being Box Steam Tunnel Vision). Leaving this well-worthy GBG hostelry behind, it was re-trace tracks back to Cefn-y-Bedd to pop into the Holly Bush. Lots of roast dinners being scoffed here while at the bar it was more from the Marston's stable - a tasty Jennings Snecklifter and Wychwood Elderwych.

A heavy drizzle accompanied the ride through Gwersyllt necessitating the donning of the Chester FC windjammer but this was hastily removed on arrival the Cunliffe Arms in Acton for fearing of causing a spat with the locals. What a fine, smart and spacious community pub this is divided into a traditional parlour bar and split-level lounge featuring a tempting carvery. On the pumps it was Marston's Merrie Monk, Ringwood Old Thumper and Banks Bitter.

Onwards. With the rains gone a pleasant wander down the quiet Bryn Estyn lane led to the GBG listed Gredington Arms on the decidedly dangerous Holt Road. All customer activity here focused on the Hyde-Out bar between the pub itself and the raised rear car park. An air-lock prevented the Sandstone Pale Ale being tasted so Allgates Citra was served up instead (other alternatives being Hydes Original or Boddingtons). This had to be ale of the trip. An absolute belter with each sip savoured sat in the patio overlooking the pretty rock garden where a cat and dog fought it out over the remnants of a chicken sandwich.

Next to the Peal o'Bells in Holt via the blissfully quiet Francis Lane. What's this all about? Lager lads getting excited about tennis? Federer and Nadal doing the same thing for three hours. Yawn. Give me the nuances of cricket any day. Not much to say about the beer. Usual splendid quality and range (Ossett Pale Gold, Red and Hobsons Town Crier) which just continues to seem to be unappreciated by the locals.

The Griffin, Trevalyn Two more stops to go. Shepherd Neame Spitfire and Greene King IPA were on at the Griffin in Trevalyn (pictured). Sadly also 'on' was a CD of Craig David which meant a forced retreat into the beer garden. Curry Club last Thursday of the month looked tempting. Final pub of the day was the Nags Head in Lavister. Having not been here since long-standing landlord Ken Smith retired in February it was pleasing to see a decent range of beers still on the pumps noteably Spitting Feathers Farmhouse and Copper Dragon Golden Pippin.

Perhaps the Pippin contained performance enhancing drugs as there was no weariness in the legs for the short ride home to conclude a fine little tour. (Dexter)

► Destination Llangollen (4 June 2011)
Good weekend weather for once meant the bikes could come out again, this time the aim was a steady ride down to Llangollen where our first refreshment stop was at the Griffin in Gresford. Unfortunately our visit coincided with a funeral gathering so we did feel a little out of place in bright cycling clothing. Time to sneak off to the garden where we were able to enjoy the Adnams Bitter in the warm sunshine (too early for the stronger alternative, Brains Reverend James).

A short pedal down the delightfully named Clappers and Pikey Lanes then brought us to the Pant-yr-Ochain. We found the Elland Pale Ale to be a tad cloudy but the Purple Moose Snowdonia was top drawer. The beer was enjoyed in what must be one of the most pleasant of beer gardens in our branch. Great to watch all the house martins hunting over the lake and landing to take mud for their nests.

The Breast Bitter pump-clip A lovely cycle was to follow as we made our way through Cross Lanes, Cockbank and Crabtree Green on the way to Ruabon. Reluctanctly passing our current Welsh Pub of the Year, the Bridge End, we instead carried on to Cefn-Mawr. From the top of the hill we got a quick look at the sad site of Cefn Druids' old ground being converted to a supermarket before undertaking the brake-destroying fast descent down to the Mill. Two beers on the pumps here, the first a Marathon Ale for charity and the second was Breast Bitter, both from Jolly Brewer. The pumpclip for this was quite an eye-opener, turns out it was brewed to raise funds for breast cancer and a very nice drop it was too.

A quick look in Acrefair at the Telford Inn revealed a house bitter oddly brewed for them by Tetleys but a busy bar meant we didn't stop to try it. Another fast descent to the bridge over the Dee afforded excellent views of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a remarkable piece of engineering and well worth stopping to admire. A mixture of country lanes and then the canal towpath brought us next to the Sun at Trevor. Taylors Landlord and Weetwood Eastgate were very good indeed and all the better for being drunk outside in the sun whilst taking in the fine views over the Vale of Llangollen.

The final stretch took us along the frighteningly fast and busy main road into Llangollen and the Sun Inn. An array of tempting ales made it hard to choose but the Phoenix White Monk and Salopian Oracle were both excellent choices. Last stop of the day was the Cornmill. Not the best choice of ale we've seen there but the Facers DHB was a good option as we supped outside on the veranda. What a great way to finish the day - waiting for the missus to arrive for a lift home while watching a family of dippers in the fast-flowing rapids of the Dee. (Mr W)

That's all folks. Anything over six months old is entered into our archived records and not available on the website.