04/12/19 - Worcester's New Drinking Dens

Pubs - 3
GBG Tick - 434

An evening in Worcester to investigate three of the new micro pubs that have opened up over the last couple of years.

The Arch Rivals, Netherton Court, Wye Valley HPA

Ever wondered what its like to drink in an Anderson shelter?   Well wonder no more and head to the railway arches, as the train line crosses the river.    Its well hidden, but you will find guiding lights and a big pub sign to show the way.

Pub - Big Arrow

Recreating the spirit of the Blitz - especially when a train goes over

I did my usual trick of staring at the brightly coloured craft cans in the fridge, not being able to identify a single one and falling back on the consistent HPA.

It was especially good.   All subsequent punters ordered the same.

Oil Basin Brewhouse, Copenhagen Street

Copenhagen Street is where the new micro pub action is happening - a bottle shop, a brewhouse and a newly opened Belgian Beer Bar, all within spitting distance.    Should you want something more traditional, the magnificent Plough is not far around the corner.

Micro Action in Copenhagen Street - in the 2020 Good Beer Guide

Unusually for a micro, this has a nice pubby feel to it.   A front room with at least one comfy chair, beamed roof and the instruction manual for how the magic is made.

W+M+H+Y = B

The locals all gather at the bar - blocking the wares - so I cannot report on the brewery or product that was my 6% vanilla stout - but it was damned good.   So good, I went back for a 2nd, only to find the barman had disappeared.

No worries - the real reason I was in Worcester was right next door.

Tripel Bs, Copenhagen Street, Tripel Karmeliet

Facebook, uncannily knowing what I like, posted an advert for this place on my timeline.   Its a Belgian Cafe that pays attention to detail.

Drink a Tripel

To overcome the problem of bar blockers - there's an extensive beer menu on every table.   Once you've got past the 6 pages of bottles and draught beers, there even a charcuterie section.   Next time, I'm having cheese.

And if you need help, the owner has an encyclopedic knowledge of the brews.   I'm a lover of Kwak (available of course) and tried the Karmeliet from the same brewery.   Presentation glass - no shoe required as a deposit.

Beautiful

A little bit of Belgium in Worcester.  Travel without the travel.   I wish them every success.