09/10/25 - The Stirchley Squiggle

Vintage on Cask

A short walk with the Ramblers, which the Walk Leader has named the Stirchley Squiggle. On account of its circuitous route along the River Rea, Cotteridge Park and the unfortunately named Lady Garden.

Birmingham Worcester Canal

An Erratic in Cotteridge Park

It's a fair way to go for a 3 miler, but I was keen to revisit the Stirchley Beer Scene. I knew the Wildcat Tap had closed down but I hadn't countered for others not opening until 5pm. So much for the Beer Mile. There's only one venue open in daylight hours mid-week, the traditional British Oak. And the eye-catching policy being promoted is to extend opening hours! Ha! 

With no particular plan in mind, I hotfoot it back to town on the train. I'll have a think which establishments to tick off in my bar-crawl app. It's as the train pulls away, I see on Twitter that there were other options. 

Now in stock from Old Chimneys Brewery . pic.twitter.com/HjN49Pu8G4

— Cotteridge Wines (@CotteridgeWines) October 9, 2025

That's a beer that's been on the bucket list for quite some time. A return is considered but discounted.

I'll check out another beer with the year in its name.  The last time in the Old Stock Joint, the Vintage Ale was "resting".

I am delighted to see it has now fully rested and is available for consumption. Even if I am too scared to meet the card reader in the eye.

There were four staff on - I could have got away with multiple tasters

Only in the pub

On reflection, £7.30 was not too outrageous to a man still simmering from the 6% Nothing Bound in a back street Cheltenham boozer that was 50p more.

To sit in such opulent surroundings, watching the suits buy huge rounds on expenses, helping stranded Germans grasp that you order at the bar, and admiring the autumnal cathedral landscape through the vast windows — that was money well spent.

I was content with my lifestyle choice.

Always been a favourite

Stunning on Cask - and a first not in bottle for me

Walk Details

Distance - 3 Miles