10/10/25 - The White Hart, Hartlebury

The Bad Pint Blues

Leafing through the local history section of the Library, I stumble upon my favourite type of resource. An ancient walking book. 

Mr Schatz writes a book

A local walk and the chance to tick off an Historic Inns of Interest Pub on familiar paths. To the River Severn, downstream to Lincomb, determine how to get through a caravan park and then lanes to Hartlebury.

Heaving lifting at the boatyard

Lincomb Weir

A first chance to explore Hartlebury St James church, distinctively made from red sandstone, with the real beauty inside.

St James’ Church, Hartlebury was largely rebuilt in 1836-37 by Thomas Rickman, replacing earlier medieval structures, though fragments from around 1300 remain. It’s built of deep red sandstone with a tile aisles, carried on narrow sandstone columns and adorned with decorative cinquefoil-headed panels. roof, while its tower dates back to 1587. In the churchyard lie the graves of five Bishops of Worcester—Perowne, Carr, Pepys, and Hurd among them. Inside, galleries run along the north and south

St James

Forward Facing Font at the entrance

The White Hart pub is over the road. One of those pubs that rapidly goes through owners, often with short periods of being closed down.

1960s Guide Book

Largely unchanged

A small front drinking room, which I have to myself on a Friday lunchtime. Two beers on, with a lesser spotted Bath Gem on offer with no pump clip but a small board pronouncing it a special. Looked more interesting than the near ubiquitous Wye Valley HPA but I should have trusted my instincts. When I asked if the special was on, I was met with a "I think there is some left".

God knows how long it had been on but it was beyond palatable. That off diacetyl taste and smell that creeps up on the drinker. I have a sip, think is it off. Try again. Before I know it, I have sipped about a third and I have limited my chances of taking it back.

I just hate making a fuss in new, quiet places.

I should have. It bother me all the way home along the Leapgate Country Park.

Stomping home in a mood.

Walk Details

Distance - 8 Miles 

Walk Inspiration - Midland Walks 

Geocaches - 0