ROVING ROW’S REVIEW Row and Bro visit two of Yaxley’s pubs... The Duck and Drake is one of three pubs operating in the village after the Lancaster Club recently closed. Landlord Colin provided us with an informed overview on the pub, which he has run for the past six and a half years. No regular food service at present – although over the summer he rented his kitchen out which provided a successful takeaway barbecue service.
On down Main Street to The Three Horseshoes, which was resplendent with Remembrance Day ribbons and poppies. Its sister pub is the Woolpack in Stanground, both run by Dave Nightingale. His staff were accommodating and friendly and filled us in on beers available, which are changed regularly. We sampled Timothy Taylor Landlord and Boltmaker, both delicious, accompanied by a snack of hot and filling cheesy chips, served promptly, overlooking the tidy, spacious and well-equipped beer garden. The pub has a good CAMRA following, including members of the Crib Club, which is one of several groups who meet there each week. The pub had a warm community feel about it and there seems to be plenty going on, reflected by the notice board’s upcoming events.
We enjoyed samples of Grainstore Witch’s Brew, beautifully clear in the glass. Also on tap that day were Timothy Taylor Landlord and Grainstore Ten Fifty. Ales are regularly changed ; some, like Listers IPA and Tailwagger,sell out very quickly. Talking of ‘Tailwaggers’ the resident guard dog, Daisy, a Shih Tzu/Yorkie cross, aka a “Shorky,” gave us a cautious welcome, but soon settled down when she realised we were friendly. Sourcing ale for the Duck and Drake comes from far afield. Colin told us one customer had introduced him to the Welsh Gwynt y Ddraig brewery who supply Black Dragon cider, which also sells well.
Time to set off for home, via Holme(!). We wended our way past ancient hedges and dark peat fields, lined with feathery reeds and bullrush heads, escorted from above by soaring Red Kites.
We sat and supped, enjoying beautiful views over Yaxley Fen through the lounge window. Visit our website for up-to-date news: www.peterborough.camra.org.uk
Row and Gareth DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021/22
BEER AROUND ‘ERE
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