F REE No.165
Summer 2013
HANDS UP IF YOU THINK NORWICH IS THE CITY OF REAL ALE!
Also inside: Angel, Larling Wins Norfolk Pub of the Year 2013!
PUB AND BREWERY NEWS BEHIND BARS • CAMRA AGM REPORT WHITEBOARD • LIST YOUR LOCAL BEER FESTIVAL CALENDAR • GLUTEN FREE ALE REPORT • COMPETITION AND MORE
Magazine of the Norfolk Branches of the Campaign for Real Ale
Trafford Arms Great Beer, Great Food, Great Atmosphere - situated in a Great City!
Raising money for for the Magdalene Group Jigsaw Project Chris and Glynis invite you to the Trafford Arms -
61 Grove Road, Norwich 01603 628466 www.traffordarms.co.uk
traffordarms@btconnect.com
Norwich & Norfolk Branch Chairman: Graham Freeman Tel: 01603 687495 Email: chairman@norwichcamra.org.uk Secretary: Warren Wordsworth Tel: 01603 665557 Email: w.wordsworth@ntlworld.com Social Secretary: Michael Philips Email: socialsecretary@norwichcamra.org.uk Pubs Officer: Ian Stamp Email: pubsofficer@norwichcamra.org.uk
West Norfolk Branch
Friday 19th April 2013 4pm. The Halls, Norwich The beer was settled and ready to serve, the bags were stuffed, the caterers standing by their hotplates, the Halls ready… After months of planning, it was time. But would they come? Oh yes. At 4pm on the dot, the doors opened and CAMRA Members came flooding in to drop off their pre-registered cards or register at the desk. Pausing only to collect their bags and pick up copies of NIPS and other newsletters, pub walk leaflets and other essential ephemera, they made their way to the Members’ Bar in Blackfriars’ Hall. The 2013 CAMRA Members’ Weekend and AGM had begun. It had a very different feel to it than the Beer Festival. St Andrews was resplendent laid out in Conference style, with the National Executive table taking up the whole width of the stage with the giant screen behind them. Roger Protz said it was “marvellous”, Colin Valentine
said that he liked the smaller venues, and he was right. Stewards were busying themselves on Saturday morning to bring in extra chairs for the start of the Conference. It was packed.
Chairman: Steve Barker email: steve.barker495@btinternet.com Secretary: Ian Bailey Contact: Bruce Ward Tel: 01485 609107
Branch websites: www.norwichcamra.org.uk www.camra.org.uk/wnorfolk
Branch mailing list web page: groups.yahoo.com/group/ CAMRA_Norwich Published every 3 months by the Norwich, Norfolk & West Norfolk branches of the Campaign for Real Ale © N&N CAMRA 2013 Norfolk Nips is produced and distributed by members of the branch in their own time. Views expressed in Norfolk Nips are not necessarily those of the editor or of CAMRA.
The tours departed and brought back happy trippers, and the pubs in the City were welcoming new friends. Sadly, the beer ran out, but not until 13.40 on the Sunday. Perfect. Green Jack’s Baltic Trader at 10.5% was the strongest beer by far. Some said it would not sell at all well, whereas in fact it went very quickly. Too quick for me. Then it was all over, and we can look forward to the next one in Scarborough next year.
Distribution: 12,000 copies / four times a year Norwich and Norfolk District: Vacant West Norfolk District : Ros Harre r.harre@btinternet.com
So, was it worth it? Would we do it all again? Would we have to wait another 23 years to do so?
Advertising: For advertising enquiries please contact Jane Michelson or Chris Shilling on: 01778 420888 / 421550 jane@shillingmedia.co.uk
The answers are Yes, Yes, and maybe not.
Edited by: Mike Baldwin Email: michaelbaldwin8@gmail.com Chris Lucas Email: chris-stig@tiscali.co.uk Design & Production: Daniel Speed - Orchard House Media Email: info@orchardhousemedia.co.uk
Front Cover: Voting at the CAMRA AGM 2013
SUMMER 2013 | 3
NORFOLK NIPS | Fair Deal
Fair Deal For Your Local: Time for Pubco Reform We have a very real opportunity to save the Great British Pub and we need you to get involved. The Government backed beer and pubs in the recent Budget by abandoning plans for a beer duty hike and instead cutting beer duty for the first time in over 50 years. They are now building on their support for pubs by taking on the large pub companies who are exploiting pub licensees and putting the future of thousands of pubs at risk. The fundamental problem is that the large pub companies are taking more than is reasonable from the profits of each pub– so licensees and pub goers alike suffer. A fair deal will result in the average tied pub being £4,000 better off annually
The Pubco Model Around a third of pubs in the UK are owned by large Pub Companies – property companies who lease pubs out to tenants to run as their own business. These pubs are contractually obliged to buy their beer only from the Pubco preventing pub licensees
buying on the open market – this is known as the beer tie. Pubcos make huge excess profits by using the beer tie to force licensees and ultimately the consumer to pay high prices. Licensees can pay at least 50% more for beer than a free-of-tie publican. Alongside this pubco licensees often find themselves paying above market value rents and have no independent adjudicator to settle disputes.
Time for Reform The Government is now proposing a package of measures to deliver a fair deal for local pubs, with: A powerful new Code and a Watchdog to stop abuses by big pub companies A new choice for licensees to opt out of restrictive tied agreements and just pay a fair market rent to their pubco Fair rents and beer prices for tied publicans, allowing them to thrive Pub companies with fewer than 500 pubs will be exempt from these proposals but must abide by a separate voluntary code.
If we succeed with this campaign we can expect better pubs, fairer prices and fewer pub closures.
Get Involved Your support in getting us this far really has made all the difference. However, the battle isn’t won yet and we now need to ensure the Government sees its plans through. To make the most of this opportunity there are three things you can do right now: • Ensure your voice is heard by taking five minutes to take part in the Government’s pubco reform survey • Help build the case for reform by sending in your own submission to the consultation. There’s ideas on what you could say on the campaign’s website • Sign up to be a Fair Deal for Your Local Campaign Supporter to hear more about the campaign and how you can get involved. You have until 14th June to take part. www.fairdealforyourlocal.com
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NORFOLK NIPS | Chairman’s Letters
Everyone’s a Winner, is that the truth? Well we did it. After the CAMRA e-petition of over 108,000 signatures, the Members mass lobby of Parliament and the MP’s debate, the hated Beer Duty Escalator was scrapped by the Government. Not only that, but there was the surprise cut in beer duty of one penny. The last time beer tax went down was 1959 when I was a little too young to remember. I can only thank everyone who helped in the best campaign CAMRA has had in its history. However we must not be complacent as there is no doubt the failing Government will put up beer duty next year. It is now even more important for us to keep campaigning and lobbying to convince the Chancellor the importance of the British Beer trade. Watch out for our next Campaign. Now talking of Norwich it was a great privilege to host the Member’s Weekend and National AGM in April. We had over 1300 members registered which I’m advised is an all time record. It was great to see all the members enjoying our fine city and some
even came from as far away as the USA to attend. I’m sure the local Pubs and Breweries enjoyed the experience and I thank all who helped in this grand event. I expect it will not be too long before our National Executive want to come back again. The time is now upon us when the plethora of Beer Festivals start. I have just attended the Dragon Hall Beer Festival for the first time and it was great to see lots of Norfolk beers on offer. Make sure you keep up with the dates for your diary and let us know if you are planning an event. The forthcoming Norwich City of Ale on 23rd May until 2nd June is well worth attending. And finally, I would advise that this is my last Chairman’s Bit as I’m standing down this year. I thank everyone who has helped me over the years to make my role very enjoyable. But don’t panic as you will still see me around leaning on the bar with a pint in my hand. Nothing changes? Graham Freeman
West Norfolk Chairman’s Words Last time, I commented on how the weather would be much improved. How wrong I was! At last the weather is getting warmer. On the Bank Holiday Weekend it was very pleasant to spend a few hours at the beer festival of my local pubs.
CAMRA campaign. Locally, Henry Bellingham one of our MP’s was very vociferous in his support, for which we thank him, the same however cannot be said of Elizabeth Truss who clearly had no idea that the escalator was killing pubs.
The AGM at Norwich was very successful, although I was unfortunately unable to be present due to other commitments.
Within our Area, SOKA has been formed. This consists of a group of people from Shouldham and the surrounding area that have banded together to buy and re-open the Kings Arms at Shouldham. This pub has been closed for some time, but has now been classified as a Community Asset, which protects it from being sold on the open market for a period of time. The Branch wishes them well and will assist where possible. To have the pub reopening would be a wonderful achievement and a fitting tribute to the perseverance of SOKA.
Congratulations to The Angel at Larling becoming Norfolk Pub of the Year a worthy winner. The range of beers is varied, but of consistently excellent quality with a mild always available. The Railway Arms at Downham Market has recently been voted East Anglian Cider Pub of the Year a truly exceptional achievement, with the very best of ciders and real ales sold. Turning to the Budget, the scrapping of the duty escalator, what a tremendous success for the
Enjoy the many beer festivals that are planned in our area over the summer.
Steve Barker - West Norfolk Chairman
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A freehouse in the heart of Worstead with up to NINE ales available
Open 11 Till Late 7 days a week Large New Restaurant Serving Food 7 Days A Week 5 Luxury Bed And Breakfast All En Suite Function Room Available To Hire For Weddings
Folk And Quiz Nights check web site for details
www.thewhitelady.co.uk
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| SUMMER 2013
TOUCHING THE CLOTH CHARITY BIKE RALLY
JUNE 28th - 30th REAL ALE , FOOD, BIKES AND MUSIC! FRIDAY NIGHT: SWEATY METAL & MANGOL HEAD SATURDAY NIGHT: BONE GARDEN, BLIND TIGER AND DONT SPOOK THE HORSE
WORSTEAD MUSIC & BEER FESTIVAL JULY 26th - 28th • 50 REAL ALES 26th July FRIDAY NIGHT: BONEGARDEN & BLIND TIGER 27th July ALL DAY SATURDAY: BEAR ESSIENTIALS, RIVERS, TEAR AWAYS, DOUGHY GEECANS, THROB AND POUT AT THE DEVIL 28th July ALL DAY SUNDAY: SKIFFLEBAND, DIRTY CASH, BEN GRIZZLY and the LOOSE LEAF DRIFTERS, BLACK CADALIC, BORN JOVI AND THE BOOZE BROTHERS
NR28 9RW (01692) 535391
NORFOLK NIPS | Words from the Editors
The Ed’lines Welcome to the Summer Edition of your favourite magazine. It’s hard to believe that the CAMRA Members’ Weekend and AGM has been and gone. All that planning and preparation, but it was well worth it. Hopefully it won’t be another twenty three years before it comes this way again. In this issue, we look back at the event, which has helped to cement Norwich as THE City of Ale. Let’s hope it’s a really good summer this year, there is
certainly a lot to do and see. Next up is The City of Ale Festival and before we know it, the 36th Norwich Beer Festival will be upon us – the planning is well under way. You can read Organiser Martin Ward’s article in this issue. Also in this issue, we have a new Contributor. Dawn Hopkins of The Norwich Bear Brewing Co., Ketts Tavern and The Rose, has become a champion campaigner. You may have read her entertaining blog and comments on Facebook and Twitter. Our Norfolk Beer
Legends series features Steve and Lesley George of The Humpty Dumpty Brewery fame. They have recently bought The Kings Head in Norwich and I caught up with them recently at the pub. So there we are – enjoy the read, enjoy the summer! If you see me about in one of our fine pubs or when I am working on the North Norfolk Railway at Weybourne, please tell me what you think about Norfolk NIPS and Cask Force – good or bad! Now, where’s that Passport?
Stig’s Words Springwatch is on the telly so it must be spring! In this issue hopefully lots of news from our neck of the woods. Community pub projects springing up in two places a local pub turned around in no uncertain terms and two west Norfolk pubs winning multiple awards. Congratulations to the Larling Angel which has just won CAMRA Norfolk Pub of the year to go with our local award and the Railway at Downham Market which has just become
CAMRA East Anglian cider pub of the year via the West Norfolk and Norfolk awards. Very well done to Andrew and team at the Angel, this is the second time in a couple of years. The same goes for Ian and Lesley Ann at the railway moving on now to the national competition. Don’t forget W Norfolk CAMRA is on facebook and has it’s own website. Finally I am delighted about the beer escalator being scrapped but some what disap-
pointed that the issue became a source of humour for the press and that apparently, all the campaigning was done by breweries and publicans! At least that’s the message I got. Also have you noticed as a pub user any reduction in price since the budget even a penny, ‘cause I can’t honestly say I have. Grump over; by all means put me right… Cheers Chris.
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Pub News
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Pub News
The big news in the city recently is that Jon and Rowland have passed on the reins of the Kings Head, in Magdalen Street to Stephen and Lesley George, two of the four partners in the Humpty Dumpty Brewery. Having previously transformed the Nelson, an Enterprise pub, Jon and Rowland bought the King’s Head in 2004, and spent 6 months refurbishing and rebuilding. They opened with 12 handpumps, all serving local beers, with no gas in the cellar - no lager, no Guiness, no postmix - and no music or machines in the bar. Nothing in fact to distract from conversation and the enjoyment of fine real ales. Since then the pub has become everybody’s local, winning the Branch Pub of the Year twice. Stephen and Lesley don’t plan any major changes - they love the pub as it is, and the ‘Kings’ won’t be a Humpty Dumpty pub, although there will probably always be at least one of their beers available. A send-off was held at the pub in late March, when the news became public, with a speech and presentation from Branch Vice-Chair Martin Ward, who thanked the pair for their contribution to the real ale scene in Norwich, and welcomed Stephen and Lesley as the new landlords. Back to regular news, the Garden House, Fakenham, known at one time as the Limes Hotel, re-opened in March having been converted 10
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to a Wetherspoon’s and renamed The Limes. Also in Fakenham, the Star has closed and is for sale again. The Royal Standard at Dereham has become a ‘true’ freehouse, with Batemans XB on permanently alongside guest beers from the likes of Wolf, Beeston and others from around the country. Darryl and Julie Culmer took over without a big fanfare in 2012, and have been quietly repairing and improving the building since, letting word of mouth advertise the changes. The Kings Head, North Elmham and the Royal Oak, Bintree have both re-opened, as has the Red Lion, Coltishall in January, having been completely re-furbished, and now with seven handpumps on the bar, serving Adnams, Tipples, Humpty Dumpty, Grain and other local beers. Closed temporarily (we hope!) are the Berney Arms at, er.. Berney Arms, the Cock, Lakenham, the Ratcatchers, Cawston (again), and the King’s Head, Dereham. The Mermaid at Hedenham has been converted to a Balti restaurant. The New Inn at Rockland is reported to have new landlords and will be re-opening in May. Temple Bar, Norwich are now stocking two real ales on gravity. As always, if you have any information about pubs in
Norfolk, please let me know at pubsofficer@norwichcamra.org .uk. We have over 1000 pubs in the county, and as hard as we try, we can’t possibly keep tabs on all of them. So if a pub opens, re-opens, closes, starts or stops selling real ale, check our database, at norwichcamra.org.uk/pubdb and if it’s out of date, please let us know! The First Ever Morley Beer Festival Friday 7th – Sunday 9th June Head to Morley Village Hall on Golf Links Road (NR18 9SU) for this exciting new event, which starts at 5pm on Friday. Real ales from Panther, Wolf, Beeston, Fat Cat, Norfolk Brewhouse, amongst others await you, plus cider from Whin Hill. Prices start from £2.50 per pint. The entry fee of £3.00 includes your glass. Entertainment includes The Sheringham Shantymen on Saturday afternoon and Memphis Index on Friday night. And there is food, with burgers, butties and pasties being served. There is plenty of free car parking and camping is available in large, well screened grounds (only £5.00 for a 2-man tent). See www.morley-village.co.uk for full details Number One…with a Bullitt! ‘Bullitt’, a Great Yarmouth BBQ restaurant, located within a once-derelict seafront real ale pub called The Barking Smack, has emerged as the highestranked restaurant within a radius of more than 150 miles.
The ranking is derived from customer reviews on Trip Advisor, the world's largest travel site. This places Bullitt ahead of every restaurant across the East Midlands, East Anglia and South East of England, including all 11,000plus London restaurants… amongst them world-famous establishments such as Petrus, Le Gavroche and Restaurant Gordon Ramsey.
News from the West First, the bad news. The planning application for change of use to residential for the Albert Victor in Castle Acre has been approved as predicted, and that pub will cease to be. The Blue Lion in North Pickenham has closed and I am told that the bar has been stripped and the World War II artefacts that decorated the place had to be rescued by the local council. It seems that the directors who took over last October have previous experience of closing Norfolk pubs, such as one at Bacton and that one of the directors was formerly with a property company. The signs therefore are not looking good. However Paul phoned me from the village and he is trying to see if there is any local support for trying to rescue the pub. We have passed on some advice and information and wish him well in his efforts. Elsewhere things are looking up. I braved the bitter cold weather at the end of March to attend one of Paul Richards
NORFOLK NIPS | News from the West
pub walks in Lynn and was overjoyed when we ended up at a new pub. The Merchants bar is in the Hansa House on the South Quay, close to Marriott’s warehouse. To me it had the feel of a basement jazz club, and was selling a couple of beers from Elgoods. It had just opened so the kitchens were not yet fully operational and the bar staff were a bit inexperienced, but it had all the makings of a top class bar. It should have settled down a bit now so give it a try.
The London Porterhouse in Lynn has reopened under new ownership. No longer a Greene King pub, it offered beers from Woodfordes, Adnams and Charles Wells when I last called in. It is lighter and brighter, with a bit more space as a wall has been moved. The landlady Karen, used to run the place a few years ago, so she is no stranger. The music and alternate Monday night quizzes are back and proving popular. It is good to see that the Rose and Crown in Hilgay is back in business. After many months of uncertainty, Paul and Rebecca Coston took over last autumn and have made a bit of a name for themselves by running charity fundraising events such as eating contests. According to the beer scores I have received, they can also serve a decent pint. I also hear that the Chequers at Wimbotsham finally has a new team in charge. Linda
Newman and her niece Kim Brockhouse have taken over and aim to make it a focal point for the community. Already quiz nights and steak nights have been organised, the pub is being refurbished and dogs are being made welcome.
After lying dormant for many months, the site of the Wildfowler suddenly exploded into action, with work continuing late into the evenings and at weekends. Despite asking around, even my best contacts such as Bar Stool Bob* had no idea what was happening. Finally the waiting was over when the Lynn News broke the story that Nicola and Peter Strong, formerly of the Dolphin in Diss are taking over as landlords after a £200,000 refurbishment. The plans as described by Star Pubs and Bars spokesperson look exciting and we hope that it truly becomes an excellent community pub which is much needed in a rather barren beer area. Mind you, these refurbishments seem to be cosmetic compared with what is taking place at Antonio’s wine bar in Lynn. I walked past recently and through the open door it was possible to see that the whole of the inside had been removed, including the upper story floor, leaving only the walls as a shell. I don’t know what the plans are for the future, but a lot of money is being invested. No such news continued overleaf
SUMEER 2013 | 11
News from the west - continued for the Wenn’s which remains up for sale, but is still open. Bradleys wine bar remains on the market but is currently closed, whilst the Southgate’s bar seems to be functioning again as Ciao. Other pubs up and running again include the Duck Inn at Stanhoe, the House on the Green at North Wootton and the Blue Bell at Stoke Ferry. We hear that the Old White Bell at Southery is under new management with a couple of guest ales from Batemans, whilst the Anvil at Congham has added a guest ale, and every time I visit the Victory in Clenchwharton the number of beers on the bar seems to expand.
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We went up to the regular quiz night at the Kings Head at Great Bircham (second yet again) and were impressed by the refurbishment which has opened out the bar, giving far more room for drinkers. Other new pubs planned in the area include the new build Marston’s house near Tesco’s in Hunstanton which looked to be progressing well last time we passed, and one due to be built on the old Campbell’s site in Lynn. I remember reading several times about a Greene King Hungry Horse pub which is due to be built on the old lorry park near the South Gates in Lynn. Every year a story seems to appear that it will be open by October. Given the lack of visible progress, that
seems to be optimistic in the extreme. We are also interested to hear of plans by Andrew Jamieson to launch cider production at his farm in Thornham in North Norfolk. He already has a farm shop, luxury camp site and produces apple juice so this seems to be a well thought out plan which has every chance of succeeding. *a fictional character created to protect the identities of my vast army of beer moles. Jeff
CAMRA News
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Chancellor right to scrap beer duty escalator as new statistics show 26 pubs a week closing pre-budget, says CAMRA. CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has published the latest CGA CAMRA Pub Tracker statistics which show that 26 pubs a week are closing in the UK. The statistics show that the rate of pub closures rose during the last 6 months up to March this year compared to earlier in 2012, from 18 to 26 per week across the UK, meaning that the cut in beer duty and scrapping of the beer duty escalator in this year’s budget could not have come at a more important time. Mike Benner, Chief Executive at CAMRA, said “We believe that the scrapping of the beer duty escalator and the extra 1p off beer duty announced in this year’s budget could mark a turning point for pubs. With a better deal on beer tax, the Government’s plans for pub company reform and the ‘List Your Local’ scheme, announced during CAMRA’s Community Pubs Month, we are hopeful that the fortunes of Britain’s pubs are set to change .”
Call for a Fair Deal for your Local
In April, after years of campaigning by CAMRA, the Government announced a long-awaited consultation on their plans to reform the big pub companies. These big pubcos are making life tough for their pubs and hard working licensees by taking excessive profits from pubs – so licensees and pub goers alike suffer. 14
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The Government is now proposing: • A powerful new Code and Watchdog to ensure fair dealing by big pub companies • A new choice for licensees to opt out of restrictive tied agreements and just pay a fair market rent to their pubco • Fair rents and beer prices charged to tied publicans, allowing them to thrive Your support in getting us this far has made all the difference. However, the battle is not won, we need to ensure the Government sees through its plans for reform. To make the most of this opportunity there are three things you can do right now: STEP 1: Complete the Government survey and call for pubco reform. STEP 2: To strengthen your call for reform please send in your own written submission. STEP 3: Use our campaign website to find out more information about the campaign and sign up to show your support. Our hope is that the proposals will apply to the UK as a whole. The UK Government is currently talking to devolved Governments to see how and if this can be achieved. Visit www.fairdealforyourlocal.com to find out more and get involved.
MPs and Lords raise a glass to CAMRA’s successes at Parliamentary Reception Jonathan Mail reports:On the 24th April, CAMRA held our annual Parliamentary Reception. The event was attended by Jo Swinson, Minister for Employment Relations and Consumer Affairs; Community Pubs Minister Brandon Lewis; Andrew Griffiths , Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group; Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles. Opened by a speech from CAMRA’s National Chairman Colin Valentine, MPs in the room
were thanked for lobbying the Chancellor of the Exchequer in an effort to abolish the beer duty escalator. Secretary of State Eric Pickles took to the floor, describing pub culture as Britain’s equivalent to European cafe culture in a fantastic speech: “This is a game changer. CAMRA’s decision to go for the registration of 300 pubs this year is ambitious but achievable, and then next year, and the year after - once they’re registered it changes the whole nature of the game. It’s demonstrated that it is within the grasp of communities to be able to do that. I understand that you want to see changes in the law, in planning, but let me make clear, this is a big changer - local authorities already have a power through a thing called article four to be able to ensure that the change of use from pub to supermarket, or to doctors surgeries or to solicitors can be stopped. Don’t wait for things to happen, use the power that this gives. “To CAMRA, you have my support, you have my desire to see British pubs go from strength to strength – and with the consultation [on PubCos] you’ve seen that we’re not just prepared to talkthe-talk, we’re prepared to make a difference, and we’re doing it not just to be nice to your fine organisation, but because we recognise that the British pub is integral to British life.” Greg Mulholland, Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group was awarded CAMRA’s prestigious Parliamentarian of the Year award for the continued support he has given CAMRA’s campaigns.
NORFOLK NIPS | CAMRA News
Victory Inn Clenchwarton Main Road, Clenchwarton, Kings Lynn PE34 4AQ Tel: 01553 775668
Three Real Ales regularly available Fresh, home-made food served from Tuesday to Sunday Locally sourced ingredients We cater for all dietary requirements including Coeliac, Vegan and Vegetarian.
ish Fresh f s ip & ch y
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first Wednesday of every month All proceeds going to local charities
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Acknowledging this, Greg told the audience “I’ve been a CAMRA member longer than I’ve been a member of any other organisation, including my political party”. He also announced that Community Pubs Minister Brandon Lewis had recently joined CAMRA as a fully paid up member. Expressing his delight at CAMRA’s most recent win regarding the beer duty escalator, Greg adapted a well known political phrased, telling the audience “It was CAMRA what won it.”
SUMMER 2013 | 15
The Vernon Arms Southrepps www.vernonarms.co.uk
Beer & Music Festival
Friday 26th to Sunday 28th July 20 local and national ales and cider Homemade burgers and other BBQ goodies Live music from Johnny Romance and the Lovers on Friday night, Mick Murphy’s New Orleans jazz band on Saturday afternoon, Aidy and friends on Saturday afternoon and livening the night up with Chibber. Sunday afternoon is going to be nice and relaxed with Mechanism (TBC) playing mellow jazz classics (in the sunshine hopefully). For Further Information:
01263 833355
The Gatehouse Pub 391 Dereham Road, Norwich NR5 8QJ Tel: 01603 620340
FOUR REAL ALES Wednesday Irish Folk Music Thursday Folk Mixed Music Friday & Saturday Live Music Sunday Celtic Folk Music
Large garden overlooking the River Wensum OPEN: Mon - Thurs 12-11 Fri & Sat 12-12 • Sunday 12-11 16
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The Real Ale Shop is a unique off-licence offering over 60 bottle conditioned ales from 15 Norfolk brewers. We are located on a beautiful arable farm close-by Wells-next-the-Sea, which provides much of the malt used in brewing the ales we sell. The Real Ale Shop, Branthill Farm, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk, NR23 1SB.
Tel: 01328 710810
The Lacons The iconic Lacons falcon has been revived and refreshed, ready for the return of the brewery and its much-loved ales in late May. The new emblem which depicts the falcon, its wings outspread ready to land symbolizes the return of Lacons after a 45-year hiatus. The man behind the return of Lacons to brewing, Mick Carver, employed a creative agency to rework the iconic emblem and logo to capture how it would have evolved over the past 45 years if the brewery had not closed. Mr Carver, Lacons managing director, explains: “I have worked with a creative agency to develop a logo that fully embraces the 250 years of brewing heritage associated with Lacons. The result is a striking handcrafted logotype with talons subtly constructed into the letterforms to harmonise with the accompanying falcon logo.” “The iconic falcon emblem has also evolved into a stunning linocut graphic that is preparing to land. This signifies the return of Lacons ales to drinkers old and new.” The falcon has been the symbol of Lacons for hundreds of years and there are many pubs across East Anglia that still have its image embedded in their brickwork. A vast collection of memorabilia depicting the original falcon, including iconic images of the old brewery, will be on display within the visitors centre at the Falcon Brewery in Great Yarmouth when it opens to the public at the end of May. Lacons Brewery has released the names of the first three craft ales to be brewed by the iconic 18
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name in 45 years. The three craft ales – Encore, Legacy and Affinity – have been created by head brewer Will Wood using the original Lacons yeast that had been securely stored since the brewery closed in 1968. Much thought was given when considering the names of the inaugural ales. The main criteria taken was to embrace words that symbolise the return of Lacons together with celebrating the rich past of the brewery and the affection and respect we have to the Lacons name. After much soul searching and deliberation a decision was made: Encore - 3.8% ABV Glowing with a pale amber hue, this flavour packed ale leads with delicate fruit aromas, comfortably balancing a dry pine and citrus crescendo of flavour throughout – followed by a finish that is long and dry. Legacy - 4.4% ABV Delightfully moreish, this revivifying blonde ale has an abundantly refreshing citrus aroma. This intensifies into a deliciously deep wave of lemon and lime, ending with a lengthy mellowing bitter finish. Affinity – 4.8% ABV Robustly full bodied with a glistening chestnut tint, the ale's complex passion fruit and lychee tartness leaps forward – closely followed by a perfectly charming balance of fruit and malt on the finish. For Lacons managing director Mick Carver, choosing the names for the new ales was not an easy task, but he feels the names selected give
NORFOLK NIPS | Lacons Brewery
Falcon has landed respect to the heritage of Lacons. He explained: “Encore was selected as an apt name as it means return or once again. It conjures up an image of excited and relaxed enjoyment. “Legacy was selected as it links the rich past of this incredible brewer over its 250-year history. The name invites the beer lover to be part of the Lacons story. Affinity is a strong word that invites natural attraction and a feeling of kinship to the drinker linking together our genuine love and desire to preserve Lacons place in history while creating an authentic new chapter.” The three craft ales form the permanent collection that Lacons will deliver with special limited edition ales and seasonal beers being added to the range going forward.
LACONS FACTS: The new Falcon Brewery in Great Yarmouth will produce over 28,000 pints (400 casks) of beer weekly at the current site using a 20-barrel brewing plant within the next 12 months. The Falcon Brewery officially opened on May 21 with a ceremony including an original Lacons dray. Lacons ales will be available at the City of Ale Festival that runs from May 23 to June 2 in Norwich. Lacons is sponsoring the launch party of the City of Ale Festival on May 23 at St Gregory’s Church. Lacons Brewery and its renowned Ales were an integral part of life in Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Cambridge and beyond until 1965, when the national brewer Whitbread purchased it. Just 3 years later in 1968 Whitbread closed the brewery ending a rich chapter in the regions brewing history. The Lacons name was first associated with brewing beer in Great Yarmouth in 1760 and represents a time when the town was known for its ales. In the mid 1800s Lacons Brewery decided to sell to the London market and by 1866 it was despatching upwards of 50,000 barrels yearly to London, 20,000 to other locations, as well as the local market
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NORFOLK NIPS | Kigs Head, Norwich
Status Quo at The King’s Head? But what of the new owners? I have only known them from their time at the Brewery, I was with Lesley to welcome Sir Ian Botham at Coltishall and with Steve at the Brewers Market at last year’s City of Ale. They met 15 years ago, at a pub in Surrey, which Lesley remembers was called – The Kings Head.
When Jon and Roland said that they were selling the Kings Head, eyebrows were raised. When it was known that they had sold it to Steve and Lesley George, two of the Humpty Dumpty Partners, they were raised even more. What would this mean for Jon and Roland? What would this mean for Steve and Lesley? What about the pub, the brewery, the regulars at this iconic real ale pub? Too many questions, too few answers, so I popped into the pub to meet them the other night. Would there be change I wondered? Jon was adamant the real ale drinkers don’t like change, but then many in Norfolk don’t like or want it in any form whatsoever. The good news is that status quo prevails. Steve and Lesley are family people and you get the impression that the pub is being run by a big “family.” Jon and Roland are still around, though on the “right side” of the bar, Charlie the Cellar Manager and Ali the Pub Manager are still there as well. So is the warm welcome. However, there is one little, small change – more on that later.
She was working in international exchange programmes and Steve had just arrived in the UK, working in the oil refining industry. Steve had been into homebrewing in the States and admits that he joined CAMRA “as soon as the plane landed.” He got into full mash brewing in the UK with his friend Craig Fermoy. The Georges and the Fermoys were looking to start up their own microbrewery when an advert in What’s Brewing caught their eye – “Brewery For Sale.” Once they had travelled to Norfolk and seen it, they knew that this was the right move for them. They became business partners and the rest, as they say, is history. So why buy the pub? Steve says that this is them putting down their roots down in Norfolk, they are not going anywhere, anytime soon, he added. Steve still has the day job, Lesley is still the Business manager at Humpty Dumpty. They took on the Kings Head just before the busy CAMRA Members’ Weekend and AGM, and were gearing up for the City of Ale, which they said is a great way to celebrate the fantastic pubs and breweries in the County. To celebrate the Brewery’s 15th anniversary, a new barley wine (9%) was to be launched, called “15”. We certainly wish them all well in this new venture, and it is reassuring to know that nothing has changed. Oh, except for one small thing……. They now sell pickled eggs!
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Heathlands Community Centre, Woodbastwick Road, Blofield Heath, Norwich, NR13 4QH Tel: 01603 714164 Mob: 07818466473 www.heathlandscommunitycentre.org.uk Registered Charity: 303909
SUMMER FAIR & BEER FESTIVAL TUESDAY 16TH TO SUNDAY 21ST JULY 12 REAL ALES & 2 CIDERS
SESSION TIMES
Tues 16th - Thurs 18th: 7.30pm until late
Friday 19th: 5pm until late Saturday 20th: 2pm until late Sunday 21st: 12 noon until late
Entertainment:
Thurs: Blofield Heath Jammers Fri: KC’s Karaoke & Video Disco Sat: The Rob Holmes Band, on the field, (weather permitting) from 9pm. Sunday: Summer Fair from 12 Noon Grand Cash Prize Draw, The Norfolk Harley Club (ICENI), Vintage Cars & Bikes, Stock Cars, BBQ, Tea & Cake Tent, Model Aicraft Display, Treasure Hunt, Police Land Rover, Bouncy Castle, Coconut Shy, Ice Creams & numerous games and side shows.
Fully Licenced Bar
Light Snacks available
Kindly supported by Greenjack Brewery, Lowestoft.
Norfolk’s best kept secret... Lynn Road, Fincham Norfolk PE33 9HE T: 01366 347747 info@timbershotel.co.uk www.timbershotel.co.uk Timbers is a lovingly restored barn complex incorporating a family restaurant, hotel, bar and function facilities. We are located in Fincham, close to Downham Market and Kings Lynn. Our food is lovingly prepared daily using fresh ingredients sourced as close to home as possible.
Timbers Restaurants
Timbers Hotel
Weddings at Timbers
Extensive All Day and an a la Carte menus available on Friday and Saturday evenings. We also have chef’s specials.
We have thirty-one rooms with a number of double and twin en suite rooms as well as a two room family suite and a separate log cabin that accommodates six people.
We offer various packages and options for your special day
Carvery on Sundays, with a selection of four meats, Salmon or nut loaf for vegetarians, served with vegetables, roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding. Under 12’s menu available.
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Our Daisy suite is perfect for a romantic weekend away, with Jacuzzi bath!! Enjoy a home cooked breakfast before departing.
With two traditional beamed rooms to choose from for your ceremony - three very different style rooms for your wedding breakfast and reception. Our Marquee is draped with ivory linen, featuring grand chandeliers for that classic white wedding feel.
NORFOLK NIPS | Norfolk CAMRA POTY 2013
Celebrations at the Angel, Larling Norfolk CAMRA Pub of the Year 2013
FELTWELL FEST’S FIRST FOR THIRST!
need a showpiece annual event in Feltwell and a beer festival fits the bill perfectly given the excellent venues we have here. “The event will run over four days from the evening of Friday 23rd through until the daytime on Monday and will feature live music, entertainment, a “Feltwell’s Got Talent (or not!)” open mic show and plenty of fun for families and real ale enthusiasts alike. “We’re hoping to get at least nine of our excellent local Norfolk and Suffolk breweries on board and will shortly be announcing the names of the event sponsors,” added Chris.
The first ever Feltwell Beer Festival takes place later this year over the August Bank Holiday (23rd to 26th) with three of the venues in the village set to host a wide range of locally brewed ales and entertainment. The Feltwell Social Club, The West End and The Chequers are all on board to support an event that, it is hoped, will become a regular fixture in the calendar and raise funds for three charities: MacMillan Nurse, Cystic Fibrosis Trust and the East Anglian Children’s Hospital. The Feltwell Beer Fest 2013 is the brainchild of local man and Parish Councillor Chris Samuels: “We
Rob Bell, Landlord of The West End, commented: “This promises to be a great event and a showcase for the very best beers from across the region with three great worthy causes being supported. All we need to do now is find out how we can book four days of sunny weather!” For more details visit: www.feltwellbeerfest.co.uk, follow on Twitter @Feltwell_beer or contact info@feltwellbeerfest.co.uk For details about the talent competition please e-mail Rob@getpromotion.co.uk.
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West Norfolk
| NORFOLK NIPS
The Old Bell Saham Toney - All change for the good Every now and then a pub rises from mediocrity to stand out as an example of what can be achieved by hard work and a talent for understanding the local community. The Old Bell at Saham (Just outside Watton) is such a place. Just over a year ago Colin and Debbie Wheeler took on the Bell on a lease from the private owner. They were initially doubtful, and almost passed on the opportunity but the Licensing Officer suggested they look again and, thankfully, they took the Old Bell on. They applied their previous experience running the Greengate at Caistor for five years to the new challenge. The first issue was to get the outside of the building refurbished, followed by the kitchen which was refitted to Colin’s satisfaction (Colin is a qualified chef). Real ale was a priority too and four hand pumps were installed carrying Woodforde’s Wherry and Adnams Bitter plus two ever changing guests, all kept superbly, Wolf Debbie Wheeler hard at and Brandon beers work but always smiling! featuring. There has already been a small beer fest at Easter with another planned in August. There is a wide and varied menu including a very popular carvery on Sundays. Colin believes in fresh produce so you will not find any frozen ingredients in his main courses. The food also plays a part in the pubs fundraising activities with themed nights in support of charities such as the local church, Help for Heroes, EACH & Freedom Farm. As I write the beneficiaries are Alzheimer’s charities in association with the local care home. Lottery sheets are also sold to raise money. About £350 - £500 is raised at each event. The Old Bell is also sponsoring the village rugby and football teams this season. Debbie creates an atmosphere of comfort which encourages proper old fashioned conversation in 24
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the bar, the staff have been chosen wisely to encourage this ambience. I asked some of the regulars to comment on the Bell, comments included “The best thing to happen to the village in ages”, “ The hardest working landlady you’ll ever find” and a tale of a local lady living nearby who had previously been too nervous to visit the pub being encouraged by one of the charity nights and eventually rounding up six friends to come as well! The Old Bell is open all day which definitely pays dividends as when I visited last the Bell was busy all afternoon. All in all the Old Bell is what CAMRA is about. Don’t take my word for it try it yourself!
UK Capital of Ale Survey On June 29th Norwich & Norfolk Branch will again be visiting every pub in Norwich on our third annual Pub Survey tour – awe need your help! Norwich is really on the national map now, claiming the UK Capital of Real Ale title for two years in a row, having hosted a record-breaking National AGM in April, and with the third City of Ale festival looking to be the biggest yet. To make sure we stay there, and can claim the title again, we need as many volunteers as possible to help by visiting a few pubs each, and logging the beers for sale. Bring a couple of friends and make it into a mini-pub-crawl – just as long as you remember to note down what’s on sale. This year’s HQ is the Reindeer, on Dereham Road, where we’ll be from about 1pm to receive reports from all around the city. You don’t have to be a CAMRA member to take, part - just email norwichpubsurvey@gmail.com or pubsofficer@norwichcamra.org.uk for details, or tweet to @NrwichPubSurvey, and I’ll get back to you.
The King’s Head CASK ALE HOUSE
Open 12.00noon - 11.00pm Monday to Saturday 12.00noon - 10.30pm Sunday A friendly and welcoming traditional ale house offering an ever-changing selection of top quality cask ales from East Anglian microbreweries
E WE AR IN IT!
No Keg Beers - No Music - No Television 14 Hand Pumps East Anglian Ales and Ciders Mild always available Worldwide Bottled Beers Bar Billiards www.norwichbarbilliards.co.uk
olk f r o N A R CAM ear Y e h t f o b Pu 08 2006 & 20 The Kings Head, 42 Magdalen Street, Norwich NR3 1JE
Tel: (01603) 620 468 www.kingsheadnorwich.com
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NORFOLK NIPS | West Norfolk Editorial
The Barman Considers Trying a Glass of Cider Funny stuff cider. I used to drink the odd drop when I was a kid before my mother realised that it contained alcohol. It is an easy mistake to make as even the strong stuff can taste like fruit juice. The first time I ever went into a pub was the Abbey in Torquay whilst away on a field trip from school. There I developed a teenage infatuation for Youngers Tartan bitter which lasted a few months until I discovered the proper beer. It could have been so different. We did a day’s fieldwork in Newton Abbott and a couple of the lads tried some of the local cider and later the same evening decided to go ape on the substructure of Torquay pier. That’s cider – stuff that tastes innocuous but can lead you into doing some very silly things if you do not treat it with respect, so over the years I have tended to avoid it. Increasingly it seems that I am in a minority. It may have been Magners that started the cider revival with their innovative idea of serving it with ice, but it’s a bandwagon that has continued to roll. Jumping aboard have been Strongbow, Bulmers, Kopparberg and others. However as with beer, not all the brands are the same. Some are high strength and very cheap, with Frosty Jack having taken number one spot in the category of providing maximum alcoholic intoxication at a minimum price. If it was a burger, it would be a prime candidate for being stuffed full of horsemeat. Best avoided that one. More mainstream are the keg ciders such as Magners and Bulmers. These are perfectly respectable brands to be seen drinking, and in some circles could even be considered cool. However they are the cider equivalent of keg beer and I am told that once you have tried the decent stuff you will be reluctant to return to them. For, alongside these mass marketed brands, pubs are increasingly offering real cider. Perhaps the most widespread is Weston’s Old Rosie, but ciders from a myriad of smaller producers are finding their way onto the bar. There has been a
long tradition of cider production in Norfolk which is being continued by Whin Hill in Wells, Crones in Kenninghall and the Norfolk Cider Company at Hoveton amongst others. Vital in this cider renaissance has been the work of CAMRA’s APPLE group under the leadership of our own Andrea (apparently not a Belieber, despite what I wrote last week). Thanks to them, West Norfolk CAMRA has now selected a Cider Pub of the Year, and our current choice is the Railway Arms on Downham Market station, which has gone on to become the Norfolk champion. It may not have the range of brands available in the White Lion in Norwich, which was the runner up, but it does have Pickled Pig
“Should I drink cider or beer? If you see me swinging from Hunstanton pier, either you or me will have made the wrong choice.” and a unique atmosphere. So are you adventurous enough to try a new drink and sensible enough to know when to say enough is enough? If so, give real cider a go. You should also be able to find some in the Chalk and Cheese in Shouldham, The George in Newton by Castle Acre, the Victory in Clenchwharton and the Lattice House or Ouse Amateur Sailing Club (members only) in Kings Lynn. Many beer festivals also serve proper cider. We have a presentation coming up at the Railway Arms and I have a decision to make. Should I drink cider or beer? If you see me swinging from Hunstanton pier, either you or me will have made the wrong choice. bar.man@btinternet.com Read the Bar Man every Friday in the Lynn News, or find him on the Lynn News website.
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West Norfolk Editorial
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Railway Arms wins East Anglia Cider POTY! The Railway Arms at Downham Market has been judged the winner of East Anglia Cider Pub of the year 2013. Following their recent success in the Norfolk Cider Pub of the Year Competition, the Railway Arms was judged as part of the East Anglia round which included pubs from Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Essex and, of course, Norfolk. The pub regularly sells three ciders including some from nearby producer Pickled Pig. Their success in the East Anglian competition means that the Railway will move on to the next stage in the National Cider Pub of the Year competition. Ian and Lesley Ann Pinches, who run the Railway Arms said "We are overjoyed and honoured to receive such recognition from CAMRA, all the more so because we both
enjoy selecting and selling good ciders. We wish to thank firstly our customers and supports but particularly Charles and Laura Roberts form Pickled Pig and Paul Fisher and the Directors at The Small Beer Company who supply many of our ciders." Andrea Briers, CAMRA’s East Anglia Regional Director and Chairman of CAMRA’s Cider and Perry Committee said, “With cider becoming more popular the competition is getting tougher year on year and I am delighted for Ian and Lesley Ann in realising this achievement . It is also good to have a winning pub so close to home and I wish them well in the next round of the competition.”
NORFOLK NIPS | West Norfolk Editorial
Lynn’s South Quay Promising Developments
Following on from the sad demise of Bradley’s in January, there are signs of regeneration in two historic buildings on Lynn’s South Quay. At the start of April, The Merchants Bar opened in the undercroft of Hansa House followed a couple of weeks later by a café bar in Marriot’s Warehouse. Each has a couple of beers on handpump: Elgood’s EPA and Golden Newt in The Merchants complemented by Wherry and Sharp’s Doombar in Marriot’s. The Hansa House complex incorporates a 14th century Hanseatic warehouse. A remnant of the medieval trading network based around the previous Viking territories, it is reckoned to be the only such warehouse in England. Perhaps better known to Lynn residents is St Margaret’s House on the Nelson Street frontage which was, until recently, Lynn’s Registry Office. Hansa House was recently taken on by the Abel family, previously of Denver Windmill where they featured in Alex Polizzi’s TV programme The Fixer. The Abels retain the Denver Mills trade name. Presently, in addition to Merchants Bar there is a craft foods shop, café and function room. In addition to the Elgood’s beers, Merchants stocks real bottled cider by Watergull of Wisbech. The shop also stocks bottled beers from Two Rivers of Denver and Brandon Brewery. Merchants trades from lunchtime till 11pm but does not open until 3pm Monday to Thursday.
Marriot’s Warehouse is next door. Until it closed last year it housed The Green Quay, an interpretive centre based on The Wash. Another medieval warehouse, it has been taken by Malcolm Catlin and Andrew Hornigold of Terrington St. Clement. On the ground floor is the café bar. Run very much in the style of a café featuring table service. Nevertheless, on a recent lunchtime visit, Marriot’s were only too happy to serve a beer without anything to eat. The first floor features a lounge/ sitting room with seats that seem so comfortable that they look difficult to get out of to move on! The second floor forms a function room much the same as in its previous incarnation of The Green Quay. The café bar is open daily from 10am-11pm. At the South Quay’s north end is Bank House, a hotel reopened the other year by Anthony and Jeanette Goodrich, perhaps better known for keeping The Rose & Crown, Snettisham. Complementing their fine dining, the bar stocks Adnams and London Pride. A very different style of offering from the seafarers’ pubs which traditionally featured in this part of the town, could this be the start of a move which makes Lynn’s South Quay a recognised destination for both locals and visitors? Ian Bailey
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NORFOLK NIPS | West Norfolk Editorial
Coeliac’s Disease, an end to real ale drinking? You may well ask why I’m writing about a medical condition in a real ale magazine. The reason is the Coeliac’s impacts directly on your ability to drink real ale. It is a condition thought to affect about 1% of the population, and is essentially an allergic reaction to Gluten occurring in the small intestine making it difficult to absorb nutrients from your food this can lead to loss of weight general tiredness and sometimes a skin rash, plus some long term effects such as osteoporosis. Gluten is wheat germ and is a constituent part of nearly all grains including barley! Obviously the recommended dietary limitations to tackle this condition exclude any beer made with barley, wheat or most other grass derivatives. To find you suffer from this condition is shock enough, but if you are a real ale enthusiast it is a disaster. Unless you want to drink cider for the rest of your life or really go over to the “dark side” (American beers not made from grain) then things look bleak! However one or two brewers do produce gluten free beers, Greens produce a range of gluten free beers including a bottle conditioned ale, Hambleton brew GFA and St Peter’s G-Free the first two breweries use De-glutinsed barley the last, Sorghum. I know two or three real ale drinkers who have been diagnosed with coeliac’s mostly switching to cider, but as I discovered there is another option. Whilst leaning on the bar at the Larling Angel I noticed that the excellent Hop Back “Crop Circle” in bottles had a gluten-free sign on it, I enquired further and learnt that Crop Circle is made from Maize and by coincidence is gluten free!
It was not designed to be a gluten free beer as Liz Wright of Hop Back told me; “Crop Circle has been brewed at Hop Back's Downton (Salisbury) brewery since Feb 2000, It was only in the last few months that Hop Back decided to get it tested, you know how those conversations start over a pint or two of beer, our brewer said 'I wonder if it is?' so we thought the best thing to do was to have it tested and we carried out 6 tests over 4 months.” Only foods which contain 20ppm or less of gluten can be labelled ‘gluten-free’ in the UK, Hop Back bottle-conditioned Crop Circle registers at 10 ppm, well under the required threshold. Having heard this tale of serendipity I turned on my cheekiest grin and said any chance of a Crop Circle prize for Nips/ Cask Force? Yes was the answer, so only one question:Bottled “Crop Circle” (CAMRA “real ale in a bottle” marked) is safely gluten free but draught Crop Circle may not be, why? First correct answer out of the hat wins a case (12x500ml) of Crop Circle. Answers to; Chris Lucas, 19 Kemps Lane, Hockwold, Thetford IP26 4LG. Last entry date 31 August 2013 Please put “CC Comp” on the envelope and nclude your address for delivery of the prize. If you are unsuccessful Crop Circle is available at the Angel Larling or check out www.hopback.co.uk/gluten-free.htm Stig
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Norwich National Members Weekend and AGM smashes attendance record!
The weekend of 19th - 21st April saw Norwich become the focus of attention for CAMRA members from across the country when we hosted CAMRA’s 2013 National Members Weekend and AGM at St Andrews and Blackfriars Halls. This was the result of planning which began a year before when a group of our Branch members travelled to the AGM at Torquay in April 2012 and set up a publicity stand advertising Norwich as the venue for 2013. Shortly afterwards we convened a planning committee that went on to meet at regular intervals on Saturdays lunchtimes at The Fat Cat. At our first meeting 32
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members accepted responsibilities of the various key roles that were necessary for a smooth running weekend. Headquarters staff attended many of the meetings. As local organiser I was responsible to co-ordinate arrangements with CAMRA Headquarters. During the course of autumn 2012 and winter 2013 we met various Headquarters representatives when they made site visits to inspect St Andrews Hall. As the year progressed, progress was reported and details fell into place. I felt very fortunate in having such a hard working and very able committee team. Pre-registration for the event opened in the autumn of 2012 and it was soon forecast that
the weekend would be exceptionally well attended. In the event over 1,300 CAMRA members from all over the UK and even a few from abroad attended the conference which was in fact the second time Norwich has been host way back in 1990. I am delighted to report that here in Norwich we smashed the attendance record by over two hundred. Prior to this year, Sheffield in 2011 held the record with just over just over 1,100 attendances.
NORFOLK NIPS | CAMRA AGM 2013 The days leading up to the official opening were very busy as a large group of dedicated helpers prepared the Hall, Members Bar, setting out stalls and making ready hundreds of leaflets into packs that were to be given out to members when they registered. Signs had to be installed and outside contractors set up the PA system and a large TV screen. Come Friday we held our breath that nothing had been forgotten!
Standing Orders, a financial report, an opening address by National Chairman Colin Valentine and a Campaigns Report from Chief Executive Mike Benner after which there were debates on motions. St Andrews Hall was packed full and some late comers had to listen to proceedings in Blackfriars Hall via a PA system. A talk by local MP for Gt Yarmouth and Community Pubs Minister, Brandon Lewis concluded morning business.
So on Friday morning CAMRA’s National Executive arrived and were taken out and entertained to a tour of Woodforde’s Brewery with a buffet in The Fur & Feather Inn. At 4pm the weekend officially opened, registration commenced and the Members bar opened that stocked a range of 60 different local ales and a selection of local ciders and perrys.
After lunch and a drink at the bar the afternoon session allowed members to continue with debates. Later in the afternoon Policy Discussion Groups and workshops took place in nearby St Andrews House where topics such as beer tasting, public affairs, visual guidelines, pub websites and beer scoring systems had been organised.
In the early evening four coaches arrived to take members on trips to Grain, Panther and Humpty Dumpty breweries and a trip to Crones Cider (all fully booked). Other members were left to stay at the bar or explore the numerous pubs around Norwich. To assist them our local Branch made available six leaflets of ‘pub walks’ and bus routes around Norwich. These proved so popular we were constantly printing extra copies as the weekend progressed.
Saturday evening saw three more brewery trips to Green Jack, Beeston and Woodforde’s
On Saturday morning formal business began at 9.30 that included the adoption of
and a cider crawl around the city centre of Norwich. It seems many members took opportunities to visit local pubs for pub landlords reported crowded
bars and big sales of real ale. The Members Bar was also very well patronised. On Sunday morning the last formal business took place when the remainder of motions were debated. (For full details of motions debated and results see June Edition of ‘What’s Brewing’). The Members Bar had its final opening and conveniently ran out of beer by 1.40 with the cider bar closing around an hour later. Although findings from the survey questionnaire that members complete before leaving have yet to be analysed the weekend was a great success and that everything suggests that Norwich has proved to be a very popular venue. Finally, as Local Organiser I would like to thank our sponsors, the staff at St Andrews Hall, The HQ staff from St Albans and the enormous army of volunteers that gave up their free time over the weekend and others too numerous to mention who helped to make this event a such a great success. Warren Wordsworth
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COAST ROAD, WALCOTT, NORFOLK NR12 OPE
FREE HOUSE
Telephone
(01692) 650371
Proprietor since 1989: STEVE BULLIMORE
OPEN FOR FOOD & DRINKS ALL DAY, EVERY DAY, 11am - 11pm Food available all day until 10.30pm 10% off food and drink on production of CAMRA membership card
FOUR REAL ALES & CIDER www.lighthouseinn.co.uk
Queen’s Head and Waveney Brewing Company Traditional Village Pub with a brewery producing permanent and seasonal ales on site Large beer garden, traditional games, lunchtime menu and a good selection of real ale, spirits and soft drinks Listed in the Good Beer Guide every year since 2000.
Station Road, Earsham, Norfolk
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Tel: (01986) 892623
CAMRA Norwich City Pub of the Year 2011 Cider, Sausage & Music Festival Thursday 1st - Monday 5th August ALSO
UP TO TEN CASK ALES REGULARLY AVAILABLE BAR BILLIARDS • GOOD SELECTION OF MALTS HOT SNACKS AVAILABLE ALL DAY EVERYDAY ENCLOSED BEER GARDEN • SUNDAY ROASTS 12-3
9 SILVER RD, NORWICH NR3 4TB TEL: 01603 665535
The Harte Old Costessey, Norwich, NR8 5BS Tel: 01603 742755
FREE
ACCESS
Privately owned freehouse and restaurant with a wide selection of real ales, lagers and ciders. Freshly cooked locally sourced food. Child friendly, large beer garden, pool table, easy access from A47, ample parking and on 23A bus route from the city centre. Visit www.thehartenorwich.co.uk to check out the menu and opening times
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Caister Lifeboat’s
Beer in the Boat Shed
Friday 14 – Sunday 16 June Featuring around 30 Real Ales and Ciders Including Humpty Dumpty, Panther, Wolf and Woodfordes
Music, Games and fun entertainment too! At Caister Lifeboat Shed Fri night: 6 to 10.30pm
ENTRY JUST £5 INCLUDES FIRST PINT • SOUVENIR PINT GLASS £2
Sat: 12 noon to 11pm
with Splash Duo (pm)
Sun: 12 noon til we’re dry (or
4pm) with Annie’s Jazz Friends
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All profits to Caister Volunteer Lifeboat Service
folk you can read Nor Don’t forget that e rce on line on th NIPS and Cask Fo site folk Branch web or N d an h ic w or N ra.org.uk www.norwichcam the Branch also be posted on Latest info will olk_nips d Twitter: @norf an ge pa ok bo ce fa
Me m b e rsh ip B re a k d o w n
2712 me m b e rs 1952 m a le 757 fe m a le 270 a re
yo u ng me m b e rs (18 - 30)
The 36th No rwich Beer F estival St Andrew’s
and Blackfria r’s Halls, No rwich Monday 28th October to Saturday 2nd November Beat the que ues – join CA MRA now! Next issue of Norfolk Nips and Cask Force
Copy to editors by Monday 5th August
On the streets by: Saturday 14th September
Dereham - A Real Ale Desert? 4.3%, Adnams Ghostship 4.5% and Wynchwood’s (owned by Marston’s) Dirty Tackle 4.0%. I rest my case!
Cherry Tree Having lived in the town for 24 years and having visited some, though not all of the town’s drinking establishments, I thought that it would be a useful exercise to see whether the statement oft heard is true. Therefore, I recently embarked on visiting the various establishments open the general public where ‘real ale’ might be found. First up was the re-opened Cherry Tree. Two real ales were on offer both from Greene King, IPA and London Glory. A pint of the latter at £3 was found to be in excellent condition, though the fabric of the pub was very tired.. Wetherspoon’s Romany Rye had the usual 3 beers ‘coming next’, two pumps had Ruddles Bitter, two had GK Abbott, Woodfordes Werry, Adnams Explorer and Hambleton’s Nightmare filling the remaining pumps. The establishment opened in April 2010 with high hopes from the real ale drinkers in the region that more choice would be forthcoming. Sadly I have to report that this has largely not proven to be the case. The bulk of the beers are usually from Greene King, Adnams and Woodfordes; there are very few ‘session’ beers presumably so as not to compete with Ruddles and Wherry. With more than thirty breweries in the county, and Dereham located in the centre of it, you would have thought that there was a great opportunity to be a showcase for the others not already mentioned. Interestingly, the three beers ‘coming next’ were Woodfordes Norfolk Gold 38
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A visit to the Royal Standard was a revelation. Four beers on offer Bateman’s XB, Beeston’s Bloomers, Wolf’s Sirius Dog Star and Dixon’s Major from the Riverside Brewery in Wainfleet, all at a very reasonable £2.60 per pint. The Dixon’s and Beeston were both sampled and were in excellent condition. Only the Bateman’s is a regular fixture with the other three rotating. This is a most welcome enhancement to the beer scene in the town and one that deserves everyone's support. The Railway Tavern is an unusual drinking establishment as it is essentially a fish and chip shop with an adjacent bar. If you do not mind the smell of F & C’s then you are fine. Adnams Bitter at £2.50 and Broadside at £3 were the offerings. The Broadside was sampled and was good value and in excellent condition. This clearly is a lads pub, unless your female friend drinks pints, as the penalty for drinking halves is 25p. The moral of the story seems to be leave her at home, sad really when the industry is trying to get more women drinking real ale, sounds counter-productive to me. The Red Lion had one handpump serving Wells Bombardier at £3 a pint, in good condition. This is the regular real ale offering. The George had the following on offer: Adnams Broadside at £3.40, Old Ale at £3.10, Bitter at £3 and Woodfordes Wherry at £3.20. The Wherry was sampled and was in good condition. However, this is the most expensive place to drink ale in the town. The Gemini, a Greene King ‘Meet and Eat’ pub, offered GK IPA at£2.50 and Old Speckled
NORFOLK NIPS | Out and About in Dereham Hen at £2.75. The OSP was sampled and was in good condition. The Bull, another Greene King establishment, had GK IPA at £2.65 and Abbott at £2.99. The sampled IPA was in very good condition. Once again though in both Greene King establishments you were penalised if you drank half pints this time by an average of 5%. The Coachmakers had one beer on offer, Beeston’s Afternoon Delight at £2.80, it was served direct from the cellar and was in excellent condition. The beer here is rotated on a regular basis.
to promply replace beers when one runs out. A proposal to build a Marston’s establishment on the old Cemex site just off the Tesco roundabout may bring even more pressure on the town’s pubs, if it comes to fruition. It will be interesting to see how or if the beer scene changes in Dereham in the next twelve months - watch this space. RM - Dereham
The Royal Standard
Splitz Upstairs bar also had Beeston’s Afternoon Delight on offer in average condition. The Millwrights Arms had two beers on offer, Ruddles Bitter at £3.10 and Old Speckled Hen at £3.20, the latter was sampled and was average. The recently reopened King’s Head has two real ales both from Greene King, Abbott and IPA. The ex Cock, (now the Lolitas Tapas Bar), the Plough & Furrow and the Heroes Bar do not have any real ales. There are three other drinking establishments in the town, Toftwood Social Club, Dereham Conservative Club and Dereham Town Football Club. All serve real ale but access is limited to members only. However you can usually gain access to the football club on match days, where two ales are usually on offer. Woodfordes Wherry at £3 is always available and a guest, currently Hook Norton’s Hooky at £2.50. The beers are well kept but there is a tendency to serve them too cold. So what did I conclude? Yes there is real ale to be had in Dereham, a surprising amount with 79% of the pubs/bars that were offering something. Sadly the choice boarders on abysmal, with brews from Greene King, Adnams and Woodfordes totally dominating. The exception was the Standard where variety was very much apparent - long may it continue. The Coachmakers, although only having a single beer has also resisted the national and larger independent concerns. Wetherspoon’s could and should do better, but there appears to be little enthusiasm by those involved to either widen the choice or
The Royal Standard is indeed a revelation. New Landlords Darryl and Julie Culmer have only been there since September. Their enthusiasm shines through and a warm welcome is ensured. Darryl used to sell electric AGA’s before taking on the pub and both he and Julie clearly appreciate the value good customer service. They are keen to get involved with the community and the pubs sponsors Scarning United, Dereham Cricket Club and the first tee at Dereham Golf Club. The pub is a free house, with guest beers coming from the Bateman’s guest list. Brewsters Decadence – a golden beer with more than a smack of grapefruit, Wells Bombadier and Thwaites Nutty Black – a true dark mild at 3.3% were on offer during my visit. Darryl says that some customers have switched from the keg version of Thwaites Mild to Nutty Black. Not a “quiet” pub (it will have 3D TV for the football and juke box with 7 million tracks) but well worth a visit.
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Try our Award Winning Norfolk Ales
The Wolf Brewery has moved to:
Decoy Farm, Norwich Road, Besthorpe, Norfolk, NR17 2LA Telephone: 01953 457775 E-mail: info@wolfbrewery.com
Most Beers Available All Year Round in cask, polypin and bottles. Buy on-line at www.wolfbrewery.com or from our brewery shop
77 Church Street Coltishall, Norwich NR12 7DW Tel: 01603 736644 www.redlion-coltishall.co.uk
The Red Lion is a traditional Norfolk Real Ale and Wine Freehouse Pub situated in the picturesque village of Coltishall on the Norfolk Broads. The pub dates back to the 17th Century and has recently undergone a major refurbishment. The interior now offers contemporary style décor with many original, period features that have been retained.
Several locally brewed real ales avaliable Selection of fine wines from Adnams
Unique combination of seating areas to accommodate drinkers who like to stay at the bar, friends wishing to share a bottle of wine by the fire and a top bar where things can get lively whilst live sport is shown on the television!
Large Beer Garden • Ample Car Parking
The Red Lion is managed by Kevin and Sue Gardner who also run the King’s Head gastro pub down the road in the same village. A traditional Free House owned by local people from the village offering you a warm welcome and enjoyable stay.
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Opening Times Monday - Closed Tuesday to Thursday: 4pm - 11pm Friday to Saturday: 12noon - 11pm Sunday: 12noon - 6pm
NORFOLK NIPS | Behind Bars
Behind Bars Norwich. A Fine City. The City Of Ale. A city full of pubs. And a few weeks ago a city full of CAMRA members! As the AGM weekend approached we busied ourselves at the pubs making sure everything was as near perfect as we could make it - the hand pumps were shining, the beers were in perfect condition, and of course we had loads of extra half pint glasses at the ready. The staff asked ‘how will we know who are CAMRA members?’ I told them not to worry, they would know. I’m not going to lie, in some ways I was dreading this weekend. Although obviously good for trade and good for Norwich, sometimes CAMRA members can make us behind the bar feel like the enemy – eyebrows raised at the beer selection, whiskers twitch as lagers are spotted, and lips purse at the sight of a pool table. I stereotype of course (I am a life member, and am not too often seen with whiskers) - but these things do happen! And of course there were some rum uns, that’s for sure, but they were far outweighed by the ones who seemed to genuinely embrace Norwich and it’s plethora of ale pubs.
help being passionate about my trade, and disappointed in pubs closing and seeing licensees lose their jobs, homes, life savings and pride. I was at the launch of the campaign - led by true pub hero Greg Mulholland MP - as a representative of Licensees Supporting Licensees, a group that does what it says on the tin. The campaign wants to see tied licensees being offered a market rent option with the ability to buy beer from wherever, or to stay tied if it is a better deal for them. Can you imagine how good this would be? It’s not a dream and I am hoping that by the next time I write for Nips it may be starting to become reality. It’s all on the website – sign up, respond to the Pubco Consultation and write to your MP. After all, it’s just a case of knowing right from wrong. www.fairdealforyourlocal.com Dawn Hopkins
Like the couple from Manchester who propped the bar at The Ketts for most of the weekend, just being lovely. And Keith who enjoyed his curry as much (ok, almost as much) as his beer. Or Chris who bought me presents - beer! Or Dale who came with her Campaigner of the Year Award as well as plenty of praise for Norwich pubs. After the weekend I asked the staff whether they were able to recognise the CAMRA members. ‘Yes’ was the reply, ‘they were the ones using up all of our blimmin half glasses..!’
The answers were: Ketts Tavern, Vine, King's Head, Trafford Arms, Cottage, Golden Star, Plasterers, White Lion, Gatehouse, Belgian Monk.
I am delighted with CAMRA’s involvement in the Fair Deal For Your Local campaign. I can’t
His was the first correct entry drawn out of the hat at the May Committee Meeting.
NIPS 164 Competition We had a record number of entries for this competition! Congratulations to Colin Wylie who correctly named all ten pubs.
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NORFOLK NIPS | Volunteers needed!
Norwich Beer Festival 2013 Normally by now we have a logo for the festival, but due to some strange convention descending on Norwich (National AGM and Members' Weekend 2013) and yours truly being involved in the organising of the event , we are slightly behind in the planning schedule for the 36th Norwich Beer Festival. Hopefully with a little bit of effort this month we should be back on track, with a logo, budget submission and the thousand and one tasks that make up the Norwich & Norfolk CAMRA Beer Festival. As usual we would like your thoughts on what kind of beers and ciders to have at the Festival, in the previous few years , the organising committee I believe have excelled themselves in obtaining some quality beers from all parts of the UK, and even places further afield! What are your preferences is it hoppy style light beers, or dark stouts and porters. I think as the festival is held in late October, we as a branch are in a fairly unique position in able to obtain some of the classic autumnal and winter style beers. Brewers usually launch their seasonal portfolios around October/November time and we can take advantage of this helpful co-incidence. The festival doesn’t sit underneath the floorboards at St Andrews & Blackfrairs Halls’, and I magically press the launch button , and the stillage and bars rise up from the depths, magically replenished, clean and tidy. It takes a lot of hard work and time from a few dedicated volunteers throughout the year to “Make it so”, so you as a customer can enjoy the experience and drink some quality ales and ciders (not forgetting perries either). If you can spare some time to help out during the planning stages it would be most appreciated by us few who seem to do most of the work (Hint!). Anybody want to run a beer festival?, I have been in charge for better or worse for the past
10 years. Whether you think the festival has improved under my tenure is a different matter, but I have decided to cut back on my commitments to the festival. So in short we need a new organiser. Qualities needed 1) Lots of patience 2) being able to deal with people 3) Being able to deal with strange people 4) ability to think on your feet 5) Know a bit about beer 6) All of the above. If you think you can do it, or have any ideas on beer selection (subject to availability, new customers only ...) please drop me an e-mail address: vicechairman@norwichcamra.org.uk or beerfestival@norwichcamra.org.uk Thanks to all who have supported me over the years. Martin Ward Norwich Beer Festival Organiser 2003-2013
It has just been confirmed that the Norwich and Norfolk Association for the Blind will be our Branch Charity at the Beer Festival this year. We look forward to welcoming them.
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Main Road, North Tuddenham NR20 3DJ 01362 638466
3 Day Beer & Music Festival Fri 19th - Sun 21st July Local beer, local music…More than just a country pub Friday 19th July - Acoustic evening with Dougie Archer from 8pm Saturday 20th July - £5 with advance ticket £7.50 on the gate. Tickets available from the Lodge or by telephone card payment Children FREE • Live music all day with headlining act ‘Against All Odds’ - Bouncy Castle Foods stalls and more. 2pm - 11pm Sunday 21st July - Mods & Rockers event in conjunction with Breckland Bikers - Fund raising for East Anglian Air Ambulance. Live music with Fake Snake & BBQ - 10am - 8pm
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www.thelodge-tuddenham.co.uk
Update Alby, Horseshoes Aldborough, Black Boys Attleborough, London Tavern Banningham, Crown Inn Binham, Chequers Broome, Artichoke Cantley, Reedcutter Catfield, Crown Cley, George & Dragon Cley-next-the-Sea, George Hotel Clenchwarton, Victory Clippesby, Muskett Arms Colton, Ugly Bug Inn Cromer, Cottage Cromer, Red Lion Drayton, Bob Carter Leisure Centre Downham Market, Railway Downham Market , White Hart Earsham, Queens Head Erpingham, Erpingham Arms Fakenham, Bull Filby, Kings Head Geldeston, Locks Inn Geldeston, Wherry Gorleston, Dock Tavern Gorleston, Mariners Compass Great Yarmouth, Barking Smack Great Yarmouth, Mariners Great Yarmouth, Red Herring Great Yarmouth, Oliver Twist Great Yarmouth, St Johns Head Great Massingham, Dabbling Duck Heacham, Fox & Hounds Hethersett, Kings Head Hickling, Greyhound Inn Hickling, Pleasure Boat Hilborough, Swan Holt, Kings Head Holt, Railway Tavern Hopton, White Hart Horsey, Nelson Head Horsham St. Faith, Elm Farm Country House Kenninghall, Red Lion Kings Lynn, Live and Let Live Loddon, Swan Inn Ludham, Dog
Here is a current list of all the pubs in Norfolk which are part of the CAMRA LocAle scheme. New entries are in Bold.
Newton Flotman, Relish Restaurant & Bar Newton by Castle Acre, George & Dragon North Elmham, Railway N. Walsham, Orchard Gardens Norwich, Adam and Eve Norwich, Angel Gardens Norwich, Beehive (Leopold Road) Norwich, Bell Hotel Norwich, Champion Norwich, Cottage (Silver Road) Norwich, Duke of Wellington Norwich, Earlham Arms Norwich, Fat Cat Norwich, Fat Cat & Canary Norwich, Fat Cat Tap Norwich, Jubilee Norwich, Ketts Tavern Norwich, Kings Head Norwich, Lord Rosebery Norwich, Maids Head Norwich, Murderers Norwich, Red Lion Norwich, Reindeer Norwich, Ribs of Beef Norwich, Rose Norwich, Sir Garnet Norwich, Take 5 Norwich, Trafford Arms Norwich, Vine Norwich, Wig and Pen Norwich, York Tavern Poringland, Royal Oak Reedham, Ferry Reedham, Lord Nelson Reedham, Ship Reepham, Kings Arms Ringland, Swan Saxlingham Thorpe, Mill Inn Rockland St Mary, New Inn Sheringham, Lobster Sheringham, Windham Arms Skeyton, Goat Surlingham, Ferry House Swardeston, Lakenham/Hewitt Rugby Club
Tacolneston, Pelican Thorpe Market, Gunton Arms Thurlton, Queens Head Upton, White Horse Wicklewood, Cherry Tree Watton, Willow House West Acre, Stag Wiveton, Bell Wroxham, Brewery Tap Worstead, White Lady Wymondham, Green Dragon
The following local businesses offer a discount for CAMRA members: The Plasterers, Norwich: 10% off all real ales (available on Mondays) The Red Lion, Drayton: 10p off a half, 20p off a pint of real ale London Tavern, Attleborough: 10p off a half, 20p off a pint of real ale Cherry Tree, Wicklewood: 30p off a pint of Buffy’s
If your pub or business offers a discount to CAMRA, but isn't on this list, please contact pubsofficer@norwichcamra.org.uk and let us know the details (including any restrictions). Please note: We believe this is correct at the time of going to press, however pubs may withdraw or change offers at any time!
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The California Tavern California Road, California, Great Yarmouth NR29 3QW
Free House, Restaurant and Live Music venue Great ales by Woodfordes, Greene King, Elgoods and Mauldons available Excellent Food, very popular Sunday Carvery, you will need to book!
Live music every Friday and Saturday Whatever your preference, you will not witness finer bands for free. Function room • Kids adventure trail
Have you been to California? www.californiatavern.co.uk
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email: californiatavern@btconnect.com Tel: 01493 730340
NORFOLK NIPS | List Your Local
Do you love your local pub? Does it add value to the community? Would you like to see it get some protection from Developers? Well, the good news is that you can now list it with your Council as an Asset of Community Value. Under the Localism Act 2011, people living in England and Wales can nominate a pub to be listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). Doing this provides communities with the power to stop the clock when faced with a pub going up for sale. This earns valuable time to explore options for saving your pub. CAMRA has produced an ACV Guide, which can be downloaded from the website. Why list your local? More and more Councils are taking ACV’s into account when considering new planning applications against a pub. The listing shows that it has recognised value to the community. • Listing means that property developers who are keen for a hassle free purchase are less likely to show interest • If a listed pub goes up for sale, its ACV status has the power to postpone the sale for six months. Time for campaigners to put together a suitable bid to buy the pub and run it as community owned • The scheme started in 2012 and The Ivy House, London was the first to be listed and subsequently bought out by the community.
You will need 21 local people (on the electoral register) in order to nominate a pub as an Unincorporated Group. You cannot do this in conjunction with CAMRA because CAMRA is an Incorporated body. Complete the nomination form with as much information as possible as to why your pub should be listed. CAMRA’s Community Value Guide can help. Gather the support of your 21 local people (Download CAMRA’s 21 Nominee Form – Word Version - to help with this). Each name must be registered to vote in your local authority and from a different address. Submit the completed form to your local council, ensuring that you do so in strict accordance with their guidelines. Need more help or have any questions? Call the Government funded Locality advice line on 0845 345 4564 or email CAMRA’s Campaigns Team on campaigns@camra.org.uk Do not forget to contact your Branch so that the Pubs Preservation Officer is informed.
How do I do it? Start by visiting your local council’s website and search for “Assets of Community Value” or “Right to Bid”. Download a nomination form if it is available – or use CAMRA’s Template Nomination Form from the CAMRA website.
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Norwich and Norfolk Branch Pub of the Year
| NORFOLK NIPS
Norfolk Pub of the Year results announced pub that also serves food, and features pub games and regular live music”. The Norwich & Norfolk Branch Pub of the Year is chosen from the winners of the branch’s Rural and City Pubs of the Year. The 2013 Rural Pub of the Year was won by The Locks Inn in Geldeston, beating stiff competition from The Artichoke in Broome, The Royal Oak in Poringland and the Sole & Heel, Rackheath. And the Norwich City Pub of the Year was won for the first time by The White Lion, Oak Street, from three other Norwich pubs shortlisted – The Beehive (Leopold Road), The Plough (St Benedict’s Street) and The Vine (Dove Street). The Norwich & Norfolk branch selected The Locks Inn, Geldeston in South Norfolk, as their 2013 Pub of the Year in March. The Locks then went into a head-to-head competition with the West Norfolk branch winner, The Angel, Larling, to determine the Norfolk Pub of the Year. This was won by the Angel, which now progresses to the next, regional, level of the competition. Colin Smith, the landlord of the Locks Inn, said he was “over the moon” that the pub has been recognised for the first time by the Norwich & Norfolk branch of CAMRA, especially after a long winter when the pub suffered flooding on a few occasions. He commented: “I am particularly pleased that a far-flung pub has been awarded the local branch’s Pub of the Year title this year. “And I am really delighted with the award because the Locks Inn is a tenanted pub, owned by Green Jack Brewery but serving guest ales, and also with us being a slightly unusual, rural 48
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Note: to find the Locks Inn using a sat nav, enter postcode "NR34 0HS", otherwise you may end up on the wrong side of the river!
Cider Pub of the Year For the second time the branch has awarded a Cider Pub of the Year due to the growing popularity of real ciders and perries and that many pubs are stocking a growing and permanent range. The winner was again The White Lion, Oak Street, Norwich, who won last year’s inaugural award. They pipped the other shortlisted pubs – The Grange in Ormesby and the Banham Barrel. The White Lion came runner up against The Railway in Downham Market in the vote to find the overall Norfolk Cider Pub of the Year.
The Star Inn
School Road, Lessingham NR12 0DN
ST TH - 18THAvAUailGU IVAL • 16Ho SUMMER BE&ER4 FECiST able g Roast ders • BBQ & 20 Real Ales
£5 Wristband Admittance (including free pint & tasting notes,no refunds given)
FREE Admission for Children (must be accompanied by an adult)
Parking & Camping available (breakfast available)
Opening Times: Friday 16th: 6pm - Midnight Saturday 17th: 12pm - Midnight Sunday 18th: 12pm - 4pm
Entertainment: Friday 16th: Evening: Strange Tail (Rock Band) plus The Pretty Vacant Saturday 17th: Afternoon: The Ugly Dog Skiffle Combo Evening: Big Black Cadillac (Rockabilly)
Tel: 01692 580510 for more information
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Makers of a range of award-winning organic ciders, including our User Friendly, Original, Old Norfolk (East Anglia’s Best Cider 2011), Special Reserve and our Rum Cask. Also Norfolk Perry (subject to availability) and ‘Cider Nouveau’ when the season allows. A range of organic juices is also available.
Tel: 01379 687687
Mob: 07500 067 544
www.crones.co.uk The latest addition to our range, our ‘Dutchie Original’ has already picked up an award on its first outing. This is a two year old traditional Norfolk cider and it is matured in oak casks. Brewed by a Dutchman in the Dam Green Republic.
All our ciders are free of sulphites
r me al y uS m Festiv 7th Jul ! r n rs Bee th - Su0 bee rs 4 r 3 Thu Ove
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“The Country Pub On The Edge of Town” Bacton Road, North Walsham NR28 0RA FREE
ACCESS
OPEN ALL DAY FIVE REAL ALES Meals Served
12noon to 2.30pm and in the evening 6.30 to 9.30pm
Bookings 01692 404800
NORFOLK NIPS | Dear Diary
Tuesday 19th March Attended the Norwich and Norfolk Branch Branch Meeting at The Grange Hotel and Freehouse in Ormseby St Margaret. Whether it was the opportunity to vote for the Branch Pub of the year, or the promise of some decent real ales and ciders in very different surroundings I’m not sure, but the turnout was one of the best ever. There was an impressive selection of real ales on handpumps at the bar, but I was tempted to visit the tap room. Wow! There were more beers and ciders on offer than at your average beer festival – and this is normal! Surely it couldn’t be better? But it was! We were treated to a wonderful buffet – which included local oysters! Must go back again in the summer – Sunday lunch perhaps? Friday 3rd May Thought I would go on the First Friday Five which started at The Fat Cat and Canary. So did Philip, a Geologist from Melbourne, Australia. The first pub was his local and this was his first CAMRA event, although he had been a member for some years. Introduced him to our Social Secretary, so that he could find out about other events coming up. This being May, around thirty of us were in search of Mild, which proved somewhat elusive. Good turnout – especially as the Dragon Hall Festival had just started. Eleven beers were on offer at the Fat Cat, but no Milds. However, Christian did point out that Yakima Gold (4.2%) was just on – and very good it was too! Then off to the Coach and Horses were we found six beers from Chalk Hill Brewery, including Flintknappers Mild! However, at 5% this was certainly a “strong” mild. Rolling down the hill, we came to the Lollards Pit. Three LocAle beers here – Nelson’s Revenge
and Sundew from Woodfordes and Granny Wouldn’t like it from Wolfe. But no mild. Stumbled over the bridge and into the Red Lion and found Wolf Battle of Britain, Woodfordes Wherry and Sundew, Grain, Elgoods Cambridge Bitter, AND Blackdog Mild (3.6%) RESULT! Finally, up to Kett’s Tavern for some Norwich Bear Beers. Platinum Blonde, Classic, Norwich Pale Ale, and Legend were on, but I went for Perfect Day (4%). Plenty of us were there at the end – including Phil! A very sociable evening, thoroughly enjoyable! Wonder where we are going on the next one (7th June)?
4th Norfolk Ale & Music Festival
21,22 & 23 June 2013 Norfolk real ales • Live music all weekend Beer marquee • Freshly cooked pub food
JOLLY SAILORS SUMMER 2013 | 51
Earle Arms Heydon
Traditional Norfolk freehouse and restaurant
Three Real Ales always available Good Food • Real Fires
The pub with no bar, ales direct from cask. Watch www.nelsonslocal.co.uk for forthcoming events.
Tongue twizzling food, and great value. Huge garden and children’s play area. Shooting parties, lunch & dinner menus available
01263 587376
Victory Barn Function Room for Weddings and Parties
Satnav: NR11 6AD (Just off B1149 Holt Norwich Rd)
Come & visit Nelson’s local. Walsingham Road, Burnham Thorpe, Norfolk PE31 8HN
01328 738241
A popular pub with locals and holidaymakers alike, the Crown Inn is perched right on the clifftop overlooking the beautiful sandy beaches of Sheringham in Norfolk. Enjoy meals or snacks from our extensive and popular menu with a spectacular view of the seafront. Wednesdays and Saturdays - Live Local Band Friday nights - Resident DJ plays your favourite club classics Monday nights - Pub Quiz with prizes, refreshments and free entry
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Tel: 01263 823213 crownsheringham@hotmail.co.uk Lifeboat Plain, East Cliff Sheringham NR26 8BQ
26 St Leonards Road Norwich NR1 4BL 01603 618734
Eight real ales to choose from, two of which change regularly.
A real gem, well worth a visit.
Lovely enclosed beer garden with large sheltered smoking area.
Two pooltables upstairs.
Only a ten minute walk from the train station and city centre.
Hot pies,pasties and sausage rolls available all day.
Open all day from 12 noon everyday. Sky Sports and ESPN
JOIN TIM IN CELEBRATING 20 YEARS AT THE JUBILEE! SUMMER 2013 | 53
THE BANNINGHAM CROWN FREE HOUSE Traditional Country Pub and Restaurant
EATON COTTAGE UNTHANK RD, NORWICH Tel: 01603 453048
Fine Real Ales, lagers, wines and spirits
All Sky Sports • A traditional pub Good covered outside areas Doggies welcome
“A festival of beers every day”
SUNDAY 23RD JUNE MUSIC IN THE GARDEN 2pm until 6pm
Terry Adams and Liz Wolfe Beer Festival • BBQ FREE admission Colby Road, Banningham, Aylsham, NR11 7DY 01263 733534 www.banninghamcrown.co.uk
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The Smallest Pub in Norwich • Open Monday - Saturday • Families welcome
A great real ale pub in the centre of the City Exceptionally good Thai Food lunchtimes and evenings We are in the Good Beer Guide 2013 The ONLY Thai Restaurant for Norwich in THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE!
www.vinethai.co.uk
Small but Perfectly formed
Summer Beer Fest 24th - 29th June 2013
NORFOLK NIPS | From the Archives Issue No.55 June/July 1991 7,000 copies, printed on Green Recycled paper. It was reported that Colin Keatley, owner of the Pottergate and St Andrews Taverns, was offering “the cheapest mild sold in a pub in the world.” Ah, I can hear you asking “What was it?” or more importantly, “How much?” Fret not, dear readers, it was Greene King Mild, and at 80p per pint, was cheaper than the lemonade he was selling at Pottergate. Because it was so cheap, it was always selling and out, and therefore always in good condition. At St Andrews Tavern, he was selling Adnams Mild, thought to be good value at 90p per pint. In July that year, there was a CAMRA Campaign to celebrate the Independent Breweries of Britain. In Norfolk that meant Woodfordes, Reepham and Reindeer – just three. Woodfordes, who were described as the “largest and oldest Brewery” in Norfolk had just celebrated their 10th birthday. Wherry had been test marketed at the 3rd Norwich Beer Festival and was going from strength to strength. Reepham Brewery, the second largest and oldest, having started in 1983. It was operating from an industrial unit in Reepham (now home to Panther Brewery). It’s main beers were Granary, Rapier and Brewhouse. Reindeer was the new kid on the block, being a micro brewery in The Reindeer. It was launched in 1987 and Reindeer Moild won Beer of the Festival at the 13th Norwich Beer Festival. Other beers included Bill’s Bevy, Reindeer Bitter and Rednose. To celebrate these Breweries, a pub trail of 20 – 30 pubs was being organised. Participants could get a card stamped, entitling them to purchase a limited edition independent T-shirt at a special low price.
The University of East Anglia announced that they would hold another Beer Festival, which would have over 50 real ales, including Batemans XXXB and Pendle Witches Brew, amongst others. Real cider and perry from across the county was promised. It was hoped to raise over £2,500 for charity. The Norwich and Norfolk Branch were entering a float in The Lord Mayor’s Procession that year. The theme was “A song to remember” and “The Old Bull and Bush” was chosen. Around 20 Members were to be dressed for The Good Old Days, by Top Hat in Norwich. Were you there? Were you on the float? A new feature introduced was “Desert Island Pints” and “local Norfolk CAMRA veteran” Terry Storer was the first to be invited to give his selection. He chose: 1. Martsons Pedigree 2. Batemans XXXB 3. Youngs Special 4. Bathams Bitter 5. Sarah Hughes Ruby Mild 6. Batemans Victory Ale 7. Marstons Owd Rodger 8. Reepham Rapier.
The London Tavern Free House
Great real ales, fine wines and spirits. Food Served: Monday- Friday 11am - 5pm Saturdays 11am - 3pm Sundays 11am - 3pm Evening meals on request Find Us RA Roast Dinners Sundays 12-3pm M A C e in th eer Good B Chilled bar rolls made daily only £1 Guide
8th Beer Festival August Bank Holiday Camra Discount Scheme & Local Ale Parking, Disabled facilities, Baby changing, Smokers sheltered garden, and Beer garden. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome.
Church St, Attleborough Tel :01953 457415
CAMRA Branch Calendar |
NORFOLK NIPS
Norwich and North Norfolk Branch First Friday Five Friday, 7 Jun 2013 8pm An informal walk visiting five pubs in Norwich: The Leopard, The Plasterers Arms, The Kings Head, The Mischief, finishing at The Ribs of Beef. Branch Meeting Tuesday, 18 Jun 2013 This will be held at The Artichoke at Broome. A free coach is available, please contact Michael Philips, email: socialsecretary@norwichcamra.org.uk or tel: 07851 932 554. Batemans Brewery visit Saturday, 22 Jun 2013 Description Visit to Batemans Brewery, Wainfleet, Lincolnshire. The coach will depart from John Lewis bus layby, All Saints' Green, Norwich, at 10.30am and places are limited to 24 so to guarantee a place early booking is recommended.
First Friday Five (TBA) Friday, 2 Aug 2013 Branch Summer Social Coach to Larling Beer Festival Saturday, 3 Aug 2013 Coach trip to Larling Beer Festival. Departure and return times to be arranged. To book a seat please contact Michael Phillips, email socialsecretary@norwichcamra.org.uk, tel 07851 923 554. CAMRA Members who have registered their e-mail address with the Branch will receive a monthly update on this list. If you would like to take advantage of this service, or have not received the latest e-mail, please contact the Membership Secretary, David Rackham, at pugs1985@googlemail.com
West Norfolk Branch Tuesday 11th June Crown, Gayton Tuesday 9th July Old Bell, Saham Toney
Owing to the extra distance of this trip the cost will be £10 per person. To book a seat please contact Michael Phillips, email socialsecretary@norwichcamra.org.uk, Tel 07851 923 554. Campaign Coach Trip Fri, 28 June, 19:15 – 23:30 A Campaign Coach Trip, visiting 5 county pubs, area TBC. Tickets £5 for CAMRA members, £7 non-members. Booking is ESSENTIAL (as we are using a 24-seat vehicle), contact Michael Phillips, email socialsecretary@norwichcamra.org.uk, Tel 07851 923 554. First Friday Five (TBA) Friday, 5 Jul 2013 Branch Summer Social (TBA) Sat Jul 6, 2013 Branch Meeting (venue TBA) Tuesday, 16 Jul 2013 58
| SUMMER 2013
Tuesday 13th August Red Lion, Thetford Tuesday 10th September Crown & Mitre, Lynn Note: all Tuesday meetings start 8pm and include a social unless otherwise made clear.
SUMMER 2013 | 59
Beery dates for your diary
Beer Festivals 4th - 8th June Thurrock Beer Festival Thurrock Civic Hall, Blackshots Lane, Grays, Essex RM16 2JU 120+ different beers, 20+ different ciders and perries 6th - 8th June Hitchin Beer and Cider Festival (NEW VENUE ) Hitchin Rugby Club, King George V Playing Fields, Old Hale Way, Hitchin SG5 1XL. 70+ cask beers plus cider, perry and foreign beers. Further details www.camranorthherts.org.uk 15th - 16th June 6th Gibberd Garden Beer Festival The Gibberd Garden, Marsh lane, Old Harlow, CM17 0NA. 35+ beers + ciders. Details: www.heb-camra.org.uk/gg 14 - 16 June Caister Lifeboat - Beer in the Boatshed Colby Rd, Banningham, Aylsham NR11 7DY Featuring 30 Real Ales and Ciders, Music, Games and Fun 21 - 23 June Norfolk Real Ales Beer Festival Jolly Sailors, Brancaster Saithe PE31 8BJ 23 June Banningham Crown Beer Festival Colby Rd, Banningham, Aylsham NR11 7DY Real Ales, BBQ and Music in the Garden
28 - 30 June Charity Biker Rally & Beer Festival The White Lady, Worstead NR28 9RW
60
| SUMMER 2013
| NORFOLK NIPS 24 - 29 June ‘Small but perfectly formed’ beer festival The Vine, Dove Street, Norwich 4 - 7 July The Beehive Beer Beer Festival and BBQ Leopold Rd, Norwich NR4 7PJ over 30 Ales 16 - 21 July Heathlands Community Beer Festival Heathlands Community Centre, NR13 4QH 12 Real Ales, 2 Ciders and loads of entertainment 19 - 21 July Crusaders RFC Beer Festival Beckhithe, Little Melton NR9 3NP 20 Ales and Cider from Local Breweries. Camping and Caravanning available 19 - 21 July 12th North Norfolk Railway Beer Festival Sheringham Station Over 100 brews, Live entertainment, hot food day and night 19 - 21 July Lodge Beer and Music Festival North Tuddenham NR20 3DJ Live Music, Local Beer, Mods and Rockers Event, Bouncy Castle 25 - 27 July 16th King’s Lynn Beer Festival Stuart House, 35 Goodwins Rd PE30 5QX Largest selection of real ales and cider in West Norfolk 25 - 28 July Fox and Hounds Beer Festival Fox and Hounds, Heacham 26 - 28 July Reedham Beer Festival Reedham Village Hall, NR13 3HL Real Ales, Ciders, Live Music, BBQ & entertainment. A family friendly event
27 July Mattishall Beer Festival South Green Park, Mattishall, Dereham NR20 3JY Over 50 Ales, entertainment and Hog Roast 26 - 28 July Worstead Music & Beer Festival White Lady, Worstead NR28 9RW Over 50 Real Ales and live music 1 - 5 August Cider, Sausage and Music Festival The Cottage, 9 Silver Rd, Norwich NR3 4TB 13th - 17th August Great British Beer Festival London, Olympia 800 real ales, ciders, perries and foreign beers. More Info: www.gbbf.org.uk 9 - 11 August 4th Ranworth Beer and Cider Festival Ranworth Village Hall, Broad Rd, Ranworth NR13 6HS 20+ Real Ales, Live Music, Free entry 23 - 26 August Mid Norfolk Railway Beer and Music Festival Dereham Station, Station Rd, Dereham NR19 1DF 40 Real Ales, ciders and Bottled Beers, late night steam trains 23 - 31 August 15th Annual Beer Festival Railway Freehouse, North Elmham 23 - 31 August Duke of Wellington Beer Fest 91-93 Waterloo Road, Norwich 6 - 8 September Wymondham Rugby Club Beer Festival Tuttles Lane, Wymondham NR18 0EN 40 Local Ales and 8 ciders, BBQ and Hog Roast
SOKA |
NORFOLK NIPS
Local action to save West Norfolk village pubs Just a short note to praise the activities of local people in Shouldham who have banded together to try to save their local the King’s Arms. The campaign is called Save Our King’s Arms or SOKA. SOKA has formed itself into an Industrial & Provident Society named Shouldham Community Enterprises Ltd this is a cooperative formed for the benefit of the community. SOKA has also got the King’s Arms listed as a community asset which limits the selling options and gives time for communities to protect the asset which of course is not limited to pubs. Publicity has been gained in the Lynn News on KLFM radio and now in the EDP and of course this magazine‌ Andrew Archibald who runs the “Chalk and Cheeseâ€? in Shouldham has provided support and a venue for meetings and fundraising events. One of which our Chairman Steve
We have been contacted by someone in North Pickenham who is trying to get the ball rolling on a similar project to save their pub the Blue Lion. We have put them in touch with Phil Harriss who is heading up SOKA for advice, so local action seems to be spreading, good luck to both projects!
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attended, as he mentions in his piece. These include open mic nights and cake sales plus a barbecue. The eventual intention is to sell shares in the pub through Shouldham Community Enterprises, but first a grant has been obtained through the social investment business for £9000 to allow a full survey of the property and a feasibility study to be carried out. All seems very optimistic the biggest problem will be selling the shares. This is the type of local action that CAMRA applauds and I’m sure we as a branch will do everything we can to help.
Instruction to your Bank or Building Society to pay by Direct Debit Please fill in the whole form using a ball point pen and send to: Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. 230 Hatfield Road, St.Albans, Herts AL1 4LW
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Enjoying Real Ale & Pubs
Join CAMRA today – www.camra.org.uk/joinus
• This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay by Direct Debits. • If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your Direct Debit The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. If you request The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd to collect a payment, confirmation of the amount and date will be given to you at the time of the request • If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit by The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd or your bank or building society, you are entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society - If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when The Campaign For Real Ale Ltd asks you to • You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by simply contacting your bank or building society.Written confirmation may be required. Please also notify us.
Award Winning Real Ale Pub We Don’t Have a Big Screen TV, Food Or a Juke Box We do have 17 handpumps, with Real Ale from far and wide, 2 Real Ciders and 2 Real Ales From gravity, a large car park, large beer garden With heated smoking shelter, darts, pool, quizzes And crib. We now serve morning coffee from 11am, children are welcome. The Royal Oak lies at the heart of the community and new customers are always welcome. Come along and get a real welcome from a real pub selling real ale!!!!!! Nick, Delia And The Team would love to see you soon.
SUMMER BEER FESTIVAL August Bank Holiday Weekend Fri 23rd to Tues 27th August
Norwich And Norfolk Pub Of The Year 2007
Music all weekend with Tosh and Friends
Norfolk Pub Of The Year 2007
A dream of a pub situated in the village of Poringland on the B1332 road to Bungay.
14 years in the Good Beer Guide!
The main bus route from Norwich stops right outside.
44 The Street, Poringland, Norwich, Norfolk NR14 7JT
www.poringlandroyaloak.co.uk Tel: 01508 493734