cheers WWW.CHEERSNORTHEAST.CO.UK // JULY/AUGUST 2016 // ISSUE 62
I T ’ S
A B O U T
P U B S ,
P E O P L E ,
B E E R
–
A N D
Y O U !
THE WRITE APPROACH CRIME WAVE AT PECULIER FESTIVAL STUDENT PRINCIPALS BREWING BY DEGREES
CAN DUDE ATTITUDE THE IRRESISTIBLE RISE OF THE RING-PULL
FREE PLEA
SE TAKE A COPY
FRank & BIRD's
a summer term of tutelage in mother's ruin
July 28 th AUG 25
th a journey into AMERICAN juniper juice:
six gins from wisconsin to washington state a very british affair: six gins from the newest distilleries in the uk
in association with bin 21 & fentimans all sessions start at 8pm & admission includes all drinks & snacks
ÂŁ15
admission; includes six boozes, patter & nibbles the
brandling villa
south gosforth
@tanneryhexham @brandlingvilla @bin21hexham @frankandbirdltd
WELCOME Predicting the weather is a daft game to play for a monthly publication, but now that summertime is well and truly upon us, warming our foreheads, necks (and bald spots) in beer gardens across the North East, we’ve sought out the best of the region’s festivals and events for your diaries. Our pubs are a seasonal playground, extending entertainment into live music, charity events, beer festivals, the comedy circuit, and barbecue-nostrilising hog roasts. It’s no longer enough to open the window another notch come a spell of sunshine; potential customers have myriad alternatives and a multitude of sweeteners dangling their wares at our spending power, so we have to try that bit harder to win support – and to keep it. The Cheers team has been enormously encouraged lately by the opening of new pubs, the reinvention of previously stagnating ones, and the innovation and enterprise – not to say tidy investments – shown by people who firmly believe there’s life (and a lot of it) still in the licensed sector. The pub and beer scene is buzzing at the moment, whether it’s a minimicrobrewery, a micropub, or an audacious move into an iconic building (as Wylam Brewery has done at The Palace of Arts in Exhibition Park in Newcastle) or a seemingly straightforward railway arch pub conversion, the confidence is returning. The message is as always – go to the pub, enjoy it, tell your friends, then go back again. And again. Alastair Gilmour Editor, Cheers North East
CONTENTS 14
It’s a real paradox that the smaller the beer can gets the more popular the product becomes. These days, 330ml is standard but it’s much more than that – the quality of the beer inside has improved on what it was previously and our knowledge of packaging and dispense is that much better, so now we can enjoy cutting-edge beers straight out of the fridge. We follow the beer can from its early days in 1935 and ask some of the brewers, producers and retailers about how this turnaround has affected them and the ways in which the whole sector has benefitted.
COVER: PETER WILKINSON FROM COPPERS OF GOSFORTH, NEWCASTLE. PHOTO: PETER SKELTON
IN HINDSIGHT IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN BETTER TO HAVE KNOCKED IT DOWN AND STARTED AGAIN ANDY BURROWS, HADRIAN BORDER BREWERY, COMMENTING ON THE STATION HOTEL, GATESHEAD
04 12 18 24
ADVERTISING 01661 844 115
PUBLISHED BY:
Alastair Gilmour alastair@cheersnortheast.co.uk
Emma Howe emma@offstonepublishing.co.uk
@CheersPal www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
Photography: Peter Skelton
Publishers: Jane Pikett & Gary Ramsay Unit One, Bearl Farm Stocksfield Northumberland NE43 7AJ
EDITORIAL 01661 844 115 07930 144 846
We are tweeting. Follow us @cheers_ne
OH YES WE CAN
NEWS THE GREAT OUTDOORS FESTIVAL CRIME WAVE BEER BY DEGREES
enquiries@offstonepublishing.co.uk twitter: @offstonepublish www.offstonepublishing.co.uk
OUR SPONSORS
Wylam Brewery
28 36 42 46
WHAT’S ON AND WHERE WAITING FOR STATIONS PUB PROFILE FUN WITH FUN STUFF
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for omissions and errors. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it
NEWS
THINGS ARE ROCKING AT THE PALACE
Those progressive chaps at Wylam Brewery – settling in nicely to their new home at The Palace of Arts in Newcastle’s Exhibition Park – have certainly got their fingers on the pulse. The second North East Brewers Market weekend gets under way on Friday July 15 with lots of home-grown craft beer, street food, music, and pop-up bars courtesy of Anarchy Brew Co, Credence, Errant, Mordue, Out There, Truefitt, Tyne Bank and special guest Cloudwater from Manchester. The first brewers’ market was a huge success with all sessions packed out (pictured right) and the likes of Camerons Brewery, Three Kings, Almasty and Box Social Brew Co reporting huge interest in their beers. In between times are The Happenings featuring the region’s best street food, music and pop-up bars, plus a prestigious Meet The Brewer event at Tate Modern in London. Upcoming highlights include Narc In The Park All Dayer on July 23 featuring music from The Lake Poets, The Great Curve and The Shooting Of Nathalie Stern. The amazing Craft Beer Calling makes its Palace of Arts debut over the weekend of October 27 with an assembly of some of the
world’s finest craft beer producers – and more. Also look out for a six-hour DJ extravaganza from Mr Scruff on November 12 and the enduring, satirical and surreal Half Man Half Biscuit (November 18). Lead by Nigel Blackwell on lead vocals and guitar, HMHB have been described by
CRAFT BEER CALLING INTERNATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL 27 / 28 / 29 OCTOBER 2016 PALACE OF ARTS | EXHIBITION PARK
FIRST BREWERIES ANNOUNCED AND TICKETS NOW ON SALE!
visit www.CraftBeerCalling.com for details
4 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
broadcaster Andy Kershaw as the most authentic British folk band since The Clash with songs as diverse as Dickie Davies Eyes, Joy Division Oven Gloves, Camra Man, and All I Want For Christmas Is A Dukla Prague Away Kit. www.wylambrewery.co.uk
NEWS
HOME IS WHERE THE ABV IS
PUB INVESTMENT PLOUGHS ON
Despite the regular doom and gloom pronounced by various organisations that 27 pubs are closing every week in this country, re-openings and new-builds continue to fly the flag for the industry. For instance, a popular North East pub is benefiting from a £700,000 investment. Sunderland-based Tavistock Leisure – operators of a dozen highly successful bars, restaurants and
hotels across the region that include Lambton Worm pub in Chester-leStreet and Poetic License Distillery – is developing The Plough at Mountsett, Dipton, County Durham (pictured before refurbishment), into a brewery tap for its Sonnet 43 Brew House. This includes a complete overhaul of the venue’s interior, as well as the addition of tipi huts to host outdoor events and weddings and a separate, first-floor dining
area to host private functions for up to 30 guests. The work follows the departure of The Plough’s most recent management team to be directly run by Tavistock Hospitality Ltd. The leisure firm, which initially bought the pub in 2010, plans to inject a similar style as it has done at the recent refurbishments of the Toronto Lodge at Bishop Auckland and the Three Horseshoes Hotel, Sunderland.
Details of the Great British Home Brew Challenge 2016 have been announced. A collaboration that includes Derbyshire-based Thornbridge Brewery – producers of the amazing Jaipur IPA – with Waitrose and Brew UK is inviting dedicated home brewers or someone who has always thought they could make a good beer at home to submit it for judging by some of the beer world’s finest palates. If your beer is chosen it will be brewed at Thornbridge Brewery and sold across the country in a selection of Waitrose stores. Entry is free, for full details go to www.gbhomebrew.co.uk and join the race to find the best home-brewed beer in the UK.
THE BRIDGE TAVERN BREW PUB & EATERY
www.thebridgetavern.com
BT_Cheers.indd 1
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 5 30/01/2015 14:07
NEWS
Picturesque location & only a couple of miles from Hexham Reservations 01434 602814 www.theratinn.com Twitter:@ratales The Rat Inn, Anick, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 4LN
KITTIWAKE
THE KITTIWAKE WHITLEY BAY Mouthwatering Drinks & Scrumptious Food Join us for Sunday Lunch served from 12pm - 4pm Roast Chicken, Beef or Pork served with seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes, parsnips,Yorkshire pudding and gravy.
Adult £7.95 | Kids £5.95 (includes free ice cream) Tel: 0191 251 3977 | Email: info@thekittiwake.co.uk www.thekittiwake.co.uk
BORDERS AWAITS WHISKY DECISION
Plans for a new £40m whisky distillery have been lodged near Jedburgh in The Borders. Mossburn Distillers are hoping to open the plant near the former Jedforest Hotel at Camptown, with developers claiming the site will create 50 full-time jobs, producing millions of bottles a year of grain and malt whisky, and will include a visitor centre and 200-seat restaurant. A planning permission form has been submitted to the Scottish Borders Council with a
decision expected at some point in the autumn. Mossburn Distillers is also developing Torabhaig distillery on the Isle of Skye which is due for completion in 2017. The Jedburgh project is said to be one of a number of schemes aiming to bring whisky distilling back to the Scottish Borders after a period of 180 years. A company called Three Stills has secured £10m funding to open a new distillery at Hawick, while R&B Distillers has identified a site near Peebles for its first whisky venture.
THREE TWO ONE ZERO, LIFT OFF Durham Brewery is aiming for the stars with a new beer. Interstellar Craft Lager – something of a new departure for Durham – has been lagered (stored) for over three months with this long, cold traditional fermentation developing rich and refreshing flavours. The character is more hoppy than a conventional English-brewed lager, with a decidedly mid-European style. A round fruitiness is brightened by lemon citrus which tails into a long spicy finish with a hint of honey.
DOG DUO ACCEPT BREWING GONGS The two founders of Aberdeenshire-based craft beer company BrewDog were awarded MBEs in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. James Watt and Martin Dickie set up the sometimes controversial firm in 2007 in Fraserburgh and now employ hundreds of staff, has bars around the world, and saw revenue climb by 51% to £44.7m in 2015. James Watt said: “It’s amazing to have been awarded something so prestigious.” He and Martin Dickie – friends from school – started brewing beer together as a hobby in their early twenties while at university in Edinburgh. Watt decided against a law career and went off to work in the family fishing firm, while Dickie brewed at Thornbridge Brewery in Derbyshire after graduating from Heriot-Watt with a degree in brewing and distilling, and helped develop the formidable Jaipur IPA. BrewDog – now based in Ellon, near Aberdeen – has attracted controversy over the years. In 2009, a beer called Speedball was criticised amid claims it promoted the drugs mix of cocaine and heroin that killed actors John Belushi and River Phoenix. 6 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
NEWS
THE BEER DRINKERS HAVE SPOKE
Tour de force: Black Sheep marketing director Jo Theakston, left, with Mike Hughes of Marie Curie at the 2014 launch of Velo A hugely popular seasonal ale has returned this month to drink alongside the sparkling spokes of Chris Froome, Alberto Contador and 196 others taking part in the Tour de France. Black Sheep Velo (4.2% abv) was originally brewed for Le Grand Depart Yorkshire in July 2014 – in celebration of the first three stages of the world’s greatest cycle race which took part in the county. The riders passed through Black Sheep’s home town of Masham
where 20,000 spectators lined the streets. Velo (French for bicycle) is a freewheeling, fresh pale ale brewed with Cascade hops for a subtle hint of orange and coriander. It was initially developed and tested in Black Sheep’s five-barrel microbrewery, then scaled up in the full plant with the intention to be sold only in cask, but proved so popular it became a permanent part of the Black Sheep flock of bottled beers.
Chile reception A touch more controversially, a limited edition wine label designed by artist Eliza Southwold depicting cyclists racing through the French countryside features on bottles of Cono Sur’s Bicicleta range (pictured below) as part of the company’s commercial partnership with the Tour de France. Earlier this year, French winemakers threatened to disrupt the Tour de France over the organisers’ decision to award the Chilean producer an exclusive sponsorship deal. But according to reports, winemakers were appeased after an agreement was reached to allow them to feature their products prominently during the race.
CRUISING THROUGH JULY Tilley’s Bar on Westgate Road in Newcastle hosts a film season throughout July to celebrate American Independence Day. Last year’s Independent Film Festival proved popular, but this time, the pub is celebrating several Hollywood stars’ birthdays... all during July. This list includes Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Will Ferrell, Sly Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. A pin-sticker’s pick of movies comes up with Blade Runner (Wednesday July 13, 7pm), The Terminator (Monday July 25, 7pm) and Total Recall on Thursday July 28, also at 7pm. Tilley’s manager Graham Frost says: “We’re also giving a 20% off any American bottled beer throughout July – we have at least 60 different ones – and offering 20p off a pint of cask ale for current Camra members, which is nice since I’m one.”
Dr Syntax Inn The Steamboat P Beer Garden
Bar Food
Function Children Room Welcome
TM
Car Park
New Ridley, Stocksfield, Northumberland NE43 7RG. Tel: 01661 842 383
2016 Sunderland & South Tyneside CAMRA Pub of the Year Current Regional CAMRA Pub of the Year 27 Mill Dam, South Shields, NE33 1EQ (0191) 454 0134
DOG
FRIENDLY
PUB
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 7
NEWS
AN EYE ON THE FUTURE CHEERS ON TOUR Cheers readers have sent photos to us from Tombstone, Arizona; Red Square, Moscow; New Zealand, and the West Coast of Scotland – all showing how well the magazine travels. Slightly closer to home, Joe and Gillian Harrison from Wallsend, Tyne & Wear, visited Liverpool recently to enjoy the atmosphere of the city’s finest pubs. They visited The Philharmonic, The Crown Hotel, The Lion Taven and Peter Kavanagh’s (where they are pictured). Thanks folks, keep them coming.
Camerons Brewery has announced that the Eye On The Tyne on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside which it took over from Greene King last November, is to become its tenth Head of Steam outlet, creating 20 full-time jobs. An opening date in early August is yet to be confirmed, but we’re assured that the Head of Steam reputation for great beers will include 16 keg lines with a selection of rotating craft beers from UK and world brewers, plus eight cask ale lines and real cider and a selection of premium cocktails, spirits and soft drinks. As part of the refurbishment, a comfortable snug area will be included in the pub along with a new beer-dedicated tasting room that can also be used for meetings, events and parties. Camerons’ food developer, chef
Kieran Burke, is finalising the menu which will include a brunch selection as well as range of British pub classics “with a twist”. Camerons has also revealed it has acquired the seven-strong Leeds Brewey pub estate which includes The lamb & Flag and The Midnight Bell in Leeds itself and The Duke
of York in York. Leeds Brewery will continue to brew their cask and keg beers and these brands will feature prominently in the pubs. The progressive company is opening a new Head of Steam this month in Hull and is also delighted with the early performance of its Headingly, Leeds, outlet (pictured).
WYLAM BREWERY PALACE OF ARTS | NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE
WYLAMBREWERY.CO.UK
TAP ROOM OPEN | THURS & FRI 5PM TO 11PM | SATURDAYS 12PM TO 11PM FOR FULL EVENTS PROGRAMME PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE
8 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
CAMRA 2015 South West Northumberland Pub of the Year Winner
A BEER FESTIVAL FROM THE WOODS AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY BEERÂ FESTIVAL
Friday 26th - Monday 29th 18 + Real Ales from the woods plus Ciders /Perries
Excellent selection to tickle your taste buds! Saturday 27th - Live music with Kostellos - From 3 pm
Sunday 28th - Buskers from 1 pm plus Barbecue (weather permitting)
Buskers Nights: Tuesdays - July 12th & 26th
Pie & Peas, Sandwiches & Toasties available every day | FREE Function room !! (Catering available on request)
- August 9th & 23rd - Sept 6th Folk Nights: Wednesday July 20th & August 17th All singers and musicians welcome
Station Road, Wylam, NE41 8HR. Telephone 01661 853431
NEWS
WHISKY CASKS EARN THEIR NAME
The North East branch of the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood (SPBW) has purchased two new casks with a special purpose in mind. Not only will they be filled with decidedly interesting beers, but they have been christened Eric and Sally, after the late Eric Larkham and his wife. Sadly, Eric passed away in April, leaving a huge void in the region’s real ale culture – he had filled several Campaign For Real Ale (Camra) roles over the years, including stints as Tyneside & Northumberland branch chairman and treasurer, as well as organising several Newcastle Beer Festivals. Eric was most recently the North East SPBW publicity
officer – a post he relished as it simply added to his fount of local beer knowledge. Old-fashioned wood is really catching on with progressive brewers – Wylam Northern Alchemy, Almasty and Durham among them. Sir John Barleycorn, spokesman for Durham Brewery, says they have acquired some hogsheads which were previously used to mature whisky. The first batch of the celebrated Temptation (10% abv), an imperial Russian stout with spades of roast malt, oily coffee and liquorice flavours, has been bottled and is reported to be maturing nicely. The second batch is already in the wood with an estimate that it will be ready for Christmas.
Vibrant: Petra Wetzel
FACING THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE Petra Wetzel, the German founder of the award-winning Glasgowbased West Brewery has been named as one of 100 Faces of a Vibrant Economy. Selected by Grant Thornton UK and an independent panel, the Faces have been chosen for their roles in shaping a more purposeful, innovative and socially responsible business environment. They span the length and
breadth of the UK and from sectors including energy, leisure, retail, technology, local authorities, notfor-profit organisations, financial services and food production. Since its inception, West has received accolades from the brewing and hospitality industries, including three German Agricultural Society gold medals. West’s flagship beer, St Mungo Lager (4.9% abv) is stocked in many North East pubs.
• GREAT LOCATION, NEXT TO CORBRIDGE STATION - TO BOOK CALL 01434 632888 •
NOW FULLY OPEN AFTER AN EXTENSIVE REFURBISHMENT WIDE RANGE OF CASK AND CRAFT BEERS FROM LOCAL BREWERS
GREAT RATES ON BEDROOMS - ALL ENSUITE, WITH A FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST - A GREAT BASE TO EXPLORE CORBRIDGE & THE REST OF NORTHUMBERLAND.
SERVING FOOD WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY 12-9 SUNDAY’S 12-4.
ONE OF THE BEST BEER GARDENS IN TYNEDALE - NOW USABLE AGAIN AFTER THE FLOODS! • THE DYVELS INN, STATION ROAD, CORBRIDGE, NORTHUMBERLAND NE45 5AY • FOLLOW US: @THEDYVELS 10 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
• THEDYVELS@GMAIL.COM •
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
NEWS
LIKED THE BEER, BACKED THE COMPANY
It’s t-shirt time for investors in Tyne Bank Brewery’s recent expansion plans. An invitation to raise £250,00 to fund a move into new premises in Walker, Newcastle – with an associated huge leap in profile – was oversubscribed by some £100,000. One of the incentives (as if the opportunity to be part of a microbrewery wasn’t incentive enough) was a t-shirt emblazoned with the proud claim “I Own A Brewery”. Tyne Bank owner Julia Austin says: “I would also like to take this opportunity to let you know that plans are well on the way and we hope to move into the new building in August and open the bar in September. “It seems a long time ago we started raising finance with Crowdcube and finally investors should have received their share certificates. We are very proud
Welcome: Julia Austin and Adam Brewer, Tyne Bank Brewery of our investors and as such we plan to list their name on our DNA wall in the brewery bar and events space.” Investors will receive a discount
card and beer on their birthday along with other ‘rewards’. “We’re all looking forward to welcoming you in our new home soon,” says Julia.
GIN AND ALE IN THE SAME GLASS Harrogate, North Yorkshire-based Daleside Brewery has unveiled a new seasonal ale aimed at beer-lovers looking for new taste sensations. G&P (4.0% abv) is a gininfused pale ale that delivers interesting flavour characteristics from the combination of a traditional beer with juniper berries normally associated with gin’s botanicals. Craig Witty, Daleside’s head brewer, said “G&P offers drinkers a delicate hop flavour with a hint of orange and citrus; a perfect combination as we head into mid-summer. The industry is everchanging and we believe that it’s important to look at new beer styles that differ from our core range and we’re confident that G&P will prove popular.”
Spirits of genuine integrity handcrafted in a 400 litre copper pot still.
GOOD HONEST SPIRITS WWW.D U RHAMDISTIL L ERY.CO.UK
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 11
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
CITY SUNTRAP CREATES JOBS
City oasis: Barluga’s sun terrace, Newcastle A popular Newcastle city centre bar has had to ramp up its recruitment drive to cope with demand following the launch of a new extension. Barluga in Grey Street, has opened its doors on a new outside terrace with its instant popularity resulting in the creation of more jobs. The terrace extension has provided Barluga – part of
12 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
the Vaulkhard Group – with an additional dining and drinking area, with capacity to seat 75 people, compared to just 16 before its creation. The £180,000 garden terrace features an additional outdoor dining and drinking area complete with umbrellas, heated seats and barbecue – an oasis in the heart of a bustling city.
SUMMER TURNS INN-SIDE OUT
Pubs across the region are approaching high summer in different ways – but all with the same goal. Customers enjoying great drinks, hearty food and fine company in beer gardens and terraces is what every landlord wants to see from behind the bar. A brush of sunshine does wonders. Six months ago, however, that thought couldn’t have been further from the minds of the new owners at The Dyvels in Corbridge, Northumberland. The pub and gardens were under more than
a metre of water after the River Tyne burst its banks following Storm Desmond. Today, you’d never believe it. “It allowed us to think about what we really want The Dyvels to be as a pub,” says co-owner Chris Baxter (with his brother Richard) who had been in charge for a mere three months. “We hadn’t even completed a VAT quarter.” Chris and Richard also run the highly-successful and celebrated Manor House Inn at Carterwayheads and have brought a similar attention to detail to The Dyvels. The public bar is
Tranquil: The garden at The Dyvels, Corbridge
flagstoned, the counter appears more of a visual feature than it previously was, more space has been created, four en-suite bedrooms brought up to date, and the large garden restored for animated chatter or idle conversation. Chris says: “We created more vertical drinking space for a combination of cask and craft beer which includes our in-house ale from Allendale Brewery. We’re now just enjoying the pub what for it is and what pubs are really all about.” A simple menu has been introduced, rather than diverting effort into restaurant-style food – and anyway, the kitchen is a touch too small to be creating complicated dishes. But when sausage and mash
and fish and chips are presented like they are at The Dyvels, you don’t need much else. “We’re also right on the Whistle Stops Ale Trail,” says Chris, in reference to the pub’s proximity – about 50 metres – from Corbridge station. “Corbridge itself is very well known for its beer.” And when you’re forced to start again, the lessons learned are very useful indeed. “We’ve introduced a similar exercise at The Manor House from what we’ve needed to do at The Dyvels; slimmed it down a bit and refurbished while retaining the unique character of the bar with that lovely fireplace.”
AND WHILE WE’RE ON THE SUBJECT… We’re always looking forward to a decent old summer to bring al fresco drinking into our culture, so when the clouds part, head for the likes of The Free Trade Inn, The Tyne Bar, The Cluny, Ship Inn and Cumberland Arms at Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley. Alternatively, the garden at The Rat Inn near Hexham is an idyllic space to enjoy everything that a pub named number 13 in the nation’s top gastropub list can offer. Similarly, The Barrasford Arms – also near Hexham – which is celebrating ten years under the guidance of top chef Tony Binks and his wife Monica, features a garden overlooking some of Northumberland’s finest landscapes. Its food and drink match the view, too. Then there’s the Ship Inn at Low Newton, The Jolly Fisherman, Craster (both Northumberland), and South Causey Inn, near Stanley… the suntrap list goes on. www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 13
CANNED BEER
CAN DUDE ATTITUDE There’s not a lot new under the sun. Alastair Gilmour is impressed by 80-year-old technology when it comes to getting the best out of beer We’ve had hooked metal openers, draught flow systems, pressure-sensitive widgets, ring-pulls of varying efficiencies, and once again the beer spotlight is on the can. Beer in cans is more popular than ever due to one simple fact; the liquid inside the aluminium shell has never tasted better or been of higher quality. The rise of the craft beer sector – where small-batch cask and keg production is aimed at the more flavour-seeking drinker – has taken the once-derided tin and given it a purpose. Stylish beer deserves stylish dispense and stylish graphics in a stylish handful which all come in this contemporary package of normally 330ml in size – and is there a more welcoming sequence of sounds than psst, crick, glug, aahh? The Kreuger Brewing Company of Newark, New Jersey, began selling canned beer to the American public in 1935. The can – then made of hefty metal – was virtually indestructible, but still lighter and more compact for shipping than glass bottles. The first British brewer to produce beer in cans was Felinfoel Brewing Company in Llanelli, South Wales, in 1936, which took full advantage of the steel industry on its doorstep. Within a short time, other British brewers had cottoned on, particularly those
14 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
with large export markets across the Empire. The advantages of weight, space and handling were obvious. Rather than having flat tops as in the US, British cans were conical on top, like the old Brasso tins, as it meant they could be filled on existing bottling lines without huge investment in new machinery. But the real hike in canned beer sales came in the 1950s with the rise in popularity of the take-home trade – even though the common consent was that the beer tasted “tinny” and the cans (flat-topped by now) had to be pierced with an opener supplied with every purchase. The ring-pull was canned beer’s saviour, regarded as the ultimate in convenience drinking, and went hand-in-hand with the burgeoning home-grown lager sector (highlighted by Tennents in Scotland). By the 1980s, however, enthusiasm for bland, fizzy beers was starting to be overtaken by a preference for premium, distinctive beer – in a bottle. The widget (pioneered by Guinness, which forced carbon dioxide through the liquid) came and went, as did the draught flow system, but now the can is back, not only with verve and va-voom, ultimate user-friendliness, and – most crucially – fantastic beer inside. “Our cans have sold so well it’s taken us by surprise,” says Ross Holland at Box Social Brewing in Newcastle. “People are definitely coming round to the fact that canned beers aren’t what they used to be. “The beer keeps better, there are no problems with light getting to it as can happen with bottles, and they’re recyclable. It’s a no-brainer. “It was a worry at first that people wouldn’t take to them but pubs like The Telegraph in Newcastle and all the Head of Steam outlets, plus off-licenses
CANNED BEER like Coppers in Gosforth, Rehills in Jesmond and Glug in Newcastle’s Grainger Market are very, very pleased with the way they’re going.” Box Social has booked BrewDog in Newcastle on July 24 to officially launch its canned range which now numbers four with the recent introduction of a Brown Ale. The slight worry is that the cans have proved so popular, the stocks might be somewhat diminished by then. “We’re over the moon,” says Ross. “The cans are massively outselling our bottles – and we thought they were doing well.” One interesting development is that beer cans themselves have become something of a blank canvas for graphic designers. “My favourite graphics are those on Beavertown’s cans,” says London-based food and drink expert Rupert Ponsonby, who despite his top-drawer name, was formerly a scrap merchant. Public Relations is now his game – R&R Teamwork to be precise – but before he got into what he terms “the wild and wacky world of PR” his business was recycling aluminium cans. “We baled them up and sent them in containers to Japan where – as the aluminium had a high magnesium content, they were turned into car engines and sent back again. “After canning beer started at Felinfoel they morphed through various polymers, tinned steels and aluminium into what they are today. “Why do I love them? They keep the beer as
LETS HAVE A CAN-TASTIC WEEKEND
@COPPERS
ROOSTERS - BABY FACED ASSASSIN 6.1%
CAN CRAZY SPECIAL OFFERS THROUGHOUT JULY & AUGUST FOLLOW US @COPPERSGOSFORTH FOR MORE INFO
MAGIC ROCK CANNONBALL 7.4%
FROM 15TH - 17TH JULY 4 NAUGHTY BEASTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY FOR ONLY £8 17 PRINCES ROAD GOSFORTH NE3 5TT TEL 0191 217 0043
BEAVERTOWN GAMMARAY 5.4%
FOLLOW US @COPPERSGOSFORTH AND FIND US ON FACEBOOK
OPEN 8AM - 8PM
GREAT PERSONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE IN COPPERS WE TRUST
VOCATION BREWERY - LIFE & DEATH 6.5%
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 15
CANNED BEER
Fell Brewery,” says Fell Brewery co-founder Andrew the brewer intended. They are light to carry, for Carter. “Our new friends at WeCan Solutions visited humans or lorries. They don’t break. They carry the brewery to squirt delicious Fell beer into sexy graphics beautifully. They stack well in the fridge. They chill quickly – like me. They’re good for picnics, little cans. “This is something we’ve been planning since good for music events and recycle easily. last summer and it is extremely gratifying to see “In short, aluminium and I are very close – we it come to fruition. Knowing our beers taste best have an unbreakable, slightly polymered bond.” when delivered with as little interference as possible, Box Social Brewing has been sending beer in we have always been on the lookout for a practical special containers to a company in Hereford which solution that could transport the beer to customers specialises in liquids packaging. WeCan Solutions at home in a state we could be proud of. also offers a doorstep service, as Fell Brewery in “When we found out about mobile canning and Flookburgh,Cheers Cumbria discovered. Half Page Ad - 2016.pdf 1 03/07/2016 20:41 that they would let us fill the cans our way, we were “December 22 2015 was a momentous day for
very excited. Our canned beer – Robust Porter and Tinderbox IPA for now – are unfined, unfiltered and unpasteurised, resulting in maximum flavour from minimal interference. “They are also can-conditioned, meaning we dosed the beer with sugar and yeast so it has undergone a secondary fermentation in the can to supply the fizz. “This felt more appropriate for what is a true craft product fashioned with passion and care. “Cans? We are very happy with them.” It’s entirely appropriate that a brewery such as Roosters in Yorkshire should become one of the
C
M
Y
CM
SMALL & MIGHTY
MY
CY
CMY
K
CASK
KEG
CAN
INSTAGRAM TWITTER INSTAGRAMROOSTERSBREWCO ROOSTERSBREWCO TWITTER WWW.ROOSTERS.CO.UK 16 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
BOTTLE
CANNED BEER North’s first in-house canners. Now owned and operated by Ian Fozard and his sons Tom and Oliver, Roosters was founded by Sean Franklin in 1993, a man steeped in the wine trade then blazed a brewing trail with his pioneering use of American hops more than 20 years ago. The move into the canned beer market reflects the brewery’s continued focus on quality and comes as part of a period of investment that has already seen new vessels and equipment installed. Tom Fozard says: “It’s all going great. When we made the decision to invest in our own canning line –and all the other associated equipment and vessels – a little over two years ago – we did it with one eye on export. “But as things stand, we haven’t been able to make that happen, due to the demand in the UK particularly across Yorkshire and the North East. “We invested in a semi-automated canning line from a company in Canada which has been producing such bits of kits for a lot of the smaller, upand-coming breweries in the US. In fact, Oscar Blues, who pioneered the craft beer canning revolution on the other side of the pond in the early 2000s started on pretty much the same bit of kit that we have. “We launched three core beers in can in January – Yankee, Fort Smith and Baby-Faced Assassin. All three have been met with a great response, but Assassin has proven to be a runaway success.” There appears to be no limits on what canned beer can achieve – Box Social’s are very tactile, not
shiny and slippery, while seasonal and limitededition beers are perfect for short-run production, such as Roosters’ Roots Rock Reggae and pale ale hybrid Pilsnear (it’s not only the graphics that get a run-out, but names as well). One company benefitting from the canned beer phenomenon is Coppers off-license in Brunton Park, Gosforth, Newcastle. Shelves are apparently hardly stocked before another order is placed. “In 2015 we only had a handful of cans,” says shop owner Andrew Cossey. “In early 2016 we did a check and found we had between 60 and 70 different styles of canned beer. Everybody’s doing them – Wylam Brewery, Tyne Bank, Box Social – it’s a terrific development. “Some of the artwork is amazing; you can get more information on them; you can drop them and they bounce, and they’re more sealed than a bottle, if you see what I mean. Everyone these days is a flavour junkie, so you could say I’m a fan of the can. “It’s also great sitting down with the brewers who are going to put the
beer in the can – that’s what’s lush about this trade, we’re all wanting to help each other.” And, as always, it’s the advances in technology that allow brewers to do something they could only have dreamt of a few years ago. “It’s fascinating how they attach the ring pulls to the can top,” says Rupert Ponsonby. “Now there are different pieces (to the cans) and different types of aluminium, and the can body is different again. In the US, hobos get their dosh by recycling them.” It would appear everybody wins cans down.
Artisan Ales and Craft Beers
NOW IN CANS
CORE RANGE AND SEASONAL SPECIALS NOW AVAILABLE IN CANS TASTING ROOM OPEN FRI TO SUN 12 -9
CUMBRIAN ARTISAN BREWING
Tel: 07803791761 e: info@boxsocial.pub www.boxsocial.pub Twitter: @boxsocialbeer Find us on facebook: boxsocialbrewing www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 17
CRIME PAYS
A VERY PECULIER FESTIVAL Beer and books enjoy a long and cosy relationship, but beer and crime books are as good a reason as any to settle down with several glasses, writes Alastair Gilmour CRIMESCENE NORTH EAST: The hunt to track down a major crime has been dealt a huge blow. A leaked document from American company Hasbro has revealed that one of the six characters in its board game Cluedo has been killed off. Early reports cannot confirm if the demise of Mrs White – an original Cluedo character since 1949 – was as the result of a blow from a candlestick, a lead pipe or a spanner, or action by someone using a rope, a revolver or a dagger. But we can verify that Miss Scarlett, Professor Plum, Mrs Peacock, the Reverend Green, and Colonel Mustard will be joined
by Dr Orchid in a revised set-up in Tudor Mansion. The 14th annual Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival taking place in Harrogate this month couldn’t have a better lead-in. Murder most foul has been splashed right across the media with “whodunnit” on everyone’s lips. Mrs White? My giddy aunt! Beer, books and crime have long proved perfect partners – a well-deserved break with a cops-andcriminal novel in one hand and a glass of beer or whisky (or both) in the other is the perfect drill for relaxation. Earlier this year, Simon Theakston, executive director of brewers T&R Theakston of Masham, North
Yorkshire, announced a further extension of the their award winning headline sponsorship of what is now the biggest celebration of the genre in the world, The Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival. T&R Theakston executive director Simon Theakston believes the award-winning arts and business partnership has given “a huge benefit” to Theakstons and the festival, saying: “We’re so proud to support the arts in the community in which we live and work. In turn, the sponsorship enables us to reach a completely new audience of potential customers and helps the Theakstons name travel all around the world. The crime writing festival is
the perfect fit. The name Old Peculier is a tribute to the Court of the Peculier in Masham a court established in medieval England to deal with criminal matters in Masham, so there’s an obvious link to crime.” The 14th Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival takes place at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate – appropriately where Agatha Christie spent 12 undiscovered and unexplained days after disappearing from her London home – with more than 90 authors in attendance, and is expected to sell 14,000 tickets to crime aficionados from all over the world. This year, along with an interview session with Scottish comedian Susan Calman, Val McDermid is set to receive the Outstanding Contribution to Crime Fiction Award. Simon Theakston says: “We’re particularly delighted to be honouring Val McDermid this year. Thanks to her far-reaching passion and generosity for crime fiction – for writers and readers alike – the festival has become the biggest celebration of the genre in the world. As a writer,
GRANGE HOGROAST Tel: 07713026114 Twitter: @GrangeHogRoast Email: hog.steve.roast@gmail.com www.grangehogroast.co.uk
THE “FAVOURED PALE” 24 YEARS OF ENJOYED DRINKING. FOR DISTRIBUTION DETAILS PHONE 01325354590 OR 01765640108. CHEERS! PUNCH AND ENTERPRISE INNS ORDER VIA SIBA 22 Coniscliffe Rd, Darlington 01325 354 590 www.villagebrewer.co.uk
Open 6 Days A Week: Monday - Saturday 18 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
CRIME PAYS Star turn: Val McDermid. Photo David Peebles
THK Brewery Tap Ad 128mm x
Val is rightfully known as the Queen of Crime and is very deserving of this accolade.” Val McDermid – who lived until relatively recently in Alnmouth, Northumberland – has sold 10 million copies of her novels worldwide. Also regarded as a killer at pub quizzes and with a penchant for a drop of whisky, the queen of psychological thrillers has the distinction of being the only author to sponsor a football club, Raith Rovers, where she shares the directors’ box with fellow crime novelist Ian Rankin and former prime minister Gordon Brown. She has published 27 novels, short stories, non-fiction and a prize-winning children’s book which have been translated into 30 different languages. One of her most enduring creations is the Tony Hill and Carol Jordan series, which was adapted for television as Wire in the Blood, starring Robson Green. So, “who dunnit”? Any Cluedos? Our investigation is under way. But pass that glass of Old Peculier first. www. 190mm_landscape.pdf oldpeculiercrimewritingfestival. 1 25/02/2016 11:25 co.uk
OLD PECULIER Around 200 years ago, British brewers produced a dark, strong “stock” ale in the winter months to provide a base amount of fermented beer to add to those brewed in the summer months when variations in temperature with no refrigeration played havoc with fermentation. Old Peculier (5.6% abv) more than likely owes its origins to this. The name pays tribute to the unique ecclesiastical status of its home town of Masham in North Yorkshire as a Court of the Peculier. For many years, Old Peculier was affectionately referred to as Yorkshire’s Lunatic’s Broth. Old Peculier is a beautiful, yet very simple beer, brewed with a generous blend of pale, crystal and roasted barley with two bittering hops combined with the majestic and noble Fuggles to produce a beer of full-bodied flavour with subtle cherry and rich fruit overtones. Terrific on its own, it tastes delightful when accompanied by rich stews, strong cheeses and sweet puddings.
Visit the
Black Bull in Paradise
C
M
Y
BUY A ‘PECULIER’ GIFT
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
TAKE A TOUR ROUND
…and have a pint in our
BREWERY TAP
Theakston Brewery Tap & Gift Shop, Masham, HG4 4YD W: theakstons.co.uk E: info@theakstons.co.uk T: 01765 680000 Theakston Brewery
Theakston1827
#THETALKOFTHEPUB www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 19
REVIEW
A DURHAM SUMMER DELIGHT It might be a leg-stretcher of a walk from Durham town centre, but a stroll up Gilesgate is undoubtedly an aperitif for a pint in The Woodman Inn. Licensees Sean and Jane Quilty took over the Woodman just 18 months ago and the pub has been freshened up considerably in a £70,000 investment by Admiral Taverns. However, it remains the same friendly, two-roomed – and slightly old-fashioned oasis (in a good way) – that it has been for seemingly ever. Sitting in the square bay window seat sipping beer is almost a privilege, but on a fine day it’s a good idea to take your beer out to the lovely, enclosed garden. It’s a real suntrap with about a dozen hefty benches and ideal for an al fresco selection from the snack menu – toasties, paninis, pizzas, burgers, 12” sausage and nachos. Back inside, a pool table attracts students and the more cultured are catered for with a framed selection of
20 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
coal-hewing prints by Derek Slater. All are for sale, too. Ales on the bar (at time of writing) include Shepherd Neame Ten Hop Beer (4.0% abv), developed for the Euro 2016 tournament; Brakspeare Bitter (3.4% abv), a pale and complex (for its strength) beer ideal with a ploughman’s lunch, and Moorhouse’s White Witch (3.9% abv), a blonde, fruity and floral refresher. The Woodman Inn hosts a beer festival between July 15 and 17, supported by Durham Camra branch, which is something of an endorsement in itself. Best foot forward, it’s worth every deep breath.
QUOTE: “I TRIED TO WRITE A
DRINKING SONG, BUT COULDN’T GET PAST THE FIRST FEW BARS.” DEAN MARTIN
PUB WALKS
THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR DRINKING Lather a coat of dubbin on those walking boots, search the garage for that backpack, send out for some Kendal Mint Cake, it’s time to ramble in search of a pint. Pub and beer-loving walkers in Yorkshire – East, West and North – are helped on their way with a new guide, Yorkshire Pub Walks, published by The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra). It’s the sixth Pub Walks in the series – all written by Bob Steel – but the first to be devoted to a single county and also comes in a brand-new, eye-catching design. Simon Hall, Camra’s head of publishing, said: “The Pub Walks books help to send a positive message about combining great pubs with healthy exercise and the exploration of Britain’s countryside and towns.” Pub Walks in Yorkshire features
The
urban and rural locations as well as exploring the county’s renowned national parks, and offers a vibrant and incisive insight into the region’s culture and heritage. It also contains useful information on local transport and accommodation. The 25 walks are divided into North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and
City Walks sections which include: Settle and Upper Ribblesdale; Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay; Brontë country: Haworth and Ponden; Sheffield: Kelham Island and the “Valley of Beer” plus a fishy trail around Hull’s old town. Available from www.camra.org.uk/books
Duke of Wellington
WALK BRUSSELS AND ITS TAVERNS Brussels is a wonderful city for lovers of good food and drink. A monthly walking tour of the many sides of Brussels’ taverns has been developed to explore the past and the evolution of tastes and social habits. Two stop-offs enable participants to “taste” the atmosphere. The first one – commentary is in English – takes place on Saturday July 23 (8pm) and once a month following (except August) until December. The 19 price includes two beers. www.bruxellesbavard.be/en/forindividuals/118--32--brusselsseen-through-its-taverns
Tel: 01661 844446 Newton, Northumberland, NE43 7UL
Situated in the beautiful Tyne Valley AWARD WINNING 5 STAR ACCOMMODATION
Midweek Summer Special Stay 3 nights B & B and get the fourth night FREE (double occupancy only) AWARD WINNING FOOD & REAL ALES
A la Carte Menu served daily - Lunchtime and Evening Specials Every Wednesday Night - Steak Night - Drink, soup & steak from £35 per couple Excellent Patio area - Dine Al Fresco! Quiz Nights - Monday July 18th & August 1st, 15th & 29th Open Mic Nights - Sunday July 24th & August 14th & 28th
www.thedukeofwellingtoninn.co.uk www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 21
FESTIVAL NEWS
CIDER DISHES TO SAMPLE AT FESTIVAL Cider lovers are enjoying range of draught craft ciders from England, Wales, Scotland, France and Northern Ireland at 11 North East pubs. The festival at 11 Wetherspoons outlets runs until Sunday July 24. The pubs will each serve up to 30 ciders, including some not previously available locally and others produced exclusively for the festival from £2.39 to £3.09 a pint. For example, Cidre Normandie has been made by a visiting French cider maker from Normandy in collaboration with an English cider maker. Others include a cider made with sloe berries, one matured in oak vats, and others
flavoured with mango, damson, strawberry, raspberry and blackcurrant. In addition, the pubs will be serving Down Down – produced by Celtic Marches – in collaboration with rock band Status Quo, plus Healeys Texan-style Cornish hard cider and Friels Vintage, the first vintage cider crafted with juice from traditional English eating apple varieties.
The participating pubs are: The Union Rooms, The Quayside in The Close, The Five Swans, The Keel Row and The Mile Castle – all in Newcastle – as well as The High Main in Byker; The Tilley Stone in Gateshead; The Ritz, Wallsend; The Job Bulman, Gosforth; The Fire Station in Whitley Bay, and The Red Lion in Bedlington.
S C H O O N E R T U N E Ss July AT THE scHOONER Thur 14 Accoustic Showcase 7:30 Fri 15 Shipcote & Friends 6:00 Sun 17 No Time For Jive 4:30 Thur 21 Acoustic Gathering 8:00 Sat 23 Americana Special Guest TBC 8:30 Sun 24 Kingsize Voodoo Traveller 4:30 Sun 24 Americana Special Guest TBC 7:30 Sun 31 STAN 4:30
August AT THE scHOONER Sat 6 The Lounge Lizards 8.30 Sun 7 Schooner Buskers 4.30 Sun 14 Dust Town Dogs 4.30 Thur 18 Accoustic Gathering 8:00 Sun 21 “1977” 4.30 Sun 28 Big Ray & The Hipthrusters 4.30 Mon 29 The Understudies 3:00
Sunday 14 August is the annual Schooner Charity Bike Ride
The Tyne Cruise – This year in aid of The MS Society and Daft as a Brush If you would like to join us for a fun cycle along the river, from The Schooner to Wylam and back, please check out the details on our website: www.theschooner.co.uk/events South Shore Road, Gateshead, NE8 3AF 0191 477 7404 | www.theschooner.co.uk
22 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
PUB AND FESTIVAL NEWS
AN ASSET TO THE PUB TRADE
Campaign For Real Ale (Camra) members have been invited to an Asset of Community Value (ACV) workshop in Newcastle this month. It’s estimated by Camra Pub Tracker Number figures compiled by CGA Strategy that every week, a net 27 pubs close their doors forever. Pubs without ACV accreditation could be demolished or converted into other uses without planning permission, but new laws mean that campaigners have even more opportunity to save them. One such pub is the Sun Inn at Swalwell, Gateshead – pictured right and run by Dave and Sarah Cook – which has successfully applied to Gateshead Council for ACV for its valuable and essential local community action and spirit. The Council’s acceptance letter included: “Not only is the pub well frequented by a wide variety of locals from the village and immediate surrounding areas, it has also become a destination for Camra members and other
real ale enthusiasts from further afield as a result of the quality and range of beers always available.” Topics to be covered at the workshop include navigating the planning system, community-owned pubs, what your council should be doing, and engaging with local councillors. The workshop takes place at The Bridge Hotel on Saturday July 23 (12noon-3pm). Spaces are limited, so email faye.grima@camra.org.uk or tel 01727 798 449.
CRAFT’S FRIENDS IN THE NORTH The Beer Hall at Hawkshead Brewery in Cumbria is the setting this month for a unique collection and celebration of Northern craft brewing. Breweries confirmed for Northern Craft (July 21-23) include Bad Seed, Buxton, Cloudwater, Cromarty, Fallen, Fyne Ales, Mad Hatter, Magic Rock, Mallinsons, Marble, Northern Monk, Pilot, Quantum, Rat & Ratchet, Roosters, Runaway, Swannay, Tempest, Thornbridge, Vocation and Wylam – plus one guest from the south – Siren – invited as founder and convenor of the Rainbow Project, a collaborative beer project which Hawkshead is heavily involved in. On the Friday a mass collaboration brew led by head brewer Matt Clarke will take place with his brewing friends in the North. Matt is aiming for 10 brewers to get together to mark Hawkshead’s tenth summer beer fest – with the brewery’s rare releases Earl Grey & Seville Orange Sour (3.3% abv), Citra Dry Hopped Sour (3.3% abv) and a keg of the recently re-launched Key Lime Tau.
DIAMOND INN HOTEL | FUNCTION ROOM | RESTAURANT | BAR HOTEL – NEWLY REFURBISHED ROOMS NOW AVAILABLE TWIN & STANDARD DOUBLE ROOMS B&B £79.00 TRIPLE ROOMS B&B FROM £85.00 SINGLE ROOMS B&B FROM £65.00 DELUXE DOUBLE ROOMS B&B FROM £85.00 DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST OFFER NOW JUST £99 SUNDAY LUNCH SERVED 12 MIDDAY - 5 PM BREAKFAST AVAILABLE MONDAY - SATURDAY 7AM - 11AM SUNDAY 8AM - 11AM
MAIN STREET, PONTELAND, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE20 9BB TELEPHONE: 01661 872 898
enquiries@thediamondinn.co.uk www.thediamondinn.co.uk
NEW MENU NOW AVAILABLE
STARTERS
FISH & GRILLS
HOMEMADE FRESH SOUP - £3.95
TRADITIONAL BEER BATTERED FISH & CHIPS – HAND CUT CHIPS & MUSHY PEAS - £9.95
HAM HOCK TERRINE, PEASE PUDDING, PICCALILLI, STOTTIE - £4.50 BUBBLE & SQUEAK, GRILLED ASPARAGUS, POACHED EGG & TARRAGON INFUSED HOLLANDAISE - £4.50 SALMON & DILL FISHCAKES GARLIC & SAFFRON AIOLI - £4.95 CREAMY GARLIC MUSHROOMS ON TOASTED CIABATTA - £4.50 CAULIFLOWER CHEESE FRITTERS CURRY MAYONNAISE - £4.50 MAINS BURGERS & PIES DIAMOND BURGER – SUCCULENT BEEF PATTY, BURGER RELISH, LITTLE GEM, TOMATO & CHEESE IN A BRIOCHE BAP, SERVED WITH FRIES - £10.95 CAJUN SPICED CHICKEN BURGER – SPICY SALSA & LITTLE GEM IN A BRIOCHE BAP, SERVED WITH FRIES - £10.95 FISH BURGER – BEER BATTERED FISH, LITTLE GEM & TARTAR SAUCE, SERVED WITH FRIES £10.95
PAN FRIED SALMON “NICOISE” - £10.95 WHITBY SCAMPI – HAND CUT CHIPS, DRESSED LEAF SALAD - £9.95 12OZ RUMP STEAK – HAND CUT CHIPS, ROAST TOMATO, FIELD MUSHROOM & ONION RINGS - £14.95 GAMMON STEAK – HAND CUT CHIPS, FRIED HENS EGG & DRESSED SALAD - £11.95 DIAMOND “BIG” GRILL – RUMP STEAK, GAMMON STEAK, SAUSAGE, BLACK PUDDING, HAND CUT CHIPS, FRIED EGG, ROAST TOMATO & FIELD MUSHROOM - £17.95 DIAMOND CLASSICS THAI GREEN CURRY WITH CHICKEN – JASMINE RICE , NAAN BREAD & POPPADUM - £11.95 (WITHOUT CHICKEN) £9.95 ROAST RUMP OF LAMB – PEA PUREE, ROAST SWEDE, DAUPHINOISE & BASIL JUS £11.95 WILD MUSHROOM RISOTTO TARRAGON CREAM & PARMESAN - £9.95 CRISPY BELLY PORK – SAGE MASHED POTATO, SEASONAL VEGETABLES & RED WINE SAUCE - £10.95 SIDES
ADD ON CHEESE, BACON OR ONION RINGS TO ANY BURGER FOR £1.50
SEASONAL VEGETABLES, CRISPY BATTERED ONION RINGS, DRESSED MIXED SALAD,
HOMEMADE PIE OF THE DAY – SERVED WITH HAND CUT CHIPS OR MASHED POTATO, PEAS & GRAVY - £10.95
COLESLAW, HAND CUT CHIPS, FRIES ALL SIDES £2.00
MON - THUR 12-8PM / FRI - SUN 12 - 5PM
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 23
MICROBREWING
STUDENTS EARN THEIR UNIVERSITY BREWS One of the North East’s most unusual microbreweries has set its bar high, as Alastair Gilmour discovers “Sustainability” is the word you’ll hear most often at one of the North East’s most unusual microbreweries. It’s the guiding principle of Stu Brew, a 2.5-barrel plant tucked away in what can only be described as an out-house at Newcastle University. It is the first and so far only student-run brewery in Europe; it’s a social enterprise; it’s students who develop recipes, brew the beer and eventually sell the stuff, overseen by project coordinators who ensure their academic studies run smoothly alongside brewing tasks. They are completely absorbed in it – in any case, have you ever met a student who does not have a huge interest in beer? Stu Brew was set up as a Student Community Action Newcastle (SCAN) scheme in 2013, which has been supported to establish sustainability projects as a part of the National Union of Students (NUS) Student Green Fund. All sales profits are reinvested into training and development and the long-term sustainability of the enterprise. The project is part of Newcastle University’s school of chemical engineering and advanced materials and involves students in academic studies, including business, label design, sourcing raw ingredients, online promotion and bottling. “They have conducted their own market research, secured trademarks and designed the labels themselves,” says Red Kellie, SCAN project coordinator. “There are so many different angles to it. It’s also about sustainability, giving students as much experience as possible while understanding the input of chemicals and waste management.” Significant funding from the Institute for Sustainability has allowed the Stu Brew research 24 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
team to take part in a number of studies looking at how to dispose and make best use of spent grains, hops and brewer’s yeast sustainably. Outcomes from the project will benefit regional microbreweries who have expressed great interest in the research. Stu Brew closely monitors energy and water usage, and has a very energy efficient hot water and cooling system which re-uses hot water. Creating an animal feed from spent barley grains and yeast, such as for pigs, provides a sustainable solution to the waste issue, and avoids any associated environmental impacts with disposal. In collaboration with researchers at the University of Kassel in Germany, the team are to test a prototype dryer they’ve developed and optimise it for brewery wastes. Researchers will also look into the possibility of using waste products from the brewery for anaerobic digestion and gasification. Both the hops and the grains could be used in an anaerobic digester such as the one at Cockle Park Farm, one of two farms based at Newcastle University. The Stu Brew students are a resourceful lot, building the Stu Brew reputation on innovation. A demi-john of pink liquid sitting on the brewery copper has been drawn off a new brew; it’s an experimental beer infused with 25 kilos of rhubarb. Beside it is a ginger beer with a heady, spicy pungency. A collaboration with Newcastle microbrewery Northern Alchemy and Ugly Duckling (an industrial waste organisation) produced Breakfast Juice Pale Ale (4.7% abv) with the batch containing more than 100 grapefruits. More “ordinary” beers have also been a hit in the Students Union bar – Stu Brew’s first beer, OverDraught IPA (5.6% abv), was an instant,
MICROBREWING
“THERE ARE SO MANY DIFFERENT ANGLES TO IT” Left to Right: Red Kellie, James Milne, Michael Oates, Chris O’Malley, Sophie Murta
sell-out success. Rye Vision Break (5.3% abv) is a dark copper-hued dry-hopped rye ale with fruit and spice prominent throughout, while Red Brick (4.8% abv) is a beautifully balaned nutty malt and floral hop premium bitter. The positive response has led the beer to be offered at various venues across the campus and externally at the neighbouring Crow’s Nest and Trent House pubs and at Bierrex in the city. Course administrator Chris O’Malley (by day a lecturer in chemical engineering and advanced materials) says: “Steve Lynch, the manager at The Crow’s Nest has been extremely supportive, willingly putting on our beers and feeding back comments and constructive criticism. He’s gone above and beyond cooperation. “We champion the idea that the modern chemical engineer has to consider best practice in sustainability. Stu Brew is a ‘living lab’ but one where students learn about how sustainability can be applied to industry. “If we can convince professionals in the brewing industry of one or two things they could change which would have less of an impact on the environment, that’s what a university should be doing clearly.” As Red Kellie says, there are all sorts of angles to Stu Brew. In 2014, it was part of an awardwinning garden exhibited at the Chelsea Flower Show, highlighting a national Students Eats project which encourages students to grow their own produce and take on allotments. And although the Stu Brew project isn’t aimed primarily at placing graduates in the brewing industry, after the first 12 months of operation, four students progressed to jobs in Heineken and at BrewDog in Aberdeen. Linguistics student Michael Oates uses his coursework to great effect: “It’s a match made in heaven. Not everybody at age 19 can pop into a brewery and make beer, plus when you make your own stuff you get very passionate about it.” www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 25
NEW RELEASES
STABLE RECIPE THAT’S GINGER BRED
Labour of love: From left to right, Mark Hall, John Taylor, Peter Diehl and Nick Young TBB We are moving advert v08_) 05/07/2016 10:49 Page 1
26 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
Beers made from ginger are notoriously difficult to get right, but Stables Brewery’s John Taylor reckons he has put an end to that notion. The Beamish Hall, County Durham-based brewery has produced PJ’s Jinja (4.0% abv) with all the attributes that John believes are important when using such unconventional ingredients. His attention to detail is such that he invited friends and associates who he regarded as having good palates to review the beer before it was sent out into the trade. Comments and suggestions were acted upon. It’s important to note that PJ’s Jinja is not a ginger beer as such or a ginger ale; it’s a beer using ginger as its headline ingredient. “We did a similar beer some time ago but couldn’t quite retain the heat from the ginger,” says John. “We got the ginger flavour all right but that lovely ginger burn quickly diminished. “We had a student on placement from Brewlab in Sunderland who had
some good ideas and some experience producing a beer with ginger, so we listened to what he said and it seems to have worked.” Each batch contains 13 kilos of fresh ginger – a labour of love as every piece it has to be completely peeled without leaving any pith which can leave compostlike back flavours. A full box of lemons and limes also went in, so there’s no mistaking it’s a really full-on beer. John says: “We called it PJ’s after myself and Peter our brewer. He did all the peeling and chopping. He’s really stepping forward with great new ideas and has made a big difference to what we do here. He’s much more experimental than I am and a good cook, which always helps. “We’re trying to convince publicans that it’s not got the same underlying sweetness that the likes of Crabbies Ginger Beer has – and once they’ve tried it they really like it. “It’s shifting really well at The Stables bar and Mark Hall has got it on at The Split Chimp in Newcastle at the moment so it’ll be interesting to see how it goes there.”
2016 CAMRA DURHAM TOWN PUB OF THE YEAR 2015 CAMRA DURHAM TOWN PUB OF THE YEAR 2015 CAMRA NORTH EAST PUB OF THE YEAR 2ND PLACE 2015 TRIP ADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE
Home Cooked Food Dogs Welcome, Humans Tolerated Local Real Ales 12 CROSSGATE, DURHAM CITY, 0191 386 4621
SUMMER EVENTS EVERY MONDAY QUIZ NIGHT The Ship Isis, Silksworth Row, Sunderland SR1 3QJ Prizes to be won from 8pm plus free buffet. Wednesdays are Buskers Nights – pints for players – and the pub is always on the lookout for new talent to play on other occasions. www.theheadofsteam.co.uk Plus quizzes at: The Collingwood Arms, Brandling Village, Jesmond, Newcastle NE2 4RS, tel 0191 281 0570
The Great British Beer Festival
SUMMER TIME AND THE LIVIN’ IS EASY A selection of festivals, fun, food, music, arty and beery things to celebrate sunny days
The Forth, Pink Lane, Newcastle NE1 5DW, tel 0191 232 6478 The Central, Half Moon Lane Gateshead, NE8 2AN tel 0191 478 2543 EVERY TUESDAY QUIZ NIGHT Pub quiz at The Eye On The Tyne, Broad Chare, Quayside Newcastle, NE1 3DQ tel 0191 261 7385
EVERY FIRST THURSDAY AULD ROCKERS MUSIC QUIZ The Schooner, South Shore Road Gateshead, NE8 3AF Auld Rockers Music Quiz is great fun for anyone interested in music from the 50s through to the 90s – from 8pm-ish once a month on the first Thursday. Fun and prizes at the second-best bar in Gateshead. www.theschooner.co.uk THROUGHOUT JULY TILLEYS BAR FILM FESTIVAL Tilleys Bar, Westgate Road Newcastle, NE1
TH
TH
EVERY WEDNESDAY PUB QUIZ Mr Lynch, Archbold Terrace Jesmond, Newcastle, NE2 1DB tel 0191 281 3010 The Carriage, Archbold Terrace Jesmond, Newcastle, NE2 1DB tel 0191 281 2151 The Mile Castle, Westgate Road Newcastle, NE1 5XU tel 0191 211 1160 The Bodega, Westgate Road Newcastle, NE1 4AG tel 0191 221 1552
TH
TH
TH
ST
TH
TH
LOCAL BREWERIES I LIVE MUSIC I BBQ 28 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
SUMMER EVENTS Celebrating the month of American Independence Day and Hollywood stars’ July birthdays with movies starring Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Will Ferrell, Sly Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. A pinsticker’s pick of movies comes up with Blade Runner (Wednesday July 13, 7pm), The Terminator (Monday July 25, 7pm) and Total Recall on Thursday July 28, also at 7pm. tel 0191 232 0692
44 will get you there; Slateford Railway Station within 200yds. 160-plus Scottish real ales plus dider and perry. Camra products, tombola and games. Open: Thu-Sat noon-10.30pm. Hot food available throughout. Entry: £6/£4 Camra members. Free re-entry to all sessions with 2016 souvenir glass. Live music every night and Sat afternoon. www.sraf.camra.org.uk
UNTIL JULY 25 SOUTH TYNESIDE FESTIVAL South Shields Amphitheatre and Bents Park, South Shields Thursday and Saturday live music and Sunday concerts in a summer of great live entertainment. Free. Starring The Blow Monkeys, Alexandra Burke, The Proclaimers, Lindisfarne, Tony Hadley, UB40. www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk
JULY 8 LEGENDARY GOOD TIMES DJ NORMAN JAY MBE Wylam Brewery, The Palace of Arts, Exhibition Park, Newcastle As well as the good man himself there are food trucks, Jacks Gin Palace and a glorious selection of fine wines available (plus of course some fabulous Wylam Brewery beers). Doors: 6pm to midnight. Earlybird tickets: £10 – early purchase is advised :) www.wylambrewery.co.uk
JULY 7-10 SCOTTISH REAL ALE FESTIVAL Edinburgh Corn Exchange New Market Road, Edinburgh EH14 1RJ Lothian Bus 35 or 4, 20, 34,
The 2016
Ashbrooke Beer Festival A fantastic selection of over 30 real ales, ciders & perries
12th & 13th August
JULY 8-10 THREE MILE INN BEER FESTIVAL Three Mile Inn, Gosforth Newcastle, NE3 2DS Just one of four great summer beer festivals in Malhotra Group pubs that include The Runhead, Ryton; Osbornes, Jesmond, and The Sandpiper in Cullercoats. Great selection of ales from local breweries, barbecue and live music. Also beers from the Artisan Brew Co in-house microbrewery. Why not nominate a dedicated driver and have a festival crawl. www.threemileinn.co.uk JULY 11-17 MASALA FESTIVAL Newcastle and Gateshead various venues A mix and blend of the finest South Asian arts and culture Featuring Riverside Ragas: The Monks of Majuli, Mini Mela, Shri Sriarm’s Just A Vibration. Film screenings, workshops and demonstrations of South Indian cooking, meditation, yoga, Bollywood dance and more.
tel 0191 440 4124 www.gemarts.org JULY 20-23 ANNUAL BEER FESTIVAL Ashbrooke Sports Club, West Lawn, Sunderland SR2 7HW A fantastic selection of more than 30 ales, ciders and perries, plus wine and cava bar at “the home of sport in Sunderland”. tel 0191 528 4536 www.ashbrookesports.org JULY 21-23 NORTHERN CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL The Beer Hall, Hawkshead Brewery, Staveley, Kendal Cumbria, LA8 9LR Hawkshead’s 10th festival continues to draw beer lovers to The Lakes to witness craft brewing in the north of England at its finest. It’s all about British craft brewing... what’s new, who’s new, what’s stood the test of time, but most of all... what’s good. It’s mostly cask, but there’s a fair amount of keg too. It’s a family affair... kids, dogs, babes in arms, great grandmas, weird brewers –
FORTHCOMING EVENTS FRI 9TH SEPT FRI 14TH OCT TUES 1ST NOV SAT 5TH NOV SUN13TH NOV
Martin Turner (ex Wishbone Ash) £15 adv, £17 on door Cast Off Kinks (including Mick Avory) £20 Wishbone Ash £20 Flux Capacitor £5 Hells Bells £10
CALL 01670 512771 TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS. FULL DETAILS ON WEBSITE
Wine and Prosecco Bar Food available
Friday 12th August 4.00pm till 11.00pm
Saturday 13th August 12.00pm till 11.00pm
every Friday from 9pm FREE Pint for anyone who gets up & gives it a go!
£10 admission
£1
and ree drinks includes th ss orative gla em m m co
MAIN SPONSOR
Cash prizes & drinks vouchers to be won
Ashbrooke Sports Club
towncentrecitroen.com
West Lawn, Sunderland: 0191 528 4536 www.ashbrookesports.org
children under the age of 18 are welcome if accompanied by an adult
per person entry fee
Riverside Lodge, High Stanners, Morpeth NE61 1QL
Telephone: 01670 512771 www.riverside-lodge.co.uk
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 29
SUMMER EVENTS all are welcome. There’s food all day, live music, great beer, good crack and no tickets – the Beer Hall is a pub, it doesn’t charge entry. www.hawksheadbrewery.co.uk JULY 21-24 SIXTH BATTLESTEADS BEER FESTIVAL Battlesteads Hotel, Wark Northumberland, NE48 3LS The fifth annual beer festival at Northumberland’s eco-friendliest pub, hotel and restaurant features great beers, lagers, ciders, food and live music from The Mudskippers
and Alive And Kicking. This year’s charity is The Great North East Air Ambulance. Stay the weekend and unwind. Great sponsorship opportunities too. www.battlesteads.com JULY 22-24 SUMMERTYNE AMERICANA FESTIVAL Sage, Gateshead Quays, NE8 2JR The weekend-long party introduces another sizzling celebration of American roots music. The hugelypopular event this year features Imelda May, Mary Chapin Carpenter,
Sway to the Baghdaddies
30 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
ward Thomas and Striking Matches, plus many, many more (local and breakthrough). www.summertyne.com JULY 23 THE ART MARKET Grainger Market Newcastle, NE1 5QG Loveartnortheast’s latest art and design market. It takes places on the fourth Saturday of every month inside the historic Grainger Market Arcade. Each month around 20 of the region’s best artists, designers and crafters pop up from 9am till 5pm. Each month the traders taking part varies. tel 07973 108 608 JULY 28-31 KENDAL CALLING The Lake District’s music festival celebrates its annual success ( now a 12,000-capacity, three-day event) with a lineup that includes The Charlatans, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Madness, Jason Manford, Rudimental, Maximo Park, The Bottlemen, Peter Doherty, Donovan… and mountains more.
See you in the fields! www.kendalcalling.co.uk JULY 30 CRAMLINGTON PROPER FOOD FESTIVAL Seven Oaks Park, Dudley Lane, Cramlington, Northumberland Sixty of the finest artisan food producers selling the best locally made food the country has to offer. Licensed bar selling real ales and ciders from Wylam Brewery and others, plus wine and cocktail bar. A huge array of hot food. Producers selling the best food from around the world to eat in a huge outdoor picnic area. Live entertainment and lots more interesting stuff. www.properfoodanddrink festivals.co.uk AUGUST 3 GATESHEAD ART SOCIETY ANNUAL SUMMER EXHIBITION St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Oakwellgate, Gateshead Gateshead Art Society’s amateur art work. Pictures will hang from the pillars for you to enjoy throughout
SUMMER EVENTS the month of August. All of the pieces on display will be available to purchase. Free. www.gateshead.gov.uk/whatson AUGUST 5-7 BLAYDON BEER FESTIVAL Blaydon Rugby Club, Hexham Road, Swalwell, Tyne & Wear NE16 3BN Billed as the premier event of the summer in Blaydon and surrounding area with a focus on beer and live music. Check the website for a variety of day-passes and VIP packages (accompanied children under 17 go free). The beer list was yet to be finalised when we went to press but we’re promised the best from the North East and further afield. Gin bar, wine selection and hot roast sandwiches. Music all weekend from the likes of Yellowstone (Friday), Rabble Rousers (Saturday) and The Tony Corcoran Ceilidh Band (Sunday). Charity for the third year running is Facing All Cancers Together (FACT). www.blaydonfestival.co.uk AUGUST 6 DURHAM BREWERY BIRTHDAY BEER BASH Durham Brewery, Bowburn North Industrial Estate, Bowburn Co Durham, DH6 5PF Celebrating its 22nd anniversary on August 6 (12noon-5.00pm), this brewery festival is now a yearly tradition on the first Saturday in August. It’s a great afternoon of good beer and food plus gin from Durham Distillery; a way to meet our customers and say thank-you for their support. Steve, Christine, Elly, Georgie, Sean, Craig and Will will be available to answer any questions. Six handpumps will serve Exalted IPA, Temptation, Black Bishop, White Stout, White Gold and White Amarillo. Four kegs will serve Interstellar, Magus, Bombay 106 and Cloister – with the first pint of 5% abv and under free. There’s also a massive range of bottleconditioned beers to try. Any purchases of bottles, mini-casks, glasses or gifts from the brewery shop on the day will have a 10% discount. And no need to worry about the weather as there is plenty of space in the visitor centre, marquee and main brewery to keep everyone dry. If the sun does shine there’s seating outside.
www.durhambrewery.com AUGUST 9-13 OLYMPIA, LONDON CAMRA GREAT BRITISH BEER FESTIVAL The Great British Beer Festival is organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) and offers visitors over 900 real ales, ciders, perries and international beers as well as fantastic entertainment, food, seating areas, and traditional pub games to enjoy all under one roof in the heart of London. www.ggbf.org.uk AUGUST 11-14 RUNHEAD BEER FESTIVAL The Runhead, Holburn lane, Ryton, Tyne & wear NE40 3HJ Just one of four great summer beer festivals in Malhotra Group pubs that include The Three Mile Inn, Gosforth; Osbornes, Jesmond, and The Sandpiper in Cullercoats. Great selection of ales from local breweries, barbecue and live music. tel 0191 413 9517 AUGUST 12-13 ASHBROOKE BEER FESTIVAL Ashbrooke Sports Club West Lawn, Sunderland SR2 7HW A fantastic selection of more than 30 ales, ciders and perries, plus wine and cava bar at “the home of sport in Sunderland”. Set in the Victorian suburb of Ashbrooke, the club is just ten minutes’ walk from Sunderland city centre and has housed numerous sports clubs since it opened its doors in 1887. The club is currently home to bowls, cricket, football, hockey, rugby, running, squash and tennis. And good beer. tel 0191 528 4536 www.ashbrookesports.org AUGUST 12-13 BOGSTOCK 2016 Carts Bog Real Ale & Music Festival Carts Bog Inn, Langley, Hexham NE47 5NW Thirty real ales and ciders. Live music from King Size Voodoo Travellers, Diablo, Gate Crashers, The Happy Cats. £10 entry includes three beer tokens (£15 both nights), 6pm-12midnight. Set in a traditional country pub amongst stunning countryside. www.cartsbog.co.uk
THE
VAN
Available for eveNts / functions Beer Festivals / Music Festivals Price on application The Pimms van is a completely staffed and stocked mobile bar which provides a quirky solution for your party or event. It includes a full draught Pimms bar, flat screen TV/DVD, a mobile phone charging facility, outdoor sound system and also boasts a full garden setup of branded chairs, parasols & gazebos
www.pimmsvan.co.uk | info@pimmsvan.co.uk Bill - 07801071510 John - 07512117943
IT’s
O’CLOCK
COME AND ENJOY THE 7th ANNUAL Sponsored by
WADE FINANCIAL CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNERS
BLAYDON RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB
5-7 AUGUST
11 LIVE ACTS•40 REAL ALES•8 CIDERS NEW GIN BAR•WINE BAR MUSIC AND BARS - ALL IN BIG MARQUEE email: admin@blaydonfestival.co.uk or go to www.blaydonfestival.co.uk @blaydonbeerfest Blaydon Festival
Sponsorship, VIP Packages, Schedule and Tickets available online
www.blaydonfestival.co.uk www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 31
SUMMER EVENTS AUGUST 14 THE ROCK’N’ROLL BIKE RIDE The Schooner, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3AF The 6th Annual Tyne Cruise is in aid of the MS Society and Daft As A Brush cancer charity. The trip takes the route of The Schooner to The Boathouse, Wylam, with select stopoffs en route to a few pubs and breweries. Last year the ride broke its record for the number of entrants with 130 taking part and raised an amazing grand total of £7,057 with donations going to Alzheimers Society, Stroke Association and Daft As A Brush. Get your name down! www.theschooner.co.uk AUGUST 19-21 OSBORNES BEER FESTIVAL Osbornes Bar, Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle NE2 2AN Just one of four great summer beer festivals in Malhotra Group pubs that include The Runhead, Ryton; The Three Mile Inn, Gosforth, and The Sandpiper in Cullercoats. Great selection of ales from local breweries, barbecue and live music. tel 0191 240 2811
32 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
AUGUST 20-21 NORTH SHIELDS PROPER FOOD FESTIVAL Northumberland Square, North Shields, Tyne & Wear A huge array of food and drink producers and hand-crafted products – some familiar, others less so – including, The Northumberland Cheese Company, Kenspeckle chocolates, and The New Zealand Gourmet Pie Company. www.properfoodanddrink festivals.co.uk
AUGUST 28 RIVERSIDE LIVE Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street Twelve hours of music and entertainment starring Lee Scratch Perry, Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club, The Undertones and The Ordinary Boys. The highly eccentric Lee Scratch Perry has collaborated in the past with Bob Marley, the Beastie Boys, Phil Spector and Brian Wilson. He’ll be performing his masterpiece 1976 album Super Ape in full. www.riversidelive.org
AUGUST 26-31 THE BOATHOUSE WYLAM BANK HOLIDAY BEER FESTIVAL The Boathouse, Station Road, Wylam, NE41 8HR The award-winning pub’s annual August Bank Holiday Beer Festival with some of the finest ales available both locally and from all over the country. If previous years are anything to go by, this is set to be one of the beer events of the summer. Live music and great company. tel 01661 853 43.
AUGUST 26-29 THE SANDPIPER BEER FESTIVAL Sandpiper Bar, Farrington Road, Cullercoats, Tyne & Wear NE30 3ER Just one of four great summer beer festivals in Malhotra Group pubs that include The Runhead, Ryton; Osbornes, Jesmond, and The Three Mile Inn, Gosforth. Great selection of ales from local breweries, barbecue and live music. tel 0191 253 5050
AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 3 DURHAM BEER FESTIVAL Durham University Students’ Union, New Elvet, Durham DH1 3AN One of the region’s most popular beer festivals with 120 real ales, ciders and perries, wines and spirits. Battle of the Beers competition. Entrey £10 includes glass, programme and three tokens. www.durhambeerfestival.org.uk SEPTEMBER 1-4 LINDISFARNE FESTIVAL Beal Farm, The Causeway, Beal Northumberland, TD15 2PB A music and creative arts festival for over 18s with music from a range of internationally renowned acts, as well as a selection of up-and-coming artists and North East talent. Indie rock, soul and funk, blues, folk, jazz and hip-hop sounds include The Cuban Brothers, Reef, British Sea Power, Beardyman, Little Comets, Molotov Jukebox, Rob Heron & The Teapad Orchestra, The Baghdaddies, James Taylor Quartet, Kathryn Tickell & Superfolkus… and more. www.lindisfarnefestival.com
SUMMER EVENTS SEPTEMBER 3-4 BERWICK FOOD AND BEER FESTIVAL Berwick Barracks, The Parade TD15 1DF Now in its ninth year and one of the best places to buy fresh, local and seasonal produce. Organised by the town’s Slow Food Group, the event will highlight the region’s thriving food and drink scene. More than 40 local produce stalls, street food, children’s entertainment, demonstration kitchen. Berwick Beer Festival with up to 10 local artisan brewers from Alnwick and Amble to Galashiels and Wylam. www.berwickfoodandbeer festival.co.uk OCTOBER 20-22 CRAFT BEER CALLING Wylam Brewery, Palace of Arts Exhibition Park, Newcastle The cream of the world’s leading craft brewers assembled under one roof for one weekend only in Wylam’s spanking new headquarters. Gin palace, cider cellar, street food market, top-class DJs, what more do you need? www.craftbeercalling.com
SEPTEMBER 10 NORTHUMBRIA FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Vallum, Military Road East Wallhouses Newcastle, NE18 0LL A major festival to showcase the tastes of Northumbria. The first Northumbria Food and Drink Festival, presented by appetite, Cheers, and The Northumbrian magazines, will bring the best in local food and drink, tastings and demos, music and family entertainment to Vallum foodie destination on Hadrian’s Wall on September 10. In aid of Newcastle-based international aid organisation No Strings, which uses puppetry to spread life-saving messages throughout the developing world, the event will showcase fabulous produce over the entire Vallum site. Stalls and demonstration areas will fill two big marquees and Vallum’s Market Hall, Restaurant & Chef’s Room, Tea Room, Shop and Ice Cream Parlour, Kitchen Garden, farmland and wildlife trails. Tickets will also go on sale soon
Northumbria Food & Drink Festival for a special Chef’s Table event on the day, there will be meet-theproducer events, and a packed programme of tastings and demos will include cheese, chocolate, gin and beer with Cheers editor Alastair Gilmour. The music will be curated by the team at Narc. magazine, who will present local bands and musicians throughout the day, and there will be family entertainment available, including puppet workshops with No Strings’ puppeteers, and children’s challenges on Vallum’s Paddock play area.
Vallum owner Vicky Moffitt says: “This will be a major event for the region and we’re so pleased to host it at Vallum, which we created to showcase the great tastes of the region. We are expecting this to be our biggest event this year and we’re looking forward to welcoming scores of producers and visitors on the day.” Northumbria Food & Drink Festival, Saturday September 10 11am-5pm, entry £3 per car or £1 per person on foot. To book a stall, contact Claire Dupree, tel 07748 907 914
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 33
NEW RELEASES
2016 CARTS BOG INN, LANGLEY - 01434 684338
BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL 12TH & 13TH AUGUST 2016 | 6PM - 12PM FRIDAY 12TH
DIABLO KING SIZE VOODOO TRAVELLERS
SATURDAY 13TH GATE CRASHERS HAPPY CATS
30 REAL ALES AND CIDERS AVAILABLE ACROSS THE WEEKEND!! TICKERS £10 INCLUDES 3 BEER TOKENS SPECIAL OFFER £15 BOTH NIGHTS CAMPING AVAILABLE BY ARRANGEMENT WITH STUART
Liddle’s Coaches of Tyneside - a small, friendly, family run mini coach company. We are a Walbottle based business and specialise in private and contract mini bus hire in Newcastle and the North East area We provide a dedicated service at a highly competitive price with our 7 to 16 seater Mercedes mini coaches. Whether your requirements are a short trip or long distance, private or corporate hire please contact us and we will be happy to help and advise. We look forward to welcoming you on board very soon.
Geordie nationalist: Lee Stoker, Anarchy Brew Co
SUCCESS TO BOOT
The shockwave felt by Newcastle Brown Ale’s departure for Tadcaster in North Yorkshire in 2010 had a positive effect in one Tyneside household, at least. Les Stoker, his dad, uncle and grandad regarded the iconic beer as a go-to drink, not only on Newcastle United match days, but as “Broon” had departed these shores from the former Federation Brewery in Dunston, Gateshead – close to where the Stokers live – it was seen as a betrayal of loyalty. So, in a home-brewing family, what do you do? Brew your own, of course. “I’m from Dunston and a real Geordie nationalist, so brown ale is part of my roots,” says Les, now a brewer at Anarchy Brew Co in Morpeth. “I was talking to my dad about Newcastle Brown Ale and Fed
High Level Brown Ale and how good they used to be at one time and he said ‘we could do that’, which really started my beer journey into a career.” During a recent Anarchy brainstorming session it was suggested that a beer a little bit different from the current portfolio would create interest, so Les pitched in with his brown ale idea – and out the other end came Boot Boys, a 5% abv brown ale with nostalgia laced into every sip. Les says: “Boot Boys is still a Newcastle United reference; fans still sing about being Boot Boys. The thing I like about it is the depth of flavour, the rich malt character. Most of the modern ones produced are more American in style – very chocolatey – but we wanted a real North East beer.” Boot Boy Les, you’ve got sole.
SOUR BOTTLE HAS BOTTLE Telephone:0191 267 4000 Email:info@liddlescoaches.co.uk
www.liddlecoaches.co.uk 34 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
A new bottled beer, Solar Sour, has been released by Hawkshead Brewery. Described as a very pale, low alcohol, highly refreshing, cloudy wheat beer with restrained lemony tartness, it’s a superb beer for a hot summer’s day. “It’s our take on the classic German Berliner Weisse, kettle-soured and bottled unfiltered,” says head brewer Matt Clarke. “We called it Solar Sour because we first brewed it on the day of a solar eclipse – March 20 2015.”
three kings Advert.pdf
1
30/10/2014
18:33
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
New luxury bar for private hire 6 Real Ales always on tap. FOOD SERVED DAILY Full English served from 6am Monday - Friday in C C Hudsons
Tel: 0191 2616611
Grand Central Station, Neville St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5DG www.centurion-newcastle.com
STATION PUBS
High House Farm Brewery is an exciting and unique venue situated just a stone’s throw away from Hadrian’s Wall. A micro brewery standing within a 200 acre working farm. We brew over 18 different beers At High House Farm Brewery, you are always welcome – whether it’s visiting the restaurant and tearoom, sitting and relaxing with a pint or two while the children play outside in the playground or attending a wedding to dance the night away. There is full disabled access, including a platform lift & plenty of parking. Whatever the reason, a warm welcome always awaits at High House Farm Brewery.
KEEPING STATIONARY
Railway pubs and station buffets have a life force of their own. Perhaps some of them don’t serve the travelling public like they once did, but they still hang on to something special, writes Alastair Gilmour THE STATION HOUSE, DURHAM One of the new wave of micropubs popping up all over the country, The Station House, sits far below Durham Station under the magnificent industrial arches that carve through the town. You’d be forgiven for thinking this former bespoke furniture shop had been a pub for ever – it’s got that lived-in, easy-oasy style that pubcos pay a fortune to create – and rarely actually succeed. The Station House – the building was always known as that, so it seemed daft to change it – is owned by Susannah and Chris Mansfield, although Susannah is the dayto-day presence. The couple had been looking around for premises and couldn’t believe their luck. It’s location (x3) all right. The Station House adheres to the micropub principles set out by Martyn Hillier in 2005 at The Butcher’s Arms in Herne, Kent. Take advantage of relaxed planning laws, seek out an old shop or office – possibly on a high street – serve decent beer and cider, and don’t allow television, gaming machines
or music to interrupt the flow of conversation and banter. “We’ve been open about eight months,” says Susannah, “actually since December 8 2015. We’re seeing a lot of return custom and new faces all the time.” One recent group came up from London specifically because they’d heard of it (dare say they were doing other things in Durham, but it’s encouraging to hear). By the same token, many locals enquire regularly if it’s really a pub. Beer is served from a stable-type door that leads into the cold store. The stillage system, visible from the bar through large windows, is an impressively efficient sight. Four beers are generally on at one time; five at busy weekends, sourced from a mix of local breweries and from further afield. Cider too is a major consideration. Psychology plays a part in a pub’s ambience, as Susannah and Chris discovered in a pub in Broadstairs, Kent which had a couple of high tables in the bar. This forces people to stand or sit on high stools together – in a gentle way – then they inevitably talk to one another. Railway Hotel, Birtley
HIGH HOUSE FARM BREWERY, MATFEN, NORTHUMBERLAND, NE20 0RG www.highhousefarmbrewery.co.uk / info@highhousefarmbrewery.co.uk
36 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
STATION PUBS “It’s back to how pubs used to be, a community with great beer,” says Susannah. An upstairs room has ten tables which could be used for functions, but the real star is the snug which sits down a few steps from the bar and where a couple of long tables and wall-hugging pews fashioned out of scaffolding planks are highly sought-after with groups of drinkers. The good thing is, Durham Station is a mere 17 minutes from Newcastle Central… RAILWAY HOTEL, BIRTLEY Recently refurbished, the Railway Hotel, with its solid brown façade of Ionic pillars and picture windows (some with their original glass), is an imposing building on Durham Road in Birtley, Gateshead. Inside, it’s absolutely sparkling, from deep-buttoned upholstery ranging in colour from rich green to bright red, to the impressive island counter. A highly coloured, domed stained glass skylight catches the eye, as does the tartan carpet – and it all seems to hang together well. A pool table and dart
The Station House, Durham. Photo: Peter Skelton board sit in one corner though it would be dangerous to play them simultaneously. A dozen or so mirrors adorn the walls with several advertising McEwans, William Younger or Bass ales. There are seven more of them along one wall in what might have been the snug before the pub was opened out into one large area,
looking like they had come straight from a 1950s film set. Also dotted around are framed adverts showing old Birtley retailers from the days when you could buy a three-piece suite for less than £10 (that’s suite, not suit), as are other old Birtley images and railway paraphernalia. But perhaps more could be done for the areas of
PUB QUIZ
STEAK NIGHT Every Monday from 5pm 2 x 10oz Sirloin or Rib Eye steaks served with hand cut chips & vine tomatoes for £25 or any 2 steaks and a bottle of house red or white wine for £35 Plus all side dishes for £2.50 and Sauces for £1
empty wall which are simply crying out for something appropriate – and big – to be hung as focal points and reduce the spartan feel. As for the beer, the brewer of Black Sheep Golden Sheep would have been pleased with the way it presents itself in looks and flavour. Sadly, Birtley no longer has a station – frequent No21 buses, though.
fresh, delicious, local food served 12pm - 9pm mon-sat fantastic sunday lunches 12pm - 8pm Cosy Bed and Breakfast rooms with stunning views
1st Thursday of every month 1st Prize... £30 and a bottle of Zonin Prosecco 2nd Prize... £20 & a bottle of wine. Any two of our delicious main meals for £20 between 6pm and 8pm
booking strongly advised t: 01207 255268 e: themanorhouseinn@gmail.com Like us.....
Carterway Heads Carterway Heads
Northumberland Northumberland
Followus..... us..... Follow www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 37
STATION PUBS
Arriving soon: The Platform Bar, Hexham Station (background)
THE STATION HOTEL, GATESHEAD For the past 18 months or so, Cheers readers have been enquiring about the opening of The Station Hotel in Gateshead, bought at auction by Hadrian Border Brewery. Progress has been slow and now the decision to open up one of the railway arches it sits in front of on Hills Street has delayed the project further while landlords Network Rail take another look. A new roof has gone on, interior work is steaming ahead and the exposed brickwork looks a treat
38 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
now that the old paint has been stripped off. Hadrian Border managing director Andy Burrows says: “Obviously we never envisaged the job to take this long. We have encountered a lot of complications and with hindsight it might have been better to have knocked it down and started again. “However, I’m glad we didn’t. It seems like an awful lot of time and effort has gone into saving, essentially, one wall but it has preserved that little bit of historic Gateshead where the pub was built
between 1844 and 1848 as far as we can tell. It should be secure for another century-and-a-half now. “The project is now nearing completion and the façade is only part of it. Behind is a railway arch which will be used as a room and at the moment we have to decide whether to use a second arch. “We can only apologise to everyone waiting for the opening, but quite frankly this work was essential. “But we hope when it opens everyone will agree it will be asset to Gateshead and the surrounding area. “Opening date? Dare I suggest September?” PLATFORM BAR, HEXHAM STATION High House Farm Brewery, based near Matfen in Northumberland, is still waiting to hear if its application to convert a disused first-class waiting room into a micropub has been successful. Hexham railway station is a Grade II listed building and dates back to 1835. In their application, brewery owners Heather and Gary Scott detail an extensive list
of restoration work to reinstate many of the waiting room’s original features – which include refurbishing the fireplace, restoring the original clock above the doorway, replacing the flooring and filling in missing cornicing. A traditional railway-style sign is expected to hang above the door so travellers on the Newcastle to Carlisle line will be left in no doubt as to what lies within – The Platform Bar. “We haven’t had planning permission yet, so we can’t do a thing until it’s all signed, sealed and delivered,” says Heather. “We’ve all met and everyone seems happy but we’ll just have to wait. “Everything is in place ready to go – the bar, handpulls, cooling equipment, the lot – and it’ll take about two months to get it how we want it. So, we’re realistically looking at a September opening, that is, if we don’t find anything that might delay it. “It’s a gorgeous room and our vision is to bring it back to the firstclass waiting room it once was – with our real ales.”
TOP 10 US BEERS
UNITED STATE OF BEER For the eighth year running, Russian River’s double IPA, Pliny the Elder, has been tapped for the top spot in www.homebrewersassociation.org/ magazine/search-zymurgy-issues/ Zymurgy magazine’s list of the Best Commercial Beers in America. Members of the www.homebrewersassociation.org American Homebrewers Association (AHA) – which publishes www.homebrewersassociation. org/pages/zymurgy/current-issue Zymurgy – chose up to 20 of their favourite commercial beers available in the US in an online vote. More than 18,000 votes poured in. Gary Glass, director of the American Homebrewers Association, said: “Our members are among the most knowledgeable craft beer drinkers in the nation. It is no surprise that the beers and breweries they select as the best reflect the highest quality beers
available from the best brewers. The consistency with which some of the beers in the poll win is a testament to the value of quality over hype.” Russian River co-owner and brewmaster Vinnie Cilurzo said: “We know we have to earn our customers’ loyalty and business. We are very thankful for everyone who spends their hard-earned money on our beer.” TOP-RANKED US BEERS 1 Russian River Pliny the Elder 2 Bell’s Two Hearted Ale 3 The Alchemist Heady Topper 4 Ballast Point Sculpin IPA 5 Ballast Point Grapefruit Sculpin 6 Founders Breakfast Stout 7 Three Floyds Zombie Dust 8 Bell’s Hopslam 9 Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout 10= Deschutes Fresh Squeezed IPA 10= Stone Enjoy By IPA
TOP-RANKED US BREWERIES 1 Russian River Brewing Co, Santa Rosa, California 2 Founders Brewing Co, Grand Rapids, Michigan 3 Bell’s Brewery, Inc, Kalamazoo, Michigan 4 Stone Brewing Co, Escondido, California 5 Sierra Nevada Brewing Co, Chico, California, and Mills River, North Carolina 6 Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Paso Robles, California 7 Ballast Point Brewing, San Diego, California
8 Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Milton, Delaware 9 Lagunitas Brewing Company, Petaluma, California, and Chicago, Illinois 10 Deschutes Brewery, Bend, Oregon The complete list of Zymurgy’s Best Beers in America is available at www.homebrewersassociation. org/news/zymurgys-2016best-beers-america-results HomebrewersAssociation.org. This was the 14th year that the poll was conducted.
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 39
ENTERPRISE
‘YOU SHOULD DO THIS FOR A LIVING’ If the interest shown by locals in the refurbishment of a women’s dress shop in Whitley Bay is any indication, the town’s newest business is set to become very popular indeed. The Dog & Rabbit micropub and microbrewery opens its door on July 15 – the brainchild of former North Tyneside Council employee Tony Patton. Tony’s homebrewing skills had reached such a level at home in Wideopen, near Newcastle, that friends and family continually insisted that he should do it for a living. “I’ve done 17 different beers up till now, says Tony, pictured with saw in plaster-spattered hand. “We had held a party in the garden for
my 50th birthday and I’d brewed a lot of different beers. Friends and family always said they were commercial quality. We had put the bar where the rabbit hutch used to be and we have a dog, so someone said Dog & Rabbit would make a good name for a brewery.” And so are small enterprises started. The Pattons – Tony, wife Julie and daughter Jessie (who does all the amazing design work) – set about looking for premises “all over the place” and eventually a dress shop on Park View, Whitley Bay, came up, close to the Fat Ox pub. The doublefronted Dog & Rabbit seats around 40 customers, the bar is solid mahogany, the microbrewery visible at the back through small
“�A�C� O�T� T�E B�O� B�Y� A�E O�T A�D A�O�T� - N�W 5� B�O�N A�E F�O� A�A�C�Y B�E� C�.�
40 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
hatches, and with church pew-style seating a real feature, it’s as neat an operation as you’ll get. Local reaction has been unbelievably positive – for instance when Tony was struggling physically with some heavy soundproofing material, the owner of the Turkish Barbers across the street shut his shop to give him a hand. Alongside his in-house beers Tony intends to support the local microbreweries and have the likes of Three Kings, Box Social and Errant beers on the counter with tasting evenings and brewing classes planned. The Dog & Rabbit is ready to run and run.
RAY LAIDLAW AND BILLY MITCHELL
TELL THE STORY OF TYNESIDE’S FAVOURITE BAND
IN MUSIC, WORDS & PICTURES!
SEPTEMBER 29TH
HEXHAM QUEEN’S HALL
OCTOBER 21ST
ALNWICK PLAYHOUSE
OCTOBER 29TH
BLYTH
PHOENIX THEATRE
OCTOBER 22ND
GATESHEAD THE SAGE
OCTOBER 30TH
DURHAM GALA THEATRE
CHAPTER THREE: NEW FOR 2016!
LADY ELEANOR - MEET ME ON THE CORNER RUN FOR HOME - FOG ON THE TYNE AND MORE! “The Lindisfarne Story isn’t just for fans of Lindisfarne... If you love UK rock groups, and the music of the 60s and 70s, this show is for you!” www.lindisfarnestory.co.uk
PUB PROFILE
PUB PROFILE BOTTLE SHOP & KITCHEN
WHERE IS IT? The Bottle Shop Bar & Kitchen, Waterloo Square, Newcastle, NE1 4DN www.bottleshopbar.co.uk tel 0191 261 4193 Off St James’ Boulevard (opposite Discovery Museum) The pub occupies the former Barn Asia Thai restaurant site
THE DRINKS
Bottled: a merrier world First impressions are that the outdoor benches area great way of taking in the impressive waterloo Square, a city breathing space. Large windows open up continental-style to welcome what summer weather we’ll be granted. Huge industrial cable spools – which look particularly impressive and sculptural when sanded down – serve as tables and vertical drinking spots. The interior timber theme shouts rustic and warmth from floor to walls to counter, tempered by swaths of exposed brickwork. It feels good. The pub divides into two distinct areas (three if you count sitting at the bar) where dining and drinking meet cocktail lounge with an upright piano, sink-into wing-back leather chairs and table skittles. The furniture throughout is of varying styles and vintages. A monochrome mural and a painting, both by F Styles, set the beer theme with a quote from and portrait of JRR Tolkein: “If lots of us valued food and cheer above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world”. The painting – at first seeming abstract – unravels into beer’s ingredients, water, barley, hops and yeast. All around are shelves and fridges stacked with bottles with a full 42 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
Think different, think exciting, think contemporary-plus. Too many beers to cherrypick but let’s home in on The Kernel Table Beer (3.2% abv), Burning Sky Plateau (3.5% abv) and Ahab Lapsang Souchong Stout (5.1% abv), a collaboration between Quilliam Brothers Tea House and Errant Brewery.
THE FOOD
Mains include buttermilk chicken fillet, garlic mayo, brioche, chips (£9.00). Classic 7oz steak and ale burger, baby gem, tomato, honey and thyme melted onions, bacon smoked or blue cheese, stottie, chips (£9.00). Plus Sunday lunches (including pan-fried salmon, lime butter, the whole caboodle, £9.00).
wall of keg taps behind the bar and a line-up of handpulls and more taps on the counter. A window into the cellar satisfies the more curious drinker. Entertainment-wise there are regular live music and comedy nights plus pulldown screens for significant sporting events. It’s a place for complete sessions, quiet assignations and partying groups alike and one element in a terrific tour of distinctive pubs. All aboard for the Bottle Shop & Kitchen, The Globe, The Bodega, Tilleys Bar, The Forth and The Town Wall.
CLASSIFIED: TO ADVERTISE CALL 01661 844115
CLASSIFIED ADVERTS For more information on how to advertise your services, vacancies and events contact Emma Howe on
Our Knowledge =
Your SucceSS DicK Attlee Real Ale Technical Services T: 0191 597 9668 M: 07722 631787 E: dick@ratsbeer.co.uk We NOW provide courses in Cellar Craft for Public House Staff & Courses on Beer Dispense for New Brewers - ring for details
The Black Horse Low Fell, Gateshead
Specialists in Beer Books, Postcards, Posters & Signs Our product range covers material from England, Belgium, France, The Netherlands, Germany and the U.S.A. They will be of interest to beer drinkers, memorabilia lovers, brewers, publicans, bar designers plus many more beer enthusiasts. We deliver by mail order and can also ship abroad.
Beer-Inn Print (Est 1997) Long High Top, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX& 7PF Tel: 01422 844437 Email: beerinnprint@gmail.com order online at: www.beerinnprint.co.uk
HAVING A BEER FEST? 2 PINT TAKE HOME BEER HOPPERS These handy biodegradable containers are designed to take out draught beer Box of 100 ex stock just £28+VAT and delivery Buy on-line: www.gnltd.co.uk or Tel: 01233 770780 For further information
GN Packaging
Units B & C, Smarden Business Estate Monks Hill, Smarden, Kent TN27 8QL
01661 844 115
Lashbrooks.com BASED IN THE NORTH EAST, SUPPLYING THE NORTH EAST!! EPOS SYSTEMS & CASH REGISTERS TILL ROLLS & CONSUMABLES
For futher information please follow us on facebook and twitter Black Horse, Low Fell •
@BlackHorse_GHD
166, Kells Lane, Low Fell, Gateshead, NE9 5HY 0191 491 0534 • blackhorselowfell@hotmail.co.uk
T: 01642 482629/489720 E: lashbrookuk@hotmail.co.uk www.lashbrooks.com
Scotia Welding & Fabrication
Micro Brewery equipment from individual components to a turnkey application. All aspects of brewing consultancy if required. admin@scotiawelding.co.uk | www.scotiawelding.co.uk | 01578 722 696 www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 43
A-Z PUB GUIDE Cheers is all about pubs in the North East and this should be a good place to start... COUNTY DURHAM BUTCHER’S ARMS
Middle Chare, Chester le Street, DH3 3QB t: 0191 388 3605
DUN COW
37 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN. t: 0191 386 9219
HALF MOON INN
130 North Gate, Darlington, DL1 1QS t: 01325 465765
HAT AND FEATHERS
Church Street, Seaham, SR7 7HF. t: 01915 133040
HEAD OF STEAM
THE CROWN
Mickleton, Barnard Castle, DL12 0JZ t: 01833 640 381
THE BLACKSMITHS
Station Road, Low Pittington Durham, DH6 1BJ 0191 3720287
THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON Darlington Road, Durham DH1 3QN t: 0191 375 7651
THE DUN COW
Front Street, Sedgefield, TS21 3AT t: 01740 385 6695
THE FLOATER’S MILL
3 Reform Place, Durham, DH1 4RZ. t: 0191 3832173
Woodstone Village, Fence Houses, DH4 6BQ t: 0191 385 6695
HOLE IN THE WALL
THE GARDEN HOUSE INN
14 Horsemarket, Darlington, County Durham DL1 5PT t: 01325 466720
ITALIAN FARMHOUSE
South Street, West Rainton Houghton - le - Spring DH4 6PA. t: 0191 5841022
NUMBER TWENTY-2
North Road, Durham, DH1 4NQ t: 0191 3863395
THE GEORGE & DRAGON 4 East Green, Heighington Village, DL5 6PP t: 01325 313152
22 Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, DL3 7RG t: 01325 354590 e: rew@villagebrewer.co.uk www.twenty2.villagebrewer.co.uk
THE GREY HORSE
SURTEES ARMS
86 New Elvet, Durham, DH1 3AQ t: 0191 3741918
Chilton Lane, Ferryhill, DL17 0DH t: 01740 655724
THREE HORSESHOES
Maiden Law, Durham, DH7 0QT t. 01207 520900
YE OLDE ELM TREE
12 Crossgate, Durham City, DH1 4PS t: 0191 386 4621
THE AVENUE INN
Avenue Street, High Shincliffe, DH1 2PT t: 0191 386 5954
THE BAY HORSE
28 West Green, Heighington, DL5 6PE t: 01325 312312
THE BEAMISH MARY INN No Place, Nr Beamish, DH9 0QH t: 0191 370 0237
THE BLACK HORSE
Red Row,Beamish, DH9 0RW t: 01207 232569
THE BRITTANIA INN
115 Sherburn Terrace, Consett, DH8 6NE t: 01207 502585
THE HALF MOON INN
THE HONEST LAWYER
THE OLDE SHIPS INN
Durham Road, East Rainton, DH5 9QT t: 0191 5840944
The Green, West Auckland, DL14 9HW t: 01388 834834
THE MANOR HOUSE INN
Carterway Heads, Shotley Bridge, DH8 9LX t: 01207 255268
THE MARKET TAVERN 27 Market Place, Durham, DH1 3NJ t: 0191 3862069
THE MILL
THE PUNCH BOWL INN
Edmundbyers, DH8 9NL t: 01207 255545
THE QUAKERHOUSE
2 Mechanics Yard, Darlington, DL3 7QF t: 07783 960105
THE QUAYS
5 Tubwell Row, Darlington, DL1 1NU t: 01325 461448
THE ROYAL OAK
7 Manor Rd, Medomsley Village, DH8 6QN t: 01207 560336
THE SCOTCH ARMS
Blackhill, Consett, DH8 8LZ t: 01207 593709
THE SHIP
Low Road, Middlestone Village, Middlestone, DL14 8AB t: 01388 810904
THE SMITHS ARMS
Brecon Hill, Castle Dene, Chester le Street, DH3 4HE t: 0191 3857559 Moor End Terrace, Belmont, DH1 1BJ t: 0191 3842667 Beamish Hall Hotel, Beamish, DH9 0BY. t: 01207 288 750
THE STABLES
THE CROSS KEYS
Front Street, Esh, DH7 9QR t: 0191 3731279
THE OAK TREE
Front Street, Tantobie, Stanley, DH9 9RF t: 01207 235 445
44 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
RIVERDALE HALL HOTEL
Hedley on the Hill, Stocksfield, NE43 7SW t: 01661 843 607
RIVERSIDE LODGE
THE FORESTERS ARMS
Bellingham, NE48 2JT t: 01434 220254 High Stanners, Morpeth NE61 1QL. t: 01670 512771
59-61 Bridge Street, Berwick, TD15 1ES t:01289 308013
BATTLESTEADS HOTEL
Wark, Hexham, NE48 3LS t: 01434 230209 www.battlesteads.com
BEADNELL TOWERS HOTEL
Beadnell, NE67 5AY t: 01665 721211
THREE HORSESHOES
Hathery Lane, Horton, Cramlington, NE24 4HF t: 01670 822410
THREE WHEATHEADS
Thropton nr Rothbury, NE65 7LR t: 01669 620262
TWICE BREWED INN
DUKE OF WELLINGTON Newton, NE43 7UL t: 01661 844446
DYKE NEUK
Meldon, Nr Morpeth, NE61 3SL t: 01670 772662
ELECTRIC WIZARD
New Market, Morpeth, NE61 1PS. t: 01670 500640
Market Place, Allendale, NE47 9BD t: 01434 683 225
THE GRANBY INN & RESTAURANT Front Street, Long Framlignton, Morpeth, NE65 8DP
THE HEART OF NORTHUMBERLAND
Market Place, Allendale, Hexham, NE47 9BJ, t: 01434 683246
THE ANCHOR INN
New Ridley Road, Stocksfield, NE43 7RG, t: 01661 842383
THE GOLDEN LION
THE ALLENDALE INN
DIPTON MILL INN
DOCTOR SYNTAX
Hill Street, Corbridge, NE45 5AA t: 01434 632216
THE HADRIAN HOTEL
THE ANCHOR HOTEL
Dipton Mill Road, Hexham, NE46 1YA t: 01434 606577 e: ghb@hexhamshire.co.uk www.diptonmill.co.uk
THE GOLDEN LION
Military Road, Bardon Mill, NE47 7AN t: 01434 344534
CROSS KEYS
Thropton, Rothbury, NE65 7HX t: 01669 620362
West Sleekburn NE62 5XE 01670 813345
Haydon Bridge, NE47 6AB t: 01434 688121 Whittonstall, Nr Consett, DH8 9JN. t: 01207 561110
THE ANGEL INN
Main Street, Corbridge, NE45 5LA. t: 01434 632119
THE BADGER
Wall, Hexham, NE44 4EE t: 01434 681232
5 Market Street, Hexham, NE46 3NS t: 01434 608013
THE HORSESHOES INN
Rennington, Alnwick, NE66 3RS. t: 01665 577665
THE JOINERS ARMS
Newton-by-the-Sea, NE66 3EA t: 01665 576 112
THE MANOR HOUSE
Caterway Heads, Shotley Bridge, DH8 9LX. t: 01207 255268
Street Houses, Ponteland Newcastle upon Tyne NE20 9BT t: 01661 871037
THE MANOR INN
THE BLACKBIRD
Ponteland, NE20 9UH t: 01661 822 684
The Peth, West Thirston, Felton, Morpeth, NE65 9EE. t: 01670 787370
THE BLACK BULL
THE OFFICE
Matfen, NE20 0RP t: 01661 855395
THE BLUE BELL
Main Street, Haltwhistle, NE49 0BS. t: 01434 322588
THE NORTHUMBERLAND ARMS
The Old Toll House, Castle Sqaure, Morpeth
THE OLDE SHIP INN
THE THREE HORSESHOES
GENERAL HAVELOCK INN
THE BLUE BELL
Ellingham, Chathill, NE67 5HA t: 01665 589292
Pit House Lane, Leamside, Houghton le Spring, DH4 6QQ t: 0191 584 2394
THE WHITE LION
Newbottle Street, Houghton le Spring, DH4 4AN t: 0191 5120735
THE WHITEHILLS
Waldridge Road, Chester le Street, DH2 3AB t: 0191 3882786
THE WILD BOAR
Newfield, Chester le Street, DH2 2SP t: 0191 3700565
BARRELS
THE FEATHERS INN
9 Main Street, Seahouses, NE68 7RD t: 01665 720 200
THE MINERS ARMS
THE NEWFIELD INN
Barrasford Hexham, NE48 4AA t: 01434 681237
Station Road, Corbridge, NE45 5AY. t: 01434 633 633
Mount Pleasant, West Mickley, Stocksfield NE43 7LP t: 01661 843146
THE CLARENCE VILLA
13 The Green, Aycliffe Vilage, County Durham, DL5 6LX t: 01325 312273
ADAM & EVE
THE DYVELS INN
Main Road, Wylam, NE41 8DL t: 01661 598060
WICKET GATE
THE COUNTY
NORTHUMBERLAND
Stanegate Road, Newbrough, Hexham, NE47 5AR t: 01434 674226
Main Street, Ponteland, NE20 9BB. t: 01661 872898
FOX AND HOUNDS
Durham Road, Rainton Bridge, DH5 8NG t: 0191 5843211 41 Manor Road, Medomsley, DH8 6QN t: 01207 560428
Hawkshead Brewery, Mill Yard, Staveley, LA8 9LR t: 01539 825260
RED LION INN
THE DIAMOND INN
West Herrington, Houghton le Spring, DH4 4ND t: 0191 584 9226
1 Archer Street, Darlington County Durham, DL3 6LR t: 01325 463787 Durham Road, Coxhoe, County Durham, DH4HX t: 0191 377 3773
THE BEER HALL
Front Street West, Bedlington, NE22 5TZ t: 01670 536160
BARRASFORD ARMS
Mountsett, Burnopfield, NE16 6BA t: 01207 570346
THE STABLES
THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL
CUMBRIA
RED LION
THE PLOUGH
THE JOHN DUCK
North Road, Chester le Street, DH3 4AJ t: 0191 3871162
Vicars Lane, Manfield, DL2 2RF t: 01325 374243
60 Bridge Street, Blyth, NE24 2AP t: 01670 368346
The Bank, Barnard Castle DL12 8PH t: 01833 690 130
THE SPORTSMANS ARMS
THE LAMBTON WORM
THE CROWN INN
OLIVERS
Prudhoe Station, Low Prudhoe, NE42 6NP t: 01661 832323 ROBIN HOOD INN Military Road, East Wallhouses, Corbridge, NE18 0LL BAMBURGH CASTLE INN t: 01434 672549 Seahouses, NE68 7SQ t: 01665 720283
THE OLD WELL INN
Croxdale Bridge, Croxdale, DH1 3HP t: 0191 3783782
91A Claypath, Durham City, DH1 1 RG
NORTH YORKSHIRE
Front Street, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3AX t: 0191 3872960 Frederick Place, Houghton le Spring, DH4 4BN t: 0191 5128050
THE VICTORIA INN
Haydon Bridge, NE47 6ER t: 01434 684376
JOHN THE CLERK OF CRAMLINGTON
Hillstreet, Corbridge, NE45 5AA. t: 01434 431143
Front Street, Cramlington, NE23 1DN t: 01670 707060
THE BOATHOUSE
JOINERS ARMS
• 14 Real ales on tap • CAMRA 2013 • Northumberland Pub of the Year Winner
Wansbeck Street, Morpeth, NE61 1XZ. t: 01670 513540
JOLLY FISHERMAN
Craster, Alnwick, NE66 3TR t: 01665 576461
KITTIWAKE
Clairemont Crescent, Whitley Bay NE26 3HL. t: 0191 251 3977
MINERS ARMS
Main Street, Acomb, NE46 4PW t: 01434 603909
Wylam, NE41 8HR t: 01661 853431
THE BOATSIDE INN
Warden, Hexham, NE46 4SQ. t: 01434 602233
THE CARTS BOG INN
Langley on Tyne, Hexham, NE47 5NW. t: 01434 684338
THE CRASTER ARMS
86 Hallgarth Street, Durham, DH1 3AS, t: 0191 3860465
LION & LAMB
Horsley, NE15 0NS t: 01661 852952
The Wynding, Beadnell, NE675AX. t: 01665 720 272
WOODMAN INN
NEWCASTLE HOTEL
THE CROWN INN
23 Gilesgate, Durham, DH11 1QW t: 0191 680 8317
Front Street, Rothbury, NE65 7UT t: 01669 620334
Humshaugh, Hexham, NE46 4AG t: 01434 681 231
THE PACKHORSE INN
THE PERCY ARMS
Main Road, Chatton, NE66 5PS. t: 01670 215244
THE PILOT INN
31 Low Greens, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1LZ. t: 01289 304214
THE PLOUGH
Village Square, Cramlington, NE23 1DN t: 01670 737633
THE PLOUGH INN
Front Street, Ellington, NE61 5JB. t: 01670 860340
THE RAILWAY HOTEL
Church Street, Haydon Bridge, NE47 6JG t: 01434 684254
THE RAILWAY INN
Acklington, Morpeth, NE65 9BP t: 01670 760 320
THE RAT INN
Anick, Hexham, NE46 4LN t: 01434 602 814
THE RIDLEY ARMS
Stannington, Morpeth, NE61 6EL t: 01670 789216
THE SHIP INN
Monkseaton, Whitley Bay NE25 8DP. t: 0191 251 3677
THE SUN INN
Acomb, NE46 4PW. t: 01434 602934
THE SUN INN
High Church, Morpeth, NE61 2QT, t: 01670 514153
THE SWINBURNE ARMS
31 North Side, Stamfordham, NE18 0QG t: 01661 886015
THE TANNERY
Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD t: 01434 605537 • Beer & Whisky room • Live music • Dog friendly
THE TAP & SPILE
Eastgate, Hexham, NE46 1BH, t: 01434 602039
THE TRAVELLERS REST
Slaley, Hexham, NE46 1TT t: 01434 673231 www.travellersrestslaley.com
THE WELLINGTON
Main Road, Riding Mill, NE44 6DQ t: 01434 682531
THE WHITE SWAN
Main Road, Ovingham, Prudhoe Northumberland NE42 6AG t: 01661 833188
THE WHEATSHEAF
St Helens Street, Corbridge, NE45 5HE t: 01434 632020
THE VICTORIA HOTEL
1 Front Street, Bamburgh, NE69 7BP, t: 01668 214431
THE VILLAGE INN
Longframlington, Morpeth, NE65 8AD t: 01665 570268 www.thevillageinnpub.co.uk
TEESSIDE BEST WESTERN GRAND HOTEL
Swainston Street, Hartlepool, TS24 8AA t: 01429 266345 e: grandhotel@tavistockleisure.com
BRITANNIA INN
65 High Street, Loftus, TS13 4HG t: 01287 640612
CLEVELAND BAY
Yarm Road, Eaglescliffe, TS16 0JE t: 01642 780275
THE CLEVELAND HOTEL
9-11 High Street West Redcar, Cleveland, TS10 1SQ t: 01642 484035
TYNE & WEAR
BRIDGE HOTEL
Castle Square, Newcastle, NE1 1RQ t: 0191 232 6400 e: info@sjf.co.uk
BRIDGE TAVERN
7 Akenside Hill Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3UF t: 0191 232 1122 • Selection of real ales • Food served daily • Roof terrace
BRIDLE PATH
101 Front Street, Whickham, NE16 4JJ t: 0191 4217676
CHESTERS
Chester Road, Sunderland, SR4 7DR t: 0191 5659952
COPPERFIELDS
Grand Hotel, Grand Parade Tyne And Wear, NE30 4ER t: 0191 293 6666
North Shields, NE30 1NH t: 0191 257 4831
MARKET LANE
72-74 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle, NE1 6SG t: 0191 232 0251
MARQUIS OF GRANBY
Streetgate, Sunniside, Newcastle, Tyne & Wear NE16 5ES t: 0191 257 4831
NEWCASTLE ARMS
THE BRANDLING VILLA
Haddricks Mill Road, South Gosforth, NE3 1QL t: 0191 2840490
Sunderland, SR6 0NU t: 0191 5671402
NE27 0BJ t: 0191 2680711
THE HASTINGS
THE POTTERS WHEEL
• Large selection of real ales • Regular food & drink festivals • Food served
THE HEAD OF STEAM
THE BROAD CHARE
57 St Andrews Street, Newcastle, NE1 5SE t: 0191 260 2490
25 Broad Chare, Trinity Gardens, Quayside, Newcastle, NE1 3DQ t: 0191 211 2144
ODDFELLOWS
THE CAUSEY ARCH INN
7 Albion Road, North Shields, NE30 2RJ. t: 0191 4358450
OSBORNES BAR
61 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle, NE2 2AN t: 0191 240 2811
PUB & KITCHEN
13/14 Albion Road, North Shields NE30 2RJ t: 0191 2573199
Beamish Burn Road, Marley Hill, Newcastle, NE16 5EG t: 01207 233925
THE CENTRAL
Half Moon Lane, Gateshead, NE8 2AN t: 0191 4782543 e: central@theheadofsteam.co.uk
THE CENTURION
12 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DZ t: 0191 2571820 www.cumberlandarms.co.uk
RED LION
Neville Street, Newcastle, NE1 5DG, t: 0191 261 6611
DELAVAL ARMS
ROCKLIFFE ARMS
Algernon Place, Whitley Bay, NE26 2DT t: 0191 2531299
• Real ales • Food available • Live sports shown
CUMBERLAND ARMS
Old Hartley, NE26 4RL t: 0191 237 0489
CROWN POSADA
31 Side, Newcastle, NE1 3JE t: 0191 2321269
FIRE STATION
Redcar Terrace, West Boldon, NE36 0PZ. t: 0191 536 4197
ROSIES BAR
2 Stowell Street, NE1 4XQ t: 0191 2328477
SHIREMOOR HOUSE FARM
York Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 1AB t: 0191 293 9030
Middle Engine Lane, North Shields, NE29 8DZ t: 0191 2576302
FITZGERALDS
SUN INN
60 Grey Street, Newcastle, NE1 6AF t: 0191 2301350
FITZGERALDS
10-12 Green Terrace, Sunderland, SR1 3PZ t: 0191 5670852
FITZGERALDS
2 South Parade, Whitley Bay, NE26 2RG t: 0191 2511255
FOX & HOUNDS
Coalburns, Greenside, NE40 4JN t: 0191 4132549
FREE TRADE INN
St Lawrence Road, Byker, Newcastle, NE6 1AP t: 0191 265 5764
GOSFORTH HOTEL
High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HQ t: 0191 2856617
HOTEL DU VIN & BISTRO
Market Lane, Swalwell, Gateshead, NE16 3AL t: 0191 442 9393
THREE MILE INN,
Great North Road, Gosforth, Newcastle, NE3 2DS t: 0191 255 2100
TILLEYS BAR
105 Westgate Road, Newcastle, NE1 4AG t: 0191 232 0692
TOBY BARNES
Durham Road, Sunderland SR2 7RB, t: 0191 5285644 www.tobycarvery.co.uk
TRAVELLERS REST
North Road, Wide Open NE13 6LN t: 0191 2366300
TWIN FARMS
22 Main Road, Kenton Bk Ft, NE13 8AB t: 0191 2861263
THE CHILLINGHAM
Chillingham Road, Newcastle, NE1 1RQ t: 0191 265 3992
THE CLUNY
36 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle, NE1 2PQ t: 0191 230 4474
THE COPT HILL
Seaham Road, Houghton le Spring, DH35 8LU t: 0191 5844485
THE COTTAGE TAVERN
North Street, Cleadon, SR6 7PL t: 0191 519 0547
THE COUNTY
High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HB. t: 0191 285 6919
THE COURTYARD
Front Street, Longbenton NE7 7XE t: 0191 2661512
BEST WESTERN ROKER HOTEL Roker Terrace, Sunderland, SR6 9ND t: 0191 5671786 e: info@rokerhotel.co.uk
BIERREX
82 Pilgrim Street, NE1 6SG
IVY HOUSE
Worcester Terrace, Sunderland SR2 7AW
LADY GREY’S
20 Shakespeare Street, Newcastle, NE1 6AQ t: 0191 2323606
MAGNESIA BANK
1 Camden Street,
125 Westgate Road, Newcastle, NE1 4AG. t: 0191 221 1552
THE BRIAR DENE
71 The Links, Whitley Bay, NE26 1UE. t: 0191 2520926
THE BRANDLING ARMS
176 High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HD t: 0191 28540
Grange Road, Newburn, Newcastle , NE15 8NL t: 0191 267 1689
THE KEEL ROW
The Gate, Newcastle, NE1 5RF t: 01912299430
THE KINGS ARMS
Beech Street, Deptford, SR4 6BU t: 0191 567 9804
THE KINGS ARMS
West Terrace, Seaton Sluice, NE26 4RD t: 0191 2370275
Bank Top, Crawcrook, NE40 4EE. t: 0191 4133316
THE ROSE & CROWN
North Street, Winlaton NE21 6BT. t: 0191 4145887
THE RUNHEAD
Holburn Lane, Ryton, Tyne & Wear, NE40 3HJ t: 0191 413 9517
THE SANDPIPER
Farringdon Road, Cullercoats, Tyne & Wear, NE30 3ER t: 0191 253 5050
THE SCHOONER
South Shore Road, Gateshead, NE8 3AF t: 0191 477 7404
THE KING GEORGE
• Cask & craft beers & ciders • Fab food to feast on • Old school, not retro
THE LOW LIGHTS TAVERN
THE SIR WILLIAM DE WESSYNGTON
North Parade, Whitley Bay t: 0191 251 3877 Brewhouse Bank, North Shields, NE30 1LL t: 0191 2576038
2-3 Victoria Road, Concord, Washington, NE37 2JY t: 0191 418 0100
THE STAITH HOUSE
THE THREE TUNS
THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON High Bridge, Newcastle NE1 1EN t: 0191 261 8852
THE DUN COW
THE GREEN
THE BODEGA
THE KEELMAN
THE RISING SUN
THE MILL HOUSE
11 Market St, Newcastle, NE1 6JN t: 0191 244 2513
THE BEEHIVE
BENTON ALE HOUSE
Fulwell Ave, South Shields, NE34 7DF t: 0191 427 2951
Spa Well Road, Winlaton Mill, NE21 6RU. t: 0191 414 5840
THE TANNERS
THE FIVE SWANS
Hartley Lane, Earsdon, NE25 05Z. t: 0191 2529352
THE JOLLY STEWARD
THE RED KITE
THE MILE CASTLE
DAT BAR
TYNEMOUTH LODGE
26 Silksworth Row, Sunderland, SR1 3QJ t: 0191 5147684
St Nicholas Avenue, Gosforth, NE3 1AA t: 0191 2236320
Lamesley, Gateshead, NE11 0ER. t: 0191 487 6023
THE STEAMBOAT
HUGOS
ISIS
THE JOB BULMAN
THE RAVENSWORTH ARMS
THE MID BOLDON CLUB
James Place Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle, NE6 1LD t: 0191 265 6151
ASHBROOKE SPORTS CLUB
42-48 High Bridge, Newcastle, NE1 6BX. t: 0191 2611008
103 Percy Street, Newcastle, NE1 7RY t: 0191 2324352
206 High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HD. t: 0191 2858060
THE CUMBERLAND ARMS
Maling Street, Newcastle, NE6 1LP
BACCHUS
THE HOTSPUR
THE QUEEN VICTORIA
57 Low Lights, North Shields, NE30 1JA t: 0191 2708441
Ferry Street, South Shields, NE33 1JR
Tynemouth Road, North Shields, NE30 4AA t: 0191 257 7565
3 The Arcade, Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4BS t: 0191 272 8105
Front Street, Tynemouth NE30 4DX. t. 0191 257 8302
1 St Peters Wharf, Newcastle NE6 1TZ. 0191 5971212
9 High Street West, Sunderland SR1 3HA t: 0191 5672262
29 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DZ t: 0191 2578956
THE HEAD OF STEAM
THE PRIORY
THE MERCHANTS TAVERN
TYNE BAR
Ashbrooke Road, Sunderland, SR2 7HH. t: 0191 528 4536
2 Neville Street, Newcastle NE1 5EN t: 0191 230 4236
Sunniside, Newcastle, NE16 5EE. t: 0191 488 8068
Arts Centre, Biddick Lane, Washington, NE38 8AB t: 0191 219 3463
Allan House, City Road Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 2BE
ALUM ALE HOUSE
Wheatridge Row, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0QH t: 0191 237 6868
St Marys Place, Newcastle, NE1 7PG t: 0191 2111140 White Mare Pool, Wardley, Gateshead, NE10 8YB t: 0191 4950171
THE GREY HORSE
60 Front Street. East Boldon, NE36 0SH 52 Westgate Rd, NE1 5XU t: 0191 2111160 Blackfell, Birtley, DH3 1RE t: 0191 415 1313
THE MILLSTONE HOTEL
Hadricks Mill Road, South Gosforth, NE3 1QL t: 0191 285 3429
THE NEW BRIDGE
2 -4 Argyle Street, Newcastle, NE1 6PF t: 0191 2321020
THE NORTHUMBRIAN PIPER
Sheriffs Highway, Gateshead, NE9 5SD. t: 0191 4870666
THE TOWN WALL
Pink Lane, Newcastle, NE1 5HX www.thetownwall.com
• Selection of real ales • Food served daily • Cinema room available
THE TURKS HEAD
THE OLD GEORGE
Killingworth Road, South Gosforth, NE3 1SY t: 0191 285 1254
Old George Yd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EE t: 0191 260 3035
THE GREY HORSE
THE PACKHORSE
THE HARBOUR VIEW
THE PAVILION
Benedict Street, Roker,
1 Byker Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2NS
Fawdon House, Red House Farm Estate, Gosforth, NE3 2AH t: 0191 2856793
Front Street, East Boldon, NE36 0SJ t: 0191 519 1796 Old Penshaw Village, Houghton-le-Spring, DH4 7ER. t: 0191 512 6080
27 Mill Dam, South Shields NE33 1EQ t: 0191 454 0134
Crookgate, Burnopfield, NE16 6NS t: 01207 270283 Hotspur North, Backworth,
41 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DZ t: 0191 2576547
THE VICTORY
THREE HORSESHOES HOTEL
Washington Road, Sunderland Tyne & Wear, SR5 3HZ 0191 519 2006
YE OLD CROSS INN
Ryton Village, NE40 3QP t: 0191 4134689
www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 45
FUN STUFF
SIGN OF THE TIMES The owner of this Jaguar XF spotted on Tyneside is happy to tell the world they are too old. Too old for what, exactly?
THE DIRTY DOZEN TWELVE CRACKERS TO TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
1 Where would you most commonly find the phrase “The division of labour in pin manufacturing”? 2 Which UK charity was formed in 1977 as Cyclebag?
A DOCTOR WALKS INTO A BAR… …AND ORDERS HIS FAVOURITE COCKTAIL – AN ALMOND DAIQUIRI – WHICH HE DOES EVERY EVENING AFTER SURGERY. THIS TIME, HOWEVER, THE BARMAN HAS RUN OUT OF ALMONDS AND HAS USED HICKORY NUTS INSTEAD. THE DOCTOR TAKES A SIP AND SAYS: ‘THIS DOESN’T TASTE LIKE MY USUAL ALMOND DAIQUIRI’. THE BARMAN REPLIES: ‘SORRY ABOUT THAT. IT’S A HICKORY DAIQUIRI, DOC’.
EEH! NUMBERS
113
3 What was Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara’s real first name? 4 If you have otalgia, what are you suffering from? 5 Which planet has a solar day of approximately 24 hours, 39 minutes? 6 How many MEPs are there in the European Parliament? 7 Which chain of UK holiday villages has its two-word name misspelt in (British) English? 8 What board game name comes from the Latin, “I play”? 9 What is American Bill de Blasio’s job? 10 What is the minimum age you have to be to open a Facebook account? 11 What is a funambulist? 12 Which company was founded in Birmingham in 1892 by Frederick Rushbrooke?
The number of votes collected by Tony Millns in the Richmond, North Yorkshire, by-election of February 1989 when he stood as the official Campaign For Real Ale (Camra) candidate protesting over a complex takeover bid involving Scottish & Newcastle which owned local brewer Theakstons. The seat was won by future Tory leader William Hague with 19,543 votes. Millns’ 113 total put him behind Screaming Lord Sutch, Monster Raving Loony Party, who managed 167 votes, but above Lindi St Clair (aka Miss Whiplash) of the Correction Party, who gathered 106.
QUOTE
“FOLLOW SEVEN BEERS WITH A COUPLE OF SCOTCHES AND A THIMBLE OF GOOD MARIJUANA, AND IT’S FUNNY HOW SLEEP JUST SORT OF COMES ON ITS OWN.” DAVID SEDARIS
QUIZ ANSWERS 1 On a £20 note. 2 Sustrans. 3 Ernesto. 4 Earache. 5 Mars. 6 751. 7 Center Parcs. 8 Ludo. 9 Mayor of New York. 10 13. 11 Tightrope walker. 12 Halfords.
46 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk
Tasting Notes... Catch a ride in Yellow Cab for an easy-going, crisp and refreshing taste. You’ll take a slight turn towards sweetness before feeling a minor bump of bitterness in the road. Overall, it’s a carefree route to savour. Taxi!
Now available in keg, cask and bottle