The Silent Whistle This was to be a day using Stagecoach buses, particularly the 88 service, so I suppose it was doomed to fail at some point! The point of failure came early on when the first bus, from Newton Abbot to Ashburton, failed to appear. This left the two of us who came from Totnes and the one who lived in Ashburton as the only representatives in the Silent Whistle (photo right) at midday. There was only Jail Ale available, but we made the best of it until about 12:45, when we decided to move on to the Old Exeter, for a better choice of beers.
We were unlucky here, the cooling system for the casks racked behind the bar was not working, so there was only Dartmoor IPA available by jug from the cellar. I suppose it made a change from Jail Ale.
So just one hour late, the rest of the contingent arrived and a pleasant hour was passed enjoying the IPA.
River Dart at the Abbey Inn There was then some discussion as to whether we should walk to the Dartmoor Lodge or try catching an 88 to The Abbey at Buckfast. As we were running a bit later than planned, we decided to gamble and chose the latter. It was a good bet, the bus turned up on time and we were soon sat on the Abbey's terrace overlooking the River Dart (photo left). A very pleasant spot on a warm, sunny day. Our choices of beer here were Proper Job and Tribute, well it is a St. Austell pub!
A ten minute walk followed to the Globe in Buckfastleigh, where although Jail Ale again featured there was also Black Sheep Bitter, the choice of most of us.
Our next call was just across the road, at the White Hart where Jail Ale featured yet again, this time accompanied by Hunter's Half Bore, so this was the choice of many.
Time was pressing our 88s to both Totnes and Newton Abbot depart from Buckfastleigh on the half hour. So, as we were aiming for the 4:30 buses and the Kings Arms doesn't open until 4pm, timing was of the essence. This is why we were stood outside the Kings Arms at two minutes to four, waiting for the doors to open, which they did on the dot of 4pm. Here we found the biggest choice of the day with three Teignworthy beers available; Reel Ale, Rebel's Rouser and Thirsty Blonde (one beer that will appear at our Sunshine Beer & Cider Festival in a couple of week's time).
To everyone's relief both the buses arrived on time and we all headed off homeward.
An all round good day, despite Stagecoach, our thanks must go to our new Social Secretary, Lawrence, for organising the day and coping with the missing bus.

The Old Exeter Inn Let's hope we fare better than Walt did! Relaxing in the Old Exeter Inn More relaxing in the Old Exeter Drinking in the sun at the Abbey Inn The Globe Inn The White Hart Awaiting opening time at the Kings Arms The garden at the Kings Arms