In the Salcombe Tap So on a wet and windy Wednesday some 10 members ventured out on the 164 bus route from Totnes to visit Salcombe and Kingsbridge.
With time against us and just a couple of weeks left in the beer scoring year we confined our visits to a small number of pubs with potential to reach this year’s GBG. Alighting at Salcombe there was a 10 minute walk to the far end of town and the Ferry Inn, which unfortunately was closed.
Not a good start so next was the Victoria Inn and a selection of St Austell’s finest with Proper Job, Tribute and Anthem on offer.
With time on our hands we then popped into the Fortescue Inn where we found Timothy Taylor Landlord and Salcombe Gold, also a mystery ‘Fortescue Brew’ which no one could tell us what it was!
Onwards then to the newly established Salcombe Tap House and a selection of, yes, Salcombe Brewery ales. Only Devon Amber, Shingle Bay and Seahorse were available on cask, so those members wanting the renowned Island Street Porter had to venture to the dark side and have the keg version.
Back out in the rain and the 164 bus back to Kingsbridge where fortunately the two pubs to visit were close to the bus stop and each other.
First then to The Hermitage where we enjoyed Dartmoor Legend, Bath Ales Gem and Timothy Taylor Landlord.
Then around the corner to The King of Prussia and another fine selection of ales namely Bass, The Rev James and Butcombe Original which all very well received. Back on the bus to Totnes where there was still time to squeeze in a couple more pubs before we dispersed homewards, so firstly to The Watermans Arms and our only Dartmoor Jail Ale of the day and another Timothy Taylor’s but this time the rarely seen Boltmaker which went down very well.
Lastly to The Albert Inn and a selection of Bridgetown Brewery ales including Albert Ale, West Country IPA and the superb Shark Island Stout.
Altogether an enjoyable day with buses on time, good company and a fine and varied selection of ales.
Clive Mackriell