Ale Trail Itinerary 11th August 2026 report

We met in the Eastgate at 18:00 with our passports; Laurie Dooley, Richard Earl, Stephen Cox, Dave Taylor and Barry Holland

Barry found two newbies who had moved from Chelmsford; Mo and Dave, who took new passports, although they now only had 12 days to complete them.

At the Eastgate they had Salcombe Gold, Gales HSB and London Pride which was swapped for a new barrel; the old one ran out as the first was being poured (so NBSS Very Good)

Only time for a quick pint as we were off to the Nag's Head

Here, there was St Austell Proper Job, St Austell Tribute which had just run out when we arrived and London Pride, but the Pride was off (NBSS Undrinkable) so it was swapped for Harvey's Sussex Best (NBSS Very Good) which had just been put on. Newbie staff were put through their paces serving us all.

Interesting conversations here about what socials we should do next and First Day Covers (stamps). I also declared Bill Lambert to be his son, Dave, to which he graciously disabused me.

Next on the list was the Hole In The Wall, although Richard and Stephen opted for the Foundry having missed it last week. HITW had Oakham Citra, Dark Star Hophead, Harvey's Sussex best and Black Sheep Best (NBSS Very Good).

Onward to the last pub in Chi that we hadn't been to with our passports; Park Tavern with Butcombe Adam Henson's Rare Breed and London Pride (NBSS Very Good)

Unfortunately it was quiz night here so all indoor seats were taken; we started with a 'vertical drinking' session outside; luckily someone felt sorry for us old men and women standing, and left their table