The Black Bull Inn, Berwick-Upon-Tweed

One of two pubs in the village of Lowick and having dropped out of the Good Beer Guide following the suspension of real ale sales, I wasn't quite sure what to expect of this country pub, which is not a million miles from the Scottish border. We were first to arrive into its gravelled car park shortly before its opening time of 4pm. We were soon followed by several other groups all checking into the pub's accommodation. Others were also soon to arrive looking for dinner. Inside, there are several adjoining rooms, all modernised but without destroying the character completely. Apparently the pub was saved by the local community and the really good news is that real ale is back. 2 handpulls had Rigg & Furrow Mow & Cheviot Upland Ale. The Mow was just being pulled through and the barman was quick to point out that it was a hazy pale. A big sign stating "hazy" was later put in front of the handpull. Presumably the local clientele do not normally anticipate anything quite so adventurous. For my part, it was very similar to the hazy pales I had been drinking a lot of in California earlier this month, albeit much weaker in ABV. I found it still to be quite tasty. I'd thoroughly expected to be disappointed by the Black Bull, but in fact was suitably impressed.

Facebook page of The Black Bull Inn - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Black Bull Inn - www.facebook.com

Official site of The Black Bull Inn - blackbulllowick.co.uk

Official site of The Black Bull Inn - blackbulllowick.co.uk

A nice solid Georgian building at the top of the village, which was apparently saved from closure by the community. This was at the cost of turning it into a "premium country inn", all done out in tasteful shades of green and cream which feels far too modern but hopefully will weather in over time. Outside there are a dozen bench tables in the car park. It does offer a changing range of regional ales - on this occasion a nice drop from Firebrick.