The Star Inn, Halesworth

I'd left this village pub until last, forgetting that it closed at 9pm even on a Friday and Saturday evening. Arriving at 8:57pm, I was encouraged by the sight of lots of cars on the car park and several customers spilling out of the front of the pub. By the time I was at the bar, it was 8:58pm. I've had many experiences where I've been refused service that close to closing times, but here after a quick check of the clock by the landlord, I was informed that I was just in time! The ale choice didn't seem as good as in a few other Suffolk pubs I'd visited during the day, but on handpull there was Green Jack Golden Best & Trawlerboys & Adnams Explorer. I hadn't seen Explorer for some while and made a comment to that effect. One guy at the bar suggested that I'd chosen the worst beer in the pub! The landlord supplied information that it hadn't been brewed for 8 years. With the front bar still crowded with drinkers, several of whom were standing, I retreated to a rear room where a waitress was clearing up after the meal service and one group of diners were enjoying post dinner drinks. It was only at this point that I noticed another cask sat on the bar. This was an 8.5% barley wine from Green Jack called Ripper. Despite the Explorer not being as good as I remember it, I still decided that it was a better choice than an 8.5% ale! Incidentally, Giggler Suffolk Cider was also on. The Star is a pub with plenty of character and seemingly a good local following. It didn't take me too long to drink up, still leaving at least 20 people in the pub who didn't show any signs of departing anytime soon. I got the impression that despite the landlord's remarks, they may use their discretion to serve after the published times.

We had not been to Southwold and the surrounding area for five years, and it was good to visit The Star Inn as it has always been a favourite of mine. It is still unspoilt with three separated areas simply decorated and furnished. The menu had a selection of sensibly priced dishes, with some interesting variations. Curly kale does not figure on many pub menus. The landlord was friendly, and had Adnams Bitter, New Zealand Pale Ale and Ghost Ship on draught. I do not recall seeing Broadside, which is unusual, and I may have missed it. Well worth a visit.