Hop Pole, Droitwich

Droitwich is a bit of a beer desert but this is a proper oasis. C18th, imposing and a little tucked away from the shops, although in the town centre. A signs says "no muddy boots" on the carpet - but you really need to look for the area that is carpeted. A little raised section to the left as you enter. A pool room to the right. All "partitioned" by open beams. The beer (and snacks) are the draw here. Bathams Bitter and Mild always on a a chalkboard detailing how many guest ales have been on since presumably the new owners took it on. Currently in the 400s. The board behind this details what is coming next. Today it was two from Wye Valley and a Otter Bright. I wasnt going to turn down the Bathams - and it was as good as anywhere.

Now has six hand pumps . All in use when visited ,the Batham's bitter was as delightful as ever and a guest beer from Fauna Brewery , Arundel - Bushy Tail - a 3.8% best bitter was an ideal beer to start with on a lunch time. A good variety of snacks available , cobs,pork pies,scotch eggs etc. Well worth a visit.

Facebook page of Hop Pole - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Hop Pole - www.facebook.com

Fine old pub, with a somewhat remodelled interior that still retains various small rooms / side areas and hence some character. Busy on a Wednesday evening when many others in the town were quieter, with a pool competition drawing quite a crowd when I visited. Also has a covered terrace with a patio beer garden beyond at the back. With all five handpumps in use, the selection was a pair from Wye Valley (HPA and Butty Bach), the Sovereign coronation beer from St Austell, Time Valley's Best Shot and Woodcote Oatmeal Stout (£3.60).

Excellent pub in the old part of town. Wye Valley HPA and Butty Bach on along with Nice Tackle (for the 6 nations Rugby). We had the HPA which was the best pint we had all day. Excellent service. Well worth calling in.