The Nags Head, Malvern

A bucolic view-tastic 40 min walk downhill from the Brewers. This is an ale-lead freehouse with a cracking old skool rambling interior over various levels with fires on the go. Different decor in each section, clean and tidy but without being antiseptic. Quiet pub, just conversation. Lots of ales (8?) plus some ciders – too many it turned out. My first choice of the soon-to-be-deceased Banks Bitter was fair (NBSS 3), the Hobsons Charlie Brown slightly tired (2.5 - possibly aspirator?). And the Exmoor Beast was sharp and unpleasant (1.5) though at least exchanged with no fuss for a very Jaipur (NBSS 4) which was what the majority of casketeers were on. Shame about the inconsistent ale as the fabric of the place itself is truly excellent and it really should be scoring 9+. Time to be realistic about how many ales they can sensibly shift in here, I think. Inevitably it’s GBG listed and you should make the effort to visit – but slipstream the locals when you order. 7.5

I'm giving it another 10 star rating to get to highest rating pub in the land! This visit, the holy trinity of traditional, craft and foreign..... TT Landlord, Burnt Mills Shivelight New England Pale Ale and Orval. In the ceremonial chalice. It such a simple formula, you wonder why all pubs dont follow it.

Shocked that I've not reviewed this before.... its one of the finest pubs in the country and a personal favourite. Nestling in the shadows of the Nothern end of the Malvern Hills, it's a great spot for a post walk pint. Or even a special trip to Malvern Link station - if the trains ever run again. Characterful inside and out. Small drinking area to the left of a central bar. Separate restaurant for dining. Front patio area that is covered and heated providing a much needed overspill. GBG regular. Beer wise - its an always spot on collection and something new to find every time. It used to be the go to place for Bathams in this part of the world but the supply chain has been irreparably damaged by Covid and their supplier - Woods Brewery - going out of business. Because of Covid. The choice in early Jan 2023 was TT Landlord, Old Hooky, Redemption Big Chief, Teme Brewery This and some more pedestrian banks choices, Wainwright and Bitter. This visit, I also noticed some Belgian bottles and being with a large group of walkers - saw other choices that included German Zero Alcohol bottled lagers. Well worth checking out.