Black Bull, Stirling

This place featured in a TV documentary about how pubs were having to reinvent themselves - in this case, as a community-owned pub reviving what had become a somewhat moribund outlet. As I recall, part of their business model included volunteer labour from the people who had put money into the new venture. My route by car took me near enough to justify a stop, but I soon wished I hadn't. The two real ales on the bar were both from Harviestoun Brewery: nice to see a local brewery featuring, but the beers were Schiehallion lager and a wheat beer. Very odd. I looked among the keg taps for something to try and spotted McEwans 70/-. The lass who was serving me poured about two-thirds into a half pint glass - one-third froth - took my payment and walked away from the bar. I waited for her to come back, and waited. When she eventually returned she still paid no attention to my untouched beer, and I finally had to break the silence and ask her to top it up. I almost wished I hadn't bothered, as it was cold, fizzy and taste-free, but I'd paid £2.50 (yes, it was £5 a pint!) for this crap and I wanted to get full value.

Facebook page of Black Bull - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Black Bull - www.facebook.com

Official site of Black Bull - www.blackbullgartmore.com

Official site of Black Bull - www.blackbullgartmore.com