Kilverts, Hereford

Visited 13/07/24 Undoubtedly the best venue on this coverage of 50% of what Hay's town centre has to offer - the other 50% in a few months' time when next here. This is also a hotel. There is a nice, paved, partially covered seating area out the front that was busy when i arrived but quickly became empty as a large group moved on. There are also some tables on the pavement in front of this area, which remained occupied during my visit. The bar is directly facing you as you enter this characterful establishment. Seating in this space is a collection of tables and sofas around front bar with some tall stools at the bar and at a ledge that divides the left and right sides of this bar area. Another log burner that i would again have welcomed being ablaze. Off to the left of the front bar area, there is a very comfy looking lounge and garden room, only open to non-residents pre 8pm. I didn't investigate but i assume the restaurant was over in this part. A long corridor takes to a patio and partly covered area out the back. There were four hand pulls operational, with one not dispensing. Three offerings from Wye Valley, my choice was the Shindig, which was an excellent pint, plus the HPA and Butty Bach. The non-WV offering was Wicked Wolf from Exmoor, which the clip informed me was a collaboration with Wicked Wolf Gin and so not surprisingly infused with hints of Juniper. Amongst the keg offering were three ciders (Flagon Cider from Robinsons, Stowford Press and Henry Westons), lagers (Madri, something called 1985 lager, and the Veltins Pilsner) plus Neck Oil and Guinness. Again, this was my first time in this one so i can't believe i have not checked out before with me also defaulting to it being another hotel bar. This is notches above the bar in the Swan at the other end of town. Definitely will visit each subsequent time i am in Hay.

Still a decent pub. Still got Bass and Butty Bach on. I went for the Bass this time and it was fine. Called in again a day later to find Glamorgan Brewing Co. Thunder Bird IPA on. Another good pint! Well worth a visit.

Nice looking pub in the middle of "The Town Of Books". I was glad to have a break from trawling around bookshops so I called in here and sat out the front for a pleasant half hour of people watching. Bass and Butty Bach were on offer. I went for the latter and it was spot on. I would gladly call again.

Can't fault this pub, named for local Victorian vicar diarist. Serves great ales and cider.