The Ale Stone, Aylestone, Leicester

Large micro, done to a good standard. Plenty of untreated wood for interior decor. Four ales, my Mad Brewer Fairies was in great shape (NBSS 4). Notes otherwise sparse due to a day of unchecked imbibing. Needs a return visit. 7.5

Official site of The Ale Stone - www.alestone.co.uk

Official site of The Ale Stone - www.alestone.co.uk

Micropub and bottle shop in the Aylestone area of Leicester that was closed to drinkers throughout most of the pandemic. Indeed, I wasn't sure if it would actually be open on our late Sunday afternoon visit, as nobody responded to any messages or answered the telephone on my numerous attempts. In actual fact, it opens 12-6 on a Sunday. I can't vouch for other days. There were about a dozen customers in and a couple of bar staff, who seemed to be struggling to find things to do. Answering the telephone and responding to messages could be a start, as they're probably losing out on trade. Sister pub to the Blue Boar in the city centre, the ale and cider range here was always likely to be promising. Leatherbritches Blue Boar Bitter is the house ale. Guests on cask for my visit were Shiny Rocky, Durham Killer No Filler, Torrside Shed New Light, Salamander Golden Salamander, Lincoln Green Quarterstaff, Brunswick Rockin' Johnny's Winter Special & Bad Seed Stage Hand. Real ciders were Abrahall's AD & Thundering Molly, Farmer Jim's Copper Top, Bad Boy Apple & Blackberry Cider, Two Shires Selston Sip & Bottle Kicking Cider Company Pineapple & Passion Fruit Cider. Craft beers were Beartown Kahuna, Lenton Lane Downpour & Triple Rock Dimmer Switch. Despite the uncertain opening hours here, a visit is well worthwhile if you can find it open. I certainly hope it will be open the next time I pass by.