Tap Social @ Lock29, Banbury

Tap Social is found in the front left-hand ‘over 18s’ corner of Lock 29 which is a large hall like venue with small food businesses and shops, most of which are directed at kids so there were many milling about during a recent Wednesday afternoon visit. I counted ten craft keg options available from fonts across the back bar, I went for half of the Tap Social Major Figures that set me back £2.90, it was ok. I sat at one of the high tables around the counter while I listened to the modern chart music and wondered how this place makes any money. Maybe they coin it in during the advertised evening events, so I suppose I should be grateful that they actually open during quiet times. The service was polite, but I don't plan on revisiting.

Facebook page of Tap Social @ Lock29 - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Tap Social @ Lock29 - www.facebook.com

Tap for the Kidlington-based social enterprise brewery with other outlets including the Market Tap in Oxford. Housed in the rather spartan Lock 29 food stall and events space part of the dismal Castle Quay development, so devoid of atmosphere when only a limited number of customers about. Two sadly disused handpumps, but ten taps for craft keg beers on the bar-back - eight of their own (including the Cell Count American pale ale, £5.60), a collaboration with Orbit and Bleeding Hearts Numbskulls as a guest.