The Foundry, Congleton

I almost gave this one a miss, as there was pop music belting out over the empty tables in front of the main building, but when a heavy shower had me looking for shelter I tentatively pulled the door open and it wasn't as loud inside. Still pulsing and unignorable, but just about tolerable. Five Bollington beers plus a cider on the six hand pumps. My half of Long Hop was ok (NBSS 3) and £2.20 for a half; it was on offer at £3 for a pint but I wasn't tempted. This bar is better once inside, as the light is very pleasant, with the corrugated plastic roofing panels having some translucent ones interspersed. Is that enough to tempt me back? Only time will tell.

A covered walkway down the centre of rows of beer benches lead to the entry of the Foundry that is one of two bars in this area of Congleton Market District. The rectangular interior is open plan with café type seating throughout, including on a high raised seating area on the right-hand wall. The bar counter runs along the rear wall and to the left is a large Bollington Brewery sign to remind who runs this bar. The six hand pumps were drawing five of their ales alongside an option from Seacider. I also counted 12 fonts on the back bar that were drawing craft keg. I went for the BB Long Hop, it wasn’t my favourite beer of the day. I liked the upbeat background music, but the café style isn’t very characterful so there was little to hold my attention. I don’t plan on returning.