Mad Squirrel Tap, Watford

More of a modern craft bar than a brewery tap, this is a large designer place with lots of arty touches. To one side are a couple of tin fridges and a bar counter with the obligatory row of wall taps behind, but also holding 3 handpumps which on this visit were dispensing a very tasty Hornets pale ale and a cider. The keg taps were mainly their own with a few guests but there was a notable craft price tag with several at £7.50 (Beers are discounted on Mondays however). I must say that the barman was very enthusiastic and there was some serious rock music playing so I would happily have stayed for a few more.

Usual Crafty stylings in this shop conversion: high tables, lurid wall art, light bulbs on a wire, neon sign, cashless. In fairness it's done to a high spec (eg the parquet floor) and the mid 00s Indie soundtrack was enjoyable. Three cask on pump as well as a plethora of craftykeg. My MS Hornets Hoppy had some of the condition knocked out by the stupid butt plug glass but otherwise it was serviceable enough (NBSS 3). Worth dropping in. 6.5

This recently opened brewery tap is in a large former shop,largely open plan with a parquet floor throughout.The furniture is mainly high tables,although there are some dining style tables to the left and a mid building long padded bench seat.Chairs tend to be metal and there is an industrial feel to the place,some neon signs and a very good soundtrack. The bar is to the left and has an impressive long screen above describing the options,almost exclusively from Mad Squirrel.The three handpumps were offering on my trip their Ebenezer Rouge,London Porter (£5,NBSS 3.5) and a real cider while the large keg selection offered 10 Pales and IPA's,2 Lagers,1 Wheat Beer,4 Stouts,1 Sour and 2 Sparkling Ciders.I salute the range of styles and strenghts on offer here. There is a rear open pizza oven if you are in need of food. Given the paucity of decent drinking options in Watford Town Centre ,I would expect this place to be succesful.It may not suit a pub traditionalist but I would say this is a must visit if you are unlucky enough to find yourself amonst this vast retail agglomeration.