The Catherine Wheel, Newbury

Quinno _ left this review about The Catherine Wheel

Another below-par visit. The cask simply doesn't shift in here during the week. My initial choice of Andwell was crap (NBSS 1) changed with a fuss for a lukewarm Portobello Porter (NBSS 2.5) in a Madri glass. No sign of the Andwell being taken off either. Really the GBG listing seems very tenuous to me.

April 2022
There does seem to be a correlation that when Warwick isn’t here, things aren’t quite as good. Five cask on; Landlord, SVB Pioneer, Loddon Hullabaloo, Andwell Resolute and Animal Guinea Fowl (pump-tired, NBSS 2.5). Telly on, showing old football to nobody in particular. Had a chinwag with a couple of jolly boys and moved on. Rated 7

November 2018
The Cath, under Warwick’s management, has really become the premier ale and pub destination in Newbury. The ale range remains heavily local and invariably in good-to-excellent condition. There is now a tidy range of proper cider and large collection of craft beers and bottles, from the UK and overseas. There is latterly an impressive gin offering too. The latter means the pub tends to maintain a good balance of the genders and ages. This is now a pub that is not just the best in Newbury, but is up there with the very best in Berkshire. Rated 8

September 2015
Six local ales on the go usually and good quality is the norm in here. CAMRA discount available as stated below. Also an increasingly exciting bottled range from overseas in addition. Worth alighting the train for. Rated 8

September 2014
Now re-refurbished and re-opened under the guidance of Warwick who had the Maiden Over in Reading. Has been opened-out a little inside but still retains distinct areas. There’s a working fireplace which looks a good bet for the winter months. Interior décor is a sort of bluey version of battleship grey, which worked fairly well but not sure if the pub gets enough natural light to stop it looking slightly gloomy? Nice little garden off to the rear as well. Food currently limited to Pieminister pies. Five local ales and thirds are available (to a pint). My West Berks Chubbs was in good shape. Lots of potential here and in a town lacking a really good alehouse, this could turn into a winner. I’ll be back. Rated 7

Sept 2013 (as Jack O' Newbury)
Closed on my Sunday sojourn. Intriguing castle-esque battlement façade. Couple of handpulls on the bar. Previously called Gordon's Bar.

On 12^th July 2024 - rating: 5
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