The Star Inn, Halesworth

Blue Scrumpy left this review about The Star Inn

I'd left this village pub until last, forgetting that it closed at 9pm even on a Friday and Saturday evening. Arriving at 8:57pm, I was encouraged by the sight of lots of cars on the car park and several customers spilling out of the front of the pub.

By the time I was at the bar, it was 8:58pm. I've had many experiences where I've been refused service that close to closing times, but here after a quick check of the clock by the landlord, I was informed that I was just in time!

The ale choice didn't seem as good as in a few other Suffolk pubs I'd visited during the day, but on handpull there was Green Jack Golden Best & Trawlerboys & Adnams Explorer. I hadn't seen Explorer for some while and made a comment to that effect. One guy at the bar suggested that I'd chosen the worst beer in the pub! The landlord supplied information that it hadn't been brewed for 8 years.

With the front bar still crowded with drinkers, several of whom were standing, I retreated to a rear room where a waitress was clearing up after the meal service and one group of diners were enjoying post dinner drinks. It was only at this point that I noticed another cask sat on the bar. This was an 8.5% barley wine from Green Jack called Ripper. Despite the Explorer not being as good as I remember it, I still decided that it was a better choice than an 8.5% ale! Incidentally, Giggler Suffolk Cider was also on.

The Star is a pub with plenty of character and seemingly a good local following. It didn't take me too long to drink up, still leaving at least 20 people in the pub who didn't show any signs of departing anytime soon. I got the impression that despite the landlord's remarks, they may use their discretion to serve after the published times.

On 3^rd September 2023 - rating: 7
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