The Cardinals Hat, Worcester

Quinno _ left this review about The Cardinals Hat

Seems to have carved out is niche effectively, with a full house on early Saturday evening. Relatively standard regional range at the bar with two good pints of Wye Valley’s Butty Bach (NBSS 3.5) and HPA (3.5). Ideally this one’s best done at a quiet time in order to truly appreciate the historic interior. 8.5

April 2019
Popped in as part of the Worcester Pub Beer Festival and this place was one of the few making a genuine effort, with stillage and live music out the back. Absolutely rammed and we ended-up in the corridor using a ledge as our table. My Teme was NBSS 3, since you asked. Rated 8.5

April 2014
First visit since the management/emphasis change. The exterior has been given a splash of deep purple which along with the black trim gives it an almost goth look. Thankfully the multi-room heritage interior has been left unmolested and indeed seems brighter and cleaner than previous. Five ales; Purity Mad Goose, Brakspear Special, Cotswold Lion, Marston New World and the gorgeous but lesser-spotted Bathams Bitter which slipped down a treat. Three proper ciders too, including a couple of unusual choices. I was always enamoured with the previous Austrian bier haus incarnation and whilst I’m sorry to see it go, I’m really happy that an excellent ale pub has taken its place. If you’re visiting Worcester, put this one on the list of ‘must-do’ pubs. Rated 9

June 2011
Multi-roomed Austrian bierhaus, in a historic 15th century building which is CAMRA heritage listed. The attractive exterior with leaded windows is enticing and the interior lives up to the billing, with three rooms (two front, one rear) plus a small drinking corridor. Dark oak panelling and real fires abound. Beer-wise, it’s all imported Austrian stuff being served so be prepared to pay for the privilege but it’s well-worth it. My half was £2.40 which was reasonable in the greater scheme of things; penny-pinchers can go and amuse themselves in the Postal Order. One slight downside was the grumpily Teutonic service – the place was packed with tourists and I think mein hostfrau was feeling the strain of having to explain why there was no Fosters, real ale etc. The funny farming implement above the bar may have been for dealing with annoying customers, luckily it wasn’t used during my visit. Beware odd opening hours - they generally aren’t open during the daytime. I liked this one and would happily go back here. Recommended to the open-minded among you. Rated 8

On 21^st November 2023 - rating: 9
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