Stratford Upon Avon 14/4/2012- Becky, Jane, Vicki, Claire, Kathy and Catherine.

Stratford Upon Avon 14/4/2012- Becky, Jane, Vicki, Claire, Kathy and Catherine.

1). The Bear. This is a hotel bar and it was showing the football (I won't mention the score) and had a large variety of ales on tap. I had 3 1/3's here to try a couple of different beers. All were perfectly drinkable. Due to the football being on, the bar area was very busy so we ended up sitting R Kelly Style in the hotel lobby. On a different occasion, with more ale testing it would probably score more highly but for this experience 4/10.

2). The Garrick Inn. This was a GK pub so it was always going to be dodgy for ale so there were no surprises that I had a lager! It was fairly busy and the décor was quite modern but trying to keep some of its old features. We all had a fairly pleasant drink but the pub is nothing special 5/10.

3). The Windmill. I didn't particularly like this pub although it was fine. It had low timbered ceilings and a decent outside area where we based ourselves but it felt a bit grotty to me. The ale selection was a lot better and they had some nice lagers too. I managed to watch the Grand National so that was a bonus! Another standard pub in my opinion 5/10.   

 4). Old Thatched Tavern. As a building this was a lovely pub, black and white and indeed with a thatched roof. A Fullers pub so standard pumps and I managed an ale here. The problem with the place is it seemed too geared up to food and the section for drinkers was too small. I also had to ask for the TV to be turned off. This was however the best place we visited this afternoon.  6/10.

5). The Cross Keys. A terrible place which has no ales and no redeeming features, the good company was the only reason this scored at all to be honest! Basic and certainly not a place for an afternoon drink.  3/10.

Despite the low scores for the pubs it was a brilliant birthday afternoon out. Thanks very much ladies!