CAMRA Pubs In Chester

A quick follow up to my post from last Friday regarding my CAMRA membership card’s first outing. As mentioned in www.chesterlifestyle.com/chester-pubs I am now the proud, if not belated owner, of a CAMRA membership. “Have CAMRA membership, will drink quality beer” should be a new motto. I wasn’t sure how many, or where are all the CAMRA pubs in Chester. But, in starting out on it’s no doubt epic and well trodden voyage, I escorted my CAMRA membership card to The Shropshire by the Town Hall at 5.30pm.

“A pint of Bombardier please”, I enthusiastically asked.

“Certainly sir” came the reply.

Now, here was the moment for my membership card to make its mark. Reaching for my wallet, I confidently enquired, “are you a CAMRA membership pub?”

Imagine my disappointment when the answer was “No, sorry mate!!”

Wow, all the build up and all the anticipation!! Emphatically taken away from me!! Gutted!!

CAMRA Pubs In Chester

The Shropshire-Town Hall Chester

Not to worry though, the disappointment didn’t last long. I was reliably informed that The Pied Bull would welcome my new card, now almost leaping out of my wallet. I didn’t actually get to The Pied Bull though as we were enjoying The Shropshire that much. “The Shrop” is one of my favourite pubs. A proper pub, great beer and a good atmosphere. And, from a bitter drinker’s viewpoint, excellent bar staff as they pour a pint of bitter correctly. Part pour it, let it settle, then top it up.

Wow!! I’ve only had my new card less than a week and I’m already talking like a well heeled chin stroker!!

Where to next though?

I had decided that I wanted to head off down to The Saddle in Grosvenor Road at some time. But en route, I popped into The Boot. I knew this wouldn’t be a CAMRA haven, but well worth a quickie in there nevertheless. It was busy on Friday, with a good welcoming atmosphere as soon as we walked in. Just the one in there, then as planned, on to The Saddle.

The Saddle Inn

CAMRA Pubs In Chester-The Saddle Inn

The last time I was in The Saddle in Grosvenor Road was about 15 years ago. So, why the particular interest tonight? Well, it was because we have been following and tweeting each other on Twitter. I wanted to put a face to the name so to speak. I didn’t know whether or not it was somewhere I could flash my particular, eager to please plastic card though. It wouldn’t be long to find out however.

Upon entering I was greeted by a friendly young barmaid with a welcoming smile.

“A pint of Doombar please” I asked.

Here was the moment…….”Are you CAMRA members”

My heart sank….”I don’t think so”, came the reply.

Hang on though, all was not lost. Another member of staff heard my question and the devastating response. Obviously the young barmaid had not been asked the question before. Her colleague intervened and announced, “Yes we are!!”

“Yaaaaay”, a result. The landlord stepped up and confirmed the discount for my now exposed, gleaming new card.

“Wow, 50%” I said excitedly, really fully knowing what he said.

“15%…15%….One, Five”, he replied.

Oh well, worth a try I thought. Also though, the young barmaid knew how to pour a pint of bitter. This may sound ‘picky’ to non chin strokers. But, believe me, it is important.

Now that I had confirmed that it was the landlord I was speaking to, I thought I’d say ‘Hello’.

Thanks To Lee The Landlord

Nice to meet you Lee. Enjoyed the chat. Enjoyed the beer and I enjoyed the karaoke. Within about ten minutes of being in there, the karaoke started up. Shall I have a warble? Why not I thought. Six or seven songs later and not many people had made their way to the exit. Result!!! Did I really reach those high notes?

Yes, fair do’s The Saddle ticked a lot of boxes. You should try it. Well worth a visit.

Well done Lee, thanks for the welcome ‘freebie’ and the chat.

As Arnie would say…..”I’ll be back!!”

Where To Next?

Now my card has broken it’s duck, I will need to find the other CAMRA Pubs in Chester. I know I could check their website but that takes the fun out of it doesn’t it.

I’ll keep you posted the next time I take my card out for an evening stroll around town.