MANY of us enjoy the taste of real ale.

In 2019, 420 million pints of cask ale were sold in the UK, accounting for 13.5% of all pints.

Cask ale is seen as 'Britain's National Drink', and its 'Britishness' is often seen as an important factor in promoting cask.

The term was coined in the 1970s, when there were very few independent breweries left, and most production had gone over to filtered and pasteurised ales served under carbon dioxide pressure, otherwise known as keg beer.

Powys is home to many pubs, inns and taverns with real ale available to patrons.

The County Times shares five of the top ranked according to TripAdvisor.

The Sportsman, Newtown

One reviewer wrote: "Popped in as we needed somewhere for a think and a drink. Amazing range of beers and ciders, not too bad wine list, really friendly staff, and they are dog friendly.

"Would make a great local, would love to work my way through their ales."

Another wrote: "Great traditional pub. Specialises in cider and real ales and good behaviour.

"Very knowledgeable landlord - always a great welcome. If you want a rowdy pub crawl go somewhere else. If you want a quiet pint with friends in a really friendly pub, worth travelling to."

County Times: The Sportsman in Newtown. Picture: Geograph.

The Sportsman in Newtown. Picture: Geograph.

Arvon Ale House, Llandrindod Wells

One reviewer wrote: "We stumbled across this little gem while staying in Llandrindod recently.

"A good range of ales and ciders are available with plenty on offer for those who prefer spirits.

"The staff were friendly and helpful and the pub had a good friendly atmosphere. Certainly worth a visit for real ale and cider fans."

Another wrote: "Visited as its opposite the Metropole Hotel. A perfect cosy Microsoft brewery offering a huge array of beers and ciders but with a three page gin menu.

"Very, very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Try the liquorice gin or seaweed even. You will not be disappointed."

OTHER NEWS:

Angel Hotel, Llanidloes

One reviewer wrote: "Looking for a good pint of ale and a fire with a warm welcome. We found it all here at the Angel and would certainly come back and we will. Abbot Reserve enjoyed, well kept - a good pint.

Another wrote: "Lovely welcoming pub and restaurant. Friendly staff, good beer and a large and varied menu of good quality well cooked food."

County Times: The Angel in Llanidloes. Picture: Geograph

The Angel in Llanidloes. Picture: Geograph

The Goat Hotel, Llanfair Caereinion

One reviewer wrote: "Bit of a tardis and certainly far smarter inside than you might guess from outside. Unfussy, well priced menu and staff all height of friendliness. Decent range of well kept ale. Food delivered promptly and as promised on the menu. Would certainly consider staying here."

County Times: The Goat Inn in Llanfair Caereinion. Picture: Geograph

The Goat Inn in Llanfair Caereinion. Picture: Geograph

Watson's Ale House, Knighton

One reviewer wrote: "This was the first visit for me and my family.

"I found the atmosphere, service, ale and ambiance fabulous. A very welcoming unique little gem, a regular stop for us now.

"The bar staff and Carter will make you feel very welcome and the locals are lovely. What more can you ask? Good prices? Certainly, great value too.

"What a diamond find."

Another wrote: "Comfortable beer focused venue. Relaxed vibe, serving real ale. Pop next door, buy fish and chips and come back and eat them with your beer, luxury."

 

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