The Friends of Hector dared to go on a trip whilst I was in Greece having my possessions stolen.
They had such a pleasant day in Musselburgh and Leith that a return visit was called for. They couldn’t have enjoyed it that much, surely?
The rendezvous was Glasgow Queen St. Robin had discovered it was cheaper to buy a return from Glasgow to Edinburgh and a separate ticket to Musselburgh. Hector, Howard and Tracey discovered it was even cheaper to buy a return from Clydebank/Partick than it was from Glasgow. How wonderful our train system is.
A Bier Festival?
There was a festival on in Edinburgh, allegedly. This is why the train company only had three carriages on the 11.00. Dr Stan alighted to take what was promised to be a bigger train. Hector stood the whole way, there and back.
Musselburgh Station?
Well I suppose the station serves Musselburgh. One has to accept that even in Deutschland some stations are well outside the town they serve. Craig skilfully navigated his way downhill towards the town centre. How many times did we cross the River Esk? I thought this was Mags’ trip?
The Staggs Bar
There are seven/eight taps, only one of which serves a dark Ale. Robin and I went straight for the Oakham Citra, a gentle start to the day. Mags, Craig and Yvonne could not resist the Thornbridge Jaipur. Howard and Tracey caught up and Dr Stan eventually made his appearance. The Rangers game was on the TV, we were restless. Two (blatant) penalty kicks later and all was well.
Robin and Hector switched to Jaipur, it was not great. What has happened to this wonderful Bier? I have even written to the brewery, they replied.
Food
Mags appeared with a Pasty. ‘What are you doing eating food in my pub?’ I asked paying tribute to the monster from Todmorden. More food appeared, nobody batted an eye. Is this not how pubs operate?
Decision time
We were considering decanting to Leith when Mein Host made his appearance. Robin and Howard had been in touch to establish what might be on. We were told that with more more warning it would have been a case of what would we like to be on… There was Thornbridge Kipling in the cellar, it would be on in five minutes, we stayed.
The Fyne Ales Avalanche proved to be my favourite Ale of the day.
Sitting in this pub is superb, our favourite light, hoppy Biers, all lined up, and one replaces the other with great efficiency.
We shall most certainly be back.
Yep, the Avalanche was my favourite too, and I continued with it even after the Kipling was put on.
Great pub!
This is how ALL pubs should be run… with the customers’ satisfaction the prime objective. We were certainly more than satisfied on our two recent visits. Roll on next time!
Excellent pub, great day. MacArthur.