The Bulls solid start to the latest National League North campaign sees the club in the top four, with an away victory already under their belt at the Deva Stadium last week. However, next up is a short trip to Banbury as Josh Gowling’s side face another of the divisional ‘new-boys’.
Banbury have maintained momentum after promotion last season and will provide tough opposition for Hereford. A large travelling contingent is expected to visit Banbury, and for those of you who enjoy a pint of real ale here is the latest Good Pub Guide for Banbury.
BANBURY UNITED, 27/08/2022
I missed the recent visit to Banbury in the Southern League but gather that there was an element of crowd trouble. Given that this is a bank holiday fixture I hope we don’t get a repeat of that, but on the other hand I don’t want the kind of police over-reaction that will prevent law abiding fans from enjoying a pre-match pint.
Southam Road would appear to be the place to head for. The Bailiff’s Tap at 4 Southam Road, OX16 2ED is Banbury’s first micro-pub and is situated in a former bailiff’s office. It serves four gravity dispensed beers sourced from independent brewers such as Byatt’s, Phipps and Towcester Mill plus real cider from the polypin. No hot food but pork pies are available. Sounds interesting.
Across the way at 3 Southam Road (same post code) is the Three Pigeons, a thatched coaching inn. This is rather more upmarket and does both food and accommodation. Regular beers are Purity Gold and the ubiquitous Doom Bar plus two guests. Personally I’d be more likely to head for the Bailiff’s, but this is so close by it could be worth a look as well.
The White Horse at 50-52 North Bar, OX16 OTH is an ale house serving at least five cask beers and sometimes up to ten, plus real cider. Regular ales include Everards Tiger and Turpins Golden Citrus.
Traditional pub food is also served and overall the pub seems to enjoy a good reputation for both its food and its ale. If you’re looking to eat as well as drink this could be a good choice.
The Exchange at 49-50 High Street, OX16 5LA is a Wetherspoons in a former post office / telephone exchange. Leominster readers could be forgiven for thinking that this all sounds rather familiar. You know what to expect here.
Ian Mann – The Hereford Hophead
