Blog by Neville Grundy, Southport and West Lancs CAMRA
It has been several years since I set foot in the Southport Tavern (previously called the Albert) so when the new licensee Steve Richards contacted the local CAMRA branch to tell us that it was now selling real ale again after a very long gap, I decided to call in.
Steve used to run the popular Spitfire (formerly known as the Arion) pub in Ainsdale.
It is a large pub with several separate drinking areas. Despite its traditional exterior, the décor is more contemporary. The pub looks as though it has recently been redecorated with pictures of old Southport on the walls. There are some alcoves where you can drink in relative privacy should you want to. A room to the rear is available for private functions.
I was told that they have a full kitchen and are looking to introduce food after Christmas.
Southport Tavern. Photo by Bertie Cunningham Southport BID
There is one long bar to the right as you enter with three handpumps. Two were in operation serving beers from the local Southport Brewery: Eagles Dare and Southport IPA. I found both were in good condition and were reasonably priced at £3.50 a pint. They have a large range of beers, lagers and ciders on tap, including Wychwood Hobgoblin (5%). Prosecco is now available, there is a gin bar and a wide choice of wines, rums, and other drinks.
I knew this pub as a sports pub, and while they still show sport on nine screens, it doesn’t dominate as it used to. In fact, there is a variety of activities during the week. On Monday and Tuesday they offer free pool; Wednesday is quiz night; Thursday live sport – football, racing; Friday is karaoke night with Bill.I.Am; Saturday has live music with either a band or solo performer; and on Sunday you can watch live sport all day and take part in cash bingo from 5pm.
The Southport Tavern is at 63 London Street, opposite the taxi rank by the railway station – very handy if you’re waiting for a train and not far from the main bus routes on Lord Street. It opens at midday and closes at 10.30pm on Sunday, 11pm on Monday to Thursday and 11.30pm on Friday and Saturday. You can keep up with what’s happening there on Facebook.
► The national CAMRA website is at: camra.org.uk. The Southport & West Lancs Branch website is at southport.camra.org.uk.
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