Black Sheep & Theakstons Breweries

We are nearing the time when we ought to be out of the UK to avoid any bad weather. I know in recent years snow, our biggest enemy, has fallen with a vengeance in november but feel we are taking the mickey staying this late in to the winter. A sharp frost these last few days has started to make me nervous and hope we can avoid the worst until we depart

To enhance our stay we decide to team up with the 'Outlaws' on a CL near Masham in North Yorkshire

Not because of the lovely countryside but because its home to two of the country's best breweries

On the Northbound A1 I decide to check tyre pressures and get quite a shock when I notice this recently used fuel pump

This was of course one of the lorry pumps but can you imagine this bill on a regular basis!

Next day we are taxied in to Masham and dropped off at this fine place

The Black Sheep Brewery has it nailed down in our opinion

We took the one hour tour, best booked in advance, and settled down for an excellent meal in their restaurant accompanied by free tasters and several extra 'snifters' of their top quality real ales

Terry, my father in law sporting a cap named after my favourite Black Sheep ale, Riggwelter

A quick look around the shop buying T shirts and yes, beer and it was off for the tour

What our guide didn't know about her ales and the brewing process wasn't worth knowing

Open vented pine roof to let out the steam

Today's lesson children is all about beer

Going…….

Gone!

These are the kinda signs that men won't ignore

You are spoilt for choice here as there are at least two reasons to visit Masham

Only fitting that we give the Theakstons Brewery a go later that afternoon

For many years this has been one of my favourite ales, at 5.6% ABV it will give you a kick in the head next morning. My 'session' beer here would be XB, another long time friend

The Notts drinking team at 'The Black Bull in Paradise' located within the Theakstons visitor centre

OK, which did we prefer, Black Sheep or Theakstons?

Our jury polled a unanimous vote for the Black Sheep Brewery as we felt it had a much better atmos and the food and beers were excellent