Yesterday saw the branch make a visit to one of our most northern most pubs, The Rose and Crown at Halstead. This was a precursor to visting the Orpington Liberal Club (OLC) for it's Spring Beer and Cider Festival preview. Most of us gathered at Tonbridge Station where we caught a train to London. Several alighted at Sevenoaks to catch a connecting service to Knockholt, where they would walk to the Rose and Crown whilst I stayed on the train to Orpington where I met a colleague and we caught an R5 bus to Halstead. When I got to the Rose and Crown the walkers had already arrived. We joined up in the bar where we were able to enjoy some of the selection of six real ales available.

The Beer List at Rose & Crown Halstead

All too soon it was time to depart to catch an R10 bus back to Orpington which would get us there for the opening of the OLC. A couple of the fitter members decided to walk back to Knockholt Station whilst the rest of us caught the bus. We arrived at OLC shortly after six, meeting another member outside and on entering we found two other members already there. There we found a selection of 20 different real ales of various strengths and styles, enought to keep most members happy. There were also eleven real ciders.. During our stay a few more members came to join us whilst some left.

Beers at Orpington Liberal Club Beer Festival

More Beers at Orpington Liberal Club Beer Festival ]

West Kent Members enjoying the Festival Beers

Thank you to the Rose and Crown and OLC for their hospitality. I certainly enjoyed the day and I think most others did.