Radnorshire CAMRA members visit to the Severn Arms in Penybont

When we arrived a front door notice said "No Food", so Colin left early to buy food. The management and staff were away for the day, leaving a retired pub owner to stand in who was a very friendly and knowledgeable fella. Butty Bach was ordered but it was then noticed it was cloudy even though it tasted OK. Next we had the only other choice WyeValley HPA. That was fine. When we went back for another HPA, this was as cloudy as the Butty had been, but again tasted OK. The question was asked about opening new barrels but was told they needed five hours to clear. This is one of our member's local and he informed them we would be there. However 24 hours before the visit he received an email stating that we should not visit. On questioning this it became clear that they 'thought' we would want to inspect the cellars. This was all sorted when it was made clear that we had no interest in viewing the cellar.

Sadly however they had left the temp. barman with two almost finished barrels and new ones not ready to open. As a CAMRA visit to enjoy cask ales in a Radnorshire pub this was a very disappointing experience. There were no well presented real ales on offer, no food and not even a lit fire.