WANDERING THE STREETS OF FENTON WITH LORNA DENNY

For those of you who believe Arnold Bennett when he wrote of the five towns, then let me introduce you to Fenton– the forgotten town! As a Fentonian myself, and because that the branch has very kindly moved the beer festival virtually onto my doorstep, I decided to become the roving reporter and visit the local pubs (o k, any excuse for a pub crawl!)

There are a surprising number of pubs within the area which serve a decent pint. The Newtown (ST4 4NA) has recently put real ales on and they are enjoying the success of serving Hobgoblin (damn good pint – cheers lads!) as well as a guest ale. Opposite is the Terrace (ST4 4NB), a well-established local serving Bass, which the landlord proudly claims to be the best in the city (we would agree but you will have to try it for yourself). Bass is also sold in the Royal Oak (ST4 2PY), and in Ye Olde Manor (ST4 2PT), along with two other real ales and food is also served. Titanic beers (our local brewery) can be found at both the Musician (ST4 2QA) and the Potter (ST4 3DB).

There is a little walk up to the Duke of Wellington (ST4 3LZ), a lively community pub selling Abbot. (They also do bungee jumps but I think I will leave that to the more adventurous!) Be careful not to miss the Angel (ST4 3JB) which is tucked away behind the Duke. Real ales vary at this location but Murf Ales have been seen on the bar before. You can also sample a nice pint of Murf's at the Foaming Tankard (ST4 2JZ).

The Malt 'n' Hops (ST4 3EJ) is one of the pubs that has won several Branch awards. It is a family run free house and there are at least four real ales at one time as well as a Belgian beer on draught and in bottles. For those who enjoy sports then visit this one to catch up on the day's events!!

Three other pubs which are slightly further afield but still well worth visiting are the Pool Dole (ST4 2PA), a friendly local selling a decent pint of Pedigree (the bus stops outside the front door so easy to get to); The Locomotive (ST4 3AR) also sells Pedigree and Marstons Bitter and from there you can wander down to the Regent (ST4 4JG) and enjoy their Hobgoblin.

So it is just left for me to say 'Welcome to Fenton' and enjoy the festival. We will be selling our new local guide at the beer festival so you will be able to find all these pubs and more. Or if you want directions to any of the above local pubs, I will be on the product stall and will be happy to direct you.

This Article is taken from the Autumn Edition of Potters Bar