retiredmartin

A penultimate Mid Wales tick in one of those “unimproved” rural pubs the Welsh specialise in. “Old man’s pubs” says Mrs RM.

The Beehive in Manafon has taunted me for years with its “challenging” opening hours and shy social media presence, and when we arrive there is no sign of a Friday night opening.

After 20 minutes a car drives through the village. I flag it down and ask the chap if he knows if the Beehive is open.

He looks doubtful.

“Could be. Who knows?” Then he speeds off.

By luck, two Old Boys walk up to the door at 18:59, ease in to what looks a darkened room, and I find myself in a queue.

7pm is the stock opening time for a Welsh rural pub. Good luck, BRAPA.

I expect the worst from the Stonehouse Station bitter, but it’s cool and rich (NBSS 3.5), and the pub is a joy.

“Massachusetts” the soundtrack, the banter about Bairstow’s failings in the test, the outsider welcomed into the conversation.

A pub for locals, the Anchor Anchor of the west. Long may it run.