August 2023. Ellesmere Port.
I’m homeward bound now, like Paul Simon in nearby Widnes, where “home” is a campervan at Chester racecourse.
But first, Ellesmere Port.
There really weren’t that many people on the Ellesmere branch of the Wirral line.
I pride myself on finding the best in places. Think of my ground-breaking 4 part series on the hidden treasures of Motherwell.
But central* Ellesmere Port (almost) defeated me.
One of the most depressing high streets in the country (only Durham is worse), making Bootle seem positively revitalised.
and the sale of the Spoons to Amber Taverns hasn’t helped.
So thanks goodness for Bondies Bar, your best bet for cask and a gem of a cheery neighbourhood micro.
Packed at 6pm, with that mix of life that the best modern micros achieve.
In situations where you don’t recognise any of the beers, ALWAYS go for the one being pulled, even if it is a house beer.
Bondies certainly passed the lacings test (NBSS 3).
Upstairs you get photos of the locals gurning in more attractive places,
a picture of the 1974 Cheshire Floodlight League Cup winners,
and a stern telling off if you use the ladies.
And downstairs, a classic soundtrack in which Jon Anderson, 4 pints up, is attempting to get back to Chester via Hooton.
Just as I was at that precise moment.
*In fairness there’s a busy designer outlet and a waterways museum just out of town. If you like that sort of thing.
retiredmartin 
I bel8eve you can be breathalysed and charged with being over the limit even if asleep in a camper van as you are legally in chaarge of a motor vehicle The legal test is whether the keys are in your possession However the chance of a knock on the door would seem to be remote
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Baa Baa Toure is in charge of the keys. I believe he hides them in the Singapore rice container overnight.
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If on a public highway?
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The High Street in Ellesmere Port has a Greggs – what more could you want?
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Well, I find myself put firmly in my place, Paul.
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