Ale trails point the way to a perfect pint

For real ale lovers, the quest for a perfect pint just got a whole lot easier. A series of 26 regional guides incorporating more than 4,000 different pubs have been published this week by real ale quality assessor Cask Marque.

Called Ale Trails, the guides only list local pubs where the beer has been independently verified by an industry expert for its serving temperature, appearance, aroma and taste.

Copies are available over the bar at featured pubs or online (cask-marque.co.uk).

Paul Nunny, director of Cask Marque, said: “Cask conditioned ale is unique to British pubs and our organisation exists to make sure publicans are storing and serving their ales correctly.

“Our team of assessors visit pubs, always unannounced, to carefully check the various ales on sale. Those that make the grade receive the coveted Cask Marque plaque, which they can put on display to use for customers as a guarantee of quality.”

Since Cask Marque’s foundation nine years ago, Paul and his team of intrepid ‘beer inspectors’ have amassed information on thousands of heavenly hostelries, which they want to share with the nation’s pub goers.

Paul said: “The Ale Trails promote all Cask Marque accredited pubs across the country so people in search of a quality checked pint knows exactly where to go.

“They can also check our full listings online or send us a text message with a postcode and we’ll reply with the addresses of their nearest outlets.

“Quality counts when you drink cask ale, as anyone who has ever had a bad pint will testify. It’s well worth using the Ale Trail to find a local pub you can trust to get things just right.”