Trifter

EVERYONE has their own idea of what makes a good pub.  My concept is real ale, good food, a warm welcome, live music and plenty of intelligent conversation and banter.  The Black Bull at Frosterley in Weardale fulfils all these credentials.

Duncan and Diane Davies have four cask conditioned real ales that are superbly consistent and complement the most delicious meals that are served in absolutely stunning scenery.

It is a haunt for local and regional singers and musicians who often drop in to hold jam sessions.

The conversation covers the entire range of politics, religion, sport, history, current affairs and other subjects.

The last time that I was there, the four real ales were Allendale Brewery Tar Bar’l at 4.5% ABV, Jarrow Brewery Venerable Bede, 4.5%, Wylam Summer Magic, 4.2% and Milton Dionysus at 3.6%.

It was built during late 1770s and was part of the hunting grounds of the Prince Bishops of Durham.  The authentic restoration has won the Black Bull a conservation award.  The Black Bull has uneven flagstone floors with beamed ceilings.  It has Victorian settees, an odd assortment of furniture and massive cast iron kitchen ranges.  There is a bar, snug and parlour.

The Weardale Railway Preservation Society runs a steam railway line that is only a few steps away from the Black Bull.  The society has staged a number of re-enactment days in addition to the beautiful and evocative railway journeys.

There is Duncan’s photographic studio and a sound recording studio, which has a full set of church bells installed in the roof.

A weekend beer festival has been held and it is hoped that this will become an annual event.

The Black Bull at Frosterley can be contacted on 01388 527784.