An absolute top place this. If you live in that area, you have a great little spot on your doorstep, if on the other hand you live in town like me it's still worth a quick train up.
They have two hand pumps there, I started on a Quantum UK light which had just been released. Excellent beer, and kept in top condition. I then decided to go on the keg beers, I think they have 7 kegs from memory. The highlight being Runaway Pale Ale.
I had a look around at the bottles and cans that were stocked, and given the size of the place this was very impressive, a mix of local, UK and US beers. Also worth noting they sell wine there to drink in or take-away, although the odds of me trying wine in a place with so much quality beer is pretty slim.
I've bought beer from Damian at markets over the last couple of years, and it's nice to see his new venture working out, you'll certainly receive a warm welcome from his and his wife/girlfriend.
Finally I'd like to highlight one other thing, value for money. Yes you have to pay a premium for a premium product, and I have no problem with that, but it cannot be disputed that a number of places are definitely "cashing in" on the willingness of punters to pay for craft beer. Heaton Hops on the other hand are offering some of the best beers you can buy in the UK at excellent prices, and yes i know they will have lower rent costs than places in the city centre but it's still a point worth making in my opinion. read more