Cider in Leicester - A Pub Guide

As promised, for those visiting the Leicester CAMRA Beer Festival, and not satisfied with the 40 (yes 40!) ciders and perrys on offer, here's a snapshot of the current cider outlets which are within easy walking distance of the festival (correct as of Feb 2010):

Ale Wagon, 27 Rutland Street, LE1 1RE (0116 2623330) - A guest cider is usually available on handpump, Gwynt Y Ddraig Barnstormer on a recent visit.

Black Horse, 1 Foxon Street, LE3 5LT (0116 2540030) - A rare traditional pub in an area littered with style bars. Westons Old Rosie on handpump.

Criterion Freehouse, 44 Millstone Lane, LE1 5JN (0116 2625418) - Perhaps the most eclectic range of draught ciders and perrys available in the city. Up to two guests are usually available, one of which will be on the dedicated cider/perry handpump. Thatchers and Westons ciders feature, but there's just as likely to be something interesting from a smaller craft producer. The Criterion is our regular outlet for Rockingham Forest Cider in Leicester. There is an annual Cider & Cheese Festival in the Summer.

The Pub, 12 New Walk, LE1 6TF - Keg ciders only here, including the better than average Aspall Suffolk Draught Cyder. Personally, I would recommend the range of bottled ciders from Welsh producer Gwynt-Y-Ddraig. A proper draught cider on one of the 15 handpumps wouldn't hurt though. Perhaps if enough people ask...

Rutland & Derby, 23 Millstone Lane, LE1 5JN - Westons Old Rosie on handpump.

Swan & Rushes, 19 Infirmary Square, LE1 5WR (0116 2339167) - Up to two guest ciders, often from smaller craft producers. Recently Crones Organic Ciders from Norfolk have featured. This year's Cider & Cheese Festival has been pencilled in for 21st - 22nd May.

The Western, 70 Western Road, LE3 0GA (0116 2545287) - Aspall Suffolk Draught Cyder, and a bottled house cider from Sheppy's.

Wetherspoon - Both The Last Plantagenet (107 Granby Street, LE1 6FD) and The High Cross (103-105 Hight Street, LE1 4JB) usually have a box of Westons cider in the fridge (note: their Marcle Hill Cider is in fact re-badged Westons 1st Quality!). Occasionally something more interesting from Gwynt Y Ddraig makes an appearance too.