On Friday 3rd March our ‘West First Friday’ event was entitled ‘A Penryn Wander’. The idea was a stroll around Penryn visiting some different hospitality outlets. We met at the new Verdant Brewing Company’s modern taproom.

This was a new experience for some of the group who attended, but it received very good comments. This modern venue is popular with all age groups and hosts a variety of community events.

In addition to their 16 keg beers, Verdant are brewing cask ales and on the day we were able to sample Penpol (3.8%), Lamanva (4.0%), Argal (4.4%) and Burnthouse (4.6%). We all agreed that there was something that appealed to everyone’s taste in this line up!

From the taproom it is easy to view the modern brewery through the glass wall. Pizzas are made to order if you feel like enjoying something to eat too!

After enjoying our time in this relatively newly opened space, we strolled through the Tremough Campus where those of us with an interest in horticulture could admire the spring shrubs and flowers. This short walk brought us into the centre of Penryn town and to the Seven Stars. This pub was closed in recent times but has been fortunately reopened as a brew pub with accommodation.

The brewery can be visited at the back of the pub where there is also a sunny courtyard. Brewer Tomasz Trzcinski is working to build the new brewery - the Hidden Brewery at the Seven Stars.

During the time this pub was closed it was refurbished and is now a clean and fresh environment yet retains a traditional feel. Three ales from the brewery’s own range were available: Citrus Pale; Pale Ale and Winter Ale.

We then headed down the hill, passing the famous Penryn Town Hall and Museum, to the Famous Barrel.

This lovely traditional pub has a welcoming traditional vibe. We were particularly lucky on this day to find space to all sit together and I know the Dartmoor Jail Ale is a favourite for many! There is also a large beer garden that can be enjoyed during the warmer weather.

Penryn is well served by local transport links and although we walked between our venues, this route could easily be followed using the local bus services. Many members and friends commented on how enjoyable the afternoon had been and particularly the fact that they had visited some unfamiliar and different settings. Keep an eye on the diary page of our website for future events.

Words by Jan Curtis

Photos by Steve Barber