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From the Dover Express, 24 March, 2016.
MICRO IS BEAUTIFUL.
Small is beautiful, at least as far as pub life is concerned with
micropubs leading a resurgence in social drinking using unusual
buildings to champion local food and drink. Trish Gulliford of the Rack
Of Ale in Dover gives her view on the reasons for the success and we
round up some of the best micropubs around...
MOST of you will have heard of micropubs. We are small
by definition.. but essentially we are
pubs with a twist.
In 2013 my partner and I set up The Rack of Ale and later came the
others which are dotted around town.
We offer a diverse mix of atmosphere, attitude and decor. Between us we
offer in excess of 20 real ales and more than 60
ciders among a selection of other drinks.
Micropubs cannot be considered the “norm” of public houses. We have a
few localised rules which individual micropub owners either police or
not - I’m not so strict - others can be. Generally, we limit the use of
mobile phones: swearing: games machines are a definite no no... and a
few other quirks.
Essentially we are small pubs
who bring strangers and friends together. We offer a dog friendly, safe
environment for people who want to meet other like-minded individuals
for a chat.
We are not all about ale. The products we sell are artisan and those
that know what they are doing should have knowledge of all of them. That
is the difference. Anybody can serve a pint - but do they know anything
about it? We do. We have some weird and wonderful tales to tell.
You can find yourself laughing until faces ache (or the opposite at
times). On occasion, the whole pub will end up singing everything from
sea shanties to earthy soul.
I spend many hours in my little micropub. I’m there to lean on at times
of need - I’m there to laugh with (or at) - I’m there to provide you
with a sanctuary that offers quality and value for money. If you haven’t
tried it -give it a go.
The Rack of Ale in Dover.
Interview with Trish Gulliford.
Q: How did it start?
A: I needed something to do and a friend of mine
suggested a micropub. The shop in Ladywell had been empty for three
years.
It had been Kenneth Bird Opticians and the new owner was busy renovating
it when we approached him. He has been very supportive ever since.
We opened the Rack of Ale in 2013. It has been gathering pace ever
since.
Q: What’s new?
A: Recently we opened the Back Rack where we can stretch out
- hold events such as theme nights, pop-up dining, or simply watch the
rugby.
All of our ideas are publicised on our website and social media pages.
So far we have enjoyed the success of two beer festivals and a very
successful ‘40s Swing and Jive Night.
Q: The drinks?
A: We supply around five or six craft ales on tap and
gravity, and a selection of international ales on pump. There is a large
number of gins, rums, wines and ciders together with a range of posh “softies” (great
on their own or with a vodka shot).
If you aren’t sure what to have, we can offer you a choice in the form
of a rack which allows you to try out three different beers.
Q: What next?
A: The Rack of Ale loves a gimmick and scheme and is a small
business which never sits on its laurels. Instead, it evolves on a daily
basis. We are now well known for setting a
trend and I for one am proud that others wish to follow our success.
Next theme night: Saturday, May 26, ‘60s night in the Back Rack.
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