It’s one of those questions that even seasoned drinkers mumble over the bar — “What’s the difference between a porter, a stout, and a mild?” The short answer: they all come from the same family tree —
What Makes a Pub a Proper Real Ale Pub? (It’s More Than Just Handpulls)
You can spot a “real ale pub” a mile off — or at least you think you can. A few shiny brass pumps, a chalkboard of strange beer names, and a landlord who knows his hops from his elbow. But plenty of p
How Often Should a Pub Clean Its Beer Lines? (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)
If you’ve ever had a pint that tastes a bit “off” — not quite sour, but not right either — chances are the lines haven’t been cleaned properly. At The Old Cross Tavern, we clean every line every singl
What Actually Happens in a Pub Cellar
Most people never see it, but the cellar is the heart of a proper pub. It’s the difference between a pint that makes you smile and one that makes you wonder if you should’ve ordered something else.At
How We Choose Our Guest Ales (And Why It Matters)
We don’t pick beers off a spreadsheet.We pick them off reputation, flavour, and trust. At the Old Cross Tavern, we’ve got eight handpulls that rotate more than most pub playlists — but there’s nothing
The Best Pubs in Hertford for Real Ale (And Why We’re Proud to Be Among Them)
Hertford’s full of good pubs that still serve proper cask ale — from the riverside Old Barge to the lively Black Horse. Here’s an honest look at who’s doing it well, and why The Old Cross Tavern is proud to be part of that mix.
🍻 Our Most-Loved Ales at The Old Cross Tavern
A look at the pints flying out fastest at The Old Cross Tavern — from Timothy Taylor’s Landlord to Ghost Ship, Norfolk Gem, and our ever-present dark beer line.
🪶 Cask vs Keg: What’s the Real Difference?
Real ale vs keg beer — here’s what separates them, and why both have their place behind the bar at The Old Cross Tavern.
Why Do Pubs Serve Flat Beer? (And Why Yours Shouldn’t Be)
Ever had a flat pint? Here’s what causes it — and why good cellar care at The Old Cross Tavern means your beer’s always lively and spot-on.
How Much Does a Pint of Real Ale cost in Hertford
Find out how much a pint of real ale costs in Hertford in 2025 — and why The Old Cross Tavern keeps prices fair without cutting corners on quality.