Wednesday 29th June 2011

Bob Thompson

This afternoon I arrived on a ferry at Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver and I caught the 257 bus to Park Royal and changed to the 239 to my next destination, at 1035 North Marine Drive.

It's named after the builder of the Lions Gate Bridge, a beautiful structure that spans the waters between Vancouver and North Vancouver, which is a separately administered city.

I was a bit disappointed as I couldn't find a bar area but was reassured when I was told that that "the pub is at the back" and sure enough there was a proper pub.

I ordered a sampler of the beers available: Red Truck Lager, Indian Arm IPA, Two Lions Pale Ale and Mad Scow Stout. There was also a seasonal wheat beer.

I must admit I was underwhelmed by these beers. Of course, the IPA was the best but even this wasn't as good as most.

There was a lone hand pump, so I asked if it was used. I was told that it was used once a month for "Firkin Friday" when they had a cask beer on. No doubt details are on their web-site.

I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS ESTABLISHMENT MAY HAVE CLOSED AT THE END OF 2011