Crewe Rail Ale Trail
The South Cheshire branch of CAMRA has launched its Rail Ale Trail. Based around seven pubs in Crewe, the trail is a fun way to explore and support our great pubs and cask beers. The trail pubs are all accessible via public transport, with most a short walk from regular bus and national rail services.
The trail map
The dotted line is the walk from the station to the first pub, and the solid line the walk between pubs 1 to 5. Pins with a dashed ring are further out: tap any pin for the pub’s details and bus routes, and use Get me there for directions from wherever you are.
Getting there and back
The walk starts at Crewe railway station, about six minutes on foot from the Express, and finishes at the Borough Arms, a short walk from Crewe bus station. For the town centre by bus, D&G 12A, 13, 37, 38 and 85 and First 103 run from the station forecourt (Stop A) to the bus station, and D&G 12 and 13 and Mikro 39 run from the Rail House stops on Nantwich Road.
Please drink responsibly, check opening times before you set off, and plan your last train or bus home. Bus times change, so check Traveline or the operator before you travel.
The trail was launched at the Crewe Heritage Centre’s event celebrating National Heritage Week, where South Cheshire CAMRA volunteers engaged with members of the public, telling them about the trail, CAMRA membership and the brewing process. The Crewe Rail Ale Trail celebrates the town’s industrial heritage and the community that grew around it.
Built on railways, engineering and hard graft, Crewe has always been a place where workers gathered in corner pubs after a shift, where stories were swapped, and where beer was part of the town’s social fabric.
The trail brings together a selection of traditional neighbourhood corner pubs, alongside more modern venues that reflect today’s brewing culture. Together they showcase the character of Crewe: a town shaped by industry, strengthened by community and still proud of its place in Britain’s railway story.
The Trail both highlights the excellent range of beers available in the town and also supports our pubs, which provide such a valuable focus for the communities they serve.
Derek Davey · Chair, South Cheshire CAMRA
As a brewery taproom with very little footfall we rely on being a destination venue and receive very little outside help. Having our local branch organise the Crewe Rail Ale Trail is absolutely crucial to us and we’re extremely grateful to the section of the branch who took the project on.
Sean Ayling · Tom’s Tap and Brewhouse
Rail Ale Trail venues
A traditional town-centre pub with a strong commitment to cask ale. The Express serves a rotating range of beers in a friendly, down-to-earth setting and is popular with both locals and visitors.
View on CAMRA → Stop 2
A welcoming community pub offering well-kept cask ales and classic pub character. The Earl of Chester is known for its sociable atmosphere and regular events that draw in a broad mix of drinkers.
View on CAMRA → Stop 3
A cosy continental-style bar offering a curated selection of cask, keg and bottled beers. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, Hops is a favourite stop for drinkers seeking variety and quality.
View on CAMRA → Stop 4
A community-focused brewery taproom producing small-batch beers on site. Expect an ever-changing range, experimental styles, and a friendly, inclusive space that regularly hosts events and collaborations.
View on CAMRA → Stop 5
A long-established ale house with a strong reputation for well-kept cask beer. The Borough Arms features multiple handpumps, a traditional pub atmosphere, and a loyal following among Crewe’s beer enthusiasts.
View on CAMRA →Further out: a longer walk, or hop on the bus
The Duke of Gloucester and the Raven are well worth the trip, but each is around 2 km from the town centre. Allow about half an hour on foot, or catch one of the buses below from Crewe bus station. Bus times change, so check Traveline or the operator before you set off.
A modern, railway-themed pub on University Way, on the east side of town, known for its rotating cask selection and spacious, comfortable interior. Popular with travellers and locals alike, it offers reliable beer quality and a warm welcome.
By bus: D&G 12A, 37 and 38, or First 103, with a stop about 100m from the pub.
View on CAMRA → Stop 7 · further out
A lively, modernised pub with a focus on good beer and good company. The Raven offers a dependable cask selection and a bright, open interior that makes it a comfortable stop on the trail.
By bus: D&G 12 and 13, which stop right outside.
View on CAMRA →Home of the Crewe Rail Ale Festival
Crewe also hosts our branch festival, the Crewe Rail Ale Festival: a great celebration of good beer, cider and perry in the unique setting of the Crewe Heritage Centre.