Walking into a pub and discovering a drink you haven’t had in a long time can be a delightful experience. Many pubs these days tend to have the same selection of ‘European’ premium lagers, Guinness, and maybe a craft beer option. So, coming across something unique can be quite satisfying. Recently, I had the pleasure of stumbling upon such a find.
After a long week at work, a few colleagues and I decided to unwind at The Vernon Arms on Dale Street. As I approached the bar, I expected to order a Guinness, as it’s always a good choice at The Vernon. However, something caught my eye – a row of Harp lagers, a 4% Irish brew that has been around since 1960.
Harp lager used to be quite popular back in the day, brewed by Guinness and enjoyed in bars across the UK, Ireland, and the USA. It even had a catchy slogan, “Harp stays sharp to the bottom of the glass,” which helped solidify its place in popular culture. However, its popularity waned in the late 1990s and 2000s, making it a rare sight in English pubs.
Having never seen Harp in an English pub before, I was pleasantly surprised to find it at The Vernon. I decided to give it a try and was reminded of its crisp, sweet flavor with a moderate 4% alcohol volume. It was a refreshing choice, and the novelty of drinking a beer that had become increasingly rare made it even more enjoyable.
The Vernon’s landlord, Conor Devlin, hailing from Dungannon, County Tyrone, took over the pub earlier this year and decided to introduce some Irish touches, including stocking Harp. This move has been well-received, with many patrons, myself included, appreciating the opportunity to enjoy this classic Irish lager in Liverpool.
The pub is proudly promoting its Harp selection, even posting old Harp adverts on social media to inform customers about this unique offering. While some patrons may want to keep this hidden gem to themselves, The Vernon is rightly celebrating its special feature.
If you’re looking to try a beer that has become a rarity in English pubs, head over to The Vernon and savor a taste of nostalgia with a bottle of Harp. It’s a treat worth experiencing for any beer enthusiast or those looking to enjoy a piece of Irish brewing history in the heart of Liverpool. Cheers to unique finds and memorable drinking experiences!