A relative newcomer, the GRUMPY GOAT BAR in Bardwell is our branch April ‘Pub of the Month’.

Located on Spring Road, in the picturesque village of Bardwell, near Ixworth, the ‘Grumpy Goat’ bar can befound at the Bardwell Sports and Community Club, a new build community facility which opened in February 2020. The development has been funded by the proceeds of the popular Bardfest events of the past ten years, local fundraising, and numerous grants. With expansive terraces, a marquee and unlimited outside space it is well equipped to take advantage of the first stages of lockdown easing. The new building has been the ambition of village resident and Cricket Club Chair, Stephen Larder, who is now the Grumpy Goat licensee. He said “Building and opening such a fabulous community facility has been a remarkable achievement. It would have not been possible without the successes of Bardfest and the support of our sponsors, the unstinting efforts of villagers (many of whom now volunteer behind the bar), businesses and the whole community. That we have been able to create a ‘pub within a club’ is a real bonus. The ‘Grumpy Goat’ is open to all whether your interest lies in sport, or being part of our community, or just enjoying an acclaimed pint of real ale or other tipple.” The ‘Goat’ is open every day of the week, with all day opening at the weekends. It has quickly earned a reputation for good value food, served on Friday and Saturday, and an extensive drink offering. During all three lockdowns it has been open for food and drink takeaway when allowed, which has been very popular and often fully booked. Local CAMRA Branch Chairman, Chris Bailey commented “it is great to present our coveted award to a new venture, especially one which epitomises everything a modern-day rural community pub should be. In some respects it is quintessentially English – you can enjoy a drink whilst watching the village cricket match play out before your eyes - or enjoy excellent good value food, or a varied events and entertainment programme including a Wax Works vinyl music event this Sunday afternoon (18 th April). We wish the ‘Grumpy Goat’ every future success.“