In the last few years, however, much greater choice of where to go to enjoy a pint or bottle of a favourite tipple, or try a new one or two, has come with a proliferation of new openings in what were previously shop premises of ventures such as micro pubs and, changing the face of a prominent corner of St Annes, The Hop Shoppe bottle shop and bar.
This time last year, a former barbers’ shop and the adjoining former Jazz Emporium bar were undergoing transformation into The Hop Shoppe on the corner of Wood Street and St Andrew’s Road South, with the barbers moving into part of a former chemist’s shop next door.
The Hop Shoppe opened in December and as its licensee Khyra Kershaw and her staff prepare to celebrate its first anniversary, our photographer went inside to see what’s on offer.
The Hop Shoppe prides itself on being eco-friendly and all products in the venue are produced by independent British producers and Khyra said: “We’re looking forward to celebrating our first year.”.
1. The Hop Shoppe in St Annes
The Hop Shoppe in St Annes is proving a popular draw as it shapes up for its first anniversary. Photo: Daniel Martino
2. The Hop Shoppe in St Annes
A wide range of ales are available The Hop Shoppe in St Annes. Photo: Daniel Martino
3. The Hop Shoppe in St Annes
As well as ales on top, more than 150 varieties of eer in cans are available to drink in or take away at The Hop Shoppe in St Annes. Photo: Daniel Martino
4. The Hop Shoppe in St Annes. Pictured is Niccie Arundel.
Staff member Niccie Arundel with a sample of the tasty ales on offer at The Hop Shoppe in St Annes. Photo: Daniel Martino
5. The Hop Shoppe in St Annes
This image of the late Queen Elizabeth II was engraved into the corner window of The Hop Shoppe in St Annes for her Platinum Jubilee in June and remains as a lasting tribute. Photo: Daniel Martino
6. The Hop Shoppe in St Annes
A portrait of Her late Majesty also hangs on the wall of The Hop Shoppe in St Annes Photo: Daniel Martino