Down in 2:1 Where to find the strongest beer

But now Warwick University has introduced a new course aimed at topping up their practical knowledge.

The Demon Drink - A Social History of the English Public House, is a 10-week Open Studies course which begins in the New Year.

Topics covered include strange pub names, pub grub, and perhaps most interestingly, where to find the country's strongest beer.

Lessons in 'flonking'

Students will learn the difference between taverns, pubs and inns, understand why ale and beer are different, and learn why angry drinkers ran riot in the Middle Ages when hops were added to their favourite brews.

BBC Radio 5 Live's Education Correspondent Lesley Ashmall reports on strange courses

One module will cover the rare pub pastime of Doyle Flonking - a bizarre game in which punters dressed as scarecrows dodge mops soaked in beer, thrown at them by a designated "flonker".

Lecturer David Brandon said: "I hope to teach a very interesting subject using humour and fun examples.

"People may think they know all there is to know about their local but there's a lot more to it than meets the eye."

Anyone interested in attending the Open Studies course should contact the university on 01203 523708.

The first two-hour lecture - open to members of the public as well as students - will be on 12 January.