The Castle, Bradford on Avon

Recently moved to Bradford-on-Avon, and spent our first night in the town in The Castle as our new local.

We'd been here before, and were glad to see that on our second visit the beers, wines, friendly welcome and food were as good as the first time we came here.

I like the separation of the (mainly) dining area from the (mainly) drinking area, as well as the local, well kept, ales available. The food is excellent - although not cheap, definitely good value for money as the quality and freshness is very high.

There was a good buzz to the place without being overcrowded or too loud to have a good conversation. We were made to feel very welcome by Tori and her colleagues, and look forward to heading back regularly in the future.

2 Dec 2009 20:52

The King's Head, Bledington

Well, I'm moved to post another comment after the one just below this one.

Turns out the staff were off again sadly. OK they were busy, but on a recent Friday night we came in, sat down at a table (no reserved sign) and went to the bar to order drinks and find out about food.

Barman (appeared to be the owner or manager) was quite abrupt, and when I asked to order food, it appeared we had broken some kind of unspoken rule that we hadn't booked. Was told someone would take our order sometime in the future.

After waiting 20 minutes for someone to take our order, we asked once, then again, and both times were told we needed to wait our turn and someone would deal with us eventually.

We were hungry and didn't want to leave, but although the beers and food (in the end) were very good, I will not be back as I don't want to be treated as a problem that the staff have to deal with. Disappointing.

2 Dec 2009 20:46

The Stirling Arms, Hove

Now called The Foragers.

Excellent fresh, local food and good beer too (Harvey's plus one/two others). Has a gastropub feel but that doesn't take over the place and there appear to still be regulars in here for their pints. Shabby chic decor and furniture suit the place. Had a comedy night on whilst we were there in the back room which seemed to be quite popular.

Staff weren't particularly welcoming, although not sullen enough to put me off returning when I am in the area again. Surprised to see the pub scoring so low.

9 Sep 2009 09:52