The Golden Fleece, Stroud

Basic but tidy local. A tiny L shaped interior with a wooden floor and a rustic feel with pea green paintwork, pine panelling, cream and purple wallpaper. Two cask at the bar; Wye Valley Butty Bach (NBSS 3) and Fixed Wheel, with a few off-beat kegs. Levellers on the stereo (yes, this is Stroud) with a friendly bearded barman in situ. Fairly quiet on mid-Sunday afternoon, as was much of town to be fair – some of the pubs didn’t even bother opening. I’d likely pop back in again next time. 6.5

The Golden Fleece is currently making use of its secluded suntrap of a garden hidden away at the rear. On initially entering, we thought this backstreet pub was dead. But we were soon directed through to the busy garden, where table service was in operation. Stroud Budding & Uley Pig's Ear were the 2 real ales on offer.

Open in Jan 2019 and obviously had an impressive internal make over inside. Very smart decoration but nothing too ostentatious. Lively on a Sunday night. One real ale on - Tom Long from Stroud Brewery - perfect condition. An enjoyable visit.