Ye Olde Black Bear, Tewkesbury

Absolutely exceeded my expectations on reopening. Glosters oldest pub, according to the sign that I have noticed for several years, as it was all closed up. A history from 1308 (branded on the pint glasses), a field hospital after the war of the roses battle, Shakespeare played here. Secret tunnels to the abbey. Ghosts aplenty. All of this can take with a pinch of salt. They have completed a modern makeover, retaining all features and adding a superb covered terrace that overlooks the Avon. With heating on, it was like being inside when you are outside, and if inclined, you could smoke there. For the time being. I expected a poor choice of expensive kegs, but no - about half a dozen hand pulls. I've always been a fan of the Uley brewery and there is a Ole Bear house beer here - a classic bitter that was in perfect condition. And get this - £4 a pint. Very, very impressed. New GBG comes out in a couple of weeks. If i was a betting man, and assuming this has been open 12 months, I would say its nailed on to be in there.