The Bell, Whitchurch

Very much as described below, and it’s pleasing to see that this traditional town boozer hasn’t changed much. Ales on were TT Landlord and faux-Gales Seafarer, both rather dull but still drinkable. It’s not the most exciting of venues but the landlady was welcoming and happy to chat, it’s a decent enough place for a few drinks and I’d be happy to come back for a few pints and to pass the time.

Obviously an old building,apparently 15th century, inside there are two rooms ,public and lounge,old blackened wooden beams complete with horse brasses and some interesting exposed brickwork give a traditional pub feel, at odds with this feel, were a couple of flashing gaming machines and some gaudily upholstered bench seats in various shades of purple, mauve and green, also there is a pool table,dartboard and jukebox.It states "Free House" on the pub sign outside but the choice was poor,four pumps With London Pride, Doom Bar and Gales Seafarers the only option. A comfortable pub but dull beer.

Aged public house. Traditional 60’s/70's interior, spartan public bar to left and a plusher (if somewhat worn in places) lounge to the right (and an extra little room up some steps). Different atmospheres in both rooms, the lounge was an old boys retreat whilst the public bar was, like its inhabitants, a bit more basic. Some nice interior touches in the lounge including wonky ceiling, inglenook fireplace though looked like gas fire (didn’t check). The woodchip wallpaper was perhaps a bit too much though. Three ales on, two from Fullers (Seafarers and London Pride) plus Doom Bar. The Seafarer’s was pretty poor, not helped by the barman plonking down the beer, acknowledging the lack of head on the listless brown liquid and saying “I’m sure that’s fine”. Idiots like him give the pub trade a bad name. Inexplicably GBG 2014 listed.