White Bear, Whitchurch

An attractive black and white timbered building set in a small courtyard at the bottom of the High Street. Inside the pub meanders around with various interconnecting areas culminating in a dog-leg around to a dedicated dining area at the back. Split level, a side area by the bar has ramped access to the seating opposite. Beamed ceiling, some panelling, leaded windows, the décor includes the usual B&W photographs of the area but also old film and theatre posters, I spotted a shelf of whisky boxes and also one containing assorted books, bizarrely including a Postman Pat annual. Newspapers in a rack. There was a reference to a pool table but I couldn't see any sign of it unless it is outside in the advertised large beer garden. Various fireplaces contain log/coal burning stoves so probably cosy in winter. Beers were Brain's Rev James, Pedigree, Sharp's Atlantic and Plassey New World Pale, one pump being unclipped. Food served clearly with the area at the rear set but this had probably stopped by around 3 on a Thursday and I didn't see a menu. Quite a nice pub in an interesting setting although I reckon the latest spruce up may have covered up some of the history of the place, worth a quick one anyway.

The White Bear is just situated down a small alley off high street and a couple of years ago had a major renovation.The interior seems to be on a few levels although the room to the immediate left is wheelchair accessible.There were 4 cask beers on the go and found the bar staff very friendly.there is a small outdoor seating area at the front of the pub but the beer garden at the rear is immense.