The Bull Inn, Reading

Clearly a very old village pub/inn, timber framed with black and white exterior and low beamed ceilings. The pub has four connected areas, one end seems to be purely for dining, as perhaps is the room behind the bar, deserted on my visit but interestingly the exterior (unused) door is marked "Locals Bar". No Royston Vasey feel to the place though, however I was a little unsure of the "meet and greet" style reception on entering, but I suppose the place is a small hotel too. Back to the pub, the bar area is warm and welcoming, the fire was not necessary on the day of my visit, but I bet it makes for a cosy atmosphere on a crisp day. The fireplace in the "Locals Bar" is huge, Inglenook style. Generally wooden floors, mix of seats including wing back chairs by the fire....The comedy character "ver ver drunk" sprang to mind.....Whitehouse(?)....old photos, pics of the area etc. The courtyard outside is nice with plenty of seating but I do agree the parked cars take the edge off it a bit, Clarkson would love it though, no old bangers here! Nice hanging baskets, and climbing plants, Wisteria I think. The building itself is large and nowadays includes accommodation. I'm fairly sure there was a brewhouse here once, the front attached cottage is "Malt Cottage" and at first floor level there looks to be a grain store, now converted. Fullers now, Pride, Gales HSB, Chiswick and Discovery. £2.80 for Chiswick. A good looking food menu, ranging from the pricier Chefs Specials, but also including smaller offerings and sandwiches/snacks. A nice spot.

Official site of Fullers Brewery, owners of The Bull Hotel - www.fullers.co.uk

Official site of Fullers Brewery, owners of The Bull Hotel - www.fullers.co.uk