River City, Hotwells, Bristol

A long established pub just across the road from the river, it has struggled a bit for some time and been through various changes of ownership. It’s invariably rather quiet and although the docks are very close by, many people walking around them would probably not even know that this pub is there. It seems to have had something of a refurbishment since my previous visit, and it is now somewhat more bistro in style than your traditional pub. Overall it’s pleasant enough although without really having much in the way of character. The suspended ceiling jarred somewhat though, and would be much more at home in an office than a pub. Decor wise, the paint scheme is a mixture of salmon and cream, whilst there is dark wood laminate on the floor. A plasma was recessed in to the wall at one end, although this was not in use on our visit. Tables were perhaps a little squashed in, and we had to move a high chair from behind our table before we could even sit down. Chairs were quite contemporary covered in chocolate leather and there was a large vase in one corner with some illuminated twigs. Food is offered, although I didn’t see a menu other than a chalkboard listing a roast when we were there on a Sunday lunch time. There were only a few people eating with many empty tables, when most of the other pubs nearby were bursting at the seams. A large coffee machine was on the end of the bar counter. The solitary beer on tap was Doom Bar, whilst ciders were Thatcher’s Gold and Copper Press. Overall, there’s nothing really wrong with this pub, but nothing that’s going to entice me to rush back either, which is a bit of a shame as the landlord was friendly enough and is clearly trying to make a go of this difficult spot.