The Barge Inn, Bradford-On-Avon

The location is this pub’s best asset, both its proximity to the canal and being on the outskirts of town, making it easy to find. The car park is also very useful, given the poor traffic conditions in Bradford. The staff were quite welcoming, though the layout and attitude of other customers detracted from the experience. There were 6 boxed ciders behind the bar, plus Doombar, Otter Ale and something called Pub Leisure Grafter. I stuck with the otter which was in average condition. With a little effort this could be so much better.

An old building dating back to the building of the Kennet & Avon Canal,this sits back from the former wharf but has a lovely beer garden extending canalside.My guess is that this would have been the Wharf House,and K&A Offices. The interior has had a modern refurb,not that well done,but at least a woodburner has been retained in a fireplace in the tap room as you enter,with the bar to the left.Furniture is mainly in pine,while a back bar is now more lounge with dull looking dining tables and a lower rear area has seating pews..At least the flatscreen was turned off,but it just feels corporate with not much charm despite a lot of exposed stone work. Of the 5 handpumps,two were unused on my trip ,the others drawing Marstons EPA,London Pride,Kettlesmith Ridgeline and Ringwood Boondoggle (decent enough condition ) Clearly Marston portfolio ales will dominate in this tied house,but guests are carried. The beer garden here is the winner,it could be so much better inside if Marston's could be bothered.Convenient if boating the K&A.