The Five Bells, Swindon

Its this sort of place that justifies the Good Beer Guide. Its off the main high street - so unless you were looking for it, you'd be likely to miss it. Set next to the rear of the church, its a thatched cottage at the end of a terrace. Inside are a couple of rooms around a central bar. Decent sized beer garden viewed through the back window. Tradition pub decor/furnishings, with a low roof and a real fire in the front room. Sunday at 1pm and I could only find seating at the last remaining bar stool, meaning I got in the way of future orders and bill payment. Still, it was prime spot to look at the bar back (with Cotswold Ales illuminated, reminding me of Skol in Soho's Coach and Horses) and to see the 5/6 cask ales on that included Bass, Oakham Citra, Uley Old Spot and Tribute. Bass a regular ale on. 20+ consecutive years in the GBG by the same family. Well justified in my opinion. A fine boozer.

What lucky find – I just happened to park here while visiting a friend who lives nearby and wandered in for a beer as I was leaving. Glad I did, but what a pity I was driving as I’d like to have stayed a bit longer. It’s as described by others, below. There is a warm local feel to it, prices are reasonable and the beer is excellent. I also liked the fact that tables have reserved times on them rather than just a blanket ‘reserved’ sign, so you can sit there but know when you have to leave. Even the improvised mixer tap in the gents’ raised a smile. Ales on were Otter Ale, Black Sheep Best, Pride, Maverick’s California Golden Ale, Animal’s Hop Hound, and Abbott. Old Rosie was also on draft. There are several CAMRA POTY certificates on the wall, which seem well-deserved. A really enjoyable visit which I hope to repeat soon.