The Albion, Bristol

A large, recently refurbished pub which I understand re-opened just a few weeks ago. It’s a pleasant enough place, but in a somewhat bland, corporate, mass produced sort of way and is no doubt indistinguishable from numerous other GK pubs up and down the country. It will no doubt appeal to the many local families in Portishead, but whether the discerning drinker will make a beeline for it is another matter. It’s divided in to several different areas, with various different decor styles. Much of the pub is carpeted, but there are tiles around the bar and one of the rooms at the rear which is up a couple of steps has a wooden floor. Walls are a mixture of exposed stone work and various shades of paintwork – I spotted maroon, cream and “gastro-pub” brown. There was a scattering of small colour photos, and a partition made out of glass fronted racking full of wine bottles. Beers on tap were a slightly disappointing Abbott Reserve and Greene King IPA. My drinking companion was singularly unimpressed and queried if that was all they had. The barmaid looked somewhat perplexed and replied “Errr, ales? Errr, yeah”. He decided to opt for a Guinness. Ciders were somewhat better represented with Blackthorn, Thatcher’s Gold and Stowford Press, as well as a hot mulled one.

They keep reinventing this place. The Hungry Horse days have gone leaving us with a recognisable Greene King pub/ eatery.Usually a couple of ales on tap.Flat medium sized car park and good access, though the interior can be cluttered with diners who stretch their space.Otherwise not to bad for wheelchairs.