The Monks Retreat, Reading

A bit of an odd setup, with a small bar (with four handpumps) near the front doors and a much larger counter (with eight handpumps) further back up a few steps). 'L'-shaped layout overall, but a very dark interior. A few patio tables out front too. Didn't appear to be very well staffed (but perhaps I just caught it at a bad time?). Having said that, once served, I had a very good pint of Edwin Taylor's Extra Stout (£2.09).

Can get pretty full, there seems to be a lack of seating compared to other Spoons, I recommend visiting at quieter times.

This was just meant to be a breakfast stop on the way to Reading beer festival but we were really impressed with the service and the ale here. The choice of ales was good and we enjoyed Rebellion Smuggler and Lymestone Gaul Stone as well as a good breakfast. I didn't realise till we went in that it is one of the better Wetherspoon outlets and has made it into the 2011 Good Beer Guide.

I quite liked this Wetherspoons. Rang up to apply here for a job here once, was pretty drunk at the time!

Small fronted JDW that is a bit deceptive. There's a small bar to the left as you enter but if the beer choice there doesn't inspire you go up the steps and you'll find a much larger bar with more choice.

Large 'spoons with two serveries, a small bar at the front and a larger L shaped one further back, slightly confusing to the unwary or the drunk. Pleasant marble flooring and columns, old fashioned booths in the rear area. The beer was excellent and there was a very wide range in addition to the Real Ale Festival ales. The front pavement area looks to be monopolised by low rent smokers.

On approach to this pub the sometimes noisy customers on the patio area can . be off putting but were found to be quite harmless. Easy access for a wheelchair and a disabled toilet on the right hand side just through the entrance. The pub is on two levels ,limiting access for the disabled to the lower,smaller bar . Beer and wine were OK but the food we found to be below a reasonable standard.