GW, Swindon

Massively modernized Arkells pub/hotel, could still smell the newness. Island bar with fake slate tiled front, modern pale shades abound in the décor. Live train departure board, selection of papers. Three Arkells ales on: Wilts Gold, 3B and Tinge of Ginge. I tried a half of the latter which was unusually palatable for an Arkells beer and served in pretty good shape, if perhaps a tad cold. Perhaps a bit soulless at present (the refurb needs to bed down) but worth a look. 6.5

The Great Western now shortend to G W is Arkells flagship pub opposite the train station. The pub has been opened out inside and now has a large room that has lots of different drinking areas this has bare pine boards. There were three real ales on the bar i had a drink of Arkells 3B and this was very nice the other beers were Arkells 2B and Kingsdown Ale. I have been here quite a few times while waiting for a train and have usually found a seat towards the back of the pub where it is a bit quieter. Pub visited 29/9/2001