Red Lion, Bristol

An impressive building which has seen better days, this is a former coaching inn. The yard at the back has an old coach house and other outbuildings which are now dilapidated, probably beyond repair, which the courtyard surface is broken and unsightly. This is now the carpark for the pub, though it seems to be shared with other businesses. When entering from the car park you pass a skittle alley and dining room which operates as a carvery as well. Turning right, you enter the main bar down a short flight of steps and through a small drinking area. The open plan main bar has been formed by knocking through the front rooms. There was a small fireplace, a pool table at one end and several TV screens. The barmaid wasn’t the brightest and it was a challenge to get her to serve us. No real ale on, just two dry pumps and the usual keg offerings. Bottles of Deuchres IPA (which she insisted was cider), Newcastle Brown and Doombar were the best they could manage. They host regular live music acts. Given its location, facilities and history it could be so much better, but as it stands I don’t see any point making a repeat visit.