Castle of Comfort, Bristol

In many ways this is the quintessential country pub with a cosy atmosphere, plenty of wood panelling, low ceilings, a real fire and lots of old photo's and brass horse tacks around the place. There's a couple of comfy leather sofa's opposite the bar, with the rest of the pub being given over to tables and chairs. It seems very popular with diners, but it's not the sort of place where you feel unwelcome if you're just popping in for a pint (or two). There's a decent sided beer garden at the side and a couple of play things to keep the kids amused. The staff are quite young but pleasant enough. It also seems to attract a lot of youngsters, at least on the night we were there, but this is in no way a negative thing. They were all very well behaved and seemed to be sticking to soft drinks. A pleasant change. Good choice of beers on tap – Cotleigh Barn Owl, Doom Bar, Butcombe and Mole Catcher. A good choice of ciders as well, namely Moles Black Rat, Thatcher's Gold, Stowford Press and Sharp's Cornish Coaster – this is the only place outside Cornwall I've seen that. Well worth a visit.

Official site of the Castle of Comfort, includes menu and wine list - www.castleofcomfort.com

Official site of the Castle of Comfort, includes menu and wine list - www.castleofcomfort.com