The Riverside, Radstock

An impressive large house fronted not by a river but a large drainage ditch or stream separating its front outside terrace, which is used mainly by smokers, whose fumes drifted in through the windows, from the high street. Inside the front rooms have been knocked together to form a large bar area with a high ceiling, wood panelling, stained glass in the doors and an industrial black-carpeted floor. It could be an impressive space but it’s marred by the use of cheap furnishings and fittings. The bar is at one side, and at the other a raised area which had seating when we visited but is used for live music acts at times. This area also has a small electric fire in a brick fireplace, which again makes it look cheap. There is a small motorcycle hanging from the ceiling by the bar, and a screen and projector. In the middle is a pool table. There is apparently another large area at the back but we didn’t check it out. It wasn’t a friendly place for us, being more like a locals’ club than a pub in how it felt, while the black carpet made it feel gloomy. It is however a good community asset if you happen to live here. There was background music playing at a sensible level, and the banter was mostly quite tolerable. No real ale, just Sharp’s Atlantic on keg, which was not enjoyable. The Wetherspoon’s nearby is a much better bet, especially as this place has restricted opening hours.