The Bridge House (JD Wetherspoon), Chippenham

A new build pub adjacent to a small retail development off the High Street, alongside the river. The large main room has rather dark décor and not a lot of atmosphere, while down a couple of steps is another room with river views. At the side is a small balcony with a few tables overlooking the river. The front has a strange portico affair, with a smoking area beneath and a surprise room above which is a nice corner to escape to if you don't mind carrying your beer upstairs. The draught range was Doom Bar, Abbot, Marstons Old Empire and Saltaire Blonde along with three ciders.

Slightly unusual 'spoons, with the small 'flying' first-floor extension above the entrance and the decking terrace right by the river. However, although a 'new build', the interior is surprisingly formulaic and fails to take full advantage of its situation. Five real ales (including Exmoor Gold, £2.05) and two ciders available from the ground-floor bar.