Victoria Inn, Bristol

You feel like you've stepped back in time when you go in to this pub, I can't imagine it's changed much in 20 years. That's not to say it looks tatty, it just seems a rather dated layout somehow. There's a small bar at an angle in the front bar, and some interesting looking food on the menu. Three Wadworth's beers on tap, plus a couple of guests, inc. Butcombe. Unbelievably though, there's no draft cider. True, there were about half a dozen in bottles to choose from, but if I want to drink bottled cider I can buy it in the supermarket at half the price. I come to the pub to get a nice pint on draft. This again points to the time warp that the pub is in - 20 years ago you did find the odd pub that didn't sell cider, but not these days with it's massive increase in popularity. The fact that thet had three lagers on tap, and none of them English ones at that, makes it even worse.

A cracking pub that remained our local even seven years after moving closer to many more pubs. Wadworth beers (6X, IPS, Horizon) and two guests (usually Butcombe plus one) all in good nick - GBG for ever. A good set of locals can be relied upon to entertain. The pub can get very busy, but always retains a pleasant atmosphere. Food is at the better end of traditional pub fare with Pie Minister pies, locally-sourced meat, excellent fish. Prices not too high either - we eat here regularly, even though we now live away. Best to book for busy periods if you want to eat. Look out for the legend that is Bertie the Beer Hound.