The Severn Bore, Gloucester

On the western bank of the River Severn, outside the village of Minsterworth, and on the main A48 to Chepstow is The Severn Bore Inn ( or the “Sever Ore Inn” as per the lettering on the pub’s front wall) , a large roadhouse type of pub. The pub sign shows The Severn Bore – a tidal wave that sweeps along the river towards its mouth several times a month and, when unusually high, draws large numbers of spectators along the route of the wave. The Severn Bore Inn is apparently one of the prime locations to watch this phenomenon and, with its outside decked garden overlooking the river, has positioned itself to benefit from the resulting trade. Inside is a large single room with a longish bar counter, leaded frosted windows, a mixture of seating and a slightly tired worn feel. There’s some framed photographs of the wave, but otherwise it’s a rather uninteresting and dull interior with little of specific note. A large extension to one side houses a skittles alley and a pool table. On my recent Saturday lunchtime visit, the landlord was friendly and welcoming, telling me that the biggest bore since 1957 was due on the coming Thursday. Apart from 2 customers playing pool, the pub was completely empty, contributing to an impression of a pub going through hard times. There’s 3 handpumps, but only one was in use, serving an enjoyable Wickwar Severn Bore bitter ( £ 2.70p ) , which I imagine is one of their standard bitters rebadged for the pub. Unless there’s a tidal wave forecast, I doubt that I’d do this one again