Albatros, Wells Town, Wells-Next-The-Sea

An unusual boozer in the form of an 1899 North Sea Clipper which is permanently moored at Wells quay right at the centre of town. It's not for the infirm as entry is via a gangplank and the steps down to the bar are very steep. There are plenty tables on the deck outside but you do need to clamber around. It's a fantastic place to enjoy a pint though on a sunny day as you fell somewhat removed from the bustle of the quay, especially if the tide's out as you're below street level, and can enjoy the views across Wells harbour. Inside, it's a boat with seats around the edge and plenty of space for vertical drinking. It does feel comfy though and is probably a fun place to hole up in the winter. Service is bohemian and friendly and although we didn't eat the food looked good, freshly cooked and with a wide variety of Dutch pancakes on offer. Beer is all straight from the barrel and when we visited was all from Woodfordes. On offer were: Sundew, Mardlers Mild, Admirals Reserve, Once Bittern, Festival Ale, Wherry and Nelsons Revenge. There's a fair range of strengths and styles there despite being from a single brewery with many that I've never seen before. I only had time for a couple but both were in fine nick and the GBG 2012 listing is well deserved. Wells is a lovely seaside town but it certainly isn't the centre of the real ale universe so the Albatross really stands out and deserves a visit.