Clarence House, Portishead, Bristol

Blackthorn _ left this review about Clarence House

Located at the far end of Portishead’s High Street, this was formerly a private members club but now operates as a pub open to anyone, although I believe there may be discounted pricing if you’re a member. First impressions aren’t great, with UPVC entrance door and a rather drab lobby area. Persevere though, and it’s quite a pleasant surprise.

It appears as though it’s been recently renovated and is quite smart and contemporary, with only the suspended polystyrene ceiling tiles in the first room letting it down slightly. It consists of two interconnected rooms forming an L shape, with the bar counter at the corner of the “L” being accessible to each. Flooring is predominantly a tartan carpet with dark wood strip at the rear and some Victorian style chequered tiling around the bar counter. Walls were painted in various shades including burnt orange, taupe and pale blue, whilst wood panelling on the lower part of the walls was predominantly a dark blue. Seating was mostly regular tables and chairs, although there was also some fitted padded bench seating around the permitter. There were also a lot of occupied seats at the bar, and it was consequently a bit of a squeeze to get there and be served. There were a couple of barrels for vertical drinking, and three or four TV screens. These were showing various sports channels, but fortunately the volume was off so it was not too intrusive. They were selling tickets for a meat raffle whilst I was there, and the place seemed pretty busy with pretty much all tables occupied, although I heard one punter remarking that it was quiet tonight.

Beers on tap were London Pride, Adam Henson’s Rare Breed and Butcombe Original, whilst a fourth pump for Bass appeared to have run out. Ciders meanwhile were a trio from Thatcher’s with their Gold, Haze and Dry. All in all, much better than expected, and certainly far superior to The Poacher just down the road which was pretty much dead with no atmosphere at all.

On 22^nd February 2025 - rating: 7
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