The Five Bells, Swindon

Quinno _ left this review about The Five Bells

Almost ten years to the day since my last visit. Unfortunately the place was rammed and I was forced into standing in the COVID-upgraded garden. I did note that there appeared to have been an application of gloomy paint inside, as it felt less homely than I recall. Six cask on, though the bar blockers stopped me from gaining easy access; in the end my Dartmoor Legend was fine (NBSS 3 - slightly green). Worth the perennial GBG spot but not seen at its best this time.

February 2014
Lucky enough to get back here for a decent session, arriving just after opening on a Sunday. The interior seems to be a bit brighter than I recall from previous but has lost none of its homely character; lit fires, leather chairs, half wood panelling and comfy banquettes in the front bar. Range of ales still there too: Butcombe Bitter, London Pride, Fullers Bengal Lancer, Moorhouse Black Cat, Black Sheep and St Austell Proper Job. All good on the ale front (we did the lot bar Pride), though the Black Cat I think was nearing the end of the barrel. Old Rosie cider also available. Girls behind the bar very friendly and chatty, as were the locals. Checked out the rear room which had an unusable dart board (behind tables). Dominoes and papers also available. A forthcoming pickled onion contest was advertised – don’t see many of those. Food was offered and seemed to be selling well (pity the staff dealing Mrs H.Bucket and her entourage that turned up). Good sized covered rear patio for the smokers. An enjoyable visit and well-worth the short drive off the M4 to sample. Could have stayed all day, really. Rated 9

December 2009
Just off the main High Street lies the best pub in Wootton Bassett, according to numerous editions of the Good Beer Guide. A thatched building which looks attractive but the interior is a fair bit more modern than you’d expect. It is at least still split into two rooms with a roaring fire on the go in each. A nice atmosphere inside and the pub was busy despite it being a dismal and dark weekday evening. Five pumps with London Pride, Black Sheep and, fantastically, O’ Hanlons Yellowhammer which was (joyously) in exceptionally good form. This seemed like a nice little community pub; the availability and high quality of one of my favourite ales means I’ve got to give the place a lofty mark. Rated 8.

On 25^th April 2024 - rating: 8
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