The Ship Inn, Bristol

Blackthorn _ left this review about The Ship Inn

Recently reopened after a prolonged spell of closure, this has now been taken on by the same team behind The Vittoria and The Barrel House just up the road in Clifton. It appears as though it’s also had something of a refurbishment since it was in dire need of some TLC if I recall correctly from my previous visit.

Internally it’s one open plan room, although the area off to the right is partially segregated by a wall and is also up a step or two. Décor wise it seemed a little gloomy perhaps, with very dark green paint on much of the walls, and wood panelling on the lower part that had been painted black. Elsewhere were some sections of exposed brickwork, whilst the flooring was plain wooden boards which contributed to a slightly rustic feel, perhaps. A number of barrels were dotted around for vertical drinking, whilst further seating consisted of stools at the bar and some Chesterfield style sofa’s. In a nod to the pub’s name, there were a few unusual pieces of artwork of various ships, but little else of a nautical theme.

Despite three handpumps on the bar, only one was in use dispensing Salopian Oracle. Ciders meanwhile were Inch’s Medium Apple and one called Flamingo’s, which the friendly barman described as their own, although he was unable to furnish any further details about it’s provenance. Overall, definitely an improvement, and I’d be happy to pop in again if passing, but equally I’d be unlikely to make a special journey.

On 1^st March 2025 - rating: 6
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