Samuel Jones, Exeter

Blackthorn _ left this review about Samuel Jones

A good sized St Austell’s pub in a prominent and prime position on the quayside, it was presumably a warehouse or something similar in a previous life but has now been put to much better use. It was surprisingly quiet on our recent Wednesday late afternoon visit, even though over venues nearby seemed quite busy.

Internally it’s clearly had some money spent on it, and is quite contemporary in style and consists of one large open plan L-shape room wrapped around the bar counter. Décor wise it’s a little industrial perhaps, with air condition ducting and cable trays clearly visible on the ceiling as well as concrete screed on the floor and painted breeze blocks on the wall, although some areas were carpeted and there were also some sections of exposed stone walling and rustic woodwork. A section at one end was perhaps designed to feel more like a public bar with TV screen, electronic darts board, table football and a fruit machine. A raised wooden area to one side provided good views across the water. Service was a bit hit and miss, but at least they all seemed friendly and helpful.

Beers on tap all appeared to be keg rather than cask and included St Austell’s Mena Dhu, Prober Job and Tribute, Harbour Pale Ale and Session IPA and a guest which was Bath Ales Gem, although since St Austell now own Bath Ales, calling it a guest seems a little tenuous. Overall though, not a bad spot, if lacking much in the way of any real character.

On 26^th June 2026 - rating: 6
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