The Castle Inn, Bradford-On-Avon

A steep walk up the hill and adrift from the picturesque centre, it makes the most of its location with a lovely garden which was ram-packed on a warm and sunny BHM (apparently it has ‘views’ but there were too many punters in the way for your intrepid reviewer to get a shot). Inside is 'tasteful faux farmhouse' with black paved floor, chunky wood tables and chairs, white walls and painted blue wood trim. The majority of its trade comes from dining but on today it was all about the booze. Stupidly busy with a 20-strong queue at the bar, and they were down to two cask - Plain and Palmers IPA (NBSS 3) - which at £4.50 a pint was cheaper than expected and served-up by a barmaid who was managing to keep her humour. Punters were, as to be expected, a mix of Guardianista Gen X-ers alongside their sproglets and a smattering of well-to-do codgers. Can see why the local CAMRA have guided it for the 2023 book, although whether it’s really worth the sweaty ascent is debateable. Though if you get a taccy and start at the Dog & Fox it makes sense to do this one on the descent back down. 6.5

It's listing in the 2016 GBG was the draw for the visit,which justified climbing one of the steepest streets I have ever encountered to reach it from the town centre.It has a grand appearance and is clearly old,pitched at the top of the river valley commanding views over Wiltshire,although you need to stand up to see them,rather than just sit in the very pleasant beer garden hoping to enjoy the sights .The interior has a tap room to the left,low ceiling,exposed stone,real fireplace and long bench seating,all very authentic.There is also a side room mainly full of dining type tables but drinker friendly.Accomodation is available and this feels like a small country hotel rather than a boozer.There are lots of Georgian features and the gents have proper porcelian urinals with glass splash backs.Sadly they smelt quite a bit to boot.The food menu looked interesting if pricey with a few pretentious descriptions but that wasn't putting punters off. There were 6 handpumps offering Blindmans Golden Spring,Three Castles Barbury Castle ,a house Flatcappers Ale (brewed by Three Castles) and a very good Arbor Hoploader which proved a perfect session ale. I liked it,smart yet relaxed,dog friendly despite the food offering,charming barmaids,and well worth a return visit.

The Castle is a great pub with amazing rooms, we have filmed the inside and some of the food. Well worth a visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqR-mJkQ954