The Cross Guns, Bradford-On-Avon

Located in a fantastic position overlooking the Avoncliff Aqueduct as it crosses the River Avon below. Recently refurbished with a rustic light-wood interior complementing the local stone walls. The tables are mostly set aside for dining, but there is also a small area around the compact bar counter. However, it is the extensive terraced beer garden (also recently refurbished) that is the main draw in the better weather. Four real ales on handpump: three from Box - Golden Bolt (£3.65), Tunnel Vision and Piston Broke - plus Dark Star APA as a guest.

The upside here is the wonderful situation with a fantastic multi layered garden which drops down the steep bank to the River Avon,and the charming stone exterior of this old building.That's where the good news ends.It's owned by Box Steam Brewery ,and given it's honey pot status the staff and management dont seem to care about standards.The interior is small with the modest bar to the left and some dining tables to the left,it felt a bit grubby inside. The real ale on offer was all Box Steam with Soul Train,Summer Buzz,Piston Broke,Tunnel Vision and Golden Bolt,served in plastic mugs assuming we were drinking outside.Three of us tried 4 of the range,all out of condition,most cloudy,one looking like cider ,the other pure vinegar.The staff were off hand,and discussing whether they could fire one of the chef's on the spot or not,highly unprofessional in front of customers. The vent from the overworked kitchen was dripping with fat,causing a small slick below.The loos were in an outside block ,and reeked on a hot day.Who cares? I wont be back.