Carters Rest, Swindon

A real surprise this one, as I wasn’t expecting a massive amount from the outside despite its regular GBG status. The pub is quite a large and imposing late Victorian edifice which is a little out-of-kilter with its immediate surroundings. The interior retains a two-room layout (looks like there may have been more than two years ago) with a tap room and lounge, the bar area having a traditional dark wooden finish. There were, if I recall, at least six well-selected ales and a cider on my visit and I was pleased to find both of my two in top condition (one of which I recall being RCH Pitchfork). The welcome from behind the bar was friendly and we had a good chinwag with the landlord. It was pretty quiet on my weekday visit with only a smattering of other punters and the lack of background hubbub did make for a slightly awkward atmosphere at times. On a busier evening, I think this would be a real winner and I’d recommend a visit in anticipation of this; the ale certainly warrants a drop-in if nothing else.