The Hop Inn, Swindon

The dreary grey exterior belies the vibrant modern bar like feel within, a good range of seven cask ales available from the eight handpumps, I stayed for a couple of beers while waiting for the icy cold rain outside to subside, I wasn't disappointed with the Magpie Jay IPA followed by a Titanic Plum Porter Grand Reserve. Definitely on the return list.

With the nearby Little Hop still closed due to continuing Covid restrictions, I paid a repeat visit to the Hop, almost 2 years since my initial visit. My repeat visit confirms my view that this is still the best pub in the town. Track and trace formalities are completed at a table near the entrance, which appears to be more like a reception. For some strange reason we couldn't quite figure out, you are given a pumpclip with a number on it to take to your table. Ours was for an Arbor beer! The beer selection was once again good, with Ramsbury Hop Inn Pale the regular beer, alongside 6 guests. These were Arbor Shambala, Frome RA, North Cotswold Summer Solstice, Gloucester Cascade, Bristol Beer Factory Milk Stout & Kettlesmith Outline. In addition, there is a good selection of craft beers and a couple of boxed real ciders - Weston's Old Rosie & Sandford Orchards Cider Ginger.

Official site of The Hop Inn - www.hopinnswindon.co.uk

Official site of The Hop Inn - www.hopinnswindon.co.uk