The Chequers Inn, Hanham Mills, Bristol

One of two adjacent pubs on this rather out of the way stretch of the River Avon, it has recently undergone and extensive refurbishment and once inside you could be forgiven for thinking that this was in fact a new build. Although it’s certainly a great spot with panoramic views of the river from it’s elevated position, I found it all a little sterile, with not so much as a single picture to soften it a little. Making the most of it’s location, there are a number of picnic benches on a patio area alongside the river. It’s all one open plan room inside, although separated in to different areas with some sections of walling. The largest area is at the front opposite the bar counter and the tables following the large curved windows were the first to fill up due to their river views. Décor wise, there was little of any note with plain white plasterwork on the walls and ceilings, albeit with some pale green wood cladding on the lower part of the walls, laminate wood flooring around the bar counter and chequered carpet elsewhere. A row of copper lampshades were hung above the bar counter and in a nod to it’s location, a coat rack had been made from three rowing boat oars. To the left was something designated as a family room, which was similar in appearance although with some tables arranged in to booths and this led out on to a small terrace. To the rear of the pub was the designated snug, which was I suppose, marginally cosier, with some chocolate brown banquet seating and exposed stone walling. Adjacent to this was a large map of Bristol covering the wall and a small wood burning stove with a pile of logs stacked up ready in a nearby alcove. Although we didn’t eat on this occasion, the menu looked to be a typical “pub grub” affair, with options such as lasagne, pie of the day, fish & chips, curry, burger, etc., and these were mostly priced around the £9 -£10 mark. There were also a few sandwiches and jacket potatoes, as well as a number of specials, although rather than being chalked up on a board as is usually the case, they were hung on the wall in a picture like frame, suggesting perhaps that they don’t actually change that often. Beers on tap were Wickwar’s Bob, Bass and Proper Job, whilst the ciders were Thatcher’s Dry, Stowford Press and Ashton Press Still. All in all, there’s nothing really wrong with this pub, and if you’re after a family dining experience it may well suit you just fine – in fact I think every punter was eating on our visit. But other than the fine river views, there was nothing here that really appealed to me, and I personally much prefer the Old Lock & Weir next door.