Seymour Arms, Bristol

As Jon has said below, this has been extensively refurbished since my previous visit and is now very firmly in the gastro territory. There is some decking and a patio area at the rear level with the car park and also some bench seating at the front that is under cover for the more inclement weather and also included a plasma on the wall to keep the smokers entertained. Inside it has been opened out with the raised areas in the corner gone and a sanded wood floor throughout. There is dark green wood panelling on the lower part of the walls with cream paintwork above and on the ceiling, and overall I felt it looked a little bland with very little in the way of decorations to break up the expanse other than a small handful of pictures dotted around. As Jon also pointed out, the table tops match the floor and the legs match the wood panelling! It seems to be primarily intended for diners although there were a few stools at the bar. A small snug to the rear offered little in the way of character, although the friendly barmaid/waitress did mention that this was still work in progress. A wood burning stove was off to one side, although whether this is functional or just decorative, I’m not sure. As is the vogue in many trendy establishments, a feature had been made of a pile of logs in the snug. Menu wise, the choice is definitely a step or two up from your usual pub grub, with no sign of Fish & Chips, Chilli or Pie of the Day. Most of the main courses were £15+, and according to the pub’s website the chef has worked in some top London restaurants, as well as more locally, The Albion in Clifton. Beers on tap were Butcombe and Proper Job. There was a third pump that appeared unused, so perhaps there are more on occasions. Ciders were well represented with Thatcher’s Gold, Ashton Still and Orchard Pig Reveller. Overall I’ve missed feelings about this. The staff were pleasant and friendly, the food offered some interesting, if pricey, options, and they’ve certainly reinvigorated it. But is it that much of a pub anymore? I’m not so sure it is.