The Ashville, Bristol

An unusual pub situated just a few minutes walk from the popular bars off North Street, but feeling as though you’re somewhere entirely different. No trendy types or yummy mummies in here, it’s much more a traditional local. There’s a smoking area next to the pub with walls covered in unusual murals, such as one featuring the Yoda character from Star Wars. Inside it’s a little more traditional with a two room layout, the larger bar having a couple of dart boards, a plasma showing football and a pool table, although this was covered up on our visit. Both bars had a fish tank, the larger bar having a big tank with several large fish swimming around. The other bar had a small piano, and there is also a small courtyard garden. The landlord seemed friendly enough and I’m sure this would make a decent local, away from some of the more pretentious places on North Street. The only beer on tap was Courage Best, although there was a reasonable choice of ciders – Thatcher’s Gold, Thatcher’s Traditional and Blackthorn. Several punters also seemed to be drinking cans of Natch.