The Old Colonial, Weston Super Mare

A good sized Marston’s pub in a prominent position on the seafront and with good views of the pier, this has had an extensive refurbishment since the last time I was in here and now has a quite different character. In many ways it reminds me of a Wetherspoon’s, and that is perhaps their intention to provide some effective competition for the recently opened Cabot Court a few doors up. First impressions were not good with service at the bar being particularly slow. There were two barmaids serving with about half a dozen punters waiting, many ordering food. Inexplicably, one of the barmaids then wandered off to refill the ‘fridge making the situation even worse. Decor wise, it has a somewhat bland, corporate feel with laminate flooring in the central area and various carpeted areas around the perimeter. Walls were a mixture of cream paintwork and flock wallpaper with the pillars and other detailing painted in contrasting burgundy or khaki green. There was a plasma tucked down in one corner and a couple of fruit machines, but little else of any note. There is a small terrace at the front with offers pleasant views of the sea and has wooden decking, wicker furniture and plenty of small trees adorned with fairy lights. The menu was extensive and was divided in to sections such as classics, burgers, grills and pies. Most of the mains looked to be around the £10 mark. There was also a specials board offering another twenty odd choices, and whilst these were priced similarly they are apparently available all day as a “2 for 1” deal, which rather suggests that they wouldn’t be that special, IMHO. Beers on tap were Marston’s Joggers Tipple, Hobgoblin and Pedigree. The cider was Thatcher’s Gold.

My favourite in Weston S Mare. Public carpark nextdoor and reasonable wheelchair access.In good weather you cansit outside and watch the world go bye.If the weather is bad sit inside in the warm and smile at wet people walking past. The food is good but not particularly cheap. Good choice of wine and beer.