The Beaufort Arms, Clifton

One of the few remaining REAL pubs in Clifton, if not the only one. Interior is slightly worn in a good way, and one or two of the characters at the bar are a little worn - but the cider keeps them going. This is a great little pub, hidden down a back street just off The Downs/Blackboy Hill.

The cider is the main draw here but I noticed Tribute and lagers, and there a pool table. Other end is nicer with a real fire which is cosy on a cold night. Forget all the tarted up, sterile pubs in the area, this is how pubs were and still should be - and long may this continue.

Prices are really good for Clifton - £3.60 for Thatchers Gold. The Sunday roasts are a big thing here, but I've not tried one yet. Get in here quick and enjoy the character(s) before some corporate brewery buys it and turns it into yet another identikit gastro pub.

3 Apr 2018 20:15

Red Lion, Clifton

Closed again. Unfortunately, Nick the landlord lost interest several years ago, and the regulars disappeared. Clive the manager did an excellent job running the place and trying to keep it alive. However, despite his best efforts, he was fighting a losing battle.

Shame, because it was a great little pub, but since old Charlie passed away, I think it's days seemed numbered. Perhaps nick will be third time lucky and try to resurrect the pub. However, I very much doubt it and I think the future for a pub that has lost one of it's bars and all of the upstairs accommodation looks very bleak. Hope I'm wrong, but won't be surprised to go past here soon to find it's been turned into more student digs. SAVE THE LION!!!!!

25 Aug 2016 21:05

The Nova Scotia, Bristol

What a great pub! Great beer, great food - really enjoyed our evening at one of Bristol's landmark pubs. Six of us had food and beers early evening, and everyone was very happy with the quality, especially as the prices were very good too.

They were very busy with the food, and as our party all had different dishes, it was obvious why the staff were rushed off their feet. My Sirloin steak (£9) was juicy, flavoursome and cooked just how I asked. With the chips, onion rings, grilled toms, mushrooms and salad it was quite a meal. Others had white bait, fish and chips, lasagne, sausage and mash or ham, egg and chips. The fair haired, bearded chap who served us our food was also a character.

Also thankful that The NS has resisted the gastro pub route which has ruined many a Bristol boozer. Just good beer and food at sensible prices in a real pub atmosphere, where every man and his dog are welcome - just as it should be. Talking of beer, there is Courage Best along with the usual lagers and Thatchers cider. May have had more beers on, but when I saw they had Caledonian Deuchars, I looked no further. Good to see an excellent beer that not too many other places keep, and as with the food, the quality was excellent. Good turnover of beer here helps ensure it's condition.

If you're looking for a proper boozer with a bit of history near the centre of Bristol with great beer, excellent home-cooked food, prices that don't take the Mickey and plenty of outside seating overlooking Bristol's historic docks - this is the one for you. Hats off to the landlord and staff. Keep it up and don't change a thing. We'll be back!

25 Aug 2016 20:12