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Barge Inn, Bradford on Avon

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user reviews of the Barge Inn, Bradford on Avon

please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.

Nice location with tables on the canalside as well as a separate, slightly untidy garden. But the Box Steam's Tunnel Vision wasn't very good (fortunately I had only ordered a half); didn't try the Otter Bright or Sharps Atlantic.
paul_d102 - 20 Aug 2018 19:11
Great position - right on the canal by the basin and the lock so you can watch the comings-and-goings as you sup your beer. We had Ringwood Boondoggle which was very good,but they also had another 3 beers available including Bath Ales Bellringer and Jennings Cumberland Ale (beers change regularly). Food available but we didn't eat but many others were. Car Park; patio and canalside garden - all very pleasant.
mcroyal - 2 Jul 2014 16:13
Fantastic food and friendly staff. This occasionally results in it being extremely busy. Well worth a visit
Trowman - 28 May 2013 16:43
A pleasant canal-side pub which rather demands to be investigated when one arrives and (eventually) moors at Bradford with a view to an overnight stay. We discovered, if we didn't already know, that there are far more engrossing offerings elsewhere in town that the Barge, but nevertheless it served its purpose for providing a quick starter-of-ten at the evening's outset.

A traditional-looking building from the outside, once indoors one is led through a series of large white-washed rooms with various configurations of seating witj a peculiarly contemporary feel. It doesn't jar as such, though the wisdom of adopting the modern minimal route is questionable. In any event, it clearly had an appeal - and not just amongst itinerant boating types - there seemed to be a variety of locals who observations suggested were regulars, so the pub would appear to enjoy a consistent trade from town and needn't rely on water-borne passers-through.

We didn't try the food, nor did I see any of it being delivered to others, so no comment there. Beer-wise, what I had was passable (EPA - the entire range was Marston's which may suit some but far from all who love the diversity of modern cask beer), though I was warned by a frined of mine who'd arrived earlier to "avoid the Crag Rat" - it seems the most interesting guest ale had been found in appalling condition, and all the more worryingly, the clip was still facing outwards when I arrived to make my choice. I fear only inside prior knowledge led me to eschew opting for it and having the awkwardness of returning it. If something's off, folks, it's OFF - don't allow denial to creep in and keep it on (and the clip facing customer-wards) until 10 people correct the error of your ways!

Saying that, this was a perfectly pleasant little venue on a late summer evening, and I should say that whilst it wasn't the most engaged, the service I received from the young lady (wo)manning the bar was efficient.

I'd have to visit more frequently to know whether complacency is an issue here - so often it can be with canalside locations where there is a perceived captive audience (Bradford is immensely popular as an overnight mooring site). I do hope it isn't. Other more-informed reviewers may eventually enlighten us.
TWG - 21 Sep 2012 17:43
a must for the braying classes - if you are not it will get on your neely listening to them
beerman6 - 21 Jan 2012 23:49
One of my favourite pubs in the area, the food is amazing and extremely rich, they always have fantastic specials, the pricing is reasonable, the staff and locals are always very welcoming, lovely outside area right next to the canal, service is quick and I will definitely carry on eating and visiting this pub, Great Standards. :)
TrowPlumb - 26 Jul 2011 01:48
nice real ale, friendly service, stowford apples and pears really nice as well
clangersmate - 13 May 2011 14:28
Canalside pub with a large garden next to the road and a more secluded garden terrace next to the canal. Most people were sitting outdoors enjoying the spring sunshine. However the interior was modern with funky music playing. The real ale range was a little restricted with all but one beer from the Marstons range. Ringwood Best, Boondoggle & Lovely Warne, Marstons English Pale Ale & Fullers London Pride were the options. Stowford Press & Lilleys Apples & Pears were the ciders. Probably our least favoured pub in Bradford-on-Avon. But the setting next to the canal still made it quite pleasant.
blue_scrumpy - 10 Apr 2011 09:58
Alice? Alice? Who the .............................?
The_Final_Arbiter - 19 Mar 2011 14:38
Another great find. Hint tip! i was there as i was on a Crop Circle venture, This is such a great place for it, they dont shy away from it they full on bring it on, the back room is croppy heaven.
Nice pub, I took a really nice modeling pic here as its such a nice looking place.
great drink, friendly people, great a croppys heaven lol
AliceDraven - 19 Mar 2011 13:27
Very nice food and a good selection of beer. I will be back!
CanalWalker - 27 Aug 2010 21:05
Lovely Pub since the new ownership and food is great but a little expensive...
stone - 30 Jan 2010 11:16
Visited Friday evening for the 1st time. Excellent beer and good friendly atmosphere - no jukebox, muzak or bandits. Didn't eat but the food looked good with big portions.
ephgrave7 - 5 Aug 2009 18:39
Visited Friday evening for the 1st time. Excellent beer and good friendly atmosphere - no jukebox, muzak or bandits. Didn't eat but the food looked good with big portions.
ephgrave7 - 5 Aug 2009 18:38
Moles beers, good food. Modernised interior, friendly staff. Very busy on a Friday night. Nice setting by the canal near the lock. 7/10
Old_King_Cole - 23 Apr 2009 22:21
Staff were very friendly but the food was expensive and dreadful. Possible the worst sandwich I have had since the days of British Rail! Maybe the fact it was quiet on an August Bank Holiday Monday should have warned us!
pai1963 - 26 Aug 2008 12:03
Nice pub with limited menu and good choice of beers though they tend to change a bit too often and that can be dismaying when you find one you like.
PubFanMan - 8 Oct 2007 23:50
Intersting pub with a good range of beers. Great canal side garden with barges moored alongside. little seating in main bar -good food too.
beerman6 - 6 Jan 2007 14:47
Great pub, friendly owners and staff, great food and accomodation.Not to be missed on a hot summers day watching the barges go by.
anonymous - 6 Sep 2006 15:06
Funny sort of place. Nice for hot days when you can sit outside but the bar area is very functional and not cosy. Good beer and wine though.
mungus - 24 Aug 2006 21:47
A fantastic pub. Excellent beers, great food and a cosy atmosphere. Lovely beer garden- right next to the canal so great for those warm summer days.
vilejames - 20 Dec 2005 18:44

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