Pubs and Bars / A-Z Bristol pub crawl
A-Z Bristol pub crawl: The Golden Guinea, Redcliffe
The Golden Guinea is a warm respite from the sudden cold of October for many groups on a recent Tuesday evening, no doubt drawn in by its twinkly lights and handsome frontage.
One duo declare it their “new favourite pub” before they even step through the door. If you were able to blueprint a pub to be recreated elsewhere, you might consider this charming space the ideal template.
A strong selection of Bristol breweries show off their wares on the bar. Punters can choose between a host of home grown hops – Arbor, Bristol Beer Factory, Wiper & True, New Bristol Brewery and Moor.
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An inviting and well-stocked bar at the Golden Guinea
Tentative early dates and groups of friends occupy old pews and other mismatched furniture around the room. This is a proper pub and an old pub; there’s not a right angle in sight.
Sprouting from empty Dead Man’s Fingers rum bottles, red candles flicker – their light competing with that of the many strings of fairy lights and the TV in the corner. England quietly win a Euro’s qualifier to take us to Germany in 2024. A few drinkers look up, but the three lions don’t get much recognition from the crowd in here.
A touching tribute to one of the Guinea’s most loyal customers
Downstairs, a group of soon-to-be parents are gathered for a prenatal class in a ‘lounge’ that is the antithesis of soulless function rooms. This is a pub that invites everyone in and welcomes them with a hug.
Two office-leavers manage to order their fourth pint in the brief intake of breath between systematically evaluating the flaws of each and every one of their colleagues. The tinge of regret they’ll feel in the morning is nowhere to be seen at the moment, banished by the warm light and laughter of the surrounding tables.
The garden of the Golden Guinea would be the perfect place to spend a summer’s afternoon
Only a trickle of smokers brave the garden at the back, even though it’s partially covered. It’s easy to envisage the picnic benches overflowing with summer revellers in the fairer months.
Arguably, the perfect pub doesn’t exist. But the Golden Guinea must surely come close.
The Golden Guinea, 19 Guinea Street, Redcliffe, BS1 6SX
thegoldenguinea.co.uk
All photos: Meg Houghton-Gilmour
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