Pubs and Bars / A-Z Bristol pub crawl
A-Z Bristol Pub Crawl: The Phoenix, St Jude’s
The rain lashed down and wind whipped as a dozen people hunkered down in the beer garden of the Phoenix.
It is an independent pub that welcomes soggy travellers in with open arms, from thirsty pups to shoppers retreating from Cabot Circus. Sadly, Nala, resident four-legged friend famous among locals, was not spotted on a recent evening.
Under the same ownership for over a decade, the long-standing city centre boozer opened in Champion Square in 1850 and is one of the last remnants of the historic community of St Jude’s.
is needed now More than ever
Set back from Cabot Circus, the back yard of the pub looks out onto Bond Street South, not far from what used to be a former pipe factory on Wade Street back in the day.
Fast forward 170 years and a total modernising makeover, today it hosts underground club nights and LGBTQ+-friendly events.
The wind and rain didn’t put off a select few who perched on picnic tables in the generous beer garden
On a recent evening, a straightforward “no” was the answer when two wet and cold cyclists wandered into the Phoenix and asked for two mulled ciders.
“Sorry that was so harsh, we’ve run out today I’m afraid,” said the cheeky staff member behind the bar.
Opting for a dependable Thatchers Gold instead, happily it was happy hour when drinks are a quid cheaper, making up for the disappointment of missing out on a warm beverage.
Many a pint was available here, with plenty on tap and gentle pop thumping from the sound system.
Along with the music, it is laughter that filled the pub that night where anyone could pop in for a quick half on their way home from town, grab a pizza and a pint on a summer’s day or even have a boogie with mates (choose between a Latin and Cumbia night, Disco Mountain’s funk, soul, disco and house and more).
“The idea that a pub can be a focal point for social events, a quiet sit down alone, a neutral and safe place for a Tinder and/or Grinder dates or even just a quick stop to use the loo is in fact the reason why pubs have been a key aspect of daily life in the UK,” states the website of the Phoenix.
“Local pubs truly are quintessentially British.”
1 Wellington Buildings, Champion Square, St Jude’s, Bristol, BS2 9DB
www.phoenixbristol.com
All photos: Betty Woolerton
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