Pubs and Bars / Pub of the Week
Pub of the Week: The London Inn
On the corner of British Road and Cannon Street in Bedminster, twinkling lights shine from the chiseled exterior of the London Inn, promising a warm respite from the cold night air.
The interior, however, is far from cosy, with its beige paneled walls, flashing games machine and décor that continues the patriotic theme in the form of a couple of large England flags.
There is the reassuring hum of Bristolian accents, just audible over the TV, and the greeting is warm and welcoming.
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“What get I get you m’lovely?” asks the woman behind the bar. It feels like something of a trick question as there are no ales on tap and uncertainty over whether there is any rum, while the hot counter for pies also sits cold and empty.
A half pint of Thatchers goes down just fine though.
Turns out it has been a quiet couple of weeks, so stocks have run low – a fact that certainly doesn’t bother the two regulars perched on stools at the bar, happily enjoying a post-work pint.
It has been a quiet couple of weeks at the London Inn
Deceptively spacious inside, the pub boasts an expansive games area and pool table beyond the central bar area, with free pool available on a Sunday.
A jukebox hints at the promise of good times when someone turns off the television, which on this recent Thursday evening is quickly turned to Robot Wars from the news.
Wooden tables and chairs are laid out to the front of the pub, where an elderly man is contentedly settled.
A hand-written sign advertises that the meat raffle is back and tickets are available behind the bar. Above this, a mural on a panel just below the ceiling depicts historic scenes of the pub’s namesake.
“A’right me lovely,” calls the bar woman, by way of a goodbye as the elderly man picks up his sticks, pulls on his hat and heads off into the cold night air.
The London Inn, 1 Cannon Street, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 1BH
0117 966 1968
Read more: Pub of the Week: Quinton House
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