Pubs and Bars / Pub of the Week
Pub of the Week: The White Lion
Bristol is a city full of surprises and The White Lion on Colston Avenue is a prime example.
The self-proclaimed ‘smallest pub in the heart of the city’ is a historic boozer that will be familiar to most people passing through the centre.
But how many knew that part of the old medieval city wall is visible behind the bar? Or that the treacherous-looking steps leading to the men’s toilets are from the now-demolished former city jail?
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Once part of a hotel, the cosy premises have been run as a pub since at least 1806, and – if walls could talk – would no doubt have a fine tale or two to tell.
On this fine mid-week summer evening, it is attracting an eclectic crowd of drinkers.
A man is reading a book in a corner next to the bar, sporting a ponytail, impressive moustache, felt jacket and Doc Martins. A bottle of beer rests on the table in front of him and he sits at ease, a comfortable part of the furniture.
The pub’s regulars are in fact very much part of the furniture and a vibrant board of photos takes pride of place above the bar.
A wide selection of beers are available behind the bar and this is a pub that prides itself on its real ale selection, offers a 10 per cent discount to CAMRA members and has regular guest ales. There are also ciders, soft drinks and spirits.
A gin and tonic – served with no fuss or fancy adornments – will set you back £5.50, while a pint of Thatchers is £3.90. A bag of Golden Wonder crisps adds an extra £1.10 to the bill. For those after more substantial fodder, there’s a Pieminister pie menu.
A Chilli Peppers’ song plays overheads, Good Pub guides are propped on the window sill, and there is a flashing fruit machine, as well as wall-mounted juke box all packed inside the compact interior.
On this early summer evening, the real action is outside, where people sit at tables – separated from the pavement by a Heineken-branded barrier – enjoying a post-work pint. Two guys are putting the world to rights over beers and cigarettes at one nearby table, while laughter can be heard from another and lone smokers watch the world go by.
The regular scuff of skateboarders on the concrete island opposite catches the attention of some, and a haze of smoke wafts across the small seating area. It’s a perfect spot to pause amidst the bustle of the city centre and just let the world go by.
It may be one of many pubs in the Wickwar brewing company portfolio, but it is one packed with character and full of surprises.
The White Lion, Quay Head, Colston Avenue, Bristol, BS1 1EB
0117 927 7744
www.whitelionbristol.co.uk
Read more: Pub of the Week: The Wooden Walls
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