Pubs and Bars / Pub of the Week
Pub of Week: The Golden Guinea
Billed as Bristol’s best backstreet boozer, The Golden Guinea sets the bar high – but then as far as pubs go, it does take some beating.
The decision to shun the scenic surrounds and cobbled streets of the harbourside in favour of a stroll up the hill is well rewarded as the pub door opens with a blast of warm air, the faint smell of beer and a hub of chatter.
If there is anything that can spread some joy and shed light into the dark corners of the winter months, it’s a traditional British boozer and, with its cosy atmosphere, soft lighting, mismatch of wooden furniture and well-stocked bar, the Golden Guinea is a prime example.
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Two urns sit on a nearby table ready to be filled with mulled wine, hinting at the promise of impending festive cheer and food offerings come in the form of hearty homemade pork pies, a mighty fine array of salty snacks and – the classic sign of a proper pub – jars of pickled eggs.
“Just to warn you, there is a dog running lose in here,” a bearded man mentions with a smile and gesture at the docile, curly haired canine behind him that looks capable of nothing more than licking you to death.
The selection of beers, ales and ciders are impressive, but worth enquiring about as one punter baulks at the £6 price tag on one pint of a particular Belgium beer. On the whole, prices are fair and drinks are served promptly, with no frills (a search for the offered lime to go in a G&T proved fruitless – literally).
But you don’t come here for fancy adornments, but the joy of a good local with a cheerful dose of character, a friendly clientele and the Golden Guinea’s hidden secret: a tiered beer garden offering spectacular views of the city.
Tonight’s no night for admiring the landscape however, and a seat by the fireplace – sadly missing real flames, but lit up with a glow of red fairy lights to compensate – proves the perfect spot to talk, watch people scurry past on the cold street outside and idly tune in to the odd bit of banter from locals at the bar.
A traditional boozer at first glance, The Golden Guinea has more to offer and an in-depth glance reveals modern artwork and skull ornaments slightly at odds with the traditional décor, but all adding to a fun, homely feel. There’s also a sizeable function room downstairs.
Just a stone’s throw from the hub of Bristol harbourside, this historic pub is easily missed, but not easily forgotten – definitely one to visit on those cold winter nights and long summer evenings alike.
The Golden Guinea
19 Guinea St, Bristol, BS1 6SX
0117 987 2034
Read more pub of the week: The Jersey Lily
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