The Canal Tavern, Bradford-On-Avon

Recently re-opened Waddies outlet. Off the main road which drops you into the bar though there's also another servery out back which was getting the main footfall from the locals. A rambling interior over two levels with a nice mid-market decor that is more pub than gastro - mustard, greeny grey, some comfy seats and swirly decals; maybe a bit contrived but it works, the Devizies dollar has been waved in the revamp. Five Waddies cask which seemed a bit of a stretch in this day and age, I went for the Swordfish which was in surprisingly good shape (NBSS 3.5) served by a friendly, camp barman. Downside was terrible modern music, which I am blaming him for – there’s a time and a place for post 2010 aural banality and this isn’t it. Clearly understaffed as the empties piled up at the bar and I didn’t spot any other staff bar our be-tented companion. Not bad, though feels like it’s already slightly slipping. Bradford’s a 7-months-a-year tourist town and given the amount of other pubs to serve the locals over the other 5 months, this one needs to keep focussed – it has the basics in place to be successful. Right now, it’s worth a drop-in.

Official site of The Canal Tavern - www.canaltavern.co.uk

Official site of The Canal Tavern - www.canaltavern.co.uk