The Brunel, Clifton Village, Bristol

This seems to have more of a wine bar feel to it than your traditional pub, but going on the drinks available on the bar that is perhaps an unfair assumption. Located right in the heart of Clifton village, it’s a popular spot and there’s usually a few punters sat out on the small pavement area at the front where they have thoughtfully provided a few chairs. Inside it’s a two room configuration, the main bar area being at the front. This is a reasonably small space, with limited seating. The bar counter itself is equally small, just on the left inside the door. There’s good sized windows at the front, and a couple of high chairs here which is a pleasant enough spot to watch the world go by. The flooring is old wooden boards, and the paint scheme predominantly cream, although there is also some light wood cladding on the lower half of one of the walls. A number of pictures of Clifton in days gone by adorn the walls along with an abundance of mirrors. Up a few steps at the rear is another bar, which seems a bit more formal and in contrast to the limited seating at the front, has several rowed of packed in tables and leather chairs. There is a large glass atrium in the roof which gives a light and airy feel. There was little sign of food being offered other than a board advertising a steak and onion pie at £2 which sounded a bit of a bargain. On our visit there was a group of four builder types in who weren’t exactly conversing quietly, and that together with the rather harsh acoustics created a less than relaxing ambience. At other times it may well be completely different of course. Staff seemed friendly enough and as there was nobody else waiting at the time, all three of them were serving us. There were two beers on tap, both from Wickwar – BOB and Happy Daze. The solitary cider was Pheasant Plucker.