Bear Free House, The

A riverside location and beautiful views across the Avon are a few things one could expect from Shakespeare country, but a drink at The Bear Free House may strike beer lovers as an interesting option. Perhaps this is because the interior is just as warm and welcoming as the hotel in which it is located, with wood panelling, two central fires and a stunning pewter bar top.

The food is a happy prospect as well, which could range from a salad of quails egg, bacon lardons, Stornoway black pudding and baby chorizos, to Scottish prime beef gourmet burger. The Bear takes a culinary road less travelled by gastropubs, one that veers in the Eastern direction where it's comforting to find dishes like the hot and spicy Goan chicken curry, and yes, British staples like ploughman's and fish and chips also feature prominently.

Real ales at The Bear certainly win the day, from Butty Bach to Kingmaker, in addition to a great selection of regularly changing guest ales.