Pubs and Bars / A-Z Bristol pub crawl
A-Z Bristol Pub Crawl: The Plough, Easton
As the sun sets on a freezing Friday evening, every seat at The Plough begins to fill, small groups huddling together and fitting into every space imaginable.
Inside, reggae tunes play out of the sound system, with a group of men at the bar loudly working out who’s round it is (it was Ben’s, but they’d lost track hours ago).
Top to bottom, the building is covered in every sort of paraphernalia possible.
The Plough bar is a hub of activity on a Friday night – photo: Susie Long
Gig posters, calls to protest and beer badges cover every surface, intermittently punctuated with Palestine flags, feminist graffiti and initials etched in love hearts.
With pints of North Street cider for just over four pounds and laughs ringing out from every corner of the pub, it’s no wonder that crowds fight to get in every night.
It’s the sort of place where hours turn into minutes, whether it’s dancing to nightly DJs, hearing strangers’ tales in the smoking area or catching up with old friends.
The pub’s small smoking area is packed, with people always keeping an eye out for a free table – photo: Susie Long
On our table, three strangers perch on the end, using my lighter to revive their cigarettes. By the end of the night, we’re firm friends: exchanging stories and drunkenly telling everyone around us how much we love them.
The Plough is, in all respects, a prime example of a proper grassroots community pub.
It feels, even as you walk in the door, like a testament to everything that makes Bristol great, from inclusive communities and live music to great beer and bustling nightlife.
223 Easton Road, BS5 0EG
The Plough is a finalist in the pubs and bars category of Bristol24/7’s inaugural Bristol Legends. Find out more about Bristol Legends and join us in our celebration of Bristol’s greatest on March 6.
Main photo: Susie Long
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