Pubs and Bars / Pub of the Week
Pub of the week: The Chelsea Inn
This street-corner local is earthy, eclectic and entirely unpretentious. It’s 4.30pm on a Wednesday, the armchairs are nearly all taken by bikers and there’s a dog sitting next to one of the customers at the bar, where only two seats are empty.
The Chelsea Inn an eclectic local in Easton
A pub that’s almost full on a weekday afternoon is unexpected, but welcome. The punk music hindered the chance of quiet conversation, instead buying a drink required almost shouting an order at the bar maid. “Ice and slice?” She asks, “Cash unless it’s under a fiver!”
The whisky and coke would be nicer if it was chilled, but the board games, second-hand books and copies of The Bristolian provide an excellent distraction from the warm drink.
The window seat is perfect for people-watching
The atmosphere is warming but might not be for everyone, the loud music and mix of customers could be intimidating for some. But the bar maid is friendly, and the local clientele don’t mind the slightly out-of-place journalist sat at the window seat.
There’s artwork by local artists for sale above the fireplace, a wall covered in 12” LP records and candles burning in old whisky bottles. There are five ales on offer at the bar, which is positioned not far from some fish tanks, complete with fish. Admittedly, the toilets could do with a clean.
There’s an entire wall covered with vinyl, enough to make any music lover feel at home
Next to The Bristolian lies a pile of flyers for the next music gig taking place, as the pub doubles up as a performance venue. Imagining the large, single room full of raucous gig-goers is intimidating but would undoubtedly be a fun night.
Finishing the whisky and coke and making a mental note to return for a music night, Easton is lucky to have a pub with such an atmosphere and loyal following of customers, even on a Wednesday afternoon.
Read more: Pub of the week: The Black Cat
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