Pubs and Bars / A-Z Bristol pub crawl
A-Z Bristol Pub Crawl: The Angel Inn, Long Ashton
A weak shining light along Long Ashton Road quietly beckons you to come closer.
A few steps up the street and the humble glow illuminates the sign of the Angel Inn.
A warm welcome awaits.
is needed now More than ever
It appears the empty silence on the surrounding roads is because everyone is in the pub, coveting every table and nook with a fresh beer in hand.
The fireplace is lit and the warmth is like a big hug embracing you as you enter. There isn’t a weary look in sight.
A decent portion of food is an understatement – as mashed potato the size of your hand is served
The pub offers many different areas to eat and drink, sectioned off from each part of the pub such as ‘the smoke room’ which acts as a snug, or ‘the parlour’ which is surprisingly quiet compared to the rest of the pub.
The Angel Inn has retained many of its distinctive 15th century characteristics: the low ceiling beams, an oil lamp, the real stone fireplace and wooden shutters for the windows – everything about it rings true to a quaint village watering hole.
Naturally, someone’s chocolate Labrador is also nearby to greet you.
Unlike many of its traditional pub counterparts, the Angel has luckily forgone the stale, beer infused and musty smelling carpet.
They have a fitted green plaid carpet that hugs the floor and frankly wouldn’t be the worse thing to pass out on after a few too many.
Luckily that isn’t necessary tonight, although as the name alludes to, this is also a B&B with rooms directly above.
Joke signs and plates decorate the place throughout. One sign reads ‘Lost wife & dog. Reward for dog’ while another is for ‘Bullshit Corner’.
Vintage photos of Bristol give visitors a snapshot of the historic harbour, with Long Ashton villagers once having to take the Rownham Ferry over the River Avon to arrive into the city via Hotwells.
Large historical photographs provide a talking point for guests in the breakfast room
There is a low chatter in the place of inconsequential themes as groups of friends reminisce over days gone by.
One woman recounts how winters were once so cold you would climb into a bed with wet sheets from the cold. Another responds with her own anecdote of winds so strong you’d be forced into the roads by the power of it.
A gentle reminder to sink further into your seat as you enjoy your pie and mash in front of the fire.
The Angel Inn, 172 Long Ashton Road, Long Ashton, BS41 9LT
All photos: Hannah Massoudi
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