Small Bar, Bristol – 55 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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Small Bar -
Small Bar -
Cleanliness
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Smoking
Based on 55 user ratings
31 King St, Bristol BS1 4DZ, United Kingdom
💬 What Students Say
Small Bar, located at 31 King St, Bristol, is a popular choice among students at the University of Bristol for a laid-back night out. This venue has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on a welcoming atmosphere and a solid selection of drinks, particularly local beers from the South West. With a total of 30 reviews, Small Bar has garnered a strong reputation, particularly for its music and cleanliness, both rated highly by patrons. The overall vibe is described as friendly and chill, making it easy for students to unwind and connect with others. Whether you're looking to kick back with friends or meet new people, Small Bar offers a space that feels both intimate and lively at the same time.
The atmosphere at Small Bar is often highlighted as one of its strongest features. Many students appreciate the friendly crowd, which contributes to the inviting vibe of the venue. Reviewers frequently mention that it’s a great place to meet interesting people, with many noting that the energy in the room is uplifting. The venue may not be the largest, but it feels alive with a mini-event vibe every night. This sense of community is reinforced by the consistent praise for the staff, who are described as chill and efficient, ensuring that the experience is smooth from entry to exit.
Music is another significant draw for Small Bar, with students often remarking on the quality of the playlists. The selection leans towards popular student anthems, creating an environment where guests can dance and enjoy themselves without the risk of unexpected genre shifts. The music is consistently described as decent, helping to maintain a lively atmosphere throughout the night. This focus on good tunes ensures that patrons can enjoy a night of dancing and socializing, making it a go-to spot for those looking to let loose after a long week of studies.
When it comes to drinks, Small Bar features an impressive selection of 31 taps, showcasing some of the finest beers from local and global breweries. While the prices are noted as being on the higher side for a student venue, many agree that the quality justifies the cost. Reviewers appreciate that the drinks are fairly priced relative to the experience, making it a worthwhile outing even if it’s not the cheapest option available. The venue strikes a balance between affordability and quality, appealing to students who are willing to spend a little more for a memorable night out.
The queue and entry experience at Small Bar also receive positive feedback. Many students mention that the queue moves quickly, which is a significant advantage for those eager to get inside and start their night. The efficient entry process contributes to the overall enjoyment of the venue, allowing guests to avoid long waits that can often dampen the excitement of a night out. This efficiency, combined with the friendly atmosphere, sets the tone for a fun evening right from the start.
Students often share their memorable experiences at Small Bar, with many recounting nights filled with laughter and fun. The venue is described as a place where stories are made, and many leave with fond memories. The combination of good music, friendly faces, and a relaxed vibe creates an environment where students can truly enjoy their time. Whether it’s a chill night with friends or a more lively outing, Small Bar seems to cater well to various moods and preferences.
However, it’s essential to consider some of the potential drawbacks. While many enjoy the atmosphere, some reviews indicate that Small Bar can get crowded, especially on weekends. This might not be ideal for those who prefer a quieter setting. Additionally, while the cleanliness rating is high, the venue is not the fanciest, which may deter some students looking for a more upscale experience. The pricing, while justified by many, could be a concern for budget-conscious students. Lastly, the vibe may vary depending on the crowd each night, meaning that experiences can differ based on who is there.
In conclusion, Small Bar is a solid choice for students at the University of Bristol looking for a night out filled with good music, friendly faces, and quality drinks. Its inviting atmosphere and efficient service make it a popular pick for those wanting to unwind after a busy week. While it may not be the cheapest option, many agree that the experience is worth the price, making it a venue to consider for your next night out in Bristol.
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The atmosphere at Small Bar is often highlighted as one of its strongest features. Many students appreciate the friendly crowd, which contributes to the inviting vibe of the venue. Reviewers frequently mention that it’s a great place to meet interesting people, with many noting that the energy in the room is uplifting. The venue may not be the largest, but it feels alive with a mini-event vibe every night. This sense of community is reinforced by the consistent praise for the staff, who are described as chill and efficient, ensuring that the experience is smooth from entry to exit.
Music is another significant draw for Small Bar, with students often remarking on the quality of the playlists. The selection leans towards popular student anthems, creating an environment where guests can dance and enjoy themselves without the risk of unexpected genre shifts. The music is consistently described as decent, helping to maintain a lively atmosphere throughout the night. This focus on good tunes ensures that patrons can enjoy a night of dancing and socializing, making it a go-to spot for those looking to let loose after a long week of studies.
When it comes to drinks, Small Bar features an impressive selection of 31 taps, showcasing some of the finest beers from local and global breweries. While the prices are noted as being on the higher side for a student venue, many agree that the quality justifies the cost. Reviewers appreciate that the drinks are fairly priced relative to the experience, making it a worthwhile outing even if it’s not the cheapest option available. The venue strikes a balance between affordability and quality, appealing to students who are willing to spend a little more for a memorable night out.
The queue and entry experience at Small Bar also receive positive feedback. Many students mention that the queue moves quickly, which is a significant advantage for those eager to get inside and start their night. The efficient entry process contributes to the overall enjoyment of the venue, allowing guests to avoid long waits that can often dampen the excitement of a night out. This efficiency, combined with the friendly atmosphere, sets the tone for a fun evening right from the start.
Students often share their memorable experiences at Small Bar, with many recounting nights filled with laughter and fun. The venue is described as a place where stories are made, and many leave with fond memories. The combination of good music, friendly faces, and a relaxed vibe creates an environment where students can truly enjoy their time. Whether it’s a chill night with friends or a more lively outing, Small Bar seems to cater well to various moods and preferences.
However, it’s essential to consider some of the potential drawbacks. While many enjoy the atmosphere, some reviews indicate that Small Bar can get crowded, especially on weekends. This might not be ideal for those who prefer a quieter setting. Additionally, while the cleanliness rating is high, the venue is not the fanciest, which may deter some students looking for a more upscale experience. The pricing, while justified by many, could be a concern for budget-conscious students. Lastly, the vibe may vary depending on the crowd each night, meaning that experiences can differ based on who is there.
In conclusion, Small Bar is a solid choice for students at the University of Bristol looking for a night out filled with good music, friendly faces, and quality drinks. Its inviting atmosphere and efficient service make it a popular pick for those wanting to unwind after a busy week. While it may not be the cheapest option, many agree that the experience is worth the price, making it a venue to consider for your next night out in Bristol.
✅ What Students Love
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for meeting new people.
- High-quality music playlists, featuring popular student anthems.
- Quick-moving queues for efficient entry.
- Diverse selection of local and global beers on tap.
- Consistent positive experiences shared by students, with many leaving with great memories.
- Chill vibe that allows for both relaxing and dancing.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Can get crowded, especially on weekends, which may not suit everyone.
- Not the fanciest venue, which might be a turn-off for some.
- Pricing is on the higher side for a student venue.
- Atmosphere can vary depending on the crowd each night.
- Not the largest space, which may feel cramped when busy.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a chill night out with good music and a friendly crowd.
💡 Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
- Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
- Prices are reasonable for quality drinks, but budget accordingly.
- Expect a lively atmosphere with a mix of chill and energetic vibes.
- The music style primarily features student-friendly anthems.
❓ Common Questions
What is Small Bar like?
Small Bar is a chill venue known for its friendly atmosphere, quality music, and a solid selection of drinks.
How long is the queue?
The queue generally moves quickly, allowing for an efficient entry experience.
Is it good value?
While prices are on the higher side, many students feel the experience justifies the cost.
What music does Small Bar play?
The music features popular student anthems, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.
Can I meet new people there?
Yes, many students report that the friendly vibe makes it easy to connect with others.
Reviews
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Small bar has remained a consistent hangout, with its laid-back atmosphere and good music still making it a reliable choice.
By user858334 (Bristol) on Aug 5th 2026
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Music here can get loud, but it creates an electric energy that pulls you in; just right for a midweek escape with mates.
By user663699 (Bristol) on Jul 28th 2026
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Keeping everything tidy and organized is a real strength here, with tables cleared regularly and no mess to worry about. It makes for a more enjoyable night out when you don’t have to think about cleanliness. 🍻
By user702414 (Bristol) on Jul 22nd 2026
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There's something about this place that's consistently inviting. The staff have the knack for remembering my order, which is a nice touch that keeps me coming back. Music plays in the background, adding to the vibe without drowning out conversations.
By user690034 (Bristol) on Jul 15th 2026
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Small Bar is a reliable spot when you need to decompress after lectures. With its laid-back vibe, it's an ideal place to catch up with friends without feeling rushed.
By user918931 (Bristol) on Jul 8th 2026
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Small Bar offers a unique blend of local drinks that totally hits the spot! It's so nice to enjoy a conversation without the usual struggle of shouting over blaring music.
By user789250 (Bristol) on Jun 30th 2026
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Nice sweet spot been here a couple times
By user378142 (Bristol) on Jun 25th 2026
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The vibe at Small Bar is surprisingly chill. The staff were super accommodating and really set a relaxed tone for the night. It’s refreshing to find a spot that’s enjoyable without being pretentious or overly loud. 🙌
By user509033 (Bristol) on Jun 24th 2026
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The laid-back atmosphere here really sets it apart! It feels welcoming instead of overwhelming, making it super easy to settle in and enjoy the night.
By user243253 (Bristol) on Jun 17th 2026
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Good energy fills the air on weekends, with a crowd that’s a mix of locals and students, making it feel lively yet relaxed, perfect for unwinding.
By user302735 (Bristol) on Jun 11th 2026
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The music here always hits just right, creating a fun vibe that keeps me coming back with friends all the time.
By user295350 (Bristol) on Jun 4th 2026
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Meeting up with friends here is always enjoyable. With its laid-back vibe, it's a great spot to unwind and have a drink without any stress. 😊
By user677309 (Bristol) on May 24th 2026
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I've visited this place several times and it's consistently impressive. The solid atmosphere and attentive staff make it a dependable choice for a night out.
By user269088 (Bristol) on May 19th 2026
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Small Bar delivered a delightful surprise with its vibrant music selection that uplifts the energy without being overbearing. 😊 Though the space can get a bit snug when crowded, it's still a solid spot to grab a drink and soak in the lively atmosphere. Just be prepared to navigate through a bustling crowd.
By user598562 (Bristol) on May 12th 2026
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The warm welcome from the staff at The Green Room was a pleasant start to the evening, creating a friendly atmosphere right away.
By user940032 (Bristol) on May 5th 2026
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Often felt like a conversation hub more than a typical bar, where you'd randomly chat with strangers who turned into friends by the end of the night. really appreciated the thoughtful mix of people and easygoing energy that makes you forget the time entirely.
By user661902 (Bristol) on Apr 23rd 2026
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The local beers here are definitely worth checking out, and they're affordably priced, which is a bonus. Even when it gets crowded, the vibe stays chill, and I love that I can just be myself without any pressure. 🍺
By user476468 (Bristol) on Apr 18th 2026
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Heard from a mate that small bar is where you go if you're over long waits and picky crowds. no one hassles you, just good chats and local beers.
By user164026 (Bristol) on Apr 5th 2026
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The relaxed vibe at Small Bar makes it a great spot for a hassle-free night out. Despite the busy crowd, the staff managed to remember my order, adding a personal touch to the experience.
By user603406 (Bristol) on Apr 3rd 2026
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Grabbing a drink here is a breeze, even during the busy hours. The staff are not only quick but also super friendly, making the place feel welcoming and homey. Whether you're stopping by for one drink or an evening out, you're sure to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
By user203209 (Bristol) on Mar 30th 2026
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Small Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere that defies initial expectations of it being stuffy. The experience was elevated by the selection of local beers, making for an enjoyable night.
By user153243 (Bristol) on Mar 24th 2026
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Wasn't expecting to find such a chill vibe when i first walked in, mostly because of how busy King St usually is. the place felt warm and inviting despite the crowd, which was a nice surprise.
By user897739 (Bristol) on Mar 19th 2026
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Overheard some cracking conversations at the bar, and it added just the right buzz to the room. plus, there’s something awesome about connecting over local brews; it’s like a little snippet of Bristol in a glass 🎵
By user270446 (Bristol) on Mar 14th 2026
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Music kicks up a notch and everyone's just vibing, like you can feel the energy shift. it's the best when the bar's at that sweet spot, filled but not packed. you end up chatting with people you didn't know half an hour ago.
By user381937 (Bristol) on Mar 9th 2026
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At Small Bar, the staff's friendliness makes you feel instantly comfortable. A night out here feels like you're revisiting a familiar place, thanks to the easygoing chats and relaxed atmosphere. It's a spot where everything just feels right.
By user607834 (Bristol) on Mar 8th 2026
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For a laid-back evening with friends, it’s hard to beat here. The location on King Street makes it simple to reach, especially if you choose to bike. The vibe is incredibly chill, encouraging you to stay and chat for hours. On top of that, the local beers are a nice surprise that enhance the experience.
By user842457 (Bristol) on Mar 6th 2026
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For anyone who enjoys Bristol's lively local beer scene, Small Bar is an absolute gem. I really appreciate how the staff are always eager to help with recommendations, turning each visit into a delightful chance to sample something new and exciting. The atmosphere is so inviting, and you truly feel like you're becoming part of a wonderful community.
By user602932 (Bristol) on Mar 5th 2026
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Hanging out here feels like spending time with friends rather than just going to another bar. It really stands out from the sometimes impersonal vibe you find in Bristol.
By user911053 (Bristol) on Mar 4th 2026
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Got a seat right at the bar and didn't have to shout to order, which was nice in a busy place. probably the friendliest crowd around, with people chatting about everything and anything over local pints.
By user435193 (Bristol) on Feb 6th 2026
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Every Friday night, my flatmates and I head to this place to wind down after a long week of lectures and labs. It's exactly what we need for a stress-free evening without any elaborate plans. 🍻
By user693091 (Bristol) on Jan 30th 2026
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When you're looking to kick back and have a great time, Small Bar really delivers. It comes alive after university hours, so it's perfect for anyone wanting to let loose. While it might not be the best place for deep discussions, the energetic vibe more than compensates for that. If you're in the mood for a fun night out instead of a quiet conversation, this is definitely the spot to be!
By user647901 (Bristol) on Jan 24th 2026
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If you're in the mood for something chill and genuine, look no further! It offers a fantastic selection of regional beers and keeps things simple, which is refreshing. Perfect for those times when you want to get away from the typical crowded spots.
By user833863 (Bristol) on Jan 19th 2026
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Felt like everyone at small bar was already a friend, which was pretty unexpected but nice.
By user488874 (Bristol) on Jan 13th 2026
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You really can’t beat the chill vibe here, which is pretty rare for student bars. I was already excited to try the local beers, but the super relaxed atmosphere really made my experience unforgettable. 🍻
By user553610 (Bristol) on Jan 9th 2026
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Staff here genuinely cares and remembers regular faces. it's a buzz chatting with friends over a local pint, and before you know it, you've spent the night laughing more than you planned.
By user858977 (Bristol) on Jan 3rd 2026
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Love stopping by on a wednesday after early training sessions. it's like the chill midweek hangout spot where I can catch up with mates without feeling like I should be somewhere else 🌙
By user219197 (Bristol) on Dec 30th 2025
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Never felt more relaxed than when I first walked through the door.
By user152998 (Bristol) on Dec 24th 2025
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Small Bar has such a welcoming atmosphere! I love how easy it is to strike up a conversation without any loud distractions. It's the kind of place where you can truly relax, and the local beer selection just enhances the laid-back vibe. 🍺
By user702559 (Bristol) on Dec 19th 2025
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The Green Room often has a welcoming vibe, almost like entering a friend's living room when everyone's in high spirits. I ended up chatting with a couple who were fellow architecture students, which was a pleasant surprise. It seems like this place naturally brings people together for good conversation and chilled vibes. 😊
By user880107 (Bristol) on Dec 13th 2025
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I really enjoy hanging out at Small Bar; the atmosphere is consistently relaxed and welcoming. It's a solid choice for spending time with friends. Plus, they frequently introduce new local beers, which keeps things interesting on each visit. 🍻
By user410311 (Bristol) on Dec 6th 2025
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Music's a bit too loud for my liking, which makes having a proper chat tricky. nothing else to complain about though, as they've got a great selection of local drinks and the crowd is always chill. just wish my ears weren’t ringing by the end of the night.
By user157280 (Bristol) on Dec 1st 2025
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Whenever I want to relax after a workout, I head to this place. The drink selection is fantastic, and the atmosphere feels really inviting. It's definitely a spot I would choose for a chill evening with friends.
By user987737 (Bristol) on Nov 25th 2025
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Small Bar is such a chill place to hang out with friends. The atmosphere is laid-back, and their local beer selection is on point. 🍻 It's great to have a spot that feels so genuine and not forced. Definitely planning more nights there with my mates!
By user554026 (Bristol) on Nov 18th 2025
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Didn't expect the place to be so packed early in the night. everyone seemed to be in a good mood, which made the atmosphere really lively and welcoming.
By user685054 (Bristol) on Nov 10th 2025
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I love the chill vibe here! Everyone seems to be having a good time, and the staff are super cool, letting you enjoy yourself without feeling rushed. It was exactly what I needed after a hectic week. 😊
By user436523 (Bristol) on Nov 2nd 2025
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Small Bar initially seems like just another place, but hang out for a while, and its charm becomes clear. Everyone settles into conversation so naturally, as if they've been friends forever. After sampling a couple of local brews, I felt like a regular and couldn't wait to come back for more. 🍻
By user911929 (Bristol) on Oct 27th 2025
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I was surprised by how friendly everyone was here, especially with how packed it got. The staff were super chatty, making you feel like part of the Bristol family. It was nice to see everyone just enjoying themselves, which added to the whole experience.
By user371505 (Bristol) on Oct 24th 2025
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Lighting could use some help, a bit too dim to fully appreciate who's around or even read the menu properly. feels like an attempt at moodiness but ends up making everything just a bit too secretive for a casual night out.
By user905677 (Bristol) on Oct 20th 2025
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If you're ready to groove the night away, Small Bar is the spot! The place has a laid-back vibe that's just perfect for chatting with friends, and when you're not on the dance floor, it’s great for long conversations. Try the local beers if that's your thing—they're pretty good! 🍻
By user582676 (Bristol) on Oct 17th 2025
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Energy inside lights up at peak hours, everyone just seems to be in their element. feels like everyone's on the same wavelength here.
By user488643 (Bristol) on Oct 13th 2025
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After a long day at school, finding a spot that has a relaxed atmosphere is a real lifesaver. Here, you can really unwind, and the local beers give it that extra something special that makes it stand out from the rest. I'm already looking forward to coming back for the chill vibes and those unique brews!
By user533182 (Bristol) on Oct 9th 2025
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At small bar, the mix of local beers and friendly chat with the bartenders makes the experience memorable. it’s just the right vibe for us students 🍻
By user276839 (Bristol) on Oct 5th 2025
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Always worth popping in when i need a change from the usual scene. they've got a solid selection of local brews that hit the spot without any fuss.
By user737944 (Bristol) on Sep 29th 2025
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Staff here actually seem to enjoy what they're doing, which really shows in how comfortable the place feels compared to other spots in bristol. getting a drink is hassle free and you never feel rushed, which makes a night out genuinely relaxing.
By user787487 (Bristol) on Sep 24th 2025
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Sat at the bar and the bartender recommended a local beer that tasted refreshing and unique.
By user131973 (Bristol) on Sep 16th 2025
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By user486910 (Bristol) on May 1st 2024
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