Pubs in Gloucester

There can’t be many older pubs in the region than the Dick Whittington, which dates back to the 13th century. The Westgate Street pub has one of the best ale and cider selections around, with over 12 different casks at any one time, alongside a wide range of lagers, bottled beers, wines and spirits. The pub puts on a range of events, spanning everything from folk nights to heavy metal bands, while they’ve teamed up with the Black Rock Grill for their food, providing perfectly cooked turn and turf.

If you’re after a no-nonsense pub and don’t mind a rugby-centric crowd, especially during Gloucester home games, The Pelican Inn comes highly recommended and is around a mile from our Longford hotel. Located halfway between the city centre and Kingsholm Stadium on St. Mary’s Square, the pub comes alive whenever Gloucester are playing at home, with fans flooding in for pre- and post-match pints. And, thanks to its partnership with the Wye Valley Brewery, it offers some great local beers and ciders. Although be warned, the no-nonsense approach extends to no lager and no food, with the exception of their home-pickled eggs and packets of crisps.

Another historic public house a short walk from the Dick Whittington, The Fountain Inn dates back to the 13th century, when it was an early brewery before becoming an established inn by the 14th century. The pub maintains its traditional charms, with a reassuringly basic approach to the essentials: good food, good beer and good company. Take your pint out on the terrace when the sun is shining and watch the world go by; it’s a popular pastime that has served the Fountain Inn well for centuries. 

Located near the docks, The Tall Ship is not only a cracking pub but it dishes up some of the best seafood in the area too. The menu is largely written above the bar, and largely focuses on daily specials and what’s come in on the morning haul. Highlights include the hot crab Thermidor, bacon and herb sea scallops and the so-simple-but-so-delicious dressed crab with seasonal salad. Pair it with a local ale or – if the sun is shining – a jug of sangria, and you have a recipe for success. 

Indulge your love of Sherlock Holmes, fine ales and – rather randomly – skittles at this fun Victorian pub, which is just a short walk from the Gloucester Quays. A popular late night destination thanks to its live music and 1am weekend licence, the Baker Street pub also has a darts board, pool table and jukebox, making it one of the liveliest pubs in the city and a great place to start or finish your night out.