Utter Bliss

 So we needed to go up to Bristol for the first time since lockdown.

We desperately needed to ensure the flat wasn't disintegrating in the total abandonment, we also needed to ensure that our poor old orchids got some TLC.

We did want to be responsible so we decided not to meet with loads of people this time and mostly keep ourselves to ourselves, but make the most of the chance to drink beer at a proper pub again.

We drove, taking some food and some kit that needed transferring.

The roads were pleasant - not empty, but not packed - long roadworks with a 50 mph speed limit slowed the journey a little but the whole thing was relatively low stress.

When we arrived at the flat - it could have been just the usual 3 or 4 week gap. That was a relief.

Obviously, it wasn't long until we ventured to the Barley Mow. 

They had hand sanitiser at the door, we were greeted by masked staff who showed us to a table, and then asked for contact details.  We were served at the table and they operated on card only.

Sadly, they did have a much depleted cask and keg offer but it was in lovely condition, and more than enough to keep us happy.  

The set up was comfortable and felt safe.  Enough that we went back - twice.

Over the next couple of days we did try other places:

 The Swan with Two Necks - indoor, good spacing but other measures not really apparent.  A bit disappointing, to be honest but fortunately well behaved punters.

Tapestry Brewery Taproom - outdoor seating, well managed arrival, details collected, table service, fresh beer.  Not my favourite beer in the world, but we did enjoy being there (except for the yappy dogs).

Fierce and Noble Taproom - outdoor seating and a service one-way system via the bar in the taproom.  No details taken and, to be honest, the service didn't feel especially careful but the outdoor spacing and thoughtful customers made up for most of that.

The Bridge Inn - was a bit of a last minute thought since we were on a time limit. For such a tiny, tiny place the landlord did a great job.  Hand sanitiser, request to complete details via a phone app and careful policing of the door way.  Inside seating was partitioned and there was extra seating outside marked up to manage social distancing.  Wasn't expecting the beer to be the best (Dawkins which isn't our thing, generally) but it was probably the best Dawkins we've had.  All in all, very happy.

Wednesday evening we went back to the BM which was perfection and we finished with a glass of "Running with Spectres" which was the last beer we drank in the BM before lockdown.  Such is the circle of things....

All this shows that it can be done although I suspect it'll get harder over the winter if these measures need to persist.

Mostly, I was so very pleased to see that the staff at the Barley Mow are still there and have lost none of their enthusiasm for the trade. 

We're avoiding the public again for a few days, just to be sure, but we definitely want more of this...