I’ll drink to that
James Fisher makes a sterling effort to visit as many of the island’s pubs as he can
It’s a rare occasion when your editor walks up to your desk and enquires if you’d like to write about ‘the Best Pubs in X’, but it happened to me. that’s how I found myself standing in the rain on the streets of st Peter Port in Guernsey, cash in the left paw, notebook in the other and the Cock and
Bull directly ahead. Bedecked in ephemera of all kinds and oddly reminiscent of the 1950s, it quickly dawns that the ideology of craft brewing has thankfully left this place well alone. there’s live Irish folk music and plenty of room— a terrific place to fill out a sudoku or meet with friends before dinner.
The Swan is on the far side of town and is the kind of place where nobody will ask you to explain the offside rule. sport reigns supreme here and, although there aren’t many places to sit, the atmosphere is lively and fun.
Handsome The White Hart stands on the waterfront and considers itself one of the largest pubs in Guernsey. It feels like a Wetherspoons, but, mercifully, the carpet was left behind. It’s certainly big and although it lacks atmosphere, it would be ideal for a large group or families.
the Thomas de la Rue is also harbourside, with pleasant views, and is a little more intimate and eccentric in its layout, with a good selection of beers. It’s not brilliantly lit and can feel a bit dark, but I’d been to a few pubs by this point, so that may just have been my eyes.
the Ship and Crown has a terrific restaurant on the top floor—the Crow’s Nest—and the pub itself is equally good. Clearly very popular with the locals, there was good service, good beer and good music. the quiz machine also proved extremely generous.
The Albion House Tavern
is the closest pub to a church in the British Isles and that’s the only interesting thing about it.
Finally, a couple of miles out of town is the magnificent Bella Luce, a wonderfully rustic bar, restaurant and hotel. For those more used to the Cotswold lifestyle, this is where you’ll likely be happiest and the home-distilled Wheadon’s Gin is outstanding. If you ask really nicely, they’ll show you the still.
there’s a pub for everyone in st Peter Port and its near surrounds, whether you want a cosy chat or rousing music, so hopefully you’ll find one you like. From experience, however, I suggest you don’t visit them all in one day.