Often we don't have to travel far out of Bristol to feel like we're in a completely different world. Avoncliff in Wiltshire is less than an hour's drive away and feels like an
The Cross Guns pub is the jewel in the crowd of this tiny, tranquil village in Wiltshire situated between the river and the canal. The building itself is imbued in history, and is one of the oldest buildings in Avoncliff, with one section of The Cross Guns believed to date back to the 1490s with the central inglenook fireplace being of the same style as those found at Hampton Court.
Records show it's been an inn since the 17th-century providing rest for travellers and was later used by quarrymen, millworkers and travellers. The journey to Avoncliff is made more magical by train which takes under 40 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads on a railway line that traces the river.
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Passing through neighbouring Bradford-on-Avon, the pub is near the point at which the Kennet and Avon canal crosses the river and railway line by the Avoncliff Aqueduct.
Pints pulled include a range of Thatchers ciders, a Westcountry staple, and Madri lager on draft. The pub has a new menu for summer comprised of flatbreads, hot pies and hot dogs as well as a stellar selection for Sunday roasts.
The tiered pub garden is the key feature, however, nestled along the River Avon in a bucolic, relaxing setting. Note the lower part of the pub garden is not wheelchair accessible, but there is plenty of seating on the upper levels.
The pub is twined with The Inn at Freshford, another ancient pub from the 16th century, which is just one stop away by rail or a two-mile journey on foot. Keen ramblers and dog walkers will not want to miss the Two Valleys Walk, a circular route along the river and through the neighbouring villages of Freshford, Iford and Westwood.
Cross Guns is at 159-160 Avoncliff, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire BA15 2HB. Open every day except Tuesday.
