Pub of the Week: The Hop Inn, Old Town
If you’re into craft beer, this is one for you! The Hop Inn was the first pub in Swindon to tap into the craft beer trend, and since its launch, has gone from strength to strength – moving to a bigger venue in 2019 to cater for the demand. Everything about The Hop has an edge to it, something a little quirky that complements the array of drinks on offer. The large wooden top bar that spans half of one side of the pub is complete with 12 guest brews and 4 core beers at any one time. From pale ales, such as our RPA, stouts, sours, their house beer – aptly named Hop Bitter which is also a Ramsbury brew specifically for this fab little pub, as well as a variety of craft lagers. Not only have you got a wide selection of beers to choose from on draught and tap, but there is always a well stocked back bar complete with craft ales in cans and bottled European beers. It’s a place to go and try something a little different, perfect for meeting friends on a Friday to kick start the evening.
Inside is spacious and as quirky as you’d expect, with an emphasis on local art (which is all for sale) that features on every wall. Low hanging lights and winding decorations create a relaxed, yet fun vibe, transporting you to a trendy taphouse, rather than a traditional pub as you might first expect from the exterior or The Hop. Once there, you’ll be greeted and served by the friendliest of staff, who are the fount of all knowledge when it comes to beers and spirits. They certainly know their stuff, and if you’re not sure what to go for, will certainly help with recommendations! There is also a courtyard garden, complete with a large wooden hut, rustic-style fairy lights and a gazebo for when when the weather is a little iffy….as always seems to be the case at the moment!
What is so special about The Hop, is that they are never scared to try something different. Their drinks collection regularly rotates and they are keen supporters of smaller scale breweries across the local area. You don’t need to book a table and they are open for walk-ins, but it soon fills up as you can imagine so we’d recommend booking ahead. For more information on The Hop Inn visit https://www.hopinnswindon.co.uk/
