Cat and Wheel

The Cat and Wheel has an atmosphere that as dodgy as it looks – steer clear unless you want somewhere to get fired-up watching the footie.

The Venue
This pub stands out, not least since a recent paint job has washed it with a colour somewhere between sky blue and scum blue. The Cat and Wheel is split into two bars: the right bar is small, dingy and fairly oppressive, but has a pool table, six TVs and a juke box.

The left bar is large, open and friendlier, with benches along the wall and individual tables in the centre. Outside is a heated smoking garden, consisting of two long picnic tables and there are a further two beer gardens.

The People
Although most punters who come here mind their own business, there are invariably one or two intimidatingly over-enthusiastic customers who give the pub an uncomfortable and antagonistic charge. When the big football games are on, such customers multiply in number.

Whatever women are left in the vicinity are likely to want to exit the building pretty speedily. The predominantly female staff are perfectly amicable and helpful with any questions you might have. There is also a quiz every Thursday, live music every Friday, a disco every Saturday and karaoke every Sunday.

The Food and Drink
Food is minimal here and most of of the time all you will be able to get your hands on is a roll for £1.50. There's a few draught ales to choose from including Thatcher's Gold (£2.75) and Courage Best Bitter for £2.65.

Fosters on tap is £2.95. There are a few bottled ciders but there is a pretty lethal Black Rat (£2.75) on draught. This is a cloudy, warm cider which isn't fizzy but has a high alcohol content, and it may get you more drunk than you bargained for. A single Smirnoff and Coke is £2.30 and coffee will be available within a month.

The Last Word
The Cat and Wheel would be a perfectly fine pub were it not for the testosterone-soaked atmosphere which spoils it for those who want a quiet drink.

venue information venue map view bristol review user reviews (2)