The Strand — Restaurant in Cheltenham

Visited after Red Willow Tap Takeover as it's an inferior craft ale at the best of times, as are many chosen by this pub chain unfortunately. Obviously it wasn't going down well with the locals as it was still hanging around. Consequently only stayed for one half. Again, saddened by the lack of maintenance and hygiene that appears to be a theme with the Scarlet Group of establishments. We'd also visited The Volley in Bristol and the White Hart in Wells the same week and found them dirty and run down. Not sure if it's down to a lack of focus and imagination or the intention to cream off all the profits and sod the punters. The Sandford Park Alehouse is a far better choice than The Strand. Fabulous craft ales, great food, lovely environment and clean. As for Bristol King St and Wells, there are loads of better options. They Volley passed it's best several years ago. For some reason, Scarlet Pubs couldn't seem to make a go of their best pub, The Nettle and Rye in Clifton. Really loved that place. Also visited The Butchers Hook in Thornbury on Friday night. Again, Red Willow dominated the board so had to resort to a can of Arbour but enjoyed the great atmosphere and pizza. Need to brighten the outside tables up but the place was clean despite being very busy. The group should look at Sidney & Eden on the A38, Gloucester Rd, Bristol as an example of a good craft ale bar. Need some refurbishment but...

Worst sunday roast

My husband together with my toddler wanted to try their sunday roast. When we ordered, it took them almost 45mins to bring the food even though it was only us in the restaurant that time. I couldn’t imagine how much more time it will take if it was a busy lunch time. Anyway, we waited patiently without any complain. Then the food arrived. Ohhh, it was disguisting. The pork belly that I ordered is all fats and was sliced very thick. I have never seen such awful meal in any of the restaurants/pub that I have been to in cheltenham. The vegetables are overcooked and not appealing. My husband just returned the meal and asked kfor a refund. Surely, we will never go back to that...

For what it's worth, The Strand has a pretty tremendous list of drinks options, with helpful descriptions and plenty of scope to not buy a full pint if you aren't sure. If I had to rate it on drinks alone it would be an easy 4, if not 5, stars. Unfortunately the bar is usually packed out and wading through the patrons is next to impossible. This, coupled with the cleanliness of the sitting areas, makes the experience a slightly difficult one. If you don't mind a loud and busy pub atmosphere then get over here for some great...