The Alehouse, Reading

I was here two saturdays running, the one just gone and the one before. Both times the beer quality was fantastic with an excellent range that changed whilst I was there. First time, I spent a couple of hours there, lovely atmosphere, I was certainly in the minority not being a regular and found myself wondering how long it would take to be accepted as one, it seems like a happy, accepting, if slightly strange and disfunctional family.
The bar staff were all friendly and helpful though distinguishing which of the customers were staff proved challenging and I came to the conclution that they are pretty much interchangable.
My second visit disappointed me, beer still great, mostly staff I hadn't seen before, true, I'd made the mistake of going in before Reading's home game and it was pretty busy but the staff's attitudes were radically different and I got the impression that I was imposing by being there and asking for beer which is supposedly why they are there? Mind you the customers were all very cheerful so I won't let it put me off.I would (and hopefully will) happily spend many hours here, the loos are pretty basic but I think it depends what time of day it is as to how grotty they are. And even if you don't find someone to strike up conversation with you're never going to be short on stuff to look at with the thousands of pump clips that adorn the walls. I look forward to my next visit.

17 Oct 2006 14:13