It could have been the bleak midwinter when I visited the Whitehall Tavern in Easton earlier this week.

For although it was still summer outside, the blinds drawn half shut on the small windows inside, combined with the low ceiling and solid wooden beams gave the impression that the nights were already short.

Doom Bar, Directors and Courage are the ales on tap in a pub whose owners are also in charge of half a dozen others across Bristol including the Mardyke in Hotwells, the Long Bar on Old Market and the Queen’s Head in Eastville.

Cans of Natch and pints of Thatchers Original are both popular options among the cider drinkers.

French football on Fox Sports was being shown on one of the television screens as I paid a visit, arriving by bicycle via the nearby Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

The L-shaped main room has a small garden at one end, and pleasingly chipped tables and chairs giving this the feel of a pub that has some stories to tell.

Contented chatter of locals was replaced with a few grumbles into their pints when a younger visitor put Chase & Status on the jukebox and the music and accompanying bass kicked in at far too loud a volume for delicate ears.

As well as the jukebox and a couple of fruit machines, other entertainment here includes regular gigs, as well as karaoke, race and quiz nights.

The Whitehall Tavern, 30 Devon Road, Easton, Bristol, BS5 9AD. 0117 955 6798