Mad Pub Guide

Military personnel tend to stick to the town centre and pubs which are named after past wars or deceased members of the royal family and the locals can usually be found in the usual chain-style pubs which are dotted around between the vast array of kebab shops. Generally most pubs are welcoming but for the average away supporter who wants to be near the ground so there's no rush near kick off, have a chat to other footy supporters and a half decent pint or two, your best bet is to get to one of the several pubs close to the Recreation Ground.

The Crimea - Opposite The Rec

The nearest is The Crimea which is almost opposite the ground. There is a beer garden at the front and is a great place to be on a hot sunny day in August - especially if there's a big match.

Being the closest pub to the ground, it's predictably busy on match days but away fans are made to feel welcome and there's usually a good bit of friendly banter to be had.

They serve the usual lagers on tap, bottled beers and also have three guest ales on the go at any one time. There's a small amount of customer parking at the front between the pub and the garden but supporters are urged to use the main car park across the road.


La Fontaine can be found at the top of Redan Hill and visiting supporters coaches often use the area outside the pub as a drop off point.

Away supporters who have travelled to the ground by road or rail also have to walk up the hill to reach the away fans turnstiles which are a short walk through a park (at the rear of the East Bank) so it makes an ideal stop off point prior to reaching the ground or for having a post match celebration - if the result calls for it. Again, although used by some locals and Shots supporters, visiting supporters are more than welcome and there is a friendly atmosphere. There's slightly less choice for the ale drinkers amongst you, but there's the usual lagers on tap and in bottles.

The Beehive - Just Down The Road

If you fancy a pint before walking up the hill, go under the railway bridge and continue along the High Street and you'll find The Beehive.

It's on the junction with Pound Lane. Once again, you'll find a large selection of lagers on offer but (I'm told) there may be a few people upset as the only ale on offer is IPA.


A couple of doors down you'll find The Volunteer but this has strange opening hours at the moment so we've not been able to get in to check it out.




















Just a bit further down the road - and right on the roundabout you will find The Golden Lion. This pub is owned by former Shots legend Joe Jopling and welcomes all for a friendly pre match pint. There is a good range of food served 12 - 2 every day and it shows all Sky Sports Premiership games on big screen TVs

The Red Lion - Big, But A Five Minute Walk

Continue down the road for a few minute more and you'll come to The Red Lion.

This may be the best choice for you real ale drinkers out there as they have four guest ales, the fine Tongham TEA as well as the usual bitters. There is of course, lager on tap and bottled beers.