The Bridge at Gamston is a large, purpose-built pub on the outskirts of the City Centre offering budget pub meals in the afternoon and early evening. There is no discernable dining area, and like most pubs of its ilk, you only need to turn up and place your order at the bar. The Bridge has a fairly average menu, and all meals are precooked and ready to serve. The place seemed lacking in ambience, and although the staff was welcoming enough, it was just a place to have a quick meal and a drink or two. The great thing about the Bridge is that our meals were served fairly rapidly, well prepared, hot, and of course, cheap. It is not a place for an evening out, but we were adequately fed before a trip to the theatre. We would go again for a cheap and cheerful meal.
In contrast, the Stratford Arms in the centre of West Bridford is an old building that has been well adapted as a pub. It’s what I’d call a "proper drinker’s pub" offering a superb selection of extremely well-kept "real ales" at realistic prices. Here the decor takes second place to the drink, and it’s always buzzing. Although you can’t book a table here, I’m sure you won’t mind waiting for a gap to appear. Ambience is not lacking here, and you may have to wait more than a moment to get your drink. The Stratford has a good selection of reasonably priced bar meals, but the kitchen staff never hurries. Their Greek is superb, with supreme-tasting olives and a quality feta cheese. This cannot be referred to as "only a salad," as it’s substantial and always seems to be prepared with care and attention. The menu is detailed on blackboards above the bar, and although the choice is limited, they are of good quality. The downside is that it can often be quite smoky, as presently there is no ban on smoking here.
The Rose and Crown at Cotgrave is also an older-style country pub that has progressed well, its clientele requiring food as well as drink. It serves a well-kept pint, and the bonus here is that you can get a "proper" meal in a dedicated dining area. It is always advisable to book (although the Sunday lunch menu can be eaten anywhere in the pub or its gardens), and if you don’t like smoking, then be sure to ask for a table in the nonsmoking dining room. Its waitress service here and all the staff are charming and attentive. The menu is upmarket and more expensive than the previous two (around £10 for a main course), but this is a place where you could go out for the night and enjoy a decent meal in a warm, friendly environment. Forget the diet – some of their puds are just wonderful!