We didn’t see it coming…but we’re certainly not complaining. The folks over at Bristol Live popped in last week and did an article all about us, our location and our little hidden-away taproom in Brislington.
We wanted to take a minute to say thanks, share a few thoughts, and tell you a little bit about what it felt like to see our name in the (internet) paper.
“Unusual” Is Kinda the Point
One of the things they called us was one of “the most unusual pub settings in the city” and we think that’s bang on the money. We’re not on a high street, we’re not a chain, and we’re certainly not polished or posh. You need to wind your way through an industrial estate and past a meadow of long grass to get here…but once you do you’ll find a big ol’ unit brimming with good beer, friendly faces, and a properly chilled-out atmosphere.
We’ve always liked doing things our own way, and being a bit off the beaten track is just part of that. So yeah, unusual is fine by us.
They Really Got What We’re About
Let’s be honest, when we found out we were getting written about we were a bit anxious. You never know how someone from the outside is going to take what you’ve put together. But we’re not going to lie, we absolutely nailed it.
They talk about our “chilled, dog-friendly vibe” and the “makeshift but cosy” atmosphere. There’s a mention of the fairy lights and wooden posts that lead the way to us, and how once you’re inside, it feels like the kind of place you could happily get lost in for the whole night. And we were reading it like, yeah, that’s exactly what we’re going for.
We’re not about flashy interiors or fancy cocktails. We just want to brew good beer, serve it with a smile, and give people a nice place to hang out.
It’s Not Just About Us, It’s About You Too
The thing that made us happiest about the article though is that it reminded us how much of this place has been created by the people who come here.
We’ve got regulars who bring their dogs every Saturday and Sunday, families who drop in for a pint and a munch from the food truck, and newbies who turn up slightly puzzled and leave with big smiles and a new favourite place. That community spirit, that sense of easy-going, bring a friend fun, that’s what makes this place.
So while it was us that Bristol Live wrote about, it’s also about all the people who’ve ever sat on one of our benches, danced to some live music, or stayed far too long with a pint. Cheers to you.
The Magic of Local Support
We don’t have big advertising budgets or marketing teams. Most of the time people find us through word of mouth or a tag on Instagram, or because they’re walking past. So for a local platform like Bristol Live to share our story is a big deal.
We’ve had loads of new people through the door since the article went live, some who live around the corner and had no idea we were here, others who came across the city just to see what the fuss was about. That kind of exposure means the world to a small, independent place like ours. It helps us grow, find new people, and continue doing what we love.
What Happens Next?
We’re not going to be making any big changes or rebrands in the wake of the article, don’t worry, we’re not going posh on you. If anything it’s just given us a nudge to keep doing what we’ve always done, brew great beer, book amazing food trucks, light the fire pits, and welcome whoever wants to pop in for a pint.
If you’re new here, welcome! Come in, grab a drink, bring the dog. If you’re a regular, thanks for being part of what makes this place feel so special. We’ve got new beers in the pipeline, summer events coming thick and fast, and as always a fridge full of cold ones waiting to be cracked.
One Last Cheers
To Bristol Live, thank you so much for shining a light on our slightly strange but very much loved little spot. Your words put a big smile on everyone’s faces.
And to everyone who’s visited, shared, supported, or sent a mate our way, cheers. We wouldn’t be here without you.
Now if you’ll excuse us, we’ve got pints to pour.
Team Hop Union 🍻
