Gryphon, Bristol

A shrine to dark beer and rock/heavy metal music in which posters, bespoke artwork and many pumpclips adorn the walls. Triangular in shape due to its corner plot and just a few yards up the hill from the Bristol Beacon (former Colston Hall), it has handpumps dispensing up to four rapidly changing and generally never to be seen again brews, many dark and often strong. Live bands regularly play upstairs and there are 'MetAle' beer festivals in March and September. There are good discounts on draught or bottled beers at certain times Monday to Thursday. The pub may close a little earlier if very quiet, it occasionally may be closed on Sunday depending on previous night's music, and it also may be available for private hire before 4pm weekdays. Children and dogs are admitted at the licensee's discretion.