As the premier supplier of fruit machines and digital entertainment across Berkshire, London and the Home Counties, we’ve seen our fair share of pubs. Pubs that are independent and free-of-tie boast some of the most eclectic style, biggest variety of ales and the best character.
You won’t find the local ‘Spoons or the fancy gastropubs on this list. We’re only interested in the best independent drinker’s pubs in Berkshire. Those that sell quality ales, with no pretention.
Our Top 5 Berkshire Boozers
The Nag’s Head
Russell Street, Reading
The CAMRA award-winning pub in the centre of Reading features 12 hand pumps. The regular rotation of beers will keep you coming back again and again. A supporter of local breweries, there’s a pint for every taste in the Nag’s Head.
Caversham WMSC
Church Street, Caversham
A cosy working men’s club that’s been in the centre of Caversham since 1909. The staff are dedicated to providing its members with a pleasant, friendly and relaxed environment. The club also offers a wide range of sports and social events, a dedicated snooker room and much more.
The Fox Inn
Hermitage
The Fox Inn is a traditional village pub, converted from a terrace of 19th century cottages. The pub has a good base of locals and an excellent atmosphere. Friday night is also known as Party Night, when the whole village descends on the pub. On Saturdays you’ll see locals playing cards or dominoes in the bar area and then every other Sunday is Jam Night.
Golden Cross
Twyford
This pub dates back to the 19th century and is very close to Twyford Station. After a long period of decline, the current licensee has refurbished the pub. Features include a dart board, HD sports TV and a beer garden. They are a London Irish Rugby affiliated pub that coordinates travel to home games, so naturally, it’s a great pub to watch the rugby in too!
Bell & Bottle
Shinfield
A spacious yet cosy free house facing the village green, with a real community feel. Finalist for the Berkshire 2017 Pub of the Year, this is a drinker’s pub of exceptional standards. There is a spacious pub garden when the weather’s decent and a real fire if it’s cold.
Berkshire is home to hundreds of quality pubs, but here’s a sampling of the best. Are you a regular in Berks? Which is your favourite pub? Let us know on our Facebook page.
