The George Abbot pub was one of the many local business casualties of the fiercely bad winter weather that swept over Guildford over December 2013 and January 2014. As most of us were snuggled up in the warm with our families on Christmas Eve, the water levels in central Guildford rose and rose, eventually breaking the banks of the River Wey. This had devastating effects on many of the low-lying buildings in town and was one of three pubs, including The White House and The Britannia that suffered badly. However, after a serious clean up job and a two month renovation, one of Guildford’s favourite pubs reopened its doors on March 18 with a new lease of life.
The new look pub has a light and modern feel now; a beautiful new bar sits in pride of place surrounded by gorgeous slate flooring, juxtaposed with the traditional wooden interior and fireplaces that have made the George Abbot feel so homely over the years. Since having to be totally gutted due to water damage, the interior has been given some pastel shades and lowered in the side section which has lightened it up and will be glorious during the summertime. All the furniture had to be replaced and the matt black finish on the exterior gives it a stylish look to reflect the type of pub it has become.
Behind the bar there is a fine selection of spirits which would not be classed as premium, but can certainly give you a fine and fresh choice which distinguishes itself from its competitors. There is an assortment of fine ales on tap including local favourites Hogs Back and Shere Drop, plus the added bonus of several different craft lagers such as BrewDog Punk IPA, to bring it in line with contemporary trends. Of course you can also expect a medley of wines if that’s your tipple instead.
In regards to food, the menu has also had an overhaul with a new range of favourites such as Saddleback Pork Sausages, Chicken, Leek & British Ham Pie and Macaroni Cheese complimenting a Grill section that includes steaks, burgers and grilled skewers. If you are looking for something a little lighter then there are starters like Potted Smoked Mackerel and Salt & Pepper Squid on offer and plenty of sandwiches such as a BBQ Pulled Pork Wrap, Laverstocke Buffalo Mozzarella Ciabatta and British Rump Steak Ciabatta.
There are salads, sides, sharers and desserts as to be expected and all the food is fresh and homemade in the kitchen. Offers also include the ‘Sandwich, Side & Drink’ for only £7.95 which is as good value as you are likely to get anywhere in town and a two or three course fixed price menu at £11.95 and £15.95 respectively. All of this can be enjoyed in the spacious eating section of the pub, where you can have a quiet bite if you aren’t interested in the bustle of the bar area.
The George Abbot also prides itself on being one of the top pubs in Guildford for showing sports with four screens scattered around, showing football, rugby, cricket, golf, boxing or anything else on request. For the real fanatics amongst you, you will be pleased to hear that with their multi-screen function, you can keep your eye on two things at once as well! And with BT Sport and Sky Sports on tap, it is likely there will be a lot to see.
So, if you haven’t checked out the new and improved George Abbot pub, make sure you head down and support them in overcoming what was a pretty miserable winter.
James Martin