The Beaufort Arms, a local pub in Stoke Gifford, has decided to let owners bring their dogs into the bar area of the establishment.
The decision was made by the manager, Jim, who being a dog owner himself decided that it was time to welcome other dog owners into the pub. He said:
“Being part of the community is really important and a large part of our community is people who own dogs. I don’t want to be the person who has to say ‘no’ and stop them from having fun. They should be able to come and enjoy spending time at our pub just as much as everyone else.”
The decision has come after a few regulars inquired into why dogs were not allowed indoors when there are many other pubs nearby that do allow them in. Jim decided that he needed to show an understanding for what it is like to have a dog and how difficult it can be to find dog friendly places to go for a drink or a meal.
Ben Bartlett and Glyn Lloyd (pictured with their dogs) are both regulars in the pub and were both thrilled by the news, Ben and his wife said: “We’re delighted! Now we can come out for a drink with Rosie without the worry of the weather changing”, and Glyn added: “I think it’s great. I’ve just retired so now I can go for a walk and then come and enjoy a couple of beers with my dog.”
However, for those who may not want to share their meal with a furry canine, there is no need to worry as dogs are only allowed in one area of the pub; in the bar area up to the fireplace but beyond that is reserved for diners with two legs only.
The Beaufort Arms is part of the Ember Inns group, which nationally does not have a set rule on allowing dogs into their pubs but according to Jim you would find that most of them would allow this. The decision is down to the discretion of the manager and at the moment, The Three Brooks located in Bradley Stoke, allows dogs in the garden but not inside.
For some, this may seem like an interesting decision as it comes after JD Weatherspoon decided to ban customers from bringing dogs inside any of the company’s pubs across the country. This decision went into effect from 10th September and was made because dogs are too “unpredictable” and cause too much mess. However, so far, there has been lots of positive feedback regarding the decision with people on Facebook posting comments such as: “Love this idea!! Well done Team”, “Yaay!!” and “Fab news”.
Jim added:
“Since the new rule has come into place, we have seen many new faces come to the pub and people are even ringing up to make bookings that include a space for their dog! We haven’t received any complaints from members of the public and there have been no problems with the dogs as owners are being very responsible and keeping them on their leads.”
Photo (l-r): Glyn Lloyd with his Jack Russell Fidget, Beaufort Arms general manager Jim Carey with his puppy Blake and Ben Bartlett with his dachshund Rosie.
This article originally appeared in the October 2018 issue of the Stoke Gifford Journal news magazine (on pages 8 & 9). The magazine is delivered FREE, EVERY MONTH, to over 5,000 homes in Stoke Gifford, Little Stoke and Harry Stoke. Phone 01454 300 400 to enquire about advertising or leaflet insertion.
