Van Dyck Forum - Bristol, City of

I was greeted by Bridie at the bar with a warm smile as she took my order. She was exceptionally polite, friendly, and pleasant, making me feel very welcome. Her customer service was top-notch, and our breakfast was also delicious.

I had a disappointing experience at Wetherspoons in Fishponds, Bristol on Christmas Eve in 2023. I felt discriminated against due to my disability when my friendly advice was taken as unwanted criticism and escalated to the point where I was refused service, asked to leave, and even threatened with police involvement. Despite the fact that I witnessed no threatening or drunken behavior, no refusal to leave, no abuse, and no raised voices, the staff adamantly refused to accept or investigate my constructive criticism. It was not even particularly busy at the time. The establishment claims to have video rights to record patrons, but does not allow customers to record any malpractices they may witness. This kind of discriminatory action against individuals with disabilities is unacceptable, and I believe that if the law is not applied in situations like this, it will continue to be disregarded. It appears that at Wetherspoons, you get what you pay for - cheap beer, even cheaper service, and a bad attitude. If anyone wants more information about my experience, feel free to reach out.

The reviewer did not consume alcohol or engage in any abusive behavior. They ordered a large soft drink through the app and paid in advance. Upon arrival at the pub, they found it to be quiet with staff loitering around. Despite waiting for almost 20 minutes with their order placed on the bar in plain view, they had to go collect it themselves. The shift manager, who was not busy at the time, did not offer any assistance. When the reviewer gave the manager a disapproving look, they were accused of stealing their paid-for order, sparking an altercation. The reviewer maintained their calm demeanor and did not raise their voice. However, the manager did not apologize or attempt to resolve the situation. The reviewer consumed their drink and was subsequently told not to return by the manager. This lack of customer service, in addition to the unhelpful behavior of the manager, left the reviewer dissatisfied.

Went for food and a drink Thursday. It seems that every Thursday there is a family gathering with quite a few children allowed to run riot, running around tables, jumping off the stairs, no adults talking control of them. It's like sitting in a children's play area. I asked members of staff if they can have a word with the family and was told children are allowed in the bar until 9pm. I've got no problem if children are kept under control, but they are left to run riot with no consideration for other customers. Personally I would like to go out for a meal and drink without having to worry about children running around the bar areas screaming so if you are going in for a quiet drink avoid Thursday tea time.

Round the corner from the tyre place and popped in for a coffee, since it seemed the car was going to be a while I ordered breakfast (ordered just outside breakfast hours but no issues). Free refills of coffee or tea used to be included with breakfast but not any more (now separate). Breakfast arrived quickly, it was tasty and as expected. Had to ask for marmalade as none included with the toast and not with the condiments. Did exactly what it said on the tin.