The Criterion
A cozy, historic pub in Weston-super-Mare, renowned for its authentic English atmosphere and a vast selection of real ales and ciders.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Criterion
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cozy, historic pub in Weston-super-Mare, renowned for its authentic English atmosphere and a vast selection of real ales and ciders.
"An ideal version of how we do things in Britain; a place of good cheer, geniality, and bonhomie."
Winter Fireside Charm
Visit in winter to enjoy the cozy ambiance by the roaring open fire. A perfect spot to unwind.
Taste the Tribute Ale
Don't miss the highly recommended Tribute ale from St.Austell Brewery for an exceptional pint.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Pub
Price
$
Phone
+44 7538 753350
Address
45 Upper Church Rd, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 2DY, United Kingdom
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic English Pub Culture
Step into one of Weston-super-Mare's oldest pubs, a true gem for genuine English pub culture and a warm, local atmosphere.
Exceptional Real Ales and Ciders
Savor a wide selection of expertly poured real ales, fine ciders, and unique box ciders, ensuring a perfect pint.
Historic Victorian Charm
Experience the enduring charm of a late Victorian building that has preserved its original features, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Winter Fireside Charm
Visit in winter to enjoy the cozy ambiance by the roaring open fire. A perfect spot to unwind.
Taste the Tribute Ale
Don't miss the highly recommended Tribute ale from St.Austell Brewery for an exceptional pint.
Sunday Cheese Nibbles
Enjoy free cheese and nibbles available on Sundays while savoring your drinks.
Join Weekly Events
Make sure to attend weekly events like pub quizzes or live music nights for added entertainment.
Tips
from all over the internet
Winter Fireside Charm
Visit in winter to enjoy the cozy ambiance by the roaring open fire. A perfect spot to unwind.
Taste the Tribute Ale
Don't miss the highly recommended Tribute ale from St.Austell Brewery for an exceptional pint.
Sunday Cheese Nibbles
Enjoy free cheese and nibbles available on Sundays while savoring your drinks.
Join Weekly Events
Make sure to attend weekly events like pub quizzes or live music nights for added entertainment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Criterion is widely praised as a hidden gem, offering an authentic and warm traditional British pub experience. Visitors love the exceptional selection of real ales and ciders, the cozy atmosphere enhanced by a fireplace, and the friendly, welcoming staff and patrons. While it's a local's pub, newcomers are made to feel right at home. Some mention it's a bit off the beaten path, but the walk is considered well worth it for the quality of the beer and the genuine cordiality.
"If you're not a local, or not following the Cask Marque Ale Trail, you are going to miss this place - and that will be to your disadvantage.
The atmosphere in this tucked away local tavern, is the definition of good cheer, geniality and bonhomie. Off the beaten track, it is easily missed and those wishing to experience an atmosphere of genuine cordiality, miss something that the English pub is all about.
This is just the place where I would bring American, or any foriegn tourist to see an ideal version of how we do things in Britain - I just wish every local pub was like this and I also wish it was my local.
Those with an interest in history, will be interested to know this is one of the oldest buildings in the town.
The late Victorian building eventually evolved over the years from a lodging house into a pub. The interior has some regional importance being almost unchanged since the time, the main interest being the impressive old curved counter and the fine mirrored bar-back.
Snacks are available and the free cheese and nibbles on the counter on Sundays, is not so often seen now-a-days. And, being on the Cask Marque Ale Trail, the discerning imbiber can be assured of a perfect pint. This reviewers opinion of the Tribute (St.Austell Brewery 4.2%) was in perfect condition.
K, the landlady, like many of the patrons, was affable and interested in any new faces. Well worth more than just another visit."
Chris Sanders
"What a great pub, proper old type place. Usual tap beers and a few real ales available. Staff were friendly and polite. This is how a pub should be. Enjoyed my visit."
Paul Phipps
"A little gem of a pub located behind the main stretch of the seafront, often missed. Obviously a locals pub but definitely a good thing. The landlord has a keen eye for quality and service which reflects in the beer and service on offer. Very friendly environment and welcoming. They have events and entertainment on offer. I would thoroughly recommend popping in! I'm very glad I have"
Harvey baigent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, The Criterion is a dog-friendly establishment, making it a welcoming spot for you and your furry companions.
The Criterion offers a wide selection of real ales, fine ciders, box ciders, gins, and spirits. They are known for their quality beer.
The Criterion hosts various events including live music nights, darts competitions, cribbage games, BBQs, and weekly pub quizzes.
The atmosphere is described as cozy, warm, and full of good cheer, especially during winter with a roaring open fire. It's a genuine local pub experience.
Absolutely. It's recommended as an ideal place for tourists to experience genuine English pub culture and hospitality.
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Featured in these publications
The Top Bars In Weston-Super-Mare, UK
Just a short walk from Weston-super-Mare beach is The Criterion, a cosy, traditional British pub with such a good range of real ales and fine ciders that it’s been featured in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide not once, but twice. Popular in wintertime for its roaring open fire, The Criterion also offers its guests darts and table skittles as extra entertainment along with a weekly pub quiz.
Pubs & Bars in Weston-super-Mare
Thought to be one of the oldest pubs in Weston-super-Mare, so it’s no wonder they know a good pint and how to pour one. This dog-friendly traditional pub is a bit of a locals’ secret but one they are quite happy to share with visitors and this watering hole wears its Cask Marque accreditation with pride.
Best pubs in Weston-super-Mare
The Criterion is an old-fashioned watering hole in the Knightstone area of Weston. The establishment has a loyal local clientele, fireplace, occasional live music and friendly landlords. You’ll find the bar well-stocked with real ales, lagers and ciders on draft, plus a selection of spirits.
CAMRA ALE TRAIL: Best real ale pubs in Weston
The pub - believed to be one of Weston's oldest - is included in the CAMRA 2019 Good Beer Guide and is just off the seafront. Games feature strongly, with darts and table skittles, plus a quiz on a Tuesday, with several guest beers sold.
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The Criterion is widely cited as Weston-super-Mare’s oldest pub, and it remains one of the most popular. Located just off the beach, the bar menu features a range of rotating guest ales.
Top 25 Things to Do in Weston-super-Mare
The Criterion is one of Weston’s most popular pubs, and has a cosy, traditional feel, especially in winter, when you can enjoy a pint next to the roaring fire.
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