Bristol is world famous for its love affair with cider, and whether you’re a local aficionado or a visitor from out of town, there are few better places to relax and enjoy the West Country’s favourite drink than at the aptly named The Apple.

The Venue
A converted Dutch barge floating just off the harbour is home to The Apple. Before you step aboard the boat itself there's a large quayside seating area that hints at just how popular this floating cider-lovers’ paradise actually is.

On the top deck there’s a large canvas covered seating area that’s popular with students and has a really lively atmosphere as well as brilliant views across the harbour. But it’s downstairs in the more relaxed, cosy hold that you’ll find the well stocked bar that provides the cider that has made The Apple so rightly famous.

The People
The Apple prides itself on its welcoming, down to earth environment. As a result you’re just as likely to find groups of giggling student girls as pairs of pensive old men enjoying the cider and soaking up the atmosphere.

The bar staff are young and trendy but definitely not caught up in their own sense of cool and they’re happy to guide you through the overwhelming drinks menu with patience and a smile.

The Food and Drink
The Apple is defined by its drinks menu, which if you haven’t already guessed, weighs heavy with ciders and apple-related drinks of every possible permutation. With over forty different ciders and perries on sale including seven on draught, even if you don’t think you like cider, there’s bound to be a drink somewhere here that will change your mind.

From the absolutely divine Weston’s Organic for £3.30 a bottle, to the mind-blowing 8 per cent draught Old Bristolian (that is only served in £2 halves), to Brother’s Toffee Apple cider for £3.40 a bottle, apple juice has never tasted so good.

It’s not just cider on sale as there’s a wide choice of excellent wines and spirits, a decent selection of bottled beers from both the local area and abroad alongside an unusual selection of ‘apple derivatives’ including schnapps, brandies and even vodkas.

You don't really go to The Apple for food but they serve it anyway and there's Somerset Caesar salad for £6.50 and cod and mushy pea fishcakes also for £6.50.

The Last Word
Whether you’re a local looking for a fuss-free place to start your evening or you’re a visitor looking for a genuine taste of Bristol’s laid-back vibe and cider-centric culture, there aren’t many better options than The Apple.