A pub regarded by many as one of Bristol's best is gearing up to reopen after seven months of closure.
The Gryphon was named Best Pub in Bristol at the inaugural Bristol Loves Awards, which took place in the foyer of Bristol Beacon in October 2019.
For the past eight years the pub, which is loved by metal music lovers, has featured in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide thanks to its six cask hand pumps, five keg taps and no-repeat guest ale policy.
Before being forced to close the pub hosted numerous gigs a week, welcoming both renowned and up-and-coming local acts.
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But when when many pubs reopened in July, The Gryphon's landlord John Ashby decided to remain shut as he felt it would have been "irresponsible" to open.
Speaking at the time, he said: "Despite Government easing on 4th July, I firmly believe it would be irresponsible to open our doors again so soon.
"The safety of my household, the wellbeing of my staff, and making sure you folks aren’t put at unnecessary risk is paramount.
"Realistically, we are looking at September/October to reopen. Even then, it won’t be full capacity business as normal. We’ve a lot to learn, and adapt to."
The pub instead launched a crowdfunder to help it cover its bills and to allow it to reopen safely, which has so far raised £15,000.
When it reopens soon the pub will be operating a table booking system, with booking advised as there are only 31 seats across eight tables with social distancing measures in place.
A list of rules people must adhere to when they visit has been shared on the pub's Facebook page so it complies with Government guidelines.
Masks must be worn when people are not sat at their table and there will be hand sanitising stations dotted throughout the venue.
Drinks orders will be made via the Butlr app and all visitors will need to enter their details for Track & Trace upon arrival.
While the pub is not revealing the exact date of its reopening, it has said it is "very close" to welcoming customers for the first time since March.
