Review of Grand Junction Arms 3*

Never judge a book by it's cover. Or this pub by it's exterior. It doesn't look much from the outside, but go through the door and, WOW. The new management have done wonders. No longer is it a scruffy eyesore to be avoided at all costs. But a place to take your friends, relax and enjoy the ambiance. I went yesterday evening (Friday 11/08/17) Having never been here before, due to it's past reputation, I wasn't expecting great things. On entering, however, all my prejudices were overturned. You enter into a comfortable modern bar. I was impressed there and then. The space was welcoming and the staff, when I went to the bar, friendly. A little later we decided to move outside and I discovered that the place is like a tardis. Much bigger than you'd think from outside. A lot bigger. There are five major seating areas. From the entrance bar through to a lounge area, popular with families. Onto a second bar, which when I visited was full of younger people on a night out with friends. A great atmosphere here but it did take a while to get served. Then on to a large canal side dining area. Due to last night's weather, the retractable roof over this was closed. And finally onto an even larger outside seating area with 3 huts right at the back. Private booths just for you and your mates. I seem to remember that there was also seating lower down right on the canal, but I didn't venture that far. I thoroughly enjoyed my evening here. The food and drinks were great, and reasonably priced. Plus, for once I got my steak cooked just the way I like it. Rare. Most places give you medium to well done when you ask for rare. GJA get a few extra points for that. Luckily I work 5 mins walk and live 15mins bus from this marvellous hostelry. They'll be seeing me again.