Here is a photoguide to one aspect of British life that most visitors will experience, visiting a pub. English Pubs have individual names, mainly traditional such as ‘The Swan’ or ‘ The King’s Arms’. The word ‘Inn’ often means that the pub offers accommodation. Pubs are always open at lunch and dinner time. Many open from 11am for coffee and, due to recent changes in the law, stay open during the afternoon. Pubs usually display opening times at the entrance. Entering a pub can be a little strange for visitors. However remember that Cotswold pubs have been welcoming visitors for hundreds of years! When you enter the pub, it is usual to go straight to the bar. Pubs, of course, sell most kinds of alcoholic drink, and usually coffee as well. It is usual to pay for drinks at the bar as you order them. If you are staying for lunch or dinner, you can ask to pay when you leave. If you are not eating, then you should pay for drinks as you go. There is no need to tip. For food bills, tipping is usual, about 10%. A word about beer! ‘Bitter’ is English beer, a brown beer served in pints or half pints. It is not chilled, usually served at just below room temperature. Ask for “a pint of bitter.” ‘Lager’ is the pale, chilled beer that you may be more familiar with. Finally ‘Stout’, a dark beer such as Guinness is always available. Many pubs have excellent wine Lists. Menus are usually printed and you can pick up a copy at the bar. Look also for blackboards which describe the day’s ‘special’. If you see no waiting staff you can order at the bar. It is usual to order starters and main course at the same time. You can order pudding later. You may be surprised at the amount of food served and you may need to overcome your reluctance to leave food. If you enjoy speaking in English the pub is a good place to start! English people can often be quite reserved, but the pub is one place where you will be able to communicate. You will be left alone if that is what you want, but English people will be interested to meet you. Plenty of smiles will overcome most barriers!