We had a pint at the ‘perfect’ traditional pub near Bristol with breathtaking country views

After walking up steep and unforgiving Providence Lane on a warm summer’s day, the Miners Rest is certainly a sight for aching legs, let alone anybody who has worked up a thirst.

This Long Ashton pub’s name is a reference to when there were coalfields in the area and there is plenty of mining memorabilia in the three interconnecting rooms either side of the central bar.

These include a model of a colliery, old maps and photos and even a pick and shovel on the wall.

Outside, there is a terrace with grapes hanging on the vines above and, at the back of the pub, another higher area with panoramic views of the countryside and the Mendips.

It really is one of the best pub garden views you’ll find - it’s mesmerising.

Inside, there are flagstones and wooden parquet floors and an upright piano next to photos of local cricket teams past and present.

If the outside areas are the perfect places on a hot July day, the cosy rooms inside must be the ideal spots in winter with their real fires.

Open all day, this traditional pub keeps things simple when it comes to food.

There’s a great value ploughman’s for £7.95, jacket potatoes from £5.95, toasties from £4 and a range of main dishes such as faggots, chips, peas and gravy for £7.95 and steak and kidney pie, chips, peas and gravy for £10.95.

As for drinks, you could order Peroni, Guinness, Amstel and locally brewed Butcombe Original, but this is better known as a cider pub overlooking cider country.

Choose between Blackthorn Dry, Thatchers Gold, Thatchers Dry or, as most of the regulars seemed to be doing, order a pint of the potent Thatchers Traditional with a slice of lemon.

Friendly, welcoming, as traditional as they come and with those stunning views, the Miners Rest is simply one of the most perfect pubs you’ll find on the outskirts of Bristol. I genuinely didn’t want to leave.

The Miners Rest, 42 Providence Lane, Long Ashton, BS41 9DJ.