Surprisingly, this is the first Bass pub I’ve reviewed, and on National Bass Day no less. I have visited the Sandringham a number of times before; it’s my pub of choice if I have an hour or so to spare before a film at Showcase Avonmeads. This was a late afternoon Saturday Easter Bank Holiday visit, and the pub was crowded. Both rooms were busy, with the jukebox up loud, and got turned up further when In the Navy came on. Although the atmosphere was positive and lively, I have always felt a little on edge in the Sandringham. On a previous visit it featured some of the most blatant devil’s dandruff use I’ve ever seen, which leads me to think that some of the characters in there might be a bit volatile. That said, I’ve had a few games of darts against strangers in there too, who have always been friendly and gracious in victory or defeat (usually victory). It is most likely a case of being more of a regular and knowing who the characters are, as well as being a recognised face yourself.
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