Most people can recall a moment when they walk into a room, and everyone stares...but not in a good way.
My experience with the General Elliot was not one I look back at fondly. Absolutely desperate for the loo once, my friends and I decided that the General Elliot was the only place close enough. We were also looking for somewhere to rest our feet after a very busy day in town. I said I'd check it out and report back in a minute.
Upon entry, I was transported into a different world of bleak daytime drinking, but without a young person or student in sight. There were several people talking very loudly when I entered to nip to the loo, who automatically stopped as they were greeted with me looking around for it. I felt incredibly uncomfortable asking the barman, who just looked at me and pointed. Granted, I understand that he assumed I was not going to be a paying customer, but as I said, I was going to report to my group if it were an appropriate pit-stop. A verbal reply would have been nice, but all I got was a grunt and a finger pointing in the direction of the toilets, which, down to the bad mood that was riled in me, I want to say- could have done with a good clean.. The pub itself is in pretty bad shape, but is evidentally absolutely fine according to the regulars( and considering the time I went on a Sunday early afternoon, and the number of paying customers in there, it would suggest there are quite a few)..
I wouldn't recommend disturbing the General Elliot. Particularly if you are under 40. Despite its fantastic location, I'm too nervous to go back. read more