On Fri, May 07, 2004 at 05:57:30AM +0100, Syd Hancock wrote:
On Thursday 06 May 2004 9:41 pm, Jonathan McDowell wrote: [...]
FWIW it's now the Reindeer again and I was there for a couple of drinks with some friends this evening. Seem pleasant enough. Music level was low, it wasn't busy (possibly as it's only just opened) and there were 7 of us there and I think double that could have fitted, which doesn't seem any less than we normally have at the Thursday meets. Atmosphere seemed better than the City Gate has been recently, especially allowing for the fact it wasn't that busy.
Might be worth a try again at some point (but not this month, as I won't be around for the Thursday meet). June 18th perhaps?
Just curious, what is the problem with the City Gate atmosphere? Has it changed recently? Seems OK for what we want. The space and ease of movement around the tables, quietness and lack of smoke are all plus points to me.
I'm not that bothered by it, but thought I'd heard a few comments of dissent about it not being as nice a venue as it could be.
'Atmosphere' in a pub often meets crowded and smoky which is fine for a drinking session but maybe not the best for our purposes.
The Reindeer wasn't smoky or crowded last night, however that may change over time I guess.
I don't personally care one way or the other where people meet but I'd be wary of changing venue yet again so soon especially if the Reindeer could well start getting busier and too full.
You're probably right; I'd just remembered the Reindeer being discounted as an option and felt I should right the balance as it seems to have got better. We can keep it as a spare in case the City Gate is ever closed, seeing as it's just across the road. ;)
J.