The Betjeman Arms, St Pancras International Station

Pub with several different faces, on the inside that is. Good place for one drink and a meal in between trains, as it's not cheap. Food is OK, but nothing special; and 9 knockers for a proper fish and chips with a little bowl of mushy peas (like an icecream) is too much. But then that is what we travellers are supposed to pay for the comfort of arriving in the heart of London, isn't it. Ah, Hole in the Wall next to Waterloo Station with your great London characters, hearty food, live football and six or seven ales - sometimes I long back to you...

22 Mar 2009 11:51

The Riverhead Brewery Tap, Marsden

Great pub right in the heart of Marsden with its fantastic little shops. Five beers brewed on the premises, four by Osset and one or two guests. Beers tend to be of the same kind (hoppy and yellowish) and just to differ in strength, but they are brewed to perfection and as fresh as they can be. For around 2 pounds, they're quite cheap too. The mild is superb. Can be a but smelly now and then, but then that's because there's LIFE in here! Upstairs restaurant is just as good with some superb creations; not cheap, but certainly not overexpensive. Recommended!

22 Mar 2009 11:39

The Tunnel End Inn, Marsden

Was a little disappointed after reading all the glorious reviews. Gorgeous place. Owners and staff are indeed very friendly and welcoming and are doing a great job in creating atmosphere and activities. But the standard of the beer doesn't live up to the expectations. Range is very one-sided: four ales, and all four of them bitters. Furthermore, they lacked flavour. Black Sheep had something of apple juice, tea and metal, but not of beer - I didn't even finish it; TT Landlord without the usual subtlety - not finished either - and others were too cold. Maybe a cellar problem. What a shame!

22 Mar 2009 11:34