Fox and Hounds, Caversham

Couldn't agree more with The Hermit and Pitonman. Since Kevin & Kerry took over a few years ago this pub has been transformed. It used to be completely unwelcoming with frosted glass windows. That's all been changed, the place was given a bit of a spruce (without ruining the character or turning it into a "Gastro-type" you find on any street), and Kevin has his own brewery (2 Bridges) beer in there regularly. Also offerings from many local and far breweries which change frequently.

They started doing food of sorts (interesting hot dogs) recently. Great quiz night on a Thursday. Open fire. Yes, there's horse racing and football on the telly and (shock horror!) "worker types" - but they make the place. If you want fine gastro dining and Simeon and Pippa with the children Tarquin and Rose in the corner, you should go elsewhere. What you will get is a friendly welcome, lots of conversation and some quality ales.

The best pub in Caversham, and one of the best in the Reading area.

4 Apr 2013 12:42

The Oakford Social Club, Reading

This is indeed an interesting place. Wouldn't be out of place in a hip area of London like Hoxton. Refreshing to find somewhere like this in Reading.

Great continental beer choice, although they did get rid of Leffe recently unfortunately. Guest ales change around regularly. Really good, reasonably priced food too. And a great, eclectic range of music, both pumped out and live.

One of the best 'non traditional' pubs I've been to and I feel privileged it's right on my doorstep.

3 Apr 2013 16:44

The Corn Stores, Reading

I don't know how this place has such a high rating.

For - great location, lovely building, nice to look at from the outside.

Against - absolutely no atmosphere, the only other people in there when I was there (a Friday evening) were a couple who were crying in each others' arms. The TV showing some god awful "modern pop" musak channel was blarring out. The barman served a really terrible, expensive pint of ESB and then disappeared out the back not to be seen again. To be fair, I think it was the bottom of the barrel (I'm referring to the pint) and modern day prices.

This could be an excellent place, and I love Fullers ales. But at the moment it's somewhat lacking.

3 Apr 2013 16:15