The Marlborough, Kingston Upon Thames

Oh dear... looks like I spoke too soon. I fear the Marlborough is already living on borrowed time. What looked so promising 3 months ago has rapidly gone downhill. Last couple of times I've been in the staff have frankly been pretty hopeless. Friendly enough, but seemingly unable to fulfill simple simple orders for beer or coffee without some sort of problem or a ridiculous wait (despite the fact there are no other customers!). They need to get their act together to save what could be a really decent business and a good local pub. What happened to the selection of ales, decent food menu and having live music? Now they only have one ale, just Sunday roasts (no veggie option) and the staff entertain themselves with karaoke on a Friday night.

8 Apr 2007 17:10

The Marlborough, Kingston Upon Thames

Big improvements here. Under new management now and a totally different pub. No more scenes from 'Booze-Britain' outside of a Friday night, no fruit machine and although there is still a big screen, its rarely used. Good selection of drinks (including 3 real ales) and a decent roast on Sundays. Nice atmosphere last time I went in: chilled out music and a mixed of couples and small groups having a quiet pint. Decor is quirky but comfortable. The new manager says he is hoping to have live jazz on some nights.

1 Dec 2006 10:13

The Vale Bar, Dulwich

Yes, I got the 'no tap water' rubbish last time I went in. Sadly its the nearest bar to where I work, but I think I'll make the effort to go somewhere decent in future. No atmosphere and pretty unfriendly bar staff, plus having music going at the same time as bloody eastenders on a big screen is a definite turn-off!

2 Jul 2004 16:30