The Villagers Inn, Blackheath

I have just been to this pub with some friends and was hoping for better than the reviews.. Unfortunately was not to be. First complaint: cleanliness. A friend ordered a drink inside before I arrived at around noon. The empty glass was still around at 1430. Also around the entrance to the toilets (which actually has the potential to be quite nice) it was cluttered and one could see debris in the yard outside. Next, service and value for money: I ordered a portion of "Cajun Chicken" for �10 and was told it would be around 25 minutes which turned out to be more like 45. Having been seated outside our party decided to try and get a table inside - despite empty tables Landlord rather grumpily pointed out that there were no tables available as they were all reserved - after moving to the couches one of the staff grunted "we don't serve food at the couches". In retrospect should have cancelled the order and demanded my money back for the food (also overpriced: �10 for a piece of chicken with chips and cheap BBQ sauce). One redeeming quality: good beer. All in all though a pretty miserable performance which is a shame as I think this pub could be really nice (location, structure, beer etc) in the hands of the right proprietor...

19 Oct 2008 16:03