The Southwark Tavern, London Bridge

Dropped in this evening with friends. All three of the (different) ales we ordered tasted of line cleaner. Tried to take them back and were offered another draught ale which also tasted of line cleaner. When we asked for a bottled real ale instead the duty manager told us that there was no such thing as a bottled real ale. When we disagreed she told us that they didn't stock bottled real ale. When we pointed out the Worthington White Shield in the fridge behind her she said she couldn't swap a bottled beer for a pint. Ended up offering to pay for two bottles of Worthington if she's just tip the rancid draught bitter down the sink. Insult to injury: she was greatly affronted when we asked for a glass to pour the Worthington's into. Avoid! Avoid! Avoid!

15 Jul 2012 01:03

The Hole in the Wall, Torquay

Families beware - this may be the last pub in the UK NOT to permit children at any time of day. Arrived mid-afternoon on a wet and windy Thursday and was met at the door by a member of staff who had seen us coming up the path with child in buggy, and had dashed to the door to make sure we didn't even make it across the threshold. Very surprised considering that the pub was empty at the time - not the "welcoming atmosphere" quoted in the Good Beer Guide review that had made us walk a mile in the rain to check it out. We found a friendly welcome and nice choice of Bay's bitters at the Offshore across the harbour though - suggest anyone with children goes there instead!

12 Jul 2012 20:25