please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Should be a great pub, but in reality, but it is very hard to relax with small unsupervised children running around in the evening.
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Dropped by for lunch. Friendly staff, good pint of Doombar (so don't understand the comment about lack of guest beers), great club sandwich delivered reasonably quickly. The pub has a reasonable seating area out front, a huge seating area out back and a big seating area inside. Definitely going back!
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This is an average pub at the moment, it was great though, I used to go on a weekly basis but now it seems all my friends rather to go somewhere else. Bad atmosphere!
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Expensive drinks, average but expensive food, surly staff. Avoid.
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Stopped here after hearing good things from friends. The pub is a well presented Youngs joint well kept, clean and tidy. No real guest beers. Food was ok, well cooked but uninspiring - Posh Mushrooms were just calorific slop and Tasted a bit sharp. Starters arrived too quickly to have been individually prepped always a bad sign.
Staff were generally friendly which was surprising given the grumpy manager wandering round with a big bunch of keys like a prison warden.
Overall a predictable, painted by numbers pub - such a shame given the setting.
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I attended a Xmas Lunch on Monday 13th Dec and was disgusted with the meal provided. The starter was Pate and was tolerable but the main meal of Roast beef was extremely poor. The only reasonable vegetable was the carrots. The sprouts were horrible, the parsnips insipid and the gravy was very poor.
The Cheesecake provided as a sweet was probably the worst I have ever eaten.
Having eaten part of the meal I suffered from an upswet stomach for several days.
I have to futher comment that the last time I used this establishment about 25 years ago I had a similar experience. I had assumed that that experience was an excertion but uit seems not.
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Was served a glass of wine with 2 flies in it. I asked for a glass without flies and was told 'no you get flies in pubs'. Pretty disgusting.
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This used to be an old favourite of mine, and I dropped in with some misgivings recently, for the first time since the makeover.
I was delighted to find that, though the back part of the pub (what I think of as the 'new' part) had been transformed, the part I like, and have always used - the bar with the fire immediately inside the front door, and the little snug bar to its right - had been left completely untouched. Great planning - well done Youngs (for a change).
The beer's a bit expensive, but you'd expect that in these parts, and it was in good nick and served by competent and friendly staff. My only gripe was not with the pub but with its customers. The management have gone out of their way to preserve the ambience of the 'old' bars I referred to by putting up clear signs indicating that they're out of bounds for children. But despite the fact that the kids have about half an acre of bar-space to run around in in the refurbed area, this doesn't stop some parents ignoring the signs and allowing their little darlings into the banned section. Their fault - not the kids'.
However, this was only a minor negative - overall I was really impressed with the place, and cheered to be reassured that refurbs don't have to be for the worse.
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I organised a birthday dinner party for my partner's 40th at Chequers and the staff at the pub really went out of their way to ensure we had an enjoyable evening. The food was excellent (especially the pork belly) and the ambience was really warm and comfortable on a chilly November night. Everyone had a great time. Top marks.
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Cheers to elfhelp who assured me that the chalets are staff quarters. Will hope to be back very soon.
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A fine pub atop of the North Downs. Always comfortable in here and the Youngs is superb if a trifle pricey. Staff always very good and friendly. Never had the food here though it looks good. Will try one day. A pub for all seasons as I have liked coming here in the height of Summer and in the middle of December.
PS: Are the chalets out the back anything to do with the pub?
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Drinks at this pub are expensive. My J2O last night was �2.35p!!! and the pub had very few clientele - I wonder why.
To my mind, the pub seems to be somewhat down in the dumps at the moment.
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" At least the J20'S Back" i bet the governor loves you HHGTTG,
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Nice pub and good food but I dont like the refit. We preferred the old bay windows
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Have been here three times since re-opening. First two occasions were very quiet but trade had picked up the last time. Landlord is very efficient and keeps staff on their toes so service is first class. Very full pint! Youngs Bitter in tip-top condition. Prices a bit to the high side but otherwise a pub you can definitely recommend.
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We enjoyed a very good Sunday lunch here today. The servings were generous and the food was well cooked. Excellent value! The beer was good too!
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Under new management since Nov 08 - both front of house and Kitchen. Working very hard to ensure The Chequers becomes the best loved pub in the village.
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Where have all the customers gone? Very quiet last Thursday evening but they are at least stocking J2Os again albeit at a somewhat elevated price.
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85p for a packed of crisps !! �4.95 for a bowl of chips!! Ouch !!
anonymous - 20 Sep 2007 08:12 |
Music Speakers! even in the snug bars!.... the back bar looks like a gin palace, intrusive bright ceiling lights from the serving area shining right in my face in the snug bar. Just needs a bit of sensitivity and common sense when refurbishing these pubs, when will they ever, ever learn??
anonymous - 21 Aug 2007 09:03 |
Well they've solved the problem of expensive J2Os.Yes they don't sell that brand any more but have replaced it by some other 'fruity' drinks costing �2.60p a bottle (375ml, however).
I think that I'll try a still mineral water next time or a ginger beer! Otherwise a comfortable and now smoke-free establishment for the forthcoming cold winter nights - Brrrrrrrrhhhhh!
I'm marking this pub down for the price of its drinks.
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On riding through Walton at the weekend I frequented many of my old drinking haunts - namely the Fox (who was responsible for that massacre? I'm guessing some yuppy London syndicate?) and the Chequers (impressed with Youngs' foresight and keeping in with the village style, yet modernising a little also). I can't comment on the food, but the service was spot on and I like the refurb enormously. It was plainly obvious where most other people preferred drinking too.
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Went there last night for the first time since they opened about a week ago? First impressions, when I stepped into the front bar, was one of surprise in that so little had apparently changed here - keeping a lot of the olde worlde charm. However it looked a bit plain and dull. The carpets and curtains had been changed but were a trifle under-stated but thankfully, as is common with all places now, the stench of cigarette smoke had gone.
The bar staff, bar one (excuse the pun) did not seem very clued up as to prices etc. and I fear I may have been overcharged for by J2O and half of Fosters (�3.80p!). It is early day so perhaps allow a little bit of latitude.
We had a look around and found the back bar, once a horrible place, much more open but had a 'corporate' look about it (someone suggested a Harvesters)- may be so. Anyway we sat in one of the smaller rooms, which was comfortable and now free from the draughty Vent Axia fans in the windows (no fug to remove).
I'll be going back, as it is one of our Thursday night haunts where I occasionally meet up with friends from all over Surrey.
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One anonymous poster says they've messed up the front bar; another one says they've left it unchanged. Very odd - I shall have make a trip round the M25 and decide for myself.
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Went in last night and was pleased by what I saw. A nice open and airy feel to the back bar and seating very good. I love the front bar and glad they did'nt do anything to change that.
anonymous - 19 Jul 2007 14:27 |
Went to check out the refurbished Chequers last night. They have not messed around with the "Character" bars too much. What annoys me is they have taken the historic artefacts out of the Snug bar which gave it its character and sense of history. Why cant they refurbish pubs tastefully?? Is it impossible?? The main "character" bar, as you walk in, is messed up with cheap 30p pictures when the old 18th century prints were quite adequate. The Garden bar at the back was a lost cause before refurbishment, it was OK for Pub quizzes though. It looks as if the Harvester design team has gone in there, all it needs is a few rakes, hoes and a stuffed scare crows (Hey! that rhymes!)Oh well, I suppose it could be a lot worse. (like the Fox and Hounds down the road) The bar maid has a foghorn voice and I could hardly hear myself think. I also waited ages to get served while she finished her conversation with the bar flys. They are also still getting the loud mouthed Tinker Types in there but I suppose it will never turn back into the classy pub that it used to be
anonymous - 18 Jul 2007 08:23 |
Great pub great beer and good to see the old pub getting a face lift it needed one. As for the 80% food and 20% drinking it should be an interesting few months after it opens again.
Recently the food was not up to scratch mainly as Youngs did not invest in a good chef. I would be surprised if the chef was earning 30K. I understand the Kingswood Arms has 3 chefs earning over 50k each.
If youngs really want to make this a success I suggest they also make the investment in staff as well as the decor.
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What on Earth is everyone thinking? This is like drinking on a building site. Yes Helen was the best, she was caring and had a heart of gold. But Dave on the other hand....! The non-local staff (not the Aussies) were able to pour a pint, as long as you didn't order more than one drink at a time, but they had no personality and definately NO sense of humor! Especially when you comment on where they are from!
The Asst. Manager is great, she is welcoming and very funny when you get to know her. The new pub is apparently going to be 80% food 20% drinking. The result of that is yet to be seen.
I think the result of the refurb will come out in the wash within the first few months. But lets hold our breathes and see how things work out.
By the way, I'd like to wish Helen and Dave a really great future where ever they end up.
anonymous - 9 May 2007 22:00 |
what a shame I have just started using The Chequers on a regular bases, and have got to know David and Helen only to be told that they are leaving. Well thats Waltons lose and some where elses gain. Lets hope the new people know how to look after Youngs Ale as they keep it superb.
dream - 18 Apr 2007 15:07 |
Great pub with an amazing Manageress always has a smile on her face and by all accounts can sing too!!!
dream - 23 Mar 2007 17:59 |
The lovely landlord and landlady are apparently moving on, lets pray that the new landlord will keep the chequers as a PUB and not rip the chracter out like a certain pub in the village has. PLEASE Youngs dont do it, the locals (the true locals) are not impressed with the wine bar/gastropub down the road.
anonymous - 14 Mar 2007 16:27 |
refurbishment? I hope they are not going to ruin the pub like they've done just down the road to the TERRIBLE Fox and Hounds !!
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Agree with the prices of drinks here. An Orange and lemonade for me was about �2-30 and nearly made my friend faint when he'd asked me what I want to drink. Anyway, I gave him a pound towards it.
Not quite sure whether this place is going to shut completely for its forthcoming refurbishment - neither are the staff too sure, either.
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typical youngs establishment, bit of a cliche after vising several others over the years. could do with some atmosphere as it seems to lack that abit, some of the staff could do with a couse in manners, the food was ok, beer not bad, but the taste of other peoples smoke when eating never goes down well
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Seems to have got invaded by loud mouthed chavs from the local council estate. Best to divide the bars up properly like it was before..Lounge, Saloon and Public
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All very pleasant, typical Young's offering. It's not really a 'typical village local', Walton is too suburban for that these days, more a typical upmarket suburban roadhouse in traditional brewer's tudor.
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Hot Aussies work Here!
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Horrendously expensive - �14.44 for four drinks (small glass of red wine, Ram Rod and Special, pint of orange juice and lemonade plus half of lime and soda). Barman was incredibly slow and absolutely clueless - probably the same guy who served Parkhillian.
daffy - 19 Jun 2006 12:00 |
I had slight misgivings going here because a few years back it had a bit of a reputation. However, the passage of time has been kind.
A series of smaller rooms make it quite cosy for such a large pub. It has a gentle atmosphere that you'd expect of the Stockbroker belt. One to revisit.
However, I have to disagree with the previous comment regarding the staff. The barman, although perfectly amiable, was useless. Sorry.
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Has been a favourite of mine for a long time, and continues to be. A classic example of 'Brewers' Tudor', with its low ceilings and collection of little snug bars at the front, it has stood up well to the addition of the more spacious bar at the back, giving access to the pleasant garden, The music in this part is easily avoided if you want to. Pleasant, efficient staff, excellent Young's beer.
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can we pack up this pub and take all to our village with us, close your eyes and imagine perfection.
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a great country village local, always bussing with attentive staff who are very helpfull and are only to willing to help you choose your wine from a extensive wine list, excellent food also and roaring log fires to keep you warm and cosy. very well run youngs managed house
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friendly village local, great youngs beer and cold lagers served by friendly buxom bar maids who are only to willing to help.
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A traditional, friendly laid back pub. Ideal for a relaxing drink - food is good too. Haven't tried the large garden yet, but planning to do so when the weather allows!
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Have not been in the cosy log fire section as stated but used to regularly visit the larger area and garden. My last visit has put me off as my lager was not in one bit lively and the bar staff - when they appeared - seemed moody and service was appaling from one brunette. definately going downhill.
anonymous - 3 Mar 2006 00:57 |
visited sunday lunch, had a truely wonderful 3 course sunday dinner in the dining area, very attentive service the girls were really excellant.the wine list was very good and the new zealand cloudy bay was to die for. we are now going to make this place our regular sunday eating house.
anonymous - 23 Jan 2006 16:25 |
great pub great booze and great grub great taxi service home!!!!
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found a true gem of a pub in this rural village, the winter warmer was in top condition along with the rest of the youngs real ales, excellent range of youngs bottled beers, try the special london ale worthy of its label as an award winning beer, great winter pub with its roaring log fires and pleasant staff, great character pub with a cosy welcome.
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Visited this pub on Sunday for the first time in more than a year. The staff were amazing. Good knowledge of wines. Restaurant has just been re-opened and is non-smoking throughout. It has a really good atmosphere and dosen't cram as many people as possible in unlike other pubs in the village. Restaurant manager a diamond, two bar staff in particular shone- one blonde and one brunette- you'll know which ones i mean when you visit- which you should!
anonymous - 22 Nov 2005 13:14 |
popped into this pub for 1st time friday, great atmosphire, candles used all around, open logfires roaring away, restaurant infull swing with extensive bar menu as well. great quality youngs real ales and a
quality wine list. this pub stamps itself with quality all round, a great credit to all concerned
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I'm not sure if this pub knows where it is heading. It retains some village atmosphere and the food and drink is on the good side. BBQs very good in summer months as is the garden.
But the restaurant, which was full of character, doesn't seem to figure in the plans, which many locals miss for the special night out.
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youngs pub full of character and excellence,great food wine and beer , very busy weekends, great atmosphere manager and staff a credit to this well run establishment. great summer garden for kids and bbq. recommend the chilli burger washed down with a great pint of golden zest. please can you move this pub to my local area !
anonymous - 17 Jun 2005 09:17 |
great village local, quqlity ale, food and service. staff know there stuff and customer service excellent.
wide variety of wines, excellent food off the garden bbq its open wed/sun weather permitting, had a great steak and sea bass off it ! manager a hunk and strutts
around bar calling the shots. this pub is a great credit to youngs and run to a very high standard,puts the rest of the pubs in the village to shame !
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Youngs beer. Good meals. attentive staff.TV.excellant wines including a very good Rioja
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A very nice Youngs pub in a semi-rural setting.
Pros:
No-smoking/dining area.
Comfortable and homely.
Cons:
Youngs Winter Warmer is often served much too cold.
My veggie main course was so poor I had to return it for a refund.
anonymous - 24 Feb 2005 08:59 |
i`m sure the pub can`t go wrong now with a strong aussie background in the form of Lisa and Kim go for it girls and show them some assie hospitallity.
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Worked there for a while and found it to be the best in the area. Landlord, if still Mark, is fantastic. Beats the blue ball and fox and hounds hands down.
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Lovely country pub, with large garden, fabulous menu and friendly staff. Friendly,helpful Landlord who knows his beers and wines, of which there is an excellent selection. Great for celebration meals in the restaurant, lunctime snack, or summer BBQ in the large garden.
Happy Customer - 1 Jun 2004 15:21 |
Great restaurant (book early), spacious garden with tables and kids play area - loads of parking
anonymous - 9 Jan 2004 15:38 |
Cruel landlord - yes
Easy barmaids - yes
Celebs - no longer
A lovely country pub ruined by greed and frequented by undesirables in search of Mr Best
Disappointed - 10 Nov 2003 16:58 |
Lovely little village pub on outskirts of Walton. Favoured watering hole of celebs such as George Best and Chris Evans. Alcoholics stay in the bar for hours at a time encoraged to booze by the cruel landlord. Easy barmaids, just ask Bestie. The Chennells refuse to go back there.
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