BITE user comments - GrahamA
Comments by GrahamA
The Bridge was featured in the first episode of the recent Oz and Hugh when they sat by the River Clyst.
It's been a while since I've been here and I desperately want to go back.
15 Jan 2011 08:30
This is the nearest pub to where I live. It's got a fantastic location by the canal with a sizeable garden area. But I never got there these days - do you need to know more?
15 Jan 2011 07:52
So have the landlords moved on - or not? Returned to the Royal Oak last night after a couple of months away but didn't see them, and didn't recognise any of the bar staff.
Re the pub, as always the Royal Oak was great - tasty beer and tasty food. There was no music but just the sound of conversation - lots of it as the pub was extremely busy.
15 Jan 2011 07:45
The Horniman at Hays, Southwark
Busy last evening and many of the hand pumps were actually working. There were no rules about where to queue and everyone seemed to get served fairly quickly - so maybe Stevepb's complaints have done some good.
15 Jan 2011 07:36
The Bridge House, Tower Bridge
Had more of a pubby atmosphere last night as it was quite full - people standing!! The family at the next table were tucking into superb looking fish and chips - they confirmed it was good. Shame I was eating elsewhere. Purity Mad Goose was an interesting guest.
15 Jan 2011 07:31
First experience of Draft House (as it now is) last night. Great atmosphere with very attentive staff. Interesting beer selection. Third of a pint measures available too.
15 Jan 2011 07:24
Yes the Dean Swift is excellent. Max, the new manager is obviously doing something right as the pub was really busy. Beers in good nick with a great selection.
15 Jan 2011 07:20
Sad to relate that the Cove has GONE! Wandered past yesterday and the pasty shop that was below was completely stripped of everything. A woman who was inside the ex-pasty shop told me that the lease has expired and the pub had closed. Apparently this had happened fairly recently.
Despite the extortionate prices I will miss the Cove. The Skinners beers were always well-kept and the Proper Job on my last visit was good too.
15 Jan 2011 07:15
One of the best Guildford pubs for real ale. The Surrey Hills beers are usually on top form. Glad to read that the place is getting busier - it's often been quite empty on previous visits. Got to use it or lose it!
7 Apr 2010 14:16
This is a lovely pub - great location, light and airy feel. But what's happened to the beer? It's pretty hard to spoil a pint of London Pride but they have succeded here. I shall be heading up to the Keep for good pints now when in Guildford.
7 Apr 2010 14:12
I too gave up going to this pub years ago because it had become awful. Now I'm pleased to see what Fuller's have done with it. It's a welcoming popular pub and the beers are good but obviously from the Fuller's range. The Gales HSB I had was superb - I shall be back again when in the area.
7 Apr 2010 14:09
Have heard that the Odd Wheel is closed and is for sale. Have had many happy times at this pub when in the area. I hope it reopens - too many good pubs are disappearing.
5 Apr 2010 06:45
Beer has been variable in the past but the Salopian Prohibition was on top form last night.
But it can take ages to get served in here sometimes - even when it's not that full. The staff think it's more important to go and collect the empties than to actually serve customers.
17 Feb 2010 14:00
Quick visit last night before getting the train home. The place was packed and the vibe was friendly. A definite improvement on last time.
The beer I had (King's Harvest) was very good - shame I had to run off.
11 Sep 2009 15:06
The Varsity Bar, University Of Surrey
Went to the Varisty Bar last night for the launch of the 2010 Good Beer Guide. The local CAMRA group made a special presentation to the staff as the Varsity has now been in the GBG 10 years in a row.
Not surprisingly the beers are always kept well here and they get some interesting ones in. Last night they had a couple of the superb Surrey Hills beers on and 5 others including the Red River from King's.
The bar is a bit of a trek from the centre of Guildford. I walked it in 25 minutes but apparently the buses run into Guildford fairly frequently.
Do NOT rely on the Google map location for the Varsity it's miles out (almost literally). It's actually just off the roundabout by the Surrey County Hospital.
11 Sep 2009 15:02
Shere Drop on last night which tasted very nice. I had one of the beefburgers as well which was small but pretty good.
Can't believe how few people were in here again. Does it ever get busy?
11 Sep 2009 14:54
Popped in to the new Wheatsheaf for the first time last night. It's very different to the old one - so much bigger. The beer selection is great, food looks and smells good. There's a good lively crowd of people.
My only criticism is that it's so noisy with the sounds of music and conversation reverberating around the cellar. Perhaps it's just my ears
3 Sep 2009 15:00
Popped in to the new Wheatsheaf for the first time last night. It's very different to the old one - so much bigger. The beer selection is great, food looks and smells good. There's a good lively crowd of people.
My only criticism is that it's so noisy with the sounds of music and conversation reverberating around the cellar. Perhaps it's just my ears.
3 Sep 2009 14:58
In my view the best pub in Winchester. Always busy because it's so good and the beers are superb.
Staff are very friendly and will order you a taxi if you need one - to get back to the station in my case.
Almost everyone in the pub last night appeared to be playing one of the many games that are available. Three pairs were playing Go which I'd never seen before.
Can't wait to go back.
29 Jan 2009 13:42
Yes, yes, yes! The last time I went in this pub was just after Greene King bought it from Martson's. My weekend was ruined by the disappearance of the cracking Pedigree they used to serve.
Now, many years later a return trip has brought great news. It's no longer a GK pub and now stocks Ringwood beers on handpump with a couple of Bowman beers and a Pots beer served by gravity. The two pints I had were both superb - favourite being the Bowman's Quiver.
The atmosphere in this cosy little pub is relaxed and friendly and the classical guitarist practising in the corner is a nice addition to the mood.
My view is that this pub is one of the finest in Winchester - up there with the Black Boy.
29 Jan 2009 13:36
Attractive looking pub - recently refurbished? 4 handpumps with 2 non GK beers on. I tried the Bowman 'Swift One' which was very good. There is a firm emphasis on food with an extensive but reasonably priced menu. I visited in the evening but was able to persuade them to make me a sandwich which was big and tasty, and served with grated roasted parsnips (I think).
Not as homely as the nearby Fulflood Arms, but worth a visit.
29 Jan 2009 13:26
Haven't really ventured to pubs on this side of the railway before but I'm glad I did as the Fulflood Arms is a real gem.
5 different real ales were on last night from Itchen Vally, Triple FFF, Bateman's and Greene King. The selection is doubly amazing when you consider that this is a Greene King pub!
The pub is trying hard to attract people in with regular quizzes, occasional live music and other special events.
I'd definitely go back when in the area.
29 Jan 2009 13:18
Not my favourite pub in Winchester but it has a good, friendly feel. Had some of the TT Landlord which was a little bit below par. Handy indeed for the station, and better now than it used to be.
29 Jan 2009 13:12
Superb pub all round. Absolutely heaving last night when some other nearby pubs were emptier than normal. The Harveys (�3 a pint) was spot on and the sausages are great too.
You may struggle to get a seat here, but the friendly atmosphere will lift the weight off your feet.
8 Jan 2009 11:59
Didn't have any problem getting served lat night as there were hardly any customers. I've never seen this pub so empty! The beer was in fine condition - especially the St Austell 'Proper Job'. The price - at �3.60 a pint was a sobering experience though.
This pub is always a nice warm spot in which to nestle on a cold, cold evening.
8 Jan 2009 11:48
The Glasfryn has been extended since I was last in Mold many years ago. But the extension is definitely in keeping and hasn't spoiled what I remember of the friendly, welcoming feel about the pub.
I didn't eat, but my wife informs me that the food is very good and the service efficient. I marvelled at the selection of real ales before selecting one to take away (this raised a few eyebrows).
If I lived locally I'd be here most nights.
14 Oct 2008 13:07
One of the better Wetherspoons in my opinion. When you enter you are struck by the lack of music but the bubble of conversation is welcoming. The atmosphere is very laid back and friendly.
Didn't eat, but took advantage of the good selection of real ales. Card carrying CAMRA members can currently pick up pints for �1.49p which is very pleasing if you're used to London prices.
14 Oct 2008 13:02
Yes, yes, yes! Undoubtedly one of the best pubs in the country. Was a little busy on Saturday lunchtime so we were allowed into the malthouse room out the back. As well as the interesting contents, the stillness in the room is amazing and seemingly not spoiled by us 4 noisy chaps. Real fire is welcome on cold days.
The only new feature (to me) is that you can buy beer in third pints now. When I ordered 12 thirds of a variety of beers the staff were only too happy to indulge me - in how many other pubs would that be the case. It's a great way to try out the pub's entire range in a lunchtime.
Paris_Hilton will remain disappointed that Caroline says she'll never change to being open in the afternoons. I asked her (Caroline that is) as it would make my infrequent visits to the area more fruitful if she did.
7 Oct 2008 15:03
My first visit and was not disappointed. Lively atmosphere and good beers. Plenty of opportunity to watch final football scores on the tellys so may not be the pub for those who crave a quiet drink.
7 Oct 2008 14:54
Popped in Saturday afternoon for short time. Wadworths 6X was pretty good. Bass was available too. The pub was practically empty but was welcoming, with nice wooden interior.
A big sign on the outside wall indicates that this pub is for sale, so who knows how long it will last.
7 Oct 2008 14:52
Have Fullers sold this pub? I drove past the other day and all the Fullers branding seems to have disappeared.
24 Sep 2008 13:18
Can't believe no-one else has reviewed it since I was here on holiday last year (2007).
Once again it was a regular stop for me this year whilst on hols. Seemingly nothing has changed except that they seem to now do a couple of extra beers - eg Bays Breaker. Also, the pub was consistently busier than last year which is a good thing when you read about many pubs closing down...
So, see you next year?
3 Sep 2008 14:45
My infrequent experiences with this pub seem to follow the path of the yo-yo - sometimes great, sometimes disappointing.
On the plus side it's a solid real ale pub in a fantastic location. Although owned by Young's they do let in some local beers - last week 3 from O'Hanlons and 1 from Otter. The Yellow Hamnmer I had was superb.
Our slight disappointment this time was with the food. Once again the adventurous menu has disappeared to be replaced with a rather cut-down selection of standard items. My wife and I both had the steak and ale pie which in itself was OK but a bit salty. Having previously enjoyed generous portions at this pub we were amazed at the size of the vegetable accompaniment - 1 small broccoli floret, 1 small cauliflower floret and 10-ish tiny chips. It was a good job my daughter didn't want all her food... Three evenings earlier I'd had a similar meal in a London pub that was twice the size and one pound cheaper.
I still love this pub but with the food situation it's getting harder to persuade my wife that we should eat here when in the area.
One other thing: Admittedly it was raining when we went on a Saturday lunchtime, but I've never seen this pub so empty before. It used to be hard to get a seat - where is everybody?
26 Aug 2008 10:29
A pub very much geared up as a restaurant. There is a bar and people were just drinking, but food is the main theme.
Our meal was generally pretty good with fresh and tasty fish for the main courses. The desserts were slightly disappointing as they were probably shop bought. The wine list was interesting and we had a delicious spanish white which was one of the house wines.
Real ales were available, but the management have chosen not to favour the excellent west country breweries. Instead the beers are sourced from Chiswick (Pride), Bedford (Courage Best) and Bury St Edmunds (Speckled Hen).
Overall, we enjoyed it and the staff were friendly and attentive.
26 Aug 2008 10:08
The Eddystone Inn, Heybrook Bay
Enjoyed a pleasant evening meal here last week. The restaurant area was fairly large but we were the only people in it. However that may have had something to do with the weather...
The food was tasty and real aleas are available too. I had the Bays Breaker which was good.
The pub is situated high above the bay with great views. As mentioned, there is a sun deck but it was receiving a severe lashing from wind and rain during our visit.
26 Aug 2008 09:59
The Boringdon Arms, Turnchapel
Popped in for a very brief visit whilst on holiday last week - just the one pint and no food.
The pub is not one you'd stumble across by accident being situated down one of the tiny narrow streets that characterise Turnchapel. But it is certainly worth searching out.
As previously mentioned the beer selection is very good and the food looked tasty as well. The whole atmosphere is of a friendly locals pub, but as strangers my wife and I were made to feel very welcome. Although we didn't see any children in the pub (it was 8pm) we were told that the pub is family friendly.
There is a garden out the back with some amusing features.
Would definitely go back for longer when next in the area.
26 Aug 2008 09:50
Popped in for an early evening meal with my wife and 2 daughters and we loved the place. It is obviously geared up for eating but there were people in the bar just having a drink so I wouldn't have felt awkward or unwelcome just doing that.
The barman and serving staff were efficient and friendly and helpful. Children are allowed in the bright room at the back until 9pm and small portions of some of the dishes were available. We all had the Harveys battered hake and chips and felt that it was some of the best fish and chips we'd ever eaten.
The pub is not as cheap as a Wetherspoons but I didn't feel it was too expensive - given the quality of the food.
I regretted being the driver as the Harveys Best tasted superb and I could have happily drunk it all night. I didn't though because they also had a Dark Star beer, some of which I took home in a take-away container (they sell them - a great idea). My wife was also keen on the draught perry.
I'm rarely in the area but I'd always go back if I was.
7 Aug 2008 13:47
Always a great pub to spend a bit of time in. Basic decor but superb beers and a great place for conversation. Usefully, they sell take out containers so you can enjoy more Hop Back beer in the warmth and comfort of a South West Train.
17 Jul 2008 09:45
This pub was our starter for ten on a recent Salisbury pub crawl and we were happy with the experience. The toilets didn't appear to hum too badly but maybe that's because we were there so early. I was not put off by the rather basic feel to the pub.
The beers were interesting and they are happy for you to try a taster before committing to one - so you shouldn't ever get saddled with one you don't like.
We stayed longer than originally intended and would probably go back when next drinking in Salisbury.
17 Jul 2008 09:39
We left this one until last on our brief spin round the real ale pubs of Salisbury and it was a great place to finish before catching the train. This pub has a welcoming atmosphere but is larger than you think when you find the back room. The old table football machine kept us amused for ages.
I forget which beers were available now but they were very nice and I'd love to come back here to taste them again some time.
17 Jul 2008 09:33
The Winchester Gate, Salisbury
Definitely not the foodie joint feared by anonymous. Rather, a friendly pub where you can get a good pint or two and have a good chat and a game of pool if required.
I think food was available but we didn't eat as we had many pubs to visit that day.
17 Jul 2008 09:26
The Frothblowers Arms, Salisbury
Very different from the enormous hotel next door. It was a pleasure to spend an hour in this clean, cosy little pub. It's good to have friendly staff who are quite happy to talk to their customers.
I enjoyed the beer and the games of pool in the back bar. I'd happily return when next in Salisbury.
17 Jul 2008 09:21
Visited last night after reading reviews on BITE. What a superb pub! An unremarkable feel to the decor, but a lively pub full of people talking and having a great laugh. There are tables outside on the pavement too.
There was a bit of music but not at all loud and the lighting didn't seem harsh at all - maybe they have responded to comments.
Focus is definitely on the real ale with an extensive selection - some served straight out of the barrels. The Brains SA and Harveys Best I had couldn't be faulted. The landlord obviously knows his stuff and cares about what he's doing. The bar staff are efficient too. The discount for CAMRA members is nice as well.
I didn't try a pie, but many others seemed to be tucking in happily. Maybe next time...
After this I too will probably not be troubling the Doric Arch again.
17 Jul 2008 09:14
The Old West Station, Tunbridge Wells
Went there yesterday evening (Friday) at about 6pm to get a meal. It's no longer a Beefeater but the menu was very similar.
There were a few people in the bar but we were the only people eating at that time so we had the 'Pullman' restaurant area to ourselves for a while.
The food was good and reasonably priced. My steak was tasty and cooked how I wanted it, my wife's lasagne was good too. The children's meals were nice too - no fatty junk.
I was on coke as I was driving so didn't see if there was any real ale on. Most people seemed to be on lager though.
28 Jun 2008 07:56
The Railway Inn, Leamington Spa
Small bar at the front but with large room behind and a garden too I think. Large room features pool table.
Very much a locals pub. Not being a local I collected a couple of stares but nothing more. The constant talking about fighting from others in the room was a bit off-putting.
But the Banks's Bitter tasted superb
22 May 2008 15:48
It may look like a standard Wetherspoons but in my view it's one of the best. It's had the same manager for 12 years now (something of a rarity in any pub let alone a chain) and I believe it shows.
The pub caters for all age groups and evryone seems to get along together OK.
The beer choice is better than many 'Spoons and I don't remember ever having had a duff pint here. The food is tasty and well presented.
Woking Wetherspoons has just become the local CAMRA group's 2008 'Pub of the Year'.
22 May 2008 10:58
The Basketmakers Arms, Brighton
Always pop in here for a drink and some food when I'm in Brighton as both are always good. I often end up drinking more HSB than I sensibly should but it is so delicious.
Like many Fullers pubs the prices are on the high side but it is worth it to spend some time in this friendly, well-run pub.
22 May 2008 10:45
I can never decide on my favourite pub in Brighton. Is it the Lord Nelson, or the Evening Star? I guess I'll just have to carry on visiting both to find out. But what if I never do find out - will I have to keep drinking in both? Oh yes please.
The Lord Nelson is a pub that looks small from the outside but is actually quite spacious inside, and with an inviting gallery room right at the back. The Harveys beers are always superb and most of the usual varieties are here - if not the entire range.
Not living in Brighton I can't discern who the regulars are but the atmosphere is friendly and inviting - I've never experienced that icy stare reserved for outsiders that you get in some pubs.
I have nothing but fulsome praise for this pub - that's all you need to know. I'll stop now before I get boring.
22 May 2008 10:36
One of the best pubs anywhere. I would always come here whenever I'm in Brighton. The Dark Star draught beers are always superb - try the American Pale, it's like a souped up Hophead mmmm! They usually have a couple of interesting guests on too.
Conveniently close to the station so you can leave it right to the last minute before running off to catch the train home.
They also have 4 pint take out containers available should you wish to carry on drinking Hophead on the train. Of course such behaviour is neither big nor clever and I wouldn't condone it.
Why can't other towns have pubs like this?
22 May 2008 10:25
Yes the HSB is indeed excellent. Met the new manager and he seemed to be a genuine guy who wants to succeed. Despite this being my first visit I was made to feel welcome and got chatting to a few people who obviously were regulars.
Meals are not available in the evening I believe but the sandwich I had was good, and cheap.
Of all the pubs I've visited in Guildford this one seems to have kept itself as a real pub more than the others - the words trendy and bar spring to mind. My only criticism is the price of the beer - this was the most expensive pub I've visited in the town. This seems to be a Fullers tendency everywhere now. My rating is a point lower because of this.
6 May 2008 14:35
Came here specifically for the Surrey Hills beer. The Shere Drop was not featured but tried the Ranmore Ale instead which was good and kept well. But there were a total of 6 customers (including me) on a Thursday evening. Shame cause the pub had an inviting feel and was warm on a cold evening. Can a pub survive with this few customers?
6 May 2008 14:27
A pub in a modern style but with a friendly feel. Food looks and smells good although I didn't have time to eat. Real ales are also available but served too cold in my opinion. The 6X I had was a bit old tasting - but then I was the only one apparently drinking bitter in the pub (sorry bar).
6 May 2008 14:19
Definitely closed - with windows all boarded up when I drove past on Sunday 13th April. Dramatic building though.
17 Apr 2008 09:16
I searched this pub out because of the Harvey's beers which I love, and on the odd occasion that I've been here the beer has generally been OK. Although is it just me or is it served a bit too cold?
The pub is welcoming and I have started to recognise regulars despite my only occasional visits. The staff are friendly and keen to show off their beers - I was offered tasters from many of the beers on tap. I'd never seen the Hadlow bitter before.
Can't comment on the food as I've never eaten here.
There is a beer garden that gets the full force of the sun in the afternoons.
21 Feb 2008 13:29
I searched this pub out because of the Harvey's beers which I love, and on the odd occasion that I've been here the beer has generally been OK. Although is it just me or is it served a bit too cold?
The pub is welcoming and I have started to recognise regulars despite my only occasional visits. The staff are friendly and keen to show off their beers - I was offered tasters from many of the beers on tap. I'd never seen the Hadlow bitter before.
Can't comment on the food as I've never eaten here.
There is a beer garden that gets the full force of the sun in the afternoons.
21 Feb 2008 13:29
Worth the walk up the hill from the town centre. The pub looks majestic in its location and boasts a commanding view over the A25 and the back of the station - mmmm.
However, inside, the pub is light and spacious and I was made to feel welcome by the barman. I had a jacket potato for lunch which was tasty although a little crisp in places. The pickle served with it was superb though.
I've been wary of Young's beers since the merger with Wells, but I tried the Winter Warmer and it was very tasty and I had another - good job I wasn't driving.
I'm not in Redhill very often but I would go there again.
21 Feb 2008 13:21
The Basketmakers Arms, Brighton
This pub appears to be always busy and lively - which is not surprising as it's very good. My mate reckons it's one of his top 5 pubs in the country.
Staff are friendly and efficient. The Fullers/Gales beers (and guest beers too) all seem to be in fine condition, and the food is good too.
It's always sad when you have to leave a good pub - but there are some good ones to choose from in Brighton.
21 Feb 2008 13:11
A great place to relax and read the paper, or go for a chat with good friends. The Harveys beers are usually on top form. Some people may focus on the tatty decor but I think it's homely. I don't think they do food in the evenings, but I may be wrong on that.
21 Feb 2008 13:04
A superb friendly pub with a good mix of people and superb beer. I just wish I could visit more often.
21 Feb 2008 12:56
Walked past just before Christmas and it's definitely open again now - although as far as I could tell there weren't any actual customers inside. Didn't unfortunately have time to pop in. Looking in from the outside though it looks really clean and shiny and new - not the cosy, dingy place it used to be. Mind you I did actually like it when it was dingy and cosy...
Perhaps I'll pop in when next in the area.
26 Dec 2007 12:53
Popped in for a quick pint after work. The beer selection was not bad and the pint I had tasted OK. Like a lot of 'Spoons it's a bit soul-less. There were also parts of the pub that didn't smell fresh at all - I guess that's going to be more common now after the smoking ban.
2 Nov 2007 06:20
My first trip in many years after hearing about the rennovation and I was not disappointed. I gave up going to the pub a few years ago after many poor experiences - mainly the fact that it was always so badly run and disorganised.
However, all credit to Hall & Woodhouse. They've done a superb job with the interior and exterior. The staffing levels seem appropriate for a busy pub in a superb canalside location, and everything just seems so efficient without being intrusive.
The food is reasonably priced and of a good quality, and it came fairly quickly given that the pub was so busy. Badger beers are not to everyone's taste but the Badger bitter I had was good and well kept.
There's even a small children's play area hidden along the canalside towards the disabled car park.
As has been said previously, this shows other pubs what is possible. We will be returning.
12 Sep 2007 13:55
The Basketmakers Arms, Brighton
Welcome return visit on Saturday afternoon. The pub has a good feel and is lively and friendly. The HSB was lovely but we also missed blessed Festival Mild too. It seems unbelieveable that they only carry a prize-winning much-loved beer twice a year, but perhaps that's the brewery's fault not the pub's.
3 Sep 2007 14:02
The Shakespeare's Head, Brighton
Not much to add to previous reviews except to say don't be put off by the dingy looking exterior of the pub. We arrived early Saturday lunchtime and had the place to ourselves for a while and the pub has a warmer feel inside. It was a great place to hang out and talk - although the music got a bit too loud later on.
The beer is good (if you like Badger) and food - as my friend put it "Probably the best bangers and mash you'll ever have".
3 Sep 2007 13:52
A bonus trip this time on the way to somewhere else but did have time for lunch. Food generally seemed OK.
Beers good as usual. I actually saw someone buying a Young's beer - makes a change.
29 Aug 2007 09:54
Enjoyed our lunch here after a boat trip up from Plymouth. We sat in the sunny garden, with views of the river and the majestic viaduct - a lovely location.
The food was reasonably priced and was tasty with large portions. It's not fast food though. We weren't returning on the boat so were allowed to order a proper meal. If you are returning on the boat they only let you order sandwiches which I guess avoids disappointment. If you're arriving by boat then get to that bar as fast as you can!
The beers were mainly Sharp's and the Doom Bar I had was OK.
29 Aug 2007 09:50
Went here every day last week whilst holidaying in the area and thought it was excellent.
The public bar is spartan and the lounge decor reminded me strongly of old fashioned pubs from the 60s and 70s, and just maybe that was when it was last decorated.
But don't be put off by that unless you're really wedded to All Bar One uniformity. The staff are all friendly and attentive I'd become a local by the end of my second visit.
The beers are well kept and some appear to be served straight from the barrel in the cellar. The Jail Ale was good, but I preferred the South Hams XSB - a touch more refreshing on a warm evening.
I only ate here once during the week but the food was excellent and portions were large. The menu is reasonably priced with some children's opetions too.
The place gets very busy on Thursday nights when live jazz bands play in the lounge bar.
Would definitely go back when in the area.
29 Aug 2007 09:41
Seems a lot cleaner since the smoking ban. Atmosphere is a bit absent, but the beers are consistently good.
13 Aug 2007 14:42
Positives:
Good garden for children with a play area that is properly fenced off from the road (see below).
Good food - tasty with fairly big portions. The chips were nice.
Staff were friendly and efficient.
Negatives:
Beer quality was a bit ropey.
Garden is right next to busy road so it's not the peaceful oasis you might expect.
Overall:
Glad we tried it but probably won't rush back.
13 Aug 2007 14:22
Popped in a couple of time last week whilst in the city. As part of the Edinburgh Festival they currently have a stage in there and there are jazz bands on every night.
Still a good friendly place with exceptional beers. Must be one of the best pubs in Edinburgh.
13 Aug 2007 14:15
Our first visit since the conversion to a Beefeater and a mixed experience.
On the positive side, the food was tasty and didn't take too long to arrive. The real beer I had (Spitfire) seemed well kept. The garden has a sunny aspect and there are tables over by the children's play area which is sensible.
On the negative side, the garden suffered from being overlooked by the barstaff and the pile-up of debris and glasses/bottles in places was significant. An empty glass that I placed on another table near the play area at 5pm was still uncollected when we left at 7:45pm. This makes the place look scrappy and dirty when actually it isn't really like that. There was also lots of rubbish under the tables.
But generally it seemed improved over its last days as an Out & Out pub.
31 Jul 2007 11:41
The pub garden was very busy when I visited last Friday afternoon - hardly anyone inside.
Got served quickly for the beers - which tasted good. Didn't have food this time but what I saw looked OK - the burgers looked real rather than frozen.
This pub can't be beaten for its location.
10 Jul 2007 16:02
A good place to stumble upon on a wet Saturday lunchtime whilst trying to avoid traffic on the A303. The pub is quite rustic in appearance inside and a real fire burned at the end of the main bar.
Our lunches were good and not too expensive. The beer tasted good too. Maybe we'll make it a regular lunch stop on the way to the west country.
10 Jul 2007 15:47
The real beer is not as good as it was. It's also served extremely cold which of course spoils the flavour. The selection seems to have contracted from the interesting range they used to do - in fact one night during the recent beer festival they only had two beers on!
Still the pub is spacious and the staff are friendly enough.
But don't ask for peanuts as they don't sell them, and look at you like you're mad when you do.
21 May 2007 13:08
Yes, getting served quickly in this pub seems to be a thing of the past. It's good that the staff clean the ashtrays out regularly but surely selling the drinks is the most important thing?
Still once you get a beer it's usually very tasty.
16 May 2007 11:40
Now it's even lost its original pub sign - replaced by the bland and ghastly Greene King brand one.
1 May 2007 13:26
Hard to fault this pub since I am a fan of Hop Back beers - especially Summer Lightning. But my wife didn't find it hugely welcoming. And it was smokey, even in the non-smoking room at the front. After an (unusually) average Summer Lightning I tried the Dragon's Breath (contains chilli) which was superb.
1 May 2007 12:53
The Haunch of Venison, Salisbury
Agree with BillyD - an interesting old building but beer is very expensive and not in great condition. There are much better pubs in Salisbury.
1 May 2007 12:45
Went here for Sunday lunch, but the pub was practically deserted. Oh well, no competition for tables in the small sunny garden then.
Pub still good - nice beer, friendly staff. Food was good and quite reasonably priced. I like it here.
Note to johnkn7 - you may be getting mixed up with the New Inn up the road which does have a bar facing you as you go in.
1 May 2007 12:42
Had lunch here on Monday. Staff were welcoming and efficient. The pub has many different rooms - mostly non-smoking, and an enormous attractive garden with views of the cathedral.
I don't mind Badger beers and the pint I had tasted fine. The food was generally good except for the awful frozen chips - why not cut up real potatoes? The dishes were a little pricey we thought, but not too much to put us off.
1 May 2007 12:36
Popped in for a swift pint after work and generally impressed with the bar.
Staff seemed friendly enough but served an extremely short pint - even the generous head never got near the top of the glass. But it was topped up without quibble when I asked.
What an amazing ceiling.
29 Mar 2007 12:41
What an excellent pub! Quite small but welcoming for a couple of occasional Edinburgh visitors. Friendly staff and good beer.
Why can't pubs where I live be like this?
29 Mar 2007 12:37
It's always been a pleasure to visit the Guilford Arms but last night's trip was my first since the smoking ban and so from my point of view it was even better than ever.
The pub can be quite lively but it's always felt like a friendly place for an occasional Edinburgh visitor. The beers, as everyone has commented are superb and the choice is excellent.
The prices are more like London prices so be warned.
28 Mar 2007 13:13
Impressive building but just too mad and impersonal for an old fart like me. Two big TVs - one showing 6 Nations rugby and the other some football match. Standing between the two was a bit weird.
Didn't actually make it as far as the (very crowded) bar. Went to the Basketmakers instead.
22 Mar 2007 13:30
Popped in last Saturday afternoon whilst on a crawl round Brighton and the atmosphere was lively. The beer was OK.
It was a bit surreal to watch the 6 nations rugby on the TV to the soundtrack of Herbie Hancock and other jazz classics, whilst being surrounded by crowds of drinkers wearing those mad St Patrick's day Guiness hats.
The bar staff were efficient and friendly so that's good.
22 Mar 2007 13:20
I held my birthday party in the upstairs bar at The Swan last night and it was a great experience. Simon who runs the pub was helpful during the preparations and looked after us all well during the evening.
He prepared some platters of food for us which were very reasonably priced and the quality was superb. I was drinking London Pride all night (lovely) and I hear that the Adnams was tasty as well.
If you are organising a do for about 30 - 35 people then you should consider this pub. I cannot fault it.
It's a friendly pub too if you just want to pop in for a drink.
22 Mar 2007 13:04
Fortunately all the 97 year olds seem to have moved on now (?). The pub wasn't too busy considering it was a Saturday afternoon, St Patrick's day, and the last day of the 6 Nations. So it was easy to get a seat - even in the non-smoking are at the back.
The Harvey's Best was OK but I've had better. Unlike other pubs we visited in Brighton there didn't really seem to be much of an atmosphere just a few tables of people sitting about.
But I have no real complaints about the pub, but there are better pubs in Brighton.
19 Mar 2007 16:13
Excellent pub near to the station. It's very small but so many pubs in Brighton are aren't they?
The Dark Star beers are of course excellent and it's always good to see pubs offering beers other than their own - it shows confidence in their own product.
No food was available when we were there on Saturday which was a shame or we might have stayed longer, but I will definitely try to get back next time I'm in Brighton.
19 Mar 2007 16:06
This is a top, top pub.
When you enter it appears to be a cosy two-room local but opens up on the right hand side into another room and then the conservatory out the back.
The pub was busy when we arrived at 1:30 on Saturday lunchtime but it didn't take long to get served with some excellent Harvey's beer. And we tried the homemade burgers which arrived fairly quickly and were tasty along with some real chips too.
There's a TV in the small bar to the left but you'd have to get there early to get a seat for big games like the 6 Nations ones that were showing on Saturday.
The pub was a little smokey but not overly so.
19 Mar 2007 16:02
The Basketmakers Arms, Brighton
My friend and I had a great evening here on Saturday night and I would definitely visit again when next in Brighton.
The pub has a great atmosphere - friendly and relaxed, but also lively too if that's not a paradox.
The pub was crowded so we never got a seat but that didn't matter to us fortunately. The Gales (Fullers) beers all tasted excellent including my favourite Festival Mild - it's ages since I'd had a pint.
I would struggle to think of anything that could be improved about this pub - it wasn't even that smokey despite being very busy. So I'm also happy to give it a 10.
19 Mar 2007 15:51
The Chamberlain Hotel, Aldgate
Popped in for a lunch-time drink. The atmosphere was laid back with no intrusive music or games machine noise. The beer was OK but was unbelievably cold - not sure if that's because it was a cold day or whether the cellar is overcooled.
8 Feb 2007 16:15
One of the best pubs in London which I try to visit as often as possible.
The beer is always excellent as is the food. Even though I only had a cheese sandwich last night it was made with delicious bread and cheese. Last week I had the lamb shank which was delicious too - and a large meal.
The staff are friendly and efficient and the whole pub has a welcoming nature. The pub is usually brightly lit but last week I arrived after the power cut and the interior was beautifully transformed by candles on all the tables. They should do that more often.
15 Dec 2006 11:36
The Bunch of Grapes, London Bridge
Hadn't been here for a while as it seemed to be going downhill last time I visited. Pleased to say that it seemed to have improved. Friendly atmosphere and efficient staff - even though the pub was busy.
The Winter Warmer wasn't bad either - more like I remember it from last year than some other Young's pubs.
I'll definitely pop in again when in the area.
15 Dec 2006 11:27
Popped in for a quick one last night on the way down to the Royal Oak. The pub was crowded as usual and conversation was lively. I do like the atmosphere here - it always seems friendly and welcoming.
The Winter Warmer was OK but it does seem to be a bit insipid this year - I guess as a result of the move to Bedford. I hope they can tweak it to get the 'woody' flavour back into it.
One of the best pubs in the area.
15 Dec 2006 11:21
The Lamb Tavern, Leadenhall Market
Disappointed to discover that they have no Winter Warmer - otherwise we enjoyed our visit. It can be a bit like standing in a wind tunnel outside though.
15 Dec 2006 11:13
Still good - friendly atmosphere, good beer. Best pub in St Helier that I've visited - if there are better ones, please let me know.
3 Oct 2006 09:17
The Original Wine Bar, St Helier
Returned after a gap of a few months. Pub still more or less the same but beer selection not half as good - only Courage Directors which tasted a bit wobbly. Where have all the other beers gone?
The pub was very smokey too.
27 Sep 2006 12:06
The Cock and Bottle, St Helier
I enjoyed this pub. It was getting dark but we sat outside anyway and watched the square from the cafe-type tables.
The first beer I had (Jimmy's) tasted awful, but the bar staff agreed and were happy to change it for a Jersey Special which was very nice.
Would definitely consider going there again.
27 Sep 2006 12:01
This pub is situated right opposite New Romney station so convenient if you're visiting the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway - as we were.
The inside of the pub is light and airy and it has obviously been redecorated recently. There is a drinking area by the bar and then down the steps there is a restaurant area.
We popped in for lunch and the food was pretty good and reasonably priced. Part of the restaurant bit is non-smoking and high-chairs are available.
Real ale is available but it wasn't the best pint of London Pride I've ever had.
14 Sep 2006 09:16
Had an excellent lunch here on Saturday. Both the food and the beer were very good and reasonably priced. The back garden is small and could get crowded but we were lucky. There are also some seats out the front too.
There seem to be a few rooms inside including non-smoking dining room where children are allowed. High-chairs are available too.
The bar staff were helpful and patient with me even though I was a little indecisive and then changed our order.
It was our first trip to the area so I can't comment on how the Lamb is compared to other local pubs, but we'd certainly recommend it.
12 Sep 2006 12:42
The Coastguard Inn, St Margarets Bay
The Coastguard Inn is a pub that would like you to think of it as a restaurant rather than a pub. It has many things to recommend it and you should certainlny consider visiting if you're in the area.
The good things:
Excellent food - It has a Les Routiers 2006 badge on the wall outside and everything we had was delicious. The prices weren't too expensive either given the quality. There are a couple of children's dishes too.
Excellent beer - There were 3 handpumps focussing on beers from micro-breweries (mainly local). All of the pints I had tasted good and once again, the prices were not outrageous.
Excellent location - the Coastguard is just above the beach at St Margarets Bay and on a clear day you can see France. In fact your mobile phone company may think you actually are in France - a problem with this bit of the coast. After descending the steep and twisty hill down the cliff you'll be pleased to find that there is a car park.
For all these things the Coastguard deserves a good 9 or 10 out of 10.
But there are some small niggles:
A pint should be a pint - Every pint I ordered was short and the efficient barstaff will give you a snotty look when you ask for them to be topped up. This seems to be a recurring problem with the pubs in this area.
The silly rules - There are lots of staff in this pub but you can only order food from one of them. And you can only order food from your table - not at the bar. But then when you want another drink you find that you can only order drinks from the bar - not at your table. Doh!
Having a young child I may be biased, but I think it's bad that any beachside pub or restaurant doesn't have any high-chairs. You feel that children are tolerated rather than welcomed.
But these small gripes and the slight air of pretension shouldn't dissuade you from visiting.
5 Sep 2006 14:00
Just a quick visit to the Zetland Arms so can't comment on the food but the pub was full of smiling faces and felt friendly enough. The beer was good too.
The pub has an excellent location - right on the beach at Kingsdown and there are some tables out the front from which you can contemplate the tides.
There are also some parking spaces outside - a rarity in Kingsdown! You can get to the pub by following the track down to the beach next to the Rising Sun.
5 Sep 2006 13:25
Only popped in to buy some beer to take away but the pub seemed pleasant. The Castle Eden bitter was certainly tasty.
There is a beer garden out the back and I believe food is available most of the time - although we didn't try it.
4 Sep 2006 08:16
Probably the best of the 3 pubs in Kingsdown. We visited several times during our holiday and it was always good.
The pub has 4 or 5 different rooms including a non-smoking family room - children are welcomed here. There is a small garden out the back - dominated by the outside skittle alley.
Bar staff are friendly and there seems to be a good vibe about the place.
The food is good and reasonably priced, but be aware that's it's not available every lunch time. Beer is excellent as well - obviously kept well.
Parking anywhere in Kingsdown is hard, but yes it is worth the effort.
4 Sep 2006 08:10
Hadn't been here for some years and was pleased to see that not much had changed. It was a lunchtime visit so the pub was practically empty.
We sat in the courtyard garden which was pleasant and the plants and flowers were well tended - our young children enjoyed it too.
The beers were well-kept apart from one that was obviously nearing the end of the barrel and was about to be changed.
We had some food too and this was generally OK although the home made beefburgers were a bit dry and tough - they tasted good though. A friend and I had ordered banoffee pie but we were told they'd run out of bananas. The staff then offered to go and buy some for us since we weren't in a hurry. We agreed and it was certainly worth the wait - one of the best desserts I've ever tasted.
My only small criticism was that there weren't any high chairs for the young kids - they are really useful.
Definitely would recommend this pub - I will be back when I'm next in Salisbury.
16 Aug 2006 11:55
This pub is closed at the moment. I believe it's being converted to a Beefeater. Oh Joy!
9 Aug 2006 09:57
Had a pleasant hour and a half here yesterday evening in their back garden. Our young daughter enjoyed the playhouse and the slides.
The food was ok and there are lots of homemade dishes - albeit warmed up in the microwave. Real ale is available and that seemed to be ok too.
Will probably go back.
9 Aug 2006 09:55
Had our work night out here last night and it was fine. The pub is spacious so you'll always find somewhere to sit. We had some of the food which was good.
A couple of the real ales were a bit ropey to start with but maybe they were just reaching the end of the barrel. Another guest ale arrived before the end of the evening which was delicious.
The staff seem friendly and keen to serve.
27 Jul 2006 14:06
First visit in over two years. Pleased to relate that it seems better than last time.
A good selection of beers - about 6 different ones and the ones I had tasted good. The staff were helpful and successfully found a funnel so that I could buy some beer to take away.
I would consider going there again, but there is stiff competition for good pubs in Topsham.
17 Jun 2006 22:18
First visit for ages and pleased to find that it is still excellent. Friendly staff - excellent beer.
The pub garden is small and nicely situated by the Clyst river. But beware if visiting with young children - the garden is right by a steep bank into the river and a busy road with drivers who think they're on the Topsham Grand Prix.
The opening times are frustrating for those who favour an afternoon drink... I believe it's open 12 - 2 at lunchtime and 6 - 10:30 in the evening but it's worth giving them a call to check - I always do.
17 Jun 2006 22:12
First visit in over a year. Glad to relate that it seems to have improved again. The food was much better and really seemed to be quality stuff - better than the warmed up supermarket fayre last time.
The beer selection also seemed to be bigger than last time with four or five guest ales alongside the Young's regulars.
There is a good play area for kids in the garden - our 18 month old daughter loved it. Unfortunately none of the rooms inside are non-smoking.
Overall - a pleasure to come back after worries of a downward slide.
17 Jun 2006 22:03
Large pub in middle of housing estate near World of Country Life centre. There are three main bars one of which is non-smoking and is child friendly. One has TVs and has a definitely sporty flavour.
Usual drinks including a couple of real ales. The food was probably home cooked with big portions but not brilliant quality - the vegetables were well overcooked. It was a bit pricey as well.
Difficult to assess the atmosphere as I visited on a wet lunch time and hardly anyone was there. I think they probably cater for the holiday camp up the road. The World of Country Life is worth a visit though - your kids will love it.
17 Jun 2006 21:55
Found this pub after looking for somewhere for lunch whilst driving on the A35 from Dorchester to Honiton. It's about 150 yds off the main road in the village itself, but is well worth finding.
The pub is cosy and looks quite old with a thatched roof, but there is a newer bit too. Outside there is a big garden with some tables and a large willow tree for shade. For the kids they have some aviaries with exotic birds. There are also baby changing facilities too - rare in a pub.
The menu is pretty good with the normal things you'd expect and the food tasted excellent - good portions too. There is a children's menu too although it was the usual beans, chips, nuggets selection - Jamie Oliver would be disappointed.
A couple of real ales were available and the 'Dorset Gold' was very tasty.
Some of the pub is non-smoking.
Overall this is a great pub. If only more were like it.
17 Jun 2006 21:40
When I told a friend who has lived in Woking for years that I was going to try it he looked horrified. Apparently it has always had a reputation and has allegedly been burnt down at least once.
However I have to say that I though it was an excellent, vibrant and friendly place. There's lots of room inside including a large non-smoking area.
A good selection of handpumps on the bar - and they were having a beer festival too so I was a bit spoilt for choice. The Festival Mild (ex Gales, now Fullers) was delicious.
I'll definitely be going back.
8 Jun 2006 11:56
Went there last night for first time in ages. It's friendly pub with good beers. If you look interested they will let you choose the next guest beer from their little catalogue.
Yes the music was very loud when we arrived but they did turn it right down when I asked them to - and it stayed quiet all night.
8 Jun 2006 11:49
Excellent friendly pub with helpful staff. Good food - big portions. Real ale available - Courage Directors on the day I visited. Non-smoking area and highchairs for your kids.
There is a small 'garden' beside the pub too, but watch out for the seagulls.
8 Jun 2006 11:45
It was good to visit this excellent pub again. Shame they don't have the Guernsey Brewery beers any more though.
2 May 2006 09:49
Friendly spacious pub on the harbour in St Aubin.
There was an extensive menu with specials board containing lots of fish dishes, and a children's menu too. The food was pretty good with large portions.
The staff were helpful and they were happy for us to bring our young daughter in along with her pushchair. There is a small non-smoking area too and a courtyard garden but watch out for the seagulls.
The usual drinks were available. Only one real ale - Courage Directors - but it did taste OK.
2 May 2006 09:47
This must be one of the best pubs in London. Non-fussy traditional interior with excellent beer and food - staffed by friendly helpful people. One of the guys serving brought the specials board over to our table to save us having to go to the bar - you don't get that in every pub.
The only thing detracting from our visit last night was that we found ourselves sitting in smokers' corner and my clothes reeked of ashtray this morning.
25 Jan 2006 13:32
Went to stay in Kings Stag again at the weekend and was a bit concerned when our friends told us that The Green Man had changed hands.
We tried it a couple of times over the weekend and I'm pleased to relate that it is still as good as ever - a friendly locals pub with good beer. The Sunday lunch we had was superb - large portions of well cooked food at very reasonable prices.
If only my local at home was like this.
25 Jan 2006 13:23
Hadn't been for about a year so was looking forward to my visit. Still as good as ever with excellent beers and a friendly environment. Shame I only had 40 minutes before my next (yawn) meeting.
24 Oct 2005 09:17
Heard recently that this pub had improved again so we returned after a long gap. Pleased to relate that things were much improved. The food was excellent and there seemed to be plenty of staff to cope with a busy Sunday lunchtime.
The beer choice is not so varied after the Greene King takeover but Hogs Back T.E.A. was available and tasted good - as did the GK Ale Fresco. I suppose badging Ruddles County as a guest ale is some kind of GK joke.
It was good to see how crowded a completely non-smoking pub could be. If only other pubs would take note.
29 Sep 2005 17:15
Goat and Tricycle, Bournemouth
This pub now does have a non-smoking area which is great although you are tucked away in the furthest corner. The beer selection is fantastic and every one I had over the course of three nights was well-kept. Once you've been to the pub more than once it gets friendlier.
21 Sep 2005 12:22
Yes beer is good and the food is good - the homemade burgers are excellent. My only criticism is that there is no non-smoking area - something that's important if you're visiting places with wife and child. I'd love to visit again but realistically that's not going to be until next spring when it's warm enough to use the garden.
2 Sep 2005 15:47
Great beer, but yes the gents reeks very noticeably. It's a piece of porcelain history but surely they could sort the plumbing out without destroying it.
I hadn't been for a while but would visit again.
2 Sep 2005 08:55
A great place for a drink and lunch when the sun is shining and you can sit in the large garden. The food is not cheap but is pretty good - barbecued dishes are available sometimes.
The beers seem well kept - 2 Fullers beers plus Hogsback T.E.A.
Part of the interior is non-smoking now which will be better in the winter - it could be a bit smokey...
24 Aug 2005 12:54
Not a bad pub - although I haven't been for over a year. Nice garden with children's play area that is actually quite good.
But �2.70 for a pint of London Pride!! It's not that smart.
24 Aug 2005 12:32
Yes this is a lovely pub - apparently in the middle of nowhere.
The garden is large and trees can provide shade on those sunny days. The food menu are extensive with cheaper options and more expensive dishes too. I had the Wild Boar Steak and is was great. Desserts are worth investigating too.
Four or five real ales were available and the two I had tasted well-kept.
There are no specific facilities for children, but the staff were happy to provide hot water so we could heat up some food for our baby.
And no-one stole our punctuation.
18 Aug 2005 11:22
I also had a similarly disappointing experience with the beers on Friday night. I took back a pint of Landlord and the woman behind the bar changed it. However she told me that 'Billy' had said it was OK - so maybe others had complained too. The best pint was Harveys Best albeit a touch 'woody', but this ran out after a while unfortunately.
However I will perservere with this pub as the atmosphere was very welcoming and lively, and possibly the beer experience was a glitch.
13 Aug 2005 21:27
Hadn't been for a while and it was nice to come back. Not as crowded as I expected for a Friday night - is everyone on holiday or avoiding the west end these days?
It was a pleasure to have a pint of Sam Smiths from a proper hand pump again (so many of them have gone to keg now). And yes the prices are very welcome - �1 per pint cheaper than the Cove in Covent Garden which we visited just before.
13 Aug 2005 21:20
Still a top destination but the beer quality was a bit suspect on Friday night. However I always would prefer this to the Punch and Judy opposite.
13 Aug 2005 21:12
Friendly pub in the heart of the (tiny) village of Kings Stag. Two bars inside and a non-smoking dining room. Outside seating in front of the pub and a new garden at the back.
A rotating selection of real ales are available - all seem well kept. The food is good too with a selection of big and small meals.
There is a skittle alley too.
9 Aug 2005 12:54
Extensive old coaching inn in the centre of the village. Couple of bars inside, but with courtyard seating outside and a large peaceful garden at the back.
The food was good - home made with large portions. Two real ales were available when I visited and the Wadworth's 6X tasted good.
Accomodation is also available I believe.
9 Aug 2005 12:46
A gem of a pub. The garden is great on a sunny day - lots of shade beneath the trees. The menu may be a bit limited but there should be something for everyone - and it tastes excellent. I had the Beef Bourgignone (spelling?) Hotpot and it was obviously home made - delicious.
The beer is also home made and is dispensed from barrels behind the bar. I've never had a bad pint here.
I did stay here in the bed and breakfast rooms once, but I wouldn't again. The rooms are not at all soundproofed and you can hear everything that goes on - and all the toilets flush noisily. That said, the breakfast was excellent.
9 Aug 2005 12:37
The Original Wine Bar, St Helier
Spacious bar with comfortable seats. All the usual drinks plus well-kept real ale. It was quite empty when I went (Tuesday night) but apparently can get very busy.
20 Jul 2005 15:46
I liked this pub a lot. The atmosphere was really friendly and the pub was full on a Tuesday evening when other pubs in St Helier were practically empty.
They have several different real ales here and the ones I had tasted well-kept. Not sure if they do food.
My only gripe was that the pub was a bit smokey.
20 Jul 2005 13:08
The Old Dispensary, Whitechapel
Not sure what is going on here. The pub had been quite good recently and fairly busy but the last couple of times has been getting emptier. We went there the other evening and all the beers tasted like warm vinegar. The sole barman seemed unconcerned by this, but was diappointed when we all left.
7 Jul 2005 13:14
Thought I'd try this out after all the adverse comments it's had in the past - could a pub be really that bad...
When I went (approx 9:30pm) there were probably only about 10 people in the pub so it wasn't hard to get served. The beer (Landlord) tasted good and I didn't get robbed. Didn't try the food.
Overall the feel was relaxed and I would return. Has this pub turned the corner now?
16 Jun 2005 11:19
This Sam Smiths pub does still have real ale unlike others in London. Friendly lively atmosphere.
16 Jun 2005 11:14
Visited this pub many times last week when on holiday in the area. Found the staff to be friendly and helpful - they offered to lend us an umbrella when we were leaving with our baby daughter one evening.
The food was generally good - homemade dishes like the steak and ale pie being best. Real ale was available and the owner obviously takes an interest in this department as it was well kept.
Well behaved children are welcomed and I think there is a childrens food menu too.
The only gripe is that the pub appears to advertise a segregated smoking and non-smoking, but in reality people smoke throughout - although only the occasional selfish individual smokes in the dining room...
Generally I'd recommend this pub and would gladly return when in the area.
16 Jun 2005 11:10
The Bricklayers Arms, Fitzrovia
Used to frequent this pub regularly years ago when I worked in the area and it was great. Popped in last weekend when I was in the area and was pleased and disappointed. Pleased because it still has the same welcoming feel and a good place for conversation. But it was a shame to discover that the pub no longer serves real ale - the beer being all cold keg stuff.
6 May 2005 14:22
This pub is now open on Saturday evenings, and Sunday afternoons until 6pm, but food is not available for all of those hours. Best to phone the pub and check if you want a meal with your pint.
5 Apr 2005 12:18
A good pub with well-kept Shepherd Neame beers. One minor gripe - what is the point of having a non-smoking area that seems to be only the 2ft space next to the bar. It would be quite easy to make one room non-smoking which would be good as it can be quite smokey in here.
10 Mar 2005 11:17
The Great Western Hotel, Exeter
Great place for real ales - there is a good selection at all times and they have a festival once a year apparently. Not however the most picturesque pub in the area...
10 Mar 2005 11:11
Visited last weekend. This is still one of my favourite pubs, but the menu selection has become very disappointing. It seems the days of the huge and varied specials board have gone to be replaced by a bland standard pub menu. Allegedly Young's have forced this on the pub. The food itself was OK - average but not special like it used to be. Perhaps that's why the pub was empty for a Saturday afternoon.
The beer selection is still quite varied (also apparently despite pressure from Young's) and they are generally well kept. One obviously 'off' pint was replaced without fuss and the beer in question removed from sale.
The pub has a good vibe and is certainly worth a trip. It has a great location and I aim to visit again in the spring.
10 Mar 2005 11:07
Visited again last weekend and this pub is as good as ever if you like friendly people and quality real ale. For me the pub has improved in that one of the rooms is now non-smoking.
If you're visiting this pub please be aware of the old-wave opening hours - ie it's not open all afternoon.
10 Mar 2005 10:55
The Odd Wheel, Wembury
The pub reopened early in August 2010 and is run by the woman who also runs the Elburton Hotel in nearby Elburton. I don't live in the area so haven't been for some time but I can tell you that the locals seemed thrilled that their pub had reopened.
The focus is more on food than it was before and I had two really good meals here during my week on holiday at a nearby farm. However although the selection of beers is smaller than previously the quality of the ones on sale was good. It was nice that they had a beer on from the local Summerskills brewery which was lovely.
15 Jan 2011 08:42