BITE user comments - duchyjim
Comments by duchyjim
Lloyds No. 1 Cafe Bar, Milton Keynes
The last time I came here it was an inspiring Lloyds Bar. Now it is the very fancy Brewhouse & Kitchen.
I was here for a work party so potentially a different experience to the drop-in drinker on a night out. From what I could discern, an interesting layout and décor on multiple levels.
As I was driving and could only have one pint early doors, I thought I would make the most of the chance to have a stout, as I find it increasingly difficult to find a pint that doesn't taste of grapefruit/mango/etc.
It was one of the Brewhouse's own brews (one of four on tap, with a golden ale on hand pull). I don't mind a cold beer, but this was chilled to within an inch of its life which killed a lot of its taste. Once I'd left it to warm up it was a nice pint, but you shouldn't have to do that.
Plenty of other interesting bottles in the fridge, different lagers (a home brew, Oranjeboom..) for those who like fizzy stuff, plus the gin drinkers seemed pretty happy too.
It's not cheap, and a pint will set you back about a fiver, with a double spirit around the £7 mark.
I'm aware this is a beer site rather than food, but a paragraph to compliment the pie I had, which was excellent. I get fed up with places which try to pass off a dish of gravy and a couple of lumps of gristly meat topped with uninspiring puff pastry as a pie. This was a fully encased shortcrust steak, ale and mushroom. And delicious it was too.
15 Dec 2019 00:18
The Blue Boar, Southend on Sea
Directed in yesterday as it was the only pub in the vicinity of Roots Hall welcoming away fans.
Friendly and attentive staff with quick service.
Uninspiring beer selection. Bombardier was the only ale. My pint was from a new barrel and perfectly drinkable. My mate's Maltsmiths IPA was on the cold side.
Reading previous comments, it's obviously been through some ups and downs so good luck to them.
13 Jan 2019 22:56
Pub and Indian restaurant (Diya Royal) rolled into one.
There is a central bar with a door separating the pub half on the left, as you look at it, from the restaurant.
Glad I checked out both sides of the bar as no real ale in the pub side but Doom Bar on the other.
Pub is pretty small and access to the outside bit from there is out the side door and through the car park at the back.
Going back to the beer, I was surprised that Doom Bar was the only ale as there was Greene King livery outside.
Paid £3.50 for a very uninspiring pint so won't be racing back.
Food smelled nice for those eating in the busy restaurant area.
18 Jul 2018 21:49
The Feathers Hotel, Dersingham
Popped in for a quick pint on my way back to our campsite from the nearby Coach & Horses.
Lovely location, massive garden with a decent play area, inside the pub feels very gastro.
Three ales, from memory - Ghost Ship, Doom Bar and Wherry.
Beer was fine but although I couldn't put my finger on what, there felt like there was something missing from inspiring me to want to return.
30 May 2018 22:57
The Coach and Horses, Dersingham
Decent pub in a lovely village.
Friendly staff, well-priced and tasty food with decent portions and a big garden out back with a play area for the kids.
As for the ales, three from memory, all of similar strength. The Batemans' Skull & Hammers and Woodforde Wherry were very drinkable.
Better of the two pubs in the village, in my opinion. Would definitely return.
30 May 2018 22:49
Can't comment about the prices as someone kindly bought me a pint.
As for the ales, three of the usual Charles Wells suspects plus Razorback (Ringwood) and Wainwright. My pint of the latter was very good.
Food looked decent and seemed to arrive pretty quickly.
25 May 2018 23:04
The County Arms, Wandsworth Common
Youngs pub, well placed for Wandsworth Common.
Very busy on a warm day. Decent pint of Youngs Bitter (£4.50).
Food nice but expensive.
7 May 2018 21:25
Long time since the last review..
Large pub with a central bar, pool table and plenty of TVs showing sport.
Am guessing it's more geared up to the lager drinker, as only one ale, but I enjoyed my pint of Eagle IPA (£3.40). Well kept and poured with a smile.
Headed out into the good-sized rear garden, which also has a decent play area, and enjoyed my beer in the company of what I assume are two resident dogs.
Re: previous comment.Final line is harsh. This is just a good, honest boozer.
4 May 2018 23:06
Mediocre food; six ales on, from Wainwright and a pale ale from Black Sheep brewed for Ember Inns to Jaipur (Thornbridge). Prices ranged from £3.60-£4.10.
Would return for a beer but despite the food being cheap, wouldn't bother again.
29 Apr 2018 22:08
Caldecotte Arms, Milton Keynes
Agree with previous comments. Great location, right on the lake and next to a particularly decent playground and the model railway.
Good place for a family meal with a decent kids’ menu. Food quality okay, service pleasant if very slow.
As for the beer, wouldn’t rush back just for that. Only two lagers and GK West Coast IPA on keg - and had I realised the latter was an eye-watering £4.70 a pint I would have had a soft drink. Few bottles of craft beer in the fridge.
Would I go back? Definitely for a cheap family meal, but definitely not just for a beer.
3 Apr 2018 22:10
Now known as The Wild Pig.
As an away fan we were directed to a back bar which had one real ale on. Nothing startling but did the job.
Handy for the football ground nothing else to recommend it.
16 Feb 2018 21:44
Not too much to add to previous reviews (bar Snarling Mallard’s).
No complaints about the quality of the beer with a couple of pints of Station Bitter a good start to the day. £3.30 from memory.
Busy on a Saturday afternoon but got a table relatively quickly.
Food smelled good and the £2 pork pie looked a decent option.
16 Feb 2018 21:40
Friendly, welcoming corner pub with a decent selection of six different what I would call session ales.
Mixture of local beers to further a field from Yorkshire.
My pints of Butty Bach and one from the Rat Brewery were decent and around £3.30.
Quieter lounge at the back, public bar at the front busier.
16 Feb 2018 21:27
I’d disagree with the previous comment.
Surprisingly decent selection of ales for what felt like being in a hotel bar.
Can’t for the life of me remember what I had but went down well.
16 Feb 2018 21:19
Excellent find just a short stroll from the town centre.
Friendly, welcoming landlord and staff and enjoyed a chat and some pool with some of the locals in the bar area. Live music in the lounge.
Very well kept pint of Salopian Shropshire Gold. Around £3.30 from memory.
Also TT Landlord available.
Recommended.
16 Feb 2018 21:09
At 8.30pm on a Saturday night this Marstons pub was noisy and crowded.
Only two ales, Hobgoblin and Banks’ Bitter, and I’ve had a better kept pint of the latter for less money elsewhere.
Very handy for the station but nothing else to recommend it.
16 Feb 2018 21:04
Cambridge Brew House, Cambridge
Once upon a time I would have been amazed by a place like this.
Now, having been spoiled by the amount of quality ale out there, sadly that wasn't the case.
Own brews were underwhelming, prices exorbitant. Had a guest from Colchester too.
Very busy on a Saturday night.
13 Jan 2018 23:32
Nothing like I expected having only ever passed it by on the main road.
Massive inside and out.
At lunchtime it was busy with the well-heeled retired lunching.
Two ales, Theakston''s and Courage. Couldn''t fault the quality of the latter but paying £4 would put me off ever coming back.
19 Sep 2017 15:55
Nice pint of Courage (£3.60). CW Eagle IPA and Tribute also available.
Plenty of lager including Kirin and Aspall for cider drinkers.
Decent community pub and plenty of outside space despite location on busy road.
26 Jun 2017 13:53
Lovely location overlooking the picturesque village of Roecliffe.
Few benches out front and more seating on the decked area out back.
Inside is geared towards dining rather than just popping in for a pint and it's definitely in the gastropub category with burgers at £14.50, for example. Food was nice and decent portions and they are obviously doing well and it was very busy on a Saturday lunchtime.
Four ales on tap, although the Black Sheep guest offering had just gone. Otherwise it was Black Sheep bitter, Landlord and Jordvik Blonde.
Owners of this place are also taking over the White Swan, in nearby Miniskip.
24 Apr 2017 08:54
Have passed this place enough times so felt it was finally time to check it out.
Feels like a proper community pub, which is a rarity these days.
Decent beer selection. I'm never bothered by Banks & Taylor ales but plenty of others to choose from. My pint from Manchester's Blackjack microbrewery was £3.30 and well kept.
10 Apr 2017 14:28
The Black Horse, Great Linford
Very good description of the pub by the last reviewer.
Absolutely packed on a sunny Saturday afternoon and queuing out of the door to get to the bar.
Plenty of outside space plus a sandpit for my eldest to run around and play in without disturbing anyone.
Great location and outside areas but I wouldn't go back purely on the prices: £6.15 for a pint of Landlord (Doom Bar and London Pride were also available), a packet of crisps and a glass of water. This is Great Linford, not central London.
8 Apr 2017 23:01
Stratton House Hotel, Biggleswade
Just reading the previous reviewer's post before I started typing, and if this was the most expensive place in Biggleswade he visited then it must be a particularly cheap place to drink.
I had a pint of the Landlord's Choice which at £2.85 was particularly well priced, I thought.
I felt a bit awkward just dropping in for a pint as the place is obviously set up more for dining - although saying that it felt a bit like sitting in a hotel lobby.
Well kept beer but not the type of place you'd have a session.
27 Jan 2017 13:33
Impressive backstreet boozer with a wide selection of ales. A possible gripe is that there was nothing particularly dark/strong when I visited, but I guess I could've compensated by having one of the extensive range of bottled Belgian beers in the fridge.
My pint (can't remember what brewery it was from, aside from being from the Westcountry) was very good and decent value at £3.10.
Relatively quiet at lunchtime with just a handful of regulars.
The type of pub where if you were to go back more than once then they would soon know your name and what you liked to drink.
27 Jan 2017 13:29
Has been taken over by the people who run The Loft, in Sheffield.
Now opening weekday lunchtimes (11.30am-2.30pm) as well as the usual evenings and weekends.
On that basis, having never had the opportunity to go in before, I did just that.
Was one of three customers on a quiet lunchtime. Hopefully trade will pick up for them.
Two ales - Wadworth IPA and Tribute. I had a pint of the latter which was £3.60 and very drinkable. Blackboard behind the bar had an interesting list of ales to come.
Pleasant county pub, the type you could go into by yourself and have a decent conversation with other customers / the barman.
16 Jan 2017 12:07
I was really excited about visiting the Wellington but for some reason it just didn't do it for me. Can't quite put my finger on why as there was an extensive selection of beer on offer. Maybe I will have to give it another go and prove myself wrong.
23 Oct 2016 12:51
The Wellington Hotel, Birmingham
Popped in for a last pint of a heavy night. Only one real ale on. Can't remember what it was but not one I had seen before. Well kept and about £3.50 from memory.
23 Oct 2016 12:49
Adding to the previous review... don't go too late or the kitchen will have closed!
Saying that, the very accommodating man behind the bar managed to rustle up some caustically hot but delicious samosas which went down very well with a pint of Sharp's Atlantic.
23 Oct 2016 12:46
An unexpected gem. We were heading to the Keg and Grill and decided to pop in for a quick pint.
As others have said, extensive and well-kept selection of beer.
Friendly punters too.
Not mega busy due to its location even on a Saturday evening.
23 Oct 2016 12:44
Busy Wetherspoon's post football but we were still quick to be served. Decent selection of ale including some very good offerings from Glamorgan.
23 Oct 2016 12:40
Now a cocktail bar called The Snug. Great if you like that type of thing, but I don't.
Two taps on the bar but no ale available so had to settle for a pint of Amstel. Shockingly overpriced at £4.35.
Music just too loud to have a conversation at normal levels. On the plus side, staff friendly and efficient and the place was cleaned and well maintained throughout.
30 Sep 2016 12:45
Obviously a popular place to eat, judging by the amount of people doing so when I visited. Guy behind the bar seemed surprised that I was only there for a pint.
Three ales on offer - Doom Bar, London Pride and Deuchars IPA. There was also a blackboard advertising upcoming beers. Not sure how many of the three rotate but there were some 'safe' changes to come.
A pint of Pride was around £3.70 from memory and decent enough. Pleasant in the big garden out back. Large play area too, set a decent enough distance back from most benches so as not to disturb other visitors and also to give kids plenty of space to run.
4 Sep 2016 22:06
Large and airy Wetherspoon's on two levels close to the town centre, Grove Theatre, Asda etc.
Busy even on a late Monday lunchtime but staff were quick and attentive.
From memory, around eight ales available, from the standards (Abbot, Doom Bar) to more interesting ones. The Devon beer I had was decent and no arguing about the price (£2.05).
20 Jun 2016 16:27
As others have said, this is a Robinson's pub and there were two of their beers (Trooper and Dizzy Blonde) on offer when we visited. The former was decent and even came in handled glasses which pleased my mate.
The inside felt a bit bleak for some reason but the garden out back was lovely in the sunshine which excellent play facilities for the kids as well as space to run around. Despite being on a busy road it wasn't noisy at all.
Food was typical pub grub and although I wouldn't big up the quality was much as some previous posters it was nice and pretty reasonably priced.
Camping and caravanning facilities available too so I imagine the place gets busy once the weather improves.
6 Jun 2016 12:41
Despite the address, this place is actually in Hurdlow and not Sparklow.
We had dinner there on the first of our two nights camping around the back of the pub. Extensive menu including a selection of pies. The one I had was nice but I didn’t feel quite justified the bigging-up which they get on the pub’s website.
However, as this is a site for beer and not food then onto that… as well as Doom Bar there were three local beers on tap (3.7-4.5 per cent ABV) plus one from Thornbridge on gravity. The two we tried were excellent, well kept and obviously don’t hang around for long because the following day only one of the three was still available.
Big up for the campsite too which is in a lovely location with spacious pitches and clean shower blocks. No electric hook-ups and no on-site shop but you can take beer back to your tent from the pub plus they do takeaway coffee.
6 Jun 2016 12:31
The below post gives an excellent description of this pub which has seating out front and in the steep beer garden at the back.
It was a shame that I was driving as there were several interesting ales on tap, ranging from 3.7% to 5% ABV. Local beers (the only brewery I had heard of was Daleside) as well as one from the Coastal Brewery, in Cornwall. There was also a locally brewed lager and ciders available.
We did try the food which was obviously home cooked, very nice and well priced too. Bit of a wait but that was fine as it gave the kids a chance to burn off some energy in the garden.
Definitely somewhere to return to do the beer selection proper justice.
6 Jun 2016 12:21
The Old Transporter Ale House, Henlow
A micropub which used to be a video store. Opening hours have been gradually extended in the 19 months they have been open, so I took the chance to pop in for a lunchtime pint. It’s an easy place to miss, sat on the roundabout after you drive past the dog track. Apparently the sign outside has helped to bring in passing trade. Managed to park almost outside, although given the location I imagine that parking would be difficult at busier times.
Eight barrels, of which four were either resting or empty. Of those on, they ranged from a 3.8 per cent session beer to 5.5 per cent. I went in the middle and had a pint of Duck Soup, from the Warwickshire Beer Company. It was £3.30 a pint and, as you’d hope from something straight from the barrel, tasted in decent nick. Apparently ales shift pretty quickly so no chance of going off. Wine also advertised and I noticed Warsteiner for the lager drinkers. Sandwiches etc for sale too. Although the four ales on when I visited were from further afield, they try to support local breweries like Ampthill, Buntingford and Tring too.
The pub itself is one room with the bar at the back as you come in. Two sofas, otherwise tables and chairs and there are also a few zinc tables outside, but the licence means you have to have a plastic glass if you’re drinking outside. Large windows so loads of light coming in. Maybe it was that as well as the layout which meant it didn’t feel too pubby.
That said, I can’t fault the place and I applaud then for opening in what is a bit of a desert for decent drinking holes. Sounds like trade is pretty steady, so that’s good, and things like live music (which was advertised) will help too.
20 May 2016 15:05
Good description below of the pub.
Weird to find a single room, given the size of the building and also the beer garden out front.
Bombardier, Eagle IPA, London Stout and Director's Bitter on tap. My pint of the latter was £3.50 and perfectly drinkable.
Agree with Blue Scrumpy's comments about it being a bit of an uninspiring range, although these days I guess we are spoiled by the range of real ales on offer in some places.
28 Apr 2016 16:22
I’m not often over this way, so having read about the New Inn winning the East Beds CAMRA branch’s pub of the year award, I figured I’d drop in for a quick pint.
If I hadn’t had a purpose for my visit then I’d have been put off by the prominent Greene King branding, as that usually indicates boring, generic beer.
Happily there were eight ales on offer – four pump clips on sight as soon as you come in the door and then four at the bottom of the bar – ranging from generic GK to much more interesting.
My pint, from the Windsor & Eton brewery, was around £3.50, obviously well kept and unusually served in a stemmed glass.
The friendly barman indicated that from Thursday (28 April) the pub would have the first ale from its own microbrewery on tap: blonde, hoppy and apparently very nice.
As for the pub, it’s large enough in size, lots of polished woods and the window seat in which I sat was comfy.
Type of place I would happily stop for a session.
25 Apr 2016 14:11
As other posters have said, a really interesting country pub with the beer drawn straight from the barrel.
Five ales on when I visited although not the most inspiring selection. I went for a pint of Ridgeway bitter (Tring) which was £3.50.
Especially with the nearby White Horse looking shut up, I imagine this place does good business.
And you can’t knock anywhere which still runs a Sunday meat raffle (pork scratchings as a consolation prize!)
21 Apr 2016 13:58
Can't believe I have never been here before. Cracking boozer which really feels like a proper pub. Obviously a very community minded place with friendly staff and landlord.
Despite the fact there was an extensive cider festival there, I went for one of the ten or so ales on offer - a perfectly kept and poured pint of bitter from the Church End Brewery (£3.25).
They also do pies for £2 each - something to bear in mind if I am back for another lunchtime pint... Which I am sure I will do.
27 Feb 2016 22:23
Tied Greene King pub, so two of their offering available: IPA and Abbot. The former was £3.30 a pint and well kept.
Pub obviously lends itself to dining as there seemed to be as much space in the conservatory for diners then in the two seating areas on either side of the central bar.
Food smelled decent and I imagine there were some people taking advantage of the £6.95 OAPs' offering.
10 Dec 2015 14:44
Headed here from the Liberty Bounds, at Tower Hill. Totally contrasting 'Spoons with one packed and feels pretty opulent inside, this one more down to earth, less busy and a bit cheaper.
Friendly, efficient staff, decent selection of ale (top beer I had from By The Horns) and cheap food to soak up the post-football ale.
2 Dec 2015 14:05
The Liberty Bounds, Tower Hill
Excellent selection of ales but incredibly busy at 6.30pm on a Saturday evening, so after a quick pint we headed over Tower Bridge to the next nearest Wetherspoon's, where you are always guaranteed a seat.
2 Dec 2015 13:47
The Cheshire Cheese, Tower Hill
Was surprised it didn't open until just before 1pm on a Saturday so only time for one pint before getting the train from Fenchurch Street.
Very modern in the downstairs bar with lots of wood, high stools etc. Several ales available but not cheap with my pint of IPA costing £4.65 from memory.
Football on TV and food available which looked quite decent, but not enough to bring me back any time soon.
2 Dec 2015 13:43
I was pleasantly surprised when I popped in for a lunchtime pint today. Was expecting the usual GK ales and while there was one of theirs (an IPA), there was also Landlord and Everard's Tiger on offer. My pint of the latter was £3.70 and very drinkable.
Mixed crowd of diners and drinkers - nowhere near as gastronomic I was expecting.
13 Nov 2015 22:52
Huge gastropub, excruciatingly slow service, portions small, food nice but overpriced, two ales on tap (Doom Bar and Tribute) and a decent selection of bottled beers.
As the previous poster said, this place is geared up to eating. My Tribute was middling and well overpriced.
13 Aug 2015 21:53
Very impressed by the selection of local ale available, with the special offering made by the nearby Bays Brewery to raise money for Paignton Zoo particularly drinkable.
Food was out almost as soon as we had ordered it and the service was good.
As we had our son with us, we had to sit in the back section, so had to wait a little while for seats.
Come 6pm, as the pub is long, narrow and not as big as some Wetherspoon's pubs I have visited, seating was very much at a premium. Shame they can't make more of the upstairs of the building.
4 Aug 2015 09:37
Old Chapel Inn, Bigbury on Sea
More restaurant than pub with lots of tables set aside for dining and only some easy chairs near the bar and bar stools specifically for drinkers. Also a big garden out back.
Food was nice and reasonably priced, ale and wine were good. Two ales on tap - Doom Bar and Jail Ale. Latter was £3.40 a pint and in good nick.
Sister place of the Glassblowing House on the Barbican, the Gary Rhodes owned place where the Plymouth Dome once was, plus the Queen's Arms in Tamerton.
Staff friendly; busy when we visited on a Wednesday evening.
Shop opposite has a great selection of local beer too.
31 Jul 2015 22:14
As the previous reviewer said, the pub is on a picturesque square. Lovely place to sit outside and watch the world go by, especially with a pint of well kept Butcombe IPA (£3.60) as I did. That was one of three ales on tap, which was a pleasant surprise for a hotel.
30 May 2015 23:11
A cynical first impression from the outside was that this may be like a hotel bar. So, I was pleased to find three ales on tap - Director's Bitter, Caledonian Flying Scotsman and the one which I went for, Thwaites' Magic Sponge. That was £3.70 and went down very nicely sat out in the sunshine in the extensive beer garden which backs on to the main road.
Seems very much to be a place geared around dining so to find three ales on tap was definitely a bonus.
20 May 2015 15:22
A cynical first impression from the outside was that this may be like a hotel bar. So, I was pleased to find three ales on tap - Director's Bitter, Caledonian Flying Scotsman and the one which I went for, Thwaites' Magic Sponge. That was £3.70 and went down very nicely sat out in the sunshine in the extensive beer garden which backs on to the main road.
Seems very much to be a place geared around dining so to find three ales on tap was definitely a bonus.
20 May 2015 15:22
Agree with the previous comments that this is a pub more set up to dining than drinking. Even when I pass on a Monday lunchtime, the car park is pretty packed, so they must be doing something right.
I only popped in for a pint. Had a choice of four ales - London Pride, Doom Bar, Southwold Bitter and Titanic Stout, which was a pleasant surprise. A pint of Pride cost £3.80, went down very well and if that's a yardstick then they look after their beers.
24 Apr 2015 15:20
Greene King boozer tucked down a side street. Back bar only had Speckled Hen and IPA but there were also two other choices in the other bar.
Convivial boozer and decent enough for a pre-match pint.
14 Mar 2015 22:23
Having passed this The Bridge may times, I thought I would finally pop in and see what it was like.
There is a side beer garden, while inside seating is in an L-shape with the bar immediately in front of you as you go in; small TV in the far corner by the window.
The lady behind the bar said it is not really a ‘beer’ pub, as the younger, Saturday night clientele go for Jagerbombs, spirits and lager.
However, there were Bass, Bombadier and Eagle available on tap with other bottled beers including Young’s Banana Bread Beer and a special Sticky Toffee Pudding ale (apparently very sweet) also on offer.
I went for the draught Bass, which was £2.95 and probably the best pint of Bass I have ever had. Normally not a beer by which I am very bothered, but this was excellently kept and very palatable. Would’ve happily stayed for more than one had I not had places to go.
Friendly staff and clientele on my mid-afternoon visit.
9 Jan 2015 15:29
Five ales on tap when I visited. Went for a seasonal offering from Mauldon which was £3.10 a pint and very well kept.
Busy even late lunchtime, suspect in the evenings it gets rammed.
18 Dec 2014 22:43
Enjoyed the Shefford Bitter and also the fact it came in at under £3 a pint.
Decent, old-school boozer with an impressive range of ales to match.
17 Dec 2014 11:01
Two taps, both serving Doom Bar, when I visited. Just over £3 a pint and perfectly drinkable.
17 Dec 2014 10:59
Two ales on - GK IPA and something equally up exciting - although stuck to the Coke as I was driving. Decent enough food. Not haute cuisine but good portions and well priced. Friendly staff too.
Type of place I would watch some football on TV but not go for a session.
12 Dec 2014 22:32
Three ales on - Doom Bar, Timothy Taylor Gold and one from the Concrete Cow brewery. Latter was in good nick. No food after 5pm on a Sunday but they did heat up out baby's food for us. Lovely setting too.
28 Sep 2014 22:06
Big pub, the majority of which seems to be turned over to people eating. Busy too, as was the seating at the back where people were watching football on TV.
Three hand pumps but no ale available. Didn't fancy a Guinness, so Diet Coke it was.
Service a bit slow but that is no reflection on the staff, who were working very hard - there just weren't enough of them.
Food good value and very tasty too.
Big garden although rather grotty.
Decent alternative to the Harvester up the road - although only if you are eating.
15 Sep 2014 22:12
Decent free house offering four ales when we went in. Doom Bar, London Pride, one from JW Lees and a decent golden ale from Norfolk. Decent session beer, well kept and £3.10 a pint.
Friendly landlady, pool, darts and football on TV. Welcoming pub and my only criticism would be the chairs, which make you feel like you are sat in a meeting rather than a pub.
Worth diverting off the Dorchester Road to visit.
28 Aug 2014 10:28
Three ales on tap. Had a perfectly acceptable pint of Butcombe Bitter. That was £3.40.
Still lots of sofas, plus several benches in the back yard.
Not the most exciting boozer I have ever visited, but certainly not the worst.
28 Aug 2014 10:23
Several Everards beers on tap when we visited for a pre-match pint, as well as one from the York Brewery and a Tram Shed pale ale.
Two pints came to just over £7. No Camra discount, but talking to the gaffer and he said he ought to consider it.
Decent enough place for a couple of pre-football pints, especially considering the lack of pubs in the vicinity of the football ground.
12 Aug 2014 08:44
Not huge amounts to add to the detailed comment below.
Quite enjoy the occasional visit to a Harvester, although do find them somewhat hit and miss.
This one was a hit, with decent food, quick and friendly service and everything very reasonably priced.
Only keg Bombadier on, as per three years ago, so stuck to the bottomless soft drinks instead.
Definitely somewhere I would return to eat, although would go elsewhere were I drinking - despite the large and sunny beer garden.
4 Aug 2014 13:05
Finally got around to visiting the William IV last night, having intended to do so for a long while.
Even at 10pm it was busy, with a darts match going on, plenty of people in the large back area listening to a jazz band, and others sat on the benches out front.
Had a couple of pints of non-Brodie’s beer, and you certainly can’t grumble at only having to pay £2.60 for a beer at a pub these days.
Did have tasters of a couple of the stuff brewed on the premises – the Dalston Black IPA and a stout – but wasn’t massively struck... especially on finding out they were £5 a pint due to their ABV.
1 Aug 2014 09:34
The Shooting Star, Liverpool Street
Enjoyed the pint of ESB which I had here last night. Didn’t enjoy paying around £4.30 for the privilege, though.
Large Fuller’s pub which was relatively quiet inside on a busy Thursday evening compared to surrounding boozers where people were spilling out into the streets.
Staff friendly and efficient, toilets clean and you could get a seat, but would be put off returning by the price.
1 Aug 2014 09:21
Several ales on tap tonight, including Tribute, Eagle, Directors and a seasonal offering fromYoung's, which was very palatable and £3.50 a pint.
Plenty of the pub turned over to dining. Food was decent, service quick and mains around £8.50 to £13.
Decent enough boozer and obviously doing something right as it was busy, even on a Wednesday evening.
9 Jul 2014 21:57
Two ales on tap when I visited on Saturday: Tribute and another St Austell offering - Dartmoor, which was particularly decent.
Pint of that and a pineapple juice came to just over a fiver.
Don’t generally like talking about food on this site, as it’s meant to be about beer, but a quick mention, as it was very good.
While it wasn’t the busiest (although can feel that way even with a few bodies in as there’s plenty of seating front, back and outside), the new owners are obviously doing a good job.
7 Jul 2014 12:30
Lovely waterfront location with three Butcombe beers on tap. Had two of them, which were reasonably priced and very well kept.
30 Jun 2014 09:56
Seems only fair to add a more up-to-date review.
As the previous poster said, is a great place to sit on a summer's evening, watching the world and the boats go by.
Only thing that has changed now is that there is a cracking selection of beer, including several from the Bristol Brewery. Particularly enjoyed my pint of Milk Stout.
Service was slow at the bar, but that was the only quibble.
30 Jun 2014 09:39
Decent boozer, despite the evident Greene King tie.
Had a couple of well-kept pints here - a hoppy American-style IPA and then a pint of Shakespeare, which is brewed for the pub.
Busy with hen and stag dos, but still convivial enough.
30 Jun 2014 09:31
Popped in here for a late-night pint. Having paid £2 to get in and fought my way through the crowd to the bar, wasn't met with the most inspiring selection. Still, three ales on tap is better than your average night club.
Very loud - volume at shouting into your neighbour's ear level - but if you were a single bloke on the pull, could do a lot worse than head here.
30 Jun 2014 09:29
£4.60 for a pint of stout, £5.50 for a bottle of Doombar - way too expensive.
16 Jun 2014 08:54
Entrance is hidden away down a passage way, so explains why it isn't as rammed as other boozers in the area at peak times - seating area upstairs was relatively quiet.
Two ales on when we arrived - Summer Lightning and London Pride - and then switched to the Truman's beer when that came on.
Over £4 a pint, so London prices, but definitely a better choice than many of the other boozers in the immediate vicinity.
16 Jun 2014 08:52
Finally got around to visiting, having wandered by many times. Had a pint of one of the two patriotically named ales - St George and the Dragon, from Wadworth. £3 a pint and not brilliantly kept.
Clips for Doombar and London Pride both facing the wrong way.
Large boozer with only six others in (including the barmaid) on a Wednesday night. And the signs to the garden still referred to the Sycamore.
Obviously trying, with plenty of offers on food, but wouldn't entice me back.
21 May 2014 23:21
Definitely closed and looked like a massive refurbishment project was taking place when we went past last week
19 May 2014 09:24
Ended up here for some cheap food as we knew it would have a highchair for our little 'un, and we wouldn't end up paying through the nose.
Glad too, as it was pretty uninspiring stuff - and I say that as someone normally happy to eat at Wetherspoon's.
Several ales on, and had I not been driving, would've been tempted by an offering from Box Steam.
As for the boozer, it's long and gloomy, as people have previously said, and was really busy on a Friday lunchtime. Posh loos, but the rest of the place didn't inspire you to stay for too long.
19 May 2014 09:11
Had a decent pint of EPA which had been specially brewed for the pub in Brixton last weekend.
Good selection of ales on, including more than one from Meantime.
Busy on a Saturday lunchtime before the Army-Navy rugby, but suspect it would be quite popular anyway.
8 May 2014 16:42
Ember Inns pubs always have a relatively decent selection of ale on, and such was the case when I visited, with five on and another two preparing.
Of the five, all were between 3.6-4.1 ABV. Went for the Flagon Dry, from Woodforde, which was in good nick.
There's 20p off a pint for Camra members, or all ales are £2.49 on a Monday.
Food, while standard Ember Inns fare, is good and cheap.
Staff very friendly.
Shame it's so far from where I live, or would happily return on a regular basis.
15 Apr 2014 12:51
The Two Brewers Inn, Chipperfield
Felt very underdressed when my wife, son and I dropped in yesterday. Everyone else was in their Sunday best - and they were also surprised that we hadn't reserved a table, despite it being 2.45pm.
Despite a sign I later saw in the toilets advertising tasting platters of ale, there were only two available - Old Golden Hen and Bombadier. Had a pint of the latter which was perfectly drinkable, as was my wife's red wine, although both pushing £4.
Food was good and arrived about as quickly as the drinks did. Enjoyed my pie (proper shortcrust pastry and not just meat in a casserole dish with a pastry topping) while my wife got half a cow after ordering the ribs. Bit pricier than your average pub grub, but I guess that's expected given the location.
Desserts were decent too, so no surprise that most of their trade seems to be from people eating.
Not somewhere I would adopt as a local just for a pint, though, because it would feel like drinking in a hotel restaurant.
7 Apr 2014 09:08
Ended up here last night as the Wheatsheaf was packed.
As people have previously said, large, soulless, underground pub.
Had nine ales on, including London Pride, Young's Bitter, offerings from Barnsley, Nethergate and some smaller breweries.
First stout I tried tasted like vinegar, happily the next was better.
Had four pints in total, best was the Pride, possibly because this turns over more regularly.
All ales between 3.8 and 4.5 ABV and at more than £4 a pint, not cheap.
Plenty of better options in the area.
5 Apr 2014 21:46
The Fountains Abbey, Paddington
Thought I would try this as an alternative to the Mad Bishop and Bear at Paddington, as I had time to wander down the road before my train.
Deceptively big pub, because as well as the largish downstairs area (which had TVs showing Sky Sports when I went in) there is loads more seating upstairs too.
Decent selection of ales on tap, including a couple from Shepherd Neame. I went for the guest instead (forget the name) which was decent enough, but at £4.14 a pint, even more expensive than the station pub.
Was busy enough mid-afternoon on a Friday and the food smelt decent, but while I enjoyed my pint, think I will stick to the Fuller's place at Paddington instead.
31 Mar 2014 09:09
Busy enough on a Saturday afternoon with a mix of people watching football on the plentiful amount of screens and others just having a beer and a chat.
Having been lured in by the offer of 'cask ales', I was presented with a choice of IPA or Old Speckled Hen. Went for the latter, which was perfectly drinkable and £3.45 a pint.
In the past I would've been happy just to find those two choices on offer at a boozer, but with real ale becoming more widespread, not so much any more. So, for the beer, would walk the extra five minutes down the road to the Red House, which does local ale from Olney.
However, you can't knock what the owners have done at the Dove, and it certainly seems a thriving community pub with plenty going on.
24 Mar 2014 09:15
This place was rammed when I went in for a quick pint on Sunday lunchtime - and deservedly so.
Seemed to be more people there for the booze than the reputedly huge Sunday roasts.
Decent selection of eight or nine ales on, including a couple from Hunters, one from Summerskills, and further afield including Jennings and Old Peculiar. I went for a pint of Skinners' Lushingtons, which cost £2.69 including a CAMRA discount.
The Fortescue also takes CAMRA vouchers, if you want 50p off a pint and a reason not to go to the Wetherspoon's pub just up the way.
Beer was excellently kept and had I wanted, could also have had it in a handled glass.
Friendly staff, tasters available and the only quibble that the music would have been a bit too loud if you were trying to have a conversation rather than read the paper, as I was.
28 Jan 2014 13:29
Don't think the layout of this place helps. As you go in, you are met by a huge pillar in the centre that goes back the length of almost half the pub. Seating down either side, but they feel like being plonked in a corridor.
Bar is on the right-hand side as you go in, but easily missed.
Large seating area at the back, and even some on the decking out back, but to agree with previous posters, felt very devoid of atmosphere.
Staff were friendly, so disagree with previous posters on that point.
As for the all-important booze, there were a number of ales on including Jail Ale, from Dartmoor (£2.45) and the Pilgrim which I had from the Plymouth Beer Company. That was £1.49 with 50p off due to a CAMRA voucher.
Tasted decent enough, so no complaints in that regard, but with the Fortescue just down the road offering excellent, very well kept beer, and also accepting CAMRA vouchers, were I to find myself drinking on Mutley Plain again, that's where I would head.
28 Jan 2014 13:22
Only visited this place once when I lived in Walthamstow a few years back, and was enough never to entice me back.
So, was pleasantly surprised when I visited last Saturday.
It's pretty gastro, and at 2pm was filled with families with young children, the aforementioned hipsters from the previous review and dogs and their owners, who have obviously come from nearby Lloyd Park.
Still, you can't fault what they are doing if people are fighting for tables at that time of day.
Decent range of ales on, and the one I had from the Box Steam Brewery (following tasters) was spot on. It was £3.60 a pint and I was also offered the choice of a handled or straight glass.
Food was good too. At the top end of what I would pay for pub grub, but the pie was excellent, ditto my wife's burger, and obviously home-made.
Toilets were clean, tables cleared regularly and staff friendly.
Can't argue with all of the above, and can understand why it gets so busy.
21 Jan 2014 14:53
Decent boozer, just a handy stumble from the train station.
Popped in for the first time last night, having been past many times, and was pleased to find four ales on tap. Went for the Tribute, which was £3.50 a pint and very drinkable.
Plenty of football memorabilia on the walls and TVs quietly showing football.
Both the public bar and lounge were relatively busy for 6pm on a Thursday, although how much Spurs being on TV later had to do with that, I'm not sure.
Certainly one of the better boozers I have visited in Enfield.
13 Dec 2013 08:30
One of several McMullen's pubs within walking distance of each other (The Wonder and The Jolly Butchers are others), and, although I couldn't put my finger on why, was my least favourite of the three.
The pint of seasonal ale (£3.40) which I had was perfectly drinkable, so it wasn't that. Liked the cricketing memorabilia, but the long, thin layout of the pub didn't do much for me, and the shiny wooden floors and carefully mismatched furniture made it feel somewhat gastro. Maybe that's the intention, as there were as many people eating and stopping for a coffee as there were there just for a pint or two.
As one of the previous reviews said, lots of pubs are neither good nor bad, and for me, The Cricketers falls into that category.
24 Oct 2013 10:17
Very busy on a Saturday lunchtime, but the incredibly slow service at the bar didn't reflect that.
Was driving so unable to get stuck into the beer selection, but there were five ales on tap including ones from the Moles Brewery, Lodden and Woodforde Wherry. Most expensive was £2.99 a pint.
Two of our party ordered tea and it took around 20 minutes and two reminders to deliver it to the table.
First time I had been to the Harrow in about five years, and while it seemed a good place for a relaxed pint - especially in the large garden - I wouldn't come here in a rush again.
7 Oct 2013 13:14
Greene King boozer, although as well as the stuff made in Bury St Edmunds, there were also several guest ales on.
Pints of Golden Sheep and Landlord (£3.30 each, from memory) went down well in the beer garden over the road, which overlooks the river.
Can't comment about the food, but would happily return for more beer.
30 Sep 2013 10:12
Beer garden very busy on a sunny Sunday. Three ales on tap - Broadside, a golden Samuel Adams beer and Doom Bar.
Went for the latter and although it wasn't the cheapest pint I'd ever had, at least it was well kept. Not always the case since Doom Bar became so ubiquitous and pubs which can't keep ale started serving it.
Food looked nice, albeit a bit pricey.
Decent place to sit in the sunshine with a pint, although was roasting indoors.
30 Sep 2013 10:09
Three local ales on tap when I visited, decent food and the place was busy with locals and their dogs.
Hadn't been for about three years and it's now a much more open and welcoming pub in a lovely setting by the water (well, if the tide's high, anyway).
Well worth a visit.
16 Sep 2013 22:58
Has changed its name to the Prince George. Advertises cask ale - will have to see if it's a more interesting and better kept selection than its predecessor.
26 Aug 2013 22:17
Can't comment about the beer (Ridgeway and Side Pocket on at £3.20 a pint) but there was definitely a funny smell about the pub when I finally managed to visit.
Lovely location if you can sit outside, and will have to pop back on a sunny day to try and ale or two when I'm not driving, but can't imagine spending an evening there in the height of winter.
26 Aug 2013 22:12
Ate and drank here a couple of times during a recent stay in Cockermouth and our experience was totally opposite to those of recent reviewers.
Don't like to start a pub review commenting about the food, but will do so. Yep, the menu isn't huge, mainly offering pub staples, but we (five of us) all enjoyed what we had both times. Decent burgers, fish and chips, pie, scampi etc. Apparently a new head chef took over recently and he seems to be doing a very good job.
As for the booze, don't be deceived by the brewery sign outside as they no longer brew their own beer, but there are a couple of ales produced specifically for the pub. Both were fairly generic bitters around 4% ABV but were perfectly drinkable, and with one of the two only £2 a pint, I wasn't complaining.
Jennings Bitter was among the other beers on tap, and there was also a very good selection of bottles beers available, including from Thornbridge, Kernel, Brew Dog and Sam Smiths. More expensive than the ale on tap (£3.50 +) but a decent alternative.
Staff were generally pretty attentive, tasters were available and food turned up quickly. Spoke with the landlady too and she seemed very pleasant.
As for the pub, there's seated areas outside, inside the bar is in the centre and there's seating to the front and divided up into two areas at the back. Didn't see any evidence of TVs but there was other entertainment (pub quizzes, music) on offer.
Guess reviews will always be subjective, but I'd say the Bitter End certainly deserves more than the 5.4 rating it has at the time of reviewing.
25 Aug 2013 23:20
Popped in for a late lunch today and found that things are winding down, because apparently the place is closing in two weeks' time and then reopening under new owners.
Meant obviously that not everything was on and there was a limited menu. Only one ale (Bombadier) but stuck to the softs as I was driving.
Surprisingly no lemondade - even if they are closing, you'd think they may have staples like that.
Anyway, staff were very friendly and obviously a locals' pub as quite a few people were welcomed by name.
Food was basic pub grub but decent and the portions were very good, so no complaints there at all. No desserts seemingly available, though.
Anyway, enjoyable visit and will be intrigued to see what the new owners make of it, because its a decent sized and located boozer with loads of potential.
12 May 2013 21:53
Prince Alfred, Burton-Upon-Trent
Stopped off for a pint or three on the way to football yesterday, and was very impressed.
Decent selection of Burton Bridge ales for just under £3 a pint as well as one guest ale from Herefordshire.
Seemed to only be sandwiches available if you wanted food.
Friendly and knowledgable bar staff and was very comfortable sat in the lounge area of the pub. Shame to have to leave and go to the game - especially as Plymouth lost in the last minute. Although that was a good reason to pop in on the way back to the station and have a quick pint to drown our sorrows.
14 Apr 2013 20:45
Last O'Neill's I visited was in Euston Road and that had a half-decent selection of ales on. Sadly all that was on tap here was Smithwick's.
A pint was just under the £4 mark, which I guess is sadly about standard for the area.
Staff were friendly enough, tables cleared of empties regularly and was a fairly comfortable place to kill half an hour without being overwhelmingly exciting or busy.
12 Apr 2013 08:35
Good selection of American beers and whiskies, but nothing too much to get ale drinkers excited.
Obviously draws a music-loving crowd, but if you just want a quiet pint or two, I'd head elsewhere.
10 Apr 2013 10:13
Visited for the first time yesterday and was very impressed. Had been to one of the other Craft Beer Company places in Farringdon and was left feeling a bit cold.
This place is much nicer, though, and feels like a proper boozer - albeit with a much larger selection of ales than you would find in your average pub.
Priced in bands according to ABV and the four I tried were all very good and well kept.
Staff were friendly and obviously knew their stuff.
A few pies on sale (£4.50 each) which were nice and went very quickly. They've only just started selling them and, judging by demand, will need to get a few more in.
Posters up for a beer quiz and also several meet the brewer events, so full marks to them for doing extra stuff to get the punters in.
Considering this place was once apparently a complete dive, it's now very good.
No TVs, though, so if you're wanting to watch football, you'll have to go elsewhere.
8 Apr 2013 08:57
Three ales on tap when I visited for the first time yesterday. Decided not to go for the safe option of Wandle, and instead tried a new one from the London Fields Brewery, which went down very nicely - especially accompanied by a packet of pork scratchings.
Friendly guy behind the bar who was happy to offer tasters of the ale.
Decent enough to entice me back were I in the area.
8 Apr 2013 08:52
Decent selection of beers on tap when we visited yesterday, including some interesting selections from Somerset to Yorkshire. However, as I was driving was on the soft stuff. Two soft drinks came to almost £6 so not the cheapest place.
Not the biggest bar area, although more seating at the back which was taken up by people eating. Can imagine it getting pretty crowded on a Friday or Saturday night. And then, not sure if the TVs would be tuned to something different to the BBC News Channel playing silently.
Clean, bar staff were friendly and works well to a formula but nothing spectacular.
1 Apr 2013 20:09
Four real ales on when we visited on Easter Sunday. Tried the Pacific Gem (around £3 a pint) which was fine.
Food was typical pub grub - nothing spectacular but filled a hole more than adequately.
There was a band tuning up as we left and lots of people there, so even though it is the only pub in the area, they must be doing something right to get plenty of punters through the door.
1 Apr 2013 20:04
Now a John Barras pub - same as the Southern Cross.
Big boozer, large bar area at the front, then you walk round the right-hand side and there's a massive room at the back which seems mainly geared up for eating.
Busy when we visited on a Thursday evening and despite quite a few staff, service was a bit slow.
No grumbling about the bar prices, though, with a small red wine (£2.89) and a pint of Black Sheep (£2.94) both under three pounds. That was the only ale on but certainly tasted good enough for me to go back for a couple more pints.
Food is pretty standard pub grub, and you can get a couple of mains for around a tenner. Burgers weren't fantastic but the pie and chips was decent.
Plenty of TVs around the bar area when we were there showing Sky Sports News and ESPN silently, although sure they get turned up when there's live football on.
Would go back for drinks and maybe the quiz but not bother with the food again.
29 Mar 2013 21:55
Visited for the first time last night and was pleased to find three ales from Sharp's on, along with one from Okells and several from Fuller's.
A Sharp's Ice Ale, followed by an Okells Bitter went down nicely and at around £3.70 a pint were pretty much par for the course for the area pricewise.
Busy enough downstairs around 7pm on a Saturday evening and there were also people heading up to the dining area.
One TV above the door showing BBC news although was turned off not long after we arrived.
Staff seemed friendly enough, which is always a bonus.
Would head back were I in the area.
17 Mar 2013 21:31
The Montagu Pyke, Charing Cross Road
First visit in ages last night and was rammed as it was showing the England v France Six Nations game. TVs everywhere including a massive screen hanging down for the punters upstairs.
Two bars, and the second, at the steps towards the back of the pub, doesn't serve real ale.
Pricier than your average Spoons, with a guest beer over £3 a pint. Guess you can't complain compared to your average central London boozer price, though.
Had two or three interesting beers on, the best from Saltaire.
Bar staff, who seemed good, were happy to offer tasters.
Like the music posters and memorabilia around the place too.
Would go back if I were in the area.
24 Feb 2013 17:42
The Bear and Staff, Leicester Square
Had given this place a seven, but when I visited last night for the first time in a while, wasn't overly impressed.
Beer selection was relatively decent and tasters were available.
However, the girl behind the bar didn't seem hugely clued up on everything available.
And, most annoying of all, the music was ramped up loud enough to turn any conversation into a shouting match.
Not cheap either, with a round of drinks over £20.
Shame.
24 Feb 2013 17:37
Considering this place is hidden away down an alley, when we visited around 6.30pm on a Friday evening it was absolutely packed with crowds spilling out in the pavement.
ESB went down nicely although not too much change from a fiver.
May pop in for a quiet pint at lunchtime but would seek out other nearby boozers in the evening.
Immaculate toilets, if that's going to convince you to make a detour there.
19 Feb 2013 21:19
The Kings Head, Winchmore Hill
Four ales when I visited - Young's Bitter, Doom Bar, Cornish Coaster and a special brew by Redemption to mark Geronimo Inns' 18th birthday. Had a pint of that(£3.85) and very nice it was too, with a pleasingly bitter aftertaste.
Apparently there are four ales on at all times and at the pub's discretion rather than forced on them by parent company, so that's good.
Beer comes in handled tankards, so marks for that too.
Pub is definitely in the gastro category, and is obviously focused as much on dining as booze. Menu is the posh side of pub grub with mains between about £9-£11.
One TV above the door and the King's shows live sport so you can get your fix. Reportedly a second one coming in at the other end of the bar area so they can show football and rugby at the same time.
Decent looking garden at the back which will obviously so BBQs in the summer.
Seems to have the balance right between eating and dining and has pitched itself perfectly at the neighbourhood.
And with the beer being decent and the place looking well tended, it's obvious people are happy to come here and spend their money rather than the slightly shabby looking Salisbury and Queens Head nearby.
19 Feb 2013 21:14
As you'd expect from a central London pub, not the cheapest with a beer around £4 a pint. From memory there were a decent range of ales and the pint I had from Orkney was nice.
10 Feb 2013 21:27
Excellent selection of ales with Summerskills bitter, Exmoor Beast, Pale Rider, one from the Concrete Cow brewery and one from Tring among the 12 available. All the ones I tried were in decent nick and the guy serving knew his ales and was happy to offer tasters.
Pretty busy and quite loud, but saying that we did visit on a Saturday night.
Certainly a lot better than the other 'spoons in the theatre district.
3 Feb 2013 20:55
Despite ending up sitting at a table right at the back of the pub by the blokes' toilets, can't say I noticed any dubious smells.
Echo previous comments about this place being pleasingly good. Three ales on tap - a dark IPA from the Windsor & Eton brewery, Hophead and a third which I forget.
Plenty of bottles too as well as cider if that's your fancy.
Friendly girl behind the bar was happy to offer tasters.
Camra discount available, so made a pint £3.10 which is perfectly acceptable these days. And the booze (well, the second round of two, anyway) came in handled glasses.
Food on offer, if you fancy eating, and the other nice touch was the jugs of iced and lemoned/limed water on the end of the bar from which you could help yourself.
Considering the Charles II can be a bit hit and miss, this place could be a much more reliable destination if I'm in the King's Cross area again.
25 Jan 2013 09:21
The Broadgate Exchange, Broadgate
Was told this pub is in Appold Street, so wandered up and down for ages before some kindly soul informed me that it's "up the steps opposite the All Bar One... and by the way, it's terrible".
The White Horse's website boasted that it has four real ales on tap. When I arrived there was only Young's, and that didn't taste great with a scummy head.
Later in the evening, Doombar and Lighthouse (Adnams) came on when the Young's disappeared, but still not a great selection.
Extortionate too - a round of four drinks (Young's, two Peronis and a Guinness) came to £18.20.
Place was stuffed full of loud City types and, coupled with the music blaring out, was difficult to hear people at the other end of the table, despite us not being a small group.
As for the pub, it's pretty gastro inside with trendy mismatching chairs and sofas and lots of wood. Big bar along the right-hand wall as you come in. Long and split-level.
Some sanctuary in the toilets, which were quieter and clean so one point for that.
However, having mistakenly visited the nearby Flying Horse trying to find this place and seen what a good pub should be like, made the experience even more depressing.
Obviously does a roaring trade from people with money to burn, and if you want food then there seems to be an extensive menu. Definitely not for me, though.
25 Jan 2013 09:09
Popped in last night to ask for directions to another boozer and was saddened I couldn't stay, as there was a decent array of ales on tap and Kozel for the lager drinkers.
Staff seemed friendly and there was football on TV.
Will definitely have to pay a proper visit next time I'm in the Liverpool Street area.
25 Jan 2013 09:02
Visited for the first time last night. Felt a bit like a speakeasy, pushing aside the curtains as soon as you get through the front door.
Large central bar with seating all around it - was pretty rammed with people seated and standing, but there is more seating further back. The only spare sofa was reserved so we ended up stood beside a stack of board games near the fire.
Group next to us was eating - food looked good and plentiful.
As for the beer, there were five ales on tap, from the generic Adnams to the more unusual. Lady behind the bar was happy to do tasters, so ended up having a surprisingly flavoursome golden ale I would have normally ignored. Can't remember exactly how much the beer was but recall it was pretty standard for the area.
Mixed clientele and other people seemed friendly, as did the bar staff, and with decent beer on tap, that's enough to make a decent boozer.
Worth making the short walk from Kentish Town station rather than settling for the Assembly House.
19 Jan 2013 18:13
The Junction Tavern, Kentish Town
Agree with the comments about it being very gastro, but they must be doing something right as it was standing room only when we visited on a Friday night. Camra discounts only apply to beer festivals so a pint of Twickenham Bitter was £3.80. Two other ales on with a clip for Wandle turned around.
Not the type of place I would rush back to but the beer was decent enough.
19 Jan 2013 18:05
Visited for the first time tonight and found it quiet for a Thursday evening compared to other pubs in the area. Guess it helps being tucked away.
Five ales on tap - three Greene King and two guests. Tried a pint of each of the guest beers which were very drinkable and £3.90 each (no Camra discount available).
Food coming out of the kitchen looked nice and there was a sign by the bar saying all meals are a fiver on Monday to Friday before 3pm.
Unobtrusive music, no evident TV screens, and people relying on the old-fashioned art of conversation.
Would definitely visit again if I were in the area - although maybe not on an Arsenal match day as it apparently gets rammed then.
3 Jan 2013 21:29
Was expecting to be stuck drinking Guinness or Kilkenny when I visited for the first time last night, so was impressed to find Doombar on tap. Perfectly drinkable and £3.40 a pint.
Seven of us squeezed around a couple of tables and as it was pretty busy and also the eclectic selection of music a touch on the loud side, was a bit hard to hear people from one end to the other.
Don't normally make a point of commenting on food in pubs, but was very impressed. Shared some chicken wings to start and they were really nice without being too gloopy, saucy or spicy as some can be.
Burger was decent too - obviously homemade, good size and the portions good. For £8, was quite happy.
Don't tend to frequent chain pubs as a first point of call, only visiting as the Skinners Arms around the corner was closed but if I were to find myself here again, wouldn't object at all.
30 Dec 2012 18:59
Would have given this place a wide berth if I hadn't been dragged in by some colleagues.
That's just me superficially judging by the decor, music and trendy looking people heading in.
So, was surprised to find three ales on tap, with the Wychwood Christmas offering, Bah Humbug, perfectly drinkable and £3.55 a pint.
Staff were pleasant too and the service quick.
That was around 6.30pm, though, and I imagine later in the evening and at weekends it gets pretty busy and loud.
14 Dec 2012 10:48
Having passed this place enough times, thought I would go through the garden gate and see what it's like.
Warm welcome from three of the pub dogs almost before I had got through the door.
Central bar with seating around it in a horseshoe. Seemed to be mainly regulars there when I arrived.
Two TV screens, one on either side of the pub, showing different sport.
As for the important stuff - the booze - I was presented with a choice of two ales, Directors and Young's Bitter. Went for a pint of the latter which was a very reasonable £2.80 a pint and perfectly drinkable.
Decent enough local boozer.
9 Dec 2012 21:09
The Pride of Spitalfields, Shoreditch
Tried to visit once before on a Saturday evening and it was so rammed we couldn't even get though the door.
On a Sunday lunchtime it was a lot quieter, though, just people taking refuge from the cold and a crowd of regulars.
Had a pint of Brewers Gold (£3) and Doombar, both which went down nicely.
There's a pulldown screen on the back wall where they obviously show football, but while I was there, people were relying on the old-school art of conversation.
Advertised sandwiches - and £1.50 for a bacon butty sounds very reasonable to me. Would have indulged had we not been off for a curry later.
As people have said previously, a proper old-fashioned London boozer.
2 Dec 2012 18:50
Old school boozer, set slightly back off the main road.
Popped in for a quick pint this afternoon. Sadly the guest 'Movember' ale was off so had a pint of Country Bitter (£3.20) which was one of three McMullen's offerings. Perfectly respectable pint.
No TVs, just the radio playing in the background, roaring fire at one end and the joanna sat quietly along one wall.
Pies and pasties advertised for between £1.50-£1.80 if you wanted food.
Decent alternative to the Jolly Butchers if you're in the area and want a pint of ale in a pub that feels like a pub.
29 Nov 2012 15:04
Visited yesterday before watching Plymouth lose at Fleetwood - the way we played, would've been better investing an extra couple of hours in the pub instead.
Wanted to try the Fuzzy Duck beer and the Cunning Stunt (£2.30 with a Camra discount) went down very well. Plenty of other ales and different ciders on tap, so would've been rude not to try several.
And then got a two-pint carry out after the game too (90p for the container).
Beers were decent, staff knowledgable and it felt like a proper pub should with people sitting around talking over pints of decent ale.
Did get to meet Mr Little, and from the brief conversation, he seemed a very decent guy.
From the outside, this looks like the type of boozer you may just walk by, but is very much a gem, and a shame it's the other end of the country from where I live.
18 Nov 2012 14:11
Had 22 different offerings on tap when we popped in for a swift one before our train, as well as a myriad of different bottles beers too.
Tried the bitter that has been specially brewed for the Tap - �2.80 a pint and very nice it was too.
Excellent pub and could see how it would easily trap you for several hours.
30 Oct 2012 21:15
Stopped in for one on Saturday night. Had I seen it from the outside in daylight I wouldn't have imagined it would have had a range of ales on, as it looked very new and identikit chain bar-esque from the outside.
Can't say it felt sterile inside due to the full-on Hallowe'en decorations. Music was a bit loud for me, though.
Quite a few seats at the bar level, with the bar against the back left-hand wall as you come in, with a few more tables and chairs downstairs.
Decent range of ales on tap including Abbeydale, O'Hanlons and a couple of Hallowe'eny brews. Went for one of them and tasted fine.
A decent offering as city centre pubs go.
30 Oct 2012 21:05
Visited for the first time on Saturday before heading over to see Plymouth Argyle win at Underhill.
Ten handpumps, although several advertised beers that were 'coming soon'. Of the rest, if it wasn't the usual fare - Ruddles, Abbot etc - there was an inordinately large amount of Adnams ales.
Tried several, all of which tasted okay, and being a 'Spoons, were very reasonably priced at �1.99 or a little more, depending on beer.
Staff polite and efficient for the most part.
Large boozer and but despite plenty of football - and other - traffic, didn't feel too busy with plenty of seating in various areas.
TV screen silently showing BBC News 24 on the wall opposite the front door.
Nothing stunningly out of the ordinary, but equally, when you can get a round of five beers and still have change from a tenner, you can't complain too much.
15 Oct 2012 21:16
Slightly out of the way, so wasn't too rammed, even on a Saturday night.
Aesthetically, it does feel slightly more gastropub than boozer, but with the decent range of beers on offer - even with some 'conditioning' - I couldn't complain.
Particularly enjoyed offerings from the Arbor, Redemption and FFF breweries, which were around �3.80 a pint from memory.
Menu was reasonably pub-food-ish, around a tenner for a main course. Also bar snacks for �3.50. Portions were decent and the food tasty.
There's a games room downstairs with things like Space Invaders, if you fancy spending your money on other things like booze.
Staff were friendly, knowledgeable about what they were serving and happy to offer tasters too.
Would head back if I were in the area, although can't say I find myself at that end of Essex Road very often.
14 Oct 2012 17:47
Don't judge a book by its cover - from the outside, taking in the well-kept exterior and nicely written boards advertising food, I really felt this would be quite gastro inside.
So, imagine my surprise when we walked into the saloon bar and it felt like being inside a proper old school pub.
Bar in the back corner, opposite the door, with seating around the edge and a TV on the back wall (terrestrial only, by the looks of it). Two rooms off it and a big garden too.
Four ales on tap - London Pride, Spitfire, Courage and Abbots. Went for the Spitfire which was very drinkable, especially accompanied by a packet of pork scratchings.
Did ask about Camra discounts, seeing a stand for their magazines, but nothing going.
Seemed to be quite a few regulars drinking there, and the lady and gentleman behind the bar were very pleasant.
Flicking through the menu, food looked promising, normal pub grub and reasonably priced too.
Handily, it's also opposite a bus stop taking you back into Watford.
Would come back here if I was in the area (sadly it's quite a walk from where we live).
6 Oct 2012 18:48
Greene King boozer. Looks nice from the outside, with plenty of seats, albeit facing onto a busyish road.
Big inside too, with the bar against the back wall and lots of seats.
A few TV screens dotted around showing anything (on a Saturday afternoon) from Final Score to a random film on ITV.
Uninspired beer choice, with just GK ales on tap. Went for the Olde Trip as it was the most interesting of those available. Tasted like a bad pint of Speckled Hen - so bad so that my wife didn't even finish her pint.
Busy inside and noisy.
Lots of offers on food - in principal looked nice, but guess the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and hopefully it's better than the beer.
Quite a few dirty glasses dotted around, and the toilets were even more minging - never a good sign at 4pm.
Considering it's a bit of a hike from where we live, won't be back.
6 Oct 2012 18:39
The Victoria and Albert, Marylebone Station
Had a very quick pint in here before my train last night.
Agree with the previous comment that it feels like a station pub, but definitely worse out there.
BBC News 24 playing silently in the background, and couldn't see any toilets in there.
As for the booze, my brother and mate had to send back their Bury St Edmunds as it tasted like vinegar. Old Speckled Hen was okay, though.
Also Meantime Lager and Pale Ale on tap.
Plenty of seating in two rooms - bar stretches between the two - with tables outside too.
3 Oct 2012 11:02
Popped in for the first time last night as we could get a seat, unlike many of the other boozers in the vicinity on a busy Saturday. Possibly because it wasn't showing any sort of live sport (Champions League games on terrestrial shown, but that's it for football).
Not the type of place I would think of visiting as from a first glance it looks quite gastro/wine bar-esque with mood lighting, wooden floors and blackboards advertising some rather posh/overpriced food.
However, was pleased to find four ales on tap (well, three, as the Cornish Coaster was off). Tried a couple from Truman's (Runner and Swallow & Swift) which were both in decent nick - as was my mate's St Edmunds (Greene King). And they also came served in proper handled pint pots, so extra marks for that. Three pints came to �11.60 (so about �3.90 a beer), which is expensive, but still cheaper than, say, Dirty Dicks, just round the corner.
Quite a trendy crowd in the busy downstairs area. Dining area upstairs was empty, suspect because it wasn't open. Toilets, also upstairs, were very clean and posh by usual pub standards.
An unexpected discovery, and while there are other places with a more pubby feel nearby, nice to have another option in the Liverpool Street area.
23 Sep 2012 15:48
Quite busy at lunchtime when I popped in for a pint, doing a decent range of food for the suits working nearby.
Only one ale and the clip (Bombadier) was turned round, so had to settle for a pint of Smiths. Tasted nice enough and would have hoped so at �3.40 a pint.
Big pub with a bar in the centre, pool tables up some steps to the right and a barnlike area towards the left with seating down one side. Presumably that's where the live music (advertised every Friday and Saturday) takes place.
By the listings, obviously shows plenty of televised sport. And by the memorabilia on the wall, obviously a place for Spurs fans.
Friendly enough guy behind the bar although service took ages considering it wasn't busy.
No kids after 6pm too, said a piece of paper above the bar.
As the from about three years back inferred, you'd go for the odd beer if you lived locally, but as a transitory drinker, not enough on the ale front to drag me back.
14 Sep 2012 14:54
The attraction in summer is definitely the massive beer garden at the back.
Lots of mums drinking wine and sprogs running around mid-afternoon.
Also plenty of empties on the tables which, I'm guessing, the slightly disinterested woman behind the bar was either to busy or not bothered about clearing away.
Only two ales on tap - GK IPA and Old Speckled Hen. Had a pint of the latter for �3.05 and went down fine.
Obviously benefits from the location, but would be interested to see how busy it is during the dark, winter months.
7 Sep 2012 15:21
Feels and looks like a proper pub. Plenty of seating inside with a bar along the back wall.
Sky Sports News playing silently on the TV with music in the background.
As for the beer, three McMullen ales on tap. Ranged in price from �2.85 for the AK to �3.20 for the Country Bitter. Had a pint of the latter and tasted pretty good to me.
Food smelled nice too.
6 Sep 2012 14:02
Visited for the first time last night, so can't comment about how much it has changed since its previous life.
There were five ales on tap, the strongest at 4.5 per cent. Not cheap, at �3.80 a pint, and the Everard's Sunchaser certainly didn't taste the best kept. The Westerham was nice, though. No Camra discount yet, but they're hoping to introduce one in the future.
As for the wine, seemed to be a decent enough selection and the Chilean Merlot which my wife has was very nice. It was �14 for the bottle, one of the cheapest on the list.
Ate too, and the menu, like the pub, was definitely on the gastro side. Burger and chips was �11.50. Obviously homemade, which is good, but came served in very fancy style on a wooden board.
I went for the sausage roll (aka small slice of sausage roll) and chips from the snacks menu as it meant I could eat for a fiver. Nice enough, but suspect that the chippy opposite would have served me better.
Staff were friendly and attentive, which always makes a difference.
Weirdly, they were piping Harry Potter, read by Stephen Fry, into the toilets which was slightly disconcerting.
When we got there not long after 6.30pm, most of the tables had been reserved for various groups. We were part of one of them, so to complain would be like the pot calling the kettle black, but were you someone just wandering in for a couple of pints on a Saturday evening, would probably be enough to send you back out of the door again.
That's despite it being pretty big inside with plenty of tables and chairs.
Decent enough place in an area which I'm guessing is short of decent boozers, but just a little too gastro for my liking.
2 Sep 2012 17:28
Handy boozer for both Carrow Road and the station.
Very large inside, on two floors, with plenty of seats outside near the river too.
Five ales on tap - not the most overly inspired selection, with Broadside being the best option. Still, at �1.99 a pint you can't quibble too much.
Staff were attentive and helpful, although saying that it was a relatively quite afternoon when we visited.
27 Aug 2012 16:36
A Vintage Inns boozer. We stopped for a drink mid-afternoon after pottering up and down the river.
Nicely done out inside - gave it a slight gastropub feel but not enough to make me feel like running straight back out of the door.
Only two ales on tap - one from Scotland which I forget, and Kelham Island Pale Rider. Both �3.45 a pint. Went for the latter and was perfectly drinkable, especially sat in the busy garden by the river.
Can't say anything about the food other than what people were eating looked nice and the portions sizes appeared pretty decent.
Only one guy behind the bar who was somewhat rushed off his feet but still polite, helpful and happy to offer a taster of the beers.
Would return if I were in the area.
27 Aug 2012 16:31
Moored up early doors for a drink. Young guy mooring the boats was great but the other staff at the pub were pretty slow and clueless. Half of our order was forgotten with other people who had arrived after us being served first.
Several beers on tap. Tried the Woodforde Wherry and Nelson's Revenge which were both okay but nothing special.
Bit of a weird mix of furniture inside the pub, felt a bit unloved and even early in the day the toilets smelt quite funky.
27 Aug 2012 16:23
Busy at lunchtime when I popped in for a quick pint. Could explain why there were plenty of empties and dirty dishes on the tables - although when I left, one girl was doing a sterling job clearing them away.
Five ales on tap, from EPA at �2 a pint to Black Beauty porter from the Vale brewery, at �3. Went for that one, despite being the most expensive, as it was the most local beer and also the most interesting of the selection.
Tasted okay although nothing special and wouldn't cause me to race back.
27 Jul 2012 15:25
Visited for the first time today and enjoyed an Eagle IPA while sitting in the sunshine in the large back garden.
Two ales on tap - Eagle IPA and Smooth at �2.80 a pint. Very drinkable.
Pretty large inside, obviously caters for people who watch sport on TV and the staff were very friendly too, so extra marks for that.
26 Jul 2012 20:46
The Three Crowns, Bushey Heath
Visited for the first time tonight and glad I hadn't read some of the previous comments as I may well have been put off.
Two ales on tap - went for the Doombar which was �3.45 a pint and very drinkable. Dids ask, but no Camra discount available.
Sat in the garden which was very pleasant - and big - as is the inside of the boozer. Bit of a warren of rooms.
Staff were very friendly, attentive and helpful which always makes a big difference.
My wife and I ate - starters averaged out around a fiver each and mains around �9-�10. Nice food and decent portion sizes, with plenty of variety on the menu. Pub grub well done.
Bells from the church opposite were pretty noisy but I guess that's a lot better than plenty of people chattering away on their mobile phones or tinny background music.
25 Jul 2012 22:10
Three ales on tap when I came in (well, technically two as one was Caledonian Double Czech). Went for the Caledonian Double Sun over the Greene King IPA and was very drinkable at �3 a pint.
Can't comment about what the place used to be like, as it was my first visit. Signs outside saying no under-21s or hats and that people need to be smartly dressed.
Inside there is a central bar, wooden floors, wooden seats and tables. Back area up some steps (where the toilets are) with a large TV on one wall. Other smaller screens scattered throughout the pub.
Busy enough mid-afternoon on a Friday, not sure what it would get like later on. Decent enough for a quick pint, though.
6 Jul 2012 15:02
Randomly, one of the two bars in the pub doesn't serve ale. Fortunately the Harveys from the other was very drinkable. But, to echo previous comments, not cheap. Being situated where it is, probably won't ever be short of customers.
17 Jun 2012 18:38
Despite being a Greene King pub, only one of the four beers on tap was theirs. Also had Old Hooky, an orange beer and Hophead (Dark Star) on offer. Went for the latter which was very palatable.
Food was pretty mediocre - very small piece of fish, about six peas and not a huge amount of chips for not much south of a tenner.
Very pleasant girl behind the bar.
An okay boozer - would go back again for beer but not bother with the food.
17 Jun 2012 18:33
Despite being a Greene King pub, only one of the four beers on tap was theirs. Also had Old Hooky, an orange beer and Hophead (Dark Star) on offer. Went for the latter which was very palatable.
Food was pretty mediocre - very small piece of fish, about six peas and not a huge amount of chips for not much south of a tenner.
Very pleasant girl behind the bar.
An okay boozer - would go back again for beer but not bother with the food.
17 Jun 2012 18:33
4.4 (as I type this) seems a very harsh rating.
Load of ales on tap and the one I had was well kept and �1.99 a pint.
Considering we were the only people at the bar, had to wait a while to be served with four people ignoring us while we waited.
Didn't feel particularly grim or soulless, although I imagine if the sun wasn't shining then it could feel quite dark inside.
Plenty of daytime barflies, but only to be expected.
More than serves a purpose and you can't argue about the prices or the quality of the beer we had.
28 May 2012 18:02
The Charles Lamb, Angel, Islington
Quiet inside, busy outside with plenty of drinking sat on the seats and perched on the pavement in the sunshine when I visited yesterday evening.
Intrigued by the Kernel selection but stuck to Alton FFF which was one of four ales on tap and �3.10 a pint with CAMRA discount (30p off, I think). That was in decent nick.
Only a couple of minutes from Angel, but off the beaten track enough that I can't imagine it would get as manic as some of the other pubs in the area.
25 May 2012 11:54
According to the guy behind the bar, this is only one of two Fullers pubs that is allowed to sell guest ales.
Four on tap when we popped in for a quick pint last night - had an Elgoods beer, which was okay and just under �3.30 with a CAMRA discount.
To get the money off you have to sign up for the pub's separate discount card by showing your CAMRA membership and then you get a 15 per cent off card.
Hadn't been in before as I just assumed it was a Fullers pub but not the case, so would head back in as an alternative to the Bree Louise.
25 May 2012 11:03
Large boozer which was busy when I popped in yesterday to watch the end of the football.
Figured before I went in that my best option on tap would probably be Smiths, and was proved correct. Perfectly drinkable and �3.10 a pint. After ordering, also noticed bottles of Speckled Hen in the fridge.
Big boozer with a large area by the bar, set against the back wall when you come in, and a seated area up the steps to the left of the entrance.
Seems to have a fairly regular clientele and also puts on plenty of live entertainment, so full marks for trying.
As an ale drinker, wouldn't be my regular pitstop, but more than serves a purpose for lager drinkers and people who want a fix of televised football.
14 May 2012 09:13
Four ales on when we visited yesterday - Old Speckled Hen, Doombar, Deuchars and Harveys. Stuck to the Doombar and Harveys, which were perfectly drinkable, especially the latter, and around �3.85 a pint.
When we arrived at 3pm it was quiet compared to some of the other rammed boozers in and around Covent Garden on St Patrick's Day. Helps that it is tucked around a corner, so easy to miss.
Gradually filled up, though, and within a couple of hours it was rammed. Still not a hassle to get service at the bar, as the bar staff were very efficient - and friendly, to echo a previous comment. Bit of a schlep to get to the toilets, though. Randomly a gents' downstairs and upstairs, and the ladies' only upstairs.
It's a one-room pub with a few seats upstairs. TV above the door showing live sport, although not loud enough to be oppressive.
Were serving Thai food when we arrived, as well as some other pub grub, which looked very decent. Did say on the menu they were serving until 9.30pm but stopped early so we went to the Thai restaurant round the corner which was particularly nice.
Anyway, decent boozer. Harp has a better selection of beer, but this place tends to be a bit quieter and you can generally get a seat or at least some elbow room.
18 Mar 2012 13:51
Never went to the Goose, so can't make much of a comparison between then and what Antic has done to the place.
However, from a fresh pair of eyes, seemed okay inside. Wooden floors, mixture of furniture to give it a dated chic look, and properly cavernous. Toilets upstairs and far from disgusting.
More importantly, though, there were six ales on. The one I tried (forget the name) was �3.30 for a pint, tasted in particularly decent nick, and came in a handled tankard, so bonus points for that.
At 7pm on a Friday evening it was reasonably busy and the music just about on the bearable side of holding a conversation across the table.
Promising start.
16 Mar 2012 22:52
Marquis of Cornwallis, Bloomsbury
Surprised to read the previous 'studenty' comments, as felt a bit more gastro to me. Maybe that's just the decor.
Reasonably busy inside and outside on a sunny Saturday afternoon. Couple of tables reserved by a biggish party and we had a reserved sign placed on ours just before we left, so figure it must get busy so wise to book.
Five ales on tap - pint of Tribute and one from Yorkshire worked out around �3.70 each and seemed to be in pretty good nick.
And the guy behind the bar offered tasters too, which is always appreciated.
Not an area I generally find myself, but would be happy to go back if I were in Bloomsbury.
11 Mar 2012 16:47
Visited for the first time last night, and was surprised to find you could get a seat on a Friday evening despite it not being that big inside.
Probably helps it's tucked down an alley and most people just go to the Wetherspoon, The George or The White Hart.
Three ales on - Doombar, Landlord and Long Kiss Goodnight - all in reasonable nick and �3.70 a pint.
Staff were pretty efficient, with not too long to wait at the bar and tables cleared of empties fairly regularly.
Food advertised but didn't try it.
Music in the background was fairly loud but you could still mannage a conversation across the table.
Reasonably clean toilets downstairs - although think I would probably have taken a tumble down the stairs had I had a few more ales.
White Hart has a better beer selection and the Wetherspoon is cheaper, but a good alternative.
10 Mar 2012 12:04
Three ales on tap - Young's, London Pride and Pirate's Gold from the Wooden Hand Brewery, so bonus points for a lesser seen Cornish ale.
Plus points for the friendly and efficient staff.
Minus points for the weird smell, the fact it was pretty grotty and had a tired feeling around the whole place, and also that some of the food tasted quite funky.
An Ember Inn, so you'd expect it to be of a comparative standard compared to other pubs in the chain which I have visited. Not so, and won't be back.
26 Feb 2012 19:17
Busy-ish corner pub in Soho. One room downstairs, with the bar along one side and tables on the other. Additional seating upstairs.
Five ales on - Landlord, London Pride, Wandle (Sambrooks), 80 Shilling (Caledonian) and Harvey's - at around �3.40 a pint. All seemed to be in decent nick.
Only two people serving at the bar, so took a little while to get a beer, especially as most people were trying to pay by card.
If you want to stand on the pavement outside to drink, you have to have your pint in a plastic glass.
Two TVs showing football, although with the sound off so not too intrusive if you didn't fancy it.
Children are welcome, as long as they are seated.
Food served until 5pm.
Agree with the previous poster about the low ceiling going down to the gents'. Plenty of warning signs but sure I'd smack my head if I had had a few to drink.
Decent enough atmosphere and definitely among the better pubs in which I have drunk in the area.
17 Feb 2012 10:16
Two ales on offer - London Pride and Jack O'Legs from the Tring Brewery. Pint and a half of the latter cost �4.05 and was in decent enough nick.
Two TVs showing Sky Sports and signed rugby shirts on the wall from Martin Johnson and Lawrence Dallaglio, indicating the rugby friendly nature of the pub.
Not overly big - almost felt like stepping into someone's front room, but a decent enough boozer close to the station.
Cheap food on offer too, if you fancy it.
13 Feb 2012 18:05
Four ales on when we visited including Harvey's, Doombar and Tribute. Went for the latter and a pint and a half, plus a packet of crisps, cost �6.20.
Not cheap, then, and not particularly well kept beer either, with a slightly tangy after taste.
Low ceilings, roaring fire, children and dog friendly. Didn't seem overly publike, if that makes sense, and more geared to serving somewhat over expensive food.
Sure it's a nice place to have a drink sat by the river in the summer, but not sure worth a diversion down the icy paths and in the rain.
13 Feb 2012 18:01
The Blacksmiths Arms, St Albans
Reasonably busy at lunchtime, and offered a decent enough two meals for �8.95 menu which we chose from.
More exciting was the range of 10 ales on offer, ranging from 3.6 per cent Brynhild Golden Ale from the Valkyrie Brewing Company to a 6.5 per cent dark beer. Tried the former, also two Buntingford and Kelham Island ales which were also in decent nick and just over �3 a pint.
Both guys behind the bar were happy to answer questions and offer tasters of the various ales, which is also appreciated.
Two large screens showing Sky Sports News and even a helpful badly dressed transvestite opening the door for us when we arrived.
Various different special offers on food (curry and steak nights) each day as well as pitchers and cocktails on a Friday.
13 Feb 2012 17:54
Prince of Wales, Hampton Court
Seem to have the odd decent guest ale on, but not the cheapest of places, and has a very gastro feel to it.
Although maybe that's just me...
22 Jan 2012 22:17
Visited for the first time last night and have to say that our experience was a lot more positive than the previous posters.
Five of us eating and the food was fine, hot, and the burgers particularly good.
The menu does say that all meals are freshly prepared and might take a bit longer than normal. So, we were aware of that, but to be honest, didn't take that long.
Staff were very friendly and efficient so no complaints there.
Decent selection of Badger ales - First Gold and Tanglefoot on tap (sadly the Pickled Partridge was off) and loads of others in bottles, plus Sussex Bitter. Tried all three beers on tap and all were well kept.
Beer was about �3.80 a pint, so not the cheapest. Ditto wine, which was about �17 for a bottle of red, but very nice.
Main courses were �11-�12 each, so more expensive than your average pub grub, and I could've happily eaten more, although portion sizes seemed fine for everyone else.
So, yep, good food, booze and service. Bit more expensive than I would normally pay for pub grub, but I guess that's the going rate round the corner from Hampton Court Palace.
And if you're looking for live sport, didn't seem to be any TVs in the pub, so I guess go elsewhere for that.
22 Jan 2012 22:16
The Three Compasses, Farringdon
As a previous poster said, front of the pub is almost hidden it is so unimposing, and I walked past before realising I'd missed it.
Busy-ish with the afterwork crowd when I popped in on Friday evening.
Two ales on tap - Deuchars and Santa's Little Helper, with the latter very drinkable and �3.45 for a pint.
Food was on offer, but all I can tell you is that crisps were 90p a bag.
Okay enough for a couple of beers, but not somewhere you'd spend all night.
9 Jan 2012 10:11
The Kingfisher, Newport Pagnell
Large, Greene King boozer with two ales on tap - Abbott and IPA. The latter comes in 'north' (creamier) and 'south' (more traditional) varieties, depending on which way they turn the nozzle on the tap.
If you're into cocktails and shooters, plenty of them on offer, including several that come served in paint cans.
Several TVs scattered around the pub which were showing Sky Sports News while I was there.
Can't comment about the food, but the bar staff seemed pretty friendly and efficient so no complaints there.
Seems to be a locals' pub. Not sure how much trade it usually gets, set away from the rest of the boozers in Newport Pagnell, but was relatively busy when I was there.
3 Jan 2012 09:24
St Austell Brewery-tied pub, so had a couple of their ales on tap, including the very drinkable Trelawney.
Food is always decent - enjoy the filled giant Yorkshire puddings - and staff friendly and helpful.
Could explain why it is always pretty busy whenever I go in.
Decent local pub - can't ask much more from it.
27 Dec 2011 21:58
Now open again, and seems to be called The Sycamore.
Will have to see if rumours of any real ale are true...
20 Dec 2011 23:00
Large, one-room pub showing plenty of live sport on TV.
Beer selection isn't inspiring - faced with a choice of Smiths on tap, I went for a bottle of Newcastle Brown instead.
Wine was pretty average too.
Intrigued by the fact that what appears to be an Irish pub does Thai food so may try that at some point, but won't be rushing back otherwise.
20 Dec 2011 22:58
Emphasise previous comments - felt very much like a traditional local, and looks like some of the furniture etc has been there since the 70s.
Four ales on tap - toss up between the Woodforde Wherry and Marshmellow, and ended up going for the former, which was fine and around �3 for a pint.
One screen on showing football and a very random sing-a-long session going on in the corner.
A decent locals' pub which is so rare given its location close to the station and town centre.
20 Dec 2011 22:42
Seems the reviews are more about the food than the beer...
We couldn't try the food, because we visited during a power cut - and anyway, the kitchen would have been shut by the time we arrived.
Looked like decent and well-priced pub grub according to the menu.
According to what we read, new managers had taken over a couple of weeks back. Certainly the staff couldn't have been more helpful.
Three ales on tap - I tried the Old Bob and Black Sheep, both of which tasted pretty decent.
Wine selection was a bit uninspiring but nice enough.
A pint, a glass of wine and two packets of crisps was �9.62, so not cheap but not horrendous compared to some places.
There was a decent quiz not long started when we arrived. Apparently it takes place twice weekly (Thursday and Sunday), so may pop in to tax the grey matter and have a curry one Thursday.
Other people drinking there seemed friendly and happy to chat.
Did feel a bit like a chain pub in terms of the decor etc. Don't mean that as a criticism, just an observation.
If I were going out purely for a few pints, would go to the Nascot Arms, but if I wanted some food and/or entertainment, would happily choose the Southern Cross.
20 Dec 2011 22:37
When we visited on Sunday there was a power cut, but fair play to them, they were still serving.
Six ales on tap - we tried the Rocking Rudolph (H&H) and Iceberg (Titanic) which were both on good form and �3.20 for a pint.
No food, due to the power cut - and anyway, we'd arrived too late in the evening. Will go back for a fix of Thai.
Friendly staff, very welcoming atmosphere and nice decor, with plenty of football memorabilia around the walls.
It is a bit hidden away, but makes seeking it out all the more worthwhile.
20 Dec 2011 22:27
The Sherlock Holmes, Charing Cross
Was disappointed that the Sherlock Holmes Ale was off when we visited last night. Had to settle for Abbot Ale instead, which was perfectly drinkable although �3.55 for a pint.
Place obviously relies on tourists, with loads of memorabilia and also stuff for sale. Tenner for a pint glass, anyone?
Downstairs was very busy, and we ended up standing outside for a while. Dining area upstairs was much quieter, though.
Food was okay, although nothing special for the �10 or so which they charge for a main course. Did do table service on drinks too, although you had to wait for them to be delivered in the dumb waiter, so a bit of a wait at times, especially as there was only one girl serving.
Service at the bar downstairs took a while, although it was very busy. Girl upstairs was very good, so points for that.
Only went there because other places were rammed. Better than I thought it would be, although wouldn't rush back.
16 Dec 2011 09:59
Tried this place for the first time last night. Arrived just before 5pm and was already pretty busy, with a work Christmas do taking up one side of the pub and several other tables reserved. So, made for standing room only pretty quickly, as it's not big inside.
You pay by ADV, starting at �3.70 for 3.9 per cent and under, so not the cheapest place, but the selection of booze makes up for it.
Had lots of different ales on tap, Camden lager and a huge choice of beer in the fridge. Only one cider (Bee Sting) if that's your thing.
Not too far out of the way for Victoria station, so would consider a return visit. But, as previous posters have said, at a quieter time and with a bit more cash in my pocket.
9 Dec 2011 10:40
The Hamlet DJ Bar and Restaurant, Streatham
Nice inside but geared towards the continental lager and wine drinker.
2 Nov 2011 15:49
Popped in on Saturday evening and was very impressed. Place is obviously very popular, as every table was taken by about 7pm.
Decent food (nice to see a good selection of vegetarian dishes), especially the desserts, which were proper old-school food. Around �8 for a main and �3.25 for a dessert.
Four ales on tap, including Bombadier, Deuchars and the guest ale which I was drinking, Moorhouses' Blonde Witch (�3.10 for a pint).
Friendly and helpful staff, good atmosphere and no reception for mobile phones or televisions, so people are forced to resort on old-fashioned conversation for entertainment. Good stuff.
Lots of pictures, brasses etc on the walls and proper tankards hanging above the bar. Low, beamed ceiling - but authentic rather than naff recreation as some pub chains do.
If I lived in Crick, I'd pop in regularly - and it seems people do, judging by the amount of people the bar staff were calling by their first names.
10 Oct 2011 10:10
The Gazebo, Kingston Upon Thames
A pub of two halves (or floors). Downstairs looks like it has been furnished via a charity shop's skip with mismatched and pretty grim furniture with a dark and dingy aura to boot.
Upstairs is nicely done out and a good place to enjoy a cheap beer or two while gazing out over the river.
26 Sep 2011 14:29
Bishop Out Of Residence, Kingston Upon Thames
Not the cheapest place and didn't eat, so can't comment on the food. However, the beer (Young's) was well kept, the staff helpful and friendly and the atmosphere and decor okay too.
Better Saturday evening place for drinking than some of the other places in the area.
26 Sep 2011 14:27
The Druid's Head, Kingston Upon Thames
Greene King pub, but with one half-decent guest ale on. Large downstairs and upstairs (bar up to but no one serving on a Saturday evening) and also a huge garden/smoking area out back.
Decent enough atmosphere and friendly staff, so points for that, although had run out of loads of stuff on the food menu when we visited.
26 Sep 2011 14:23
The Porterhouse, Covent Garden
Visited for the first time in ages on Saturday and was pleasantly surprised by the selection of beer on offer (so much so that there is a menu, divided into different countries' fare).
Tried the Porterhouse Original, Porterhouse Red and Hop Head (the other ale - TSB - was off). Good stuff and just over �3.50 for a pint. More than I like paying, but I guess around standard for the area.
The pub shows live sport was was pretty busy, although you're certainly not shoulder to shoulder with other punters. In fact, it's a huge pub on several different levels, so you should be able to find a seat somewhere, even on busy evenings.
The Harp is definitely my first choice for drinking in the area, but certainly wouldn't object were I to be dragged back here.
30 Aug 2011 09:58
Designed to pull in the tourists - and with Covent Garden prices to match.
Was pleased to find Bombadier on tap (albeit a bit stale), although the place is mainly aimed at people drinking fizzy stuff from bottles at cocktails. The wife's mojito wasn't all that (whole lime dumped in the glass for starters) so she was disappointed.
Agree about the grotty toilets and I also object to people coming around trying to sell you shots, although maybe that's what happens in popular places on a Saturday night (says the old man).
30 Aug 2011 09:13
Very popular Greene King pub on the water. Unsurprisingly, given the location, quite a few boaty people in. Although I agree with Lipster that it's no bad thing.
Big outdoor and indoor areas, with plenty of tables set aside for dining. Large menu with ever changing specials. Mains around the �10 mark.
Only one local beer (Goddard's Special) which I found a bit bland, with Old Speckled Hen and Abbot Ale also on tap.
Wine drinkers were kept happy by the selection on offer.
While the food was reasonably priced and decent (great pie), I did think the drinks were a bit expensive. Booze and softs, with a half of Coke �1.85.
Excellent service and friendly staff which is always worth an extra point or two.
TV with BBC News rolling around constantly and a pool table at the back.
Went back for a second visit, so can't have been that bad...
15 Aug 2011 15:19
The Southampton Arms, Gospel Oak
Not sure about some of the earlier comments about it being pretentious and the bar staff rude, because that definitely wasn't the case when I finally got around to checking the Southampton Arms out yesterday.
Staff were very friendly, happy to offer advice on the different beers and ciders, plus tasters, and certainly not at all pretentious.
Ditto the pub, which as far as I can see is concentrating. doing what all boozers should - serving decent, well-kept beer at reasonable prices.
Had nine or ten ales on yesterday, plus six ciders and two Camden lagers. Very varied selection, with the Dark Star IPA probably the most mainstream.
Didn't try any of the food on offer (four types of pork pie, roast pork rolls and vegetarian scotch eggs) but apparently all were very good.
Quite small inside and when the garden is closed at 10pm and everyone has to cram inside, can get pretty crowded, but that's about the only grumble. Can see why though, as the neighbours are very close.
Just a warning too, that they weren't taking cards at the bar yesterday. Not sure if that's always the case, though.
31 Jul 2011 16:45
The Elephant Inn, North Finchley
Popped in for the first time last night. Very conveniently placed too, almost right on the 221 bus route from Mill Hill.
Had the TVs on in one side showing the golf, although very unobtrusive.
Large Thai restaurant area upstairs. Not overly busy for a Saturday evening, but maybe that's because you can eat downstairs too. Very reasonably priced and decent food.
Four Fullers beers on (ESB, Pride, Honeydew and Discovery). Think it was around �3.20 for a pint. Plenty of cider and lager on tap too and well as quite a few different bottles of wine - quite expensive for a glass but reasonably priced for a bottle, if that makes sense.
Liked the nice touch of a bottle of suncream on the bar if you're sat in the large area out the front.
17 Jul 2011 14:59
Three intriguing beers on tap when I visited last week, although it being a quick lunchtime trip before heading up to the hospital, was unable to partake.
Looks like a ye olde country pub from the outside although let down by sitting on a busy roundabout with a big hotel behind it and student accommodation going up nearby.
Inside they have obviously tried to hard with the decor to make it authentic and the dark wood and low beams make it feel somewhat oppressive and a bit naff rather than doing the job.
Food came out very quickly, and was an average price, but sadly so was the quality. Despite that fact, over half the tables were booked for lunch on a Thursday.
And they do that really annoying thing of only having salt and pepper on the table and someone bringing a selection of sauces over to you on a plate, take what you want and then they're whisked away again.
Not sure about the ale selection up the road, but The George is a better bet for food.
Plus points for friendly staff.
4 Jul 2011 16:54
Didn't realise this place has an upstairs. Neither does anyone else, if the fact that my mate and I had the top level to ourselves for almost two-and-a-half hours on a Thursday evening, despite being busy downstairs.
Not the cheapest place to drink, but was pleased to find Wandle on tap.
Convenient for the station too, if you have to dash off afterwards.
2 Jun 2011 08:55
Five ale pumps, with four on last night. Enjoyed a couple from the Titanic and Butcombe breweries (also had Otter and St Peter's ale on).
Very good pies, friendly staff and felt like a proper locals' pub, despite a lot of the people (including me) being there to go to the theatre upstairs.
Type of place I would happily frequent if I lived in the area.
1 Jun 2011 10:40
The George, Great Portland Street
Not a huge pub, but far enough from Oxford Circus (only a couple of minutes' walk, but enough to keep out the masses) to not be mega busy.
Friendly staff - nothing like being greeted with a cheery 'hello' as you walk through the door, being allowed to try the beer before buying, and have a bit of a conversation too.
My wife and sister went for the buy two larges glasses of wine and get the bottle deal (meant a �19 bottle was about �13) while I tried the particularly good Ruby Mild (Rudgate) and then the slightly less flavoursome London Glory (Greene King). Both �3.50 per pint and in decent nick.
Several ales on tap, and the guest beers rotate frequently, with a handful of bottled options too.
Food was good and had we not been off to a comedy gig, then a session would definitely have been in order, as I would happily have stayed for a few more.
29 May 2011 16:37
Popped in yesterday for a quick beer and a fix of sport on TV. Cricket, then rugby on the main screen and TV in the smaller back room.
�3.60 for a decent pint of Olde Trip - one of two ales on tap. Not as good a selection as the White Hart opposite, but they didn't have the TVs on.
Being part of a hotel, the toilets were some of the poshest I have ever encountered in a pub.
Probably not a place to stay for a session, but serves a purpose.
29 May 2011 16:28
Not as busy as most other places at London Bridge on a sunny Friday evening, and we were able to get an table (albeit sticky).
Was pleased to find Doombar amongst the large selection of continental beers, so a point for that. However, didn't taste like Doombar which I know and love. In fact, it didn't taste of much at all.
Beer prices around average for the area, clientele all pretty dressed up, and suspect the comments about dubious toilet activities are because you can nip in the side door and down the stairs to the bogs without any fear of being collared for not buying a drink.
Much better pubs within a couple of minutes' walk.
12 May 2011 09:45
�7 for two of the worst pints of Pride my wife and I have ever had. The fact we left beer unfinished on the table and retreated to a Wetherspoon is a fairly damning indictment of the place.
Given the location, always likely to be busy, but get the impression the ale drinker isn't this place's priority.
1 May 2011 22:12
Compared to the prices in some pubs, was happy to pay �2.20 for a few pints of decent ale yesterday. And even happier to then find that a couple of the ales were included in the manager's special deal at �1.50 each.
Extra marks for making ale available in the beer and burger deal, rather than the usual restrictive selection.
Staff good, tables clean, food okay, can't ask for too much more.
1 May 2011 22:09
The Red House, Newport Pagnell
Having passed The Red House many times and been intrigued by the real ales board outside, finally decided to take the plunge on Saturday afternoon. And I was glad I did.
It was taken over by a real ale-loving couple 12 months ago and has already won a CAMRA award for its cellar.
Only had two ales on when we went in (I stuck to Rev James at �2.95 per pint - and very good it was too) due to the increasing amount of ale drinkers frequenting the pub diminishing its stock the previous evening.
One half of the pub felt more like being in your lounge than a boozer, the other half is a proper bar with no seating and a pool table at one end. Also table football, TV (no Sky, by the looks of things) and a big garden for kids.
If you want food, they do it. Sounds like decent pub grub with everything sourced locally if possible.
Definitely a place for ale drinkers, though, and the landlady was talking about a trip to the Hopping Mad brewery in Olney which they were thinking of arranging. Only difference is that the tasting takes place back at the pub after they've picked up some beer, with a bit of food thrown in for the price. Great idea, cuts out the worry of someone having to drive, and a good marketing plan too, because you're likely to stay afterwards.
With a few pubs in the town needing a kick up the backside, and Wetherspoon on the horizon, good to see a place that has already upped its game. I'll definitely be back.
21 Mar 2011 13:49
Great buildings, plenty of good beers and �1.90 for a pint. Can't go wrong.
14 Mar 2011 10:16
The Railway Engineer, Mill Hill
This place seems a bit of a wasted opportunity. Looks huge from the outside, but when you wander in, the massive bar in the middle cuts the pub in half, with the pool tables in one (front) area and seating at the back. And that just felt a bit cavernous.
Had a couple of ale pumps, but both clips (Black Sheep and one other) were turned round, so it was Smiths and Strongbow instead. And �6.10 for the two pints, which felt pricey to me.
No Sky Sports either, according to the sign inside the door.
28 Feb 2011 10:04
Was surprised to find Landlord and Stones bitter when I visited on Saturday evening. Have had better pints of Landlord, but anyway...
Perfectly acceptable place but nothing to bring it above the ordinary.
28 Feb 2011 10:01
Enjoyed Pale Rider, Trashy Blonde and Amarillo among other beers there last night. �3.20 per pint. All in excellent condition, as you'd expect from a pub that concentrates on doing what all boozers should - serving decent beer rather than going all gastro.
There are pizza, chips etc if you get hungry, but essentially just a decent pub to drink good beer.
11 Feb 2011 12:04
Had a surprisingly decent breakfast here on Saturday (�8 for lots of food and coffee).
Beer selection wasn't very inspiring, though.
Sky Sports News on several TVs, and also plenty of flies hovering around.
Friendly staff.
Need a code for the toilets just in case you were only planning on heading downstairs to abuse the facilities.
7 Feb 2011 15:52
The Magpie and Crown, Brentford
Sadly only had the chance for one quick pre-match pint here, as it seems the type of place I could've quite happily stayed for a session. Given that the match I saw wasn't great, maybe I should've spent the �20 ticket price on booze instead.
Seems to be the type of pub which does exactly what a pub should do: serving well-kept, decent booze to discerning drinkers. Think, from memory, it was somewhere around �3.20 for a pint.
No TVs, if you want a pre/post-match football fix, and the entertainment is the old-fashioned medium of conversation and a pool table if you've run out of things to say.
J
7 Feb 2011 12:36
Had a couple of pints of Pride there after watching Plymouth lose 2-0. Hit the spot after a disappointing performance, but agree with previous comments about the beer being expensive.
Thought there might have also been more than one choice of ale, being a Fullers pub.
Very close to the away turnstiles, so a good place to drown your sorrow afterwards, and definitely agree about the home fans being a friendly bunch.
7 Feb 2011 12:31
Tucked away in a side street round the back of the market, the Newmarket doesn't look particularly spectacular from the outside.
Inside there is a long bar area with more seating (very comfortable) in a section up some stairs at the back, with pool tables to the left of the bar as you come through the door. No Sky Sports, if that's what does it for you - just BBC1 on one TV high up on the wall.
Was expecting to just find Smiths on tap in what appeared to be a lager drinkers' pub, so to see Doombar as one of two ales available was a pleasant surprise. Less so was having to pay �3 a pint, and even less so was the taste, which was decidedly unlike a decent pint of Doombar.
Plenty of random Saturday afternoon drinkers and people nursing lonely pints. And while friendly, not enough to drag me back, especially due to the poor quality and high price of the beer.
31 Jan 2011 12:00
Couldn't complain about finding a couple of new beers (for me) on tap - Copper Dragon (from Skipton) and a random one from Abergavenny (if memory serves right, although doubt it does) - plus perennial favourite Landlord.
The pay-off, though (no pun intended), is that the drinks are very expensive.
Visiting around 5.30pm on a Saturday, the place was already pretty busy, and was soon standing room-only. Music loud enough to make conversation slightly strained.
Also had the joy of having to shift tables, as once we'd sat down, someone came along with a 'reserved' sign.
Handy for the station but not somewhere I would spend huge amounts of time again.
24 Jan 2011 11:46
A proper pub ie feels like someone's front room and doesn't serve food (although pork scratchings are on the menu).
Enjoyed a couple of pre-match pints of Doombar, which was well kept.
Echo the previous comments about friendly staff and punters.
Well worth the detor off the main road.
24 Jan 2011 11:36
The Princess of Wales, Charing Cross
Was pretty busy when we popped in last night, although the location and the fact it's open until midnight are probably two reasons for that.
Mainly stuck to the Doombar (�2.95) which was in good form, although they also had Brains SA, Pride, Bengal Lancer, a chocolate beer and a very stouty one which varied in price up to around �3.50 for a pint.
Quite dark inside due to the panelling, and the music was also pretty loud downstairs. Much quieter in the smaller dining area upstairs.
Friendly staff, which moves the place up another mark.
22 Dec 2010 14:14
Decent boozer hidden away on a tranquil square. You wouldn't believe it is only five minutes' walk from Brixton Tube station etc.
Large front and rear gardens, and when I visited on a snowy Friday evening there was a hog roast out the back with some of the money going to charity.
Had a very decent pint of Christmas ale brewed specially for the pub (�3.20) and enjoyed the company of the pub cat too.
Will certainly be back next time I'm in the area.
22 Dec 2010 11:59
Had a pint of very drinkable Landlord (�3.20) last night. Decent enough pub but by virtue of it being just one room, was very busy around 6.30pm.
J
17 Dec 2010 09:28
Only one ale on last night - Doombar, which was �3.30 a pint. And the barrel needed changing.
Haven't really drunk in other pubs around Kilburn, but for what was on offer that seemed pretty expensive to me.
15 Dec 2010 10:07
Popped up to the Adam and Eve mark II this afternoon for a couple of pints, and was amazed to see quite how much it has changed inside.
It's a lot lighter inside with the ceiling having been raised and the bar shifted back, so it seems a lot less oppressive and the central feature which dominated the place.
Two proper roaring log fires, nicely decorated throughout, bar is now zincy on top rather than wooden but well done, so could cope with that.
As for the booze, six real ales - Doombar, Deuchars, Hobgoblin (which was the guest ale), Abbots, Directors and Old Speckled Hen, four pumps with Guinness Extra Cold, for the lager drinkers there were Fosters, Kronenburg, Heineken and Amstell (pleasingly no Stella), lots of different spirits including 15 different whiskies (think we counted right) and an extensive wine list too.
Wine seemed expensive - cheapest bottle was about �15 - and the ales we had (Doombar and Directors) were both �3.30 a pint. As you'd hope from a pub that has only been open 11 days (at the time of typing) the beer was very well kept, so hopefully that will continue.
Staff (lots of them) were very friendly and attentive, very mixed clientele, no TVs or Sky Sports (if you're looking for that, head down the hill to the Angel and Crown or The Mill) and just music playing in the background. Not too loudly to prohibit, or even inhibit conversation.
So, good work to the guys who have reopened this place. It is at the top end of prices which I would be prepared to pay for a pint, but if the beer continues to be this well kept and the standards upheld, I'll happily be making the 30-minute walk uphill for another pint or two.
11 Dec 2010 21:47
Decent selection of ales, considering it is a hotel bar, but the decor and layout lets it down somewhat as you feel like you're drinking in the foyer. Good for a couple of beers but not somewhere you'd spend all evening.
21 Nov 2010 21:27
Definitely geared towards walkers and mountain bikers, and there was even a hosepipe outside to clean off your bike/boots.
Massive beer garden with excellent views, and plenty of space inside too.
Several ales on too, including Sussex and Pickled Partridge as the seasonal guest. Always good. And beer prices pretty comparable with other pubs in the area.
If it is new management running the place, keep up the good work.
21 Nov 2010 21:24
The Abinger Arms, Abinger Hammer
Enjoyed a couple of pints of well kept Courage Best and some very reasonably priced food (two for �8 meals, or mains around �6), while watching the football and rugby on TV.
Assume it was the landlord who was serving us, but seemed very friendly and excellent service, so full marks.
Not as chocolate boxey or gastro as other pubs in the area, but don't let that put you off.
21 Nov 2010 21:21
Decent food, and Surrey Hills beer. The former is pretty reasonably priced and the portion sizes good, the latter quite pricey.
Nice pub in a good location, randomly with the toilets outside.
However, note to the barman - if you're taking the mickey out of your customers, don't do it within earshot of them.
21 Nov 2010 21:18
The William Bray , Shere Guildford Surrey
Enjoyed a couple of pints of Shere Drop from the Surrey Hills Brewery. Good job, as it's not the cheapest place to drink.
Very much a gastropub, rather than a place for a session drinking, so pop down the road to the White Horse if you just want to sit and drink.
21 Nov 2010 21:15
Had Adnams, TEA (Hogs Back) and Black Sheep on when I visited, while the Doombar clip was turned round.
Had a pint of TEA, which was pretty decent.
Only one guy behind the bar on a busy Saturday lunchtime, and it was standing room only when we got there. Not that it's overly small inside, so guess that it must be pretty popular.
Definitely been to a lot worse pubs.
21 Nov 2010 21:12
Advertises four ales, so was expecting a bog standard choice when I visited for the first time last night. Not at all - two Ringwood beers, including their Huffkin autumn ale, a Northamptonshire beer of which I forget the name and another decent offering. Memory is a bit hazy. Decent prices, though.
Busy on a Saturday night both inside and out and a band playing in a room out the back. Open until midnight too.
J
14 Nov 2010 15:52
I'm happy to be shot down, but as an outsider it seems to me that Hither Green has aspirations above its station (no pun intended).
It should be a decent area where people can afford to live, not somewhere ordinary people are priced out of the market by yuppies wanting delis and totally unnecessary shops instead of decent, down-to-earth places.
That's why it would be a shame if The Station was gentrified and changed from what it currently is - a normal boozer for normal people. Sure, the ale selection may not be anything to write home about, but it has most things that you need in a pub, the food is pretty decent and reasonably priced, the staff and other drinkers seemed friendly enough when I was there, and the toilets were clean.
Sadly there's not enough of these places around any more.
2 Nov 2010 14:39
The Bear and Staff, Leicester Square
Given the location and the standard of most of the other boozers around Leicester Square, this place is pretty decent.
It might get quite crowded, take a while to get served and the staff can be a bit surly, although can almost forgive the latter point when you spend your day dealing with tourists.
Popped in last night to find six ales on tap. Pleasingly there was a nod to Hallowe'en, with Hobgoblin and Ghost Ale (from the York Brewery). Also Hooky Gold, Landlord, Darwin's Original (from the Salopian Brewery) and one other. All well kept and around �3.50 per pint, which is expensive, but sadly the going rate for the area.
Plenty of normal pub food on the menu, but portion sizes aren't fantastic. So, have a couple of pints here and head elsewhere to eat.
31 Oct 2010 14:06
Echo the previous comment. It's big, busy, touristy and the beer selection isn't fantastic. Although maybe that's to be expected, being an Irish pub.
Easy place in which to get lost, and with no mobile phone reception in most of the pub either, you may never be able to call for help!
Expensive beer, cider was about a fiver a bottle, and not enough bar staff. But on the plus side it was clean and the tables cleared regularly.
31 Oct 2010 13:50
I have a soft spot for the Cove, but paying �4 for a pint, as I did last night, is always a bit much.
Usual case too, that by 9.30pm, several beers had run out.
Still a better option than most places round Covent Garden way, and if you want a pasty, buy it in the shop downstairs and bring it in with you, rather than being fleeced at the bar.
31 Oct 2010 13:46
The Liberty Bounds, Tower Hill
While some Wetherspoon pubs have been left to go to rack and ruin, this one still seems okay.
Had a selection of ales and ciders on as part of a festival when I visited this week, with the beers all �2.55 per pint. Some special festival beers from Young's, Hook Norton, Elgood's etc and all pretty well kept.
Annoyingly, by the end of the evening there were more taps off than ales replaced when they ran out, although hopefully an indication that people are switching from fizzy muck to proper stuff.
Being a Thursday I had a curry there too. Decent enough vegetable option, with a pint of Ruddles thrown in.
Wetherspoon pubs might not be everyone's cup of tea, but when they are okay like this one, I'm happy to pop in now and again for a cheap evening out.
31 Oct 2010 13:42
Good news about the pub sign. I was a bit confused when I ran by this morning, did a double take to read the banner outside, and headed off convinced that the place was going to be renamed the Renaissance.
27 Aug 2010 10:42
Small main bar, annex with a pool table and darts, very decent pint of Jurassic (brewed a couple of miles down the road) for under three quid a pint and a large beer garden.
Still no food apart from promise of Sunday lunches.
J
26 Aug 2010 10:37
Grim atmosphere and the staff were slow and clueless.
Three Badger beers on if you do fancy braving it.
26 Aug 2010 10:35
Now a sports bar showing live Premier League football at 3pm on a Saturday. Didn't think you were allowed to do that in the UK.
17 Aug 2010 12:10
Fair enough. Duly enjoyed a pint or six and some chips here on Saturday evening, and can happily report that it is still open and serving fine ales.
J
9 Aug 2010 10:16
Popped in for a couple of pre-match pints on Saturday. Few of the ales were off, and the offering from the Alton brewery ran out as I got to the bar, but was still able to enjoy Old Thumper for just over two quid a pint.
Four bar staff doing a decent job despite the queues being four-deep at the bar.
Seemed pleasant enough inside, although most of us were squeezed into the small area outside on the pavement.
9 Aug 2010 10:00
Mawson Arms/ Fox and Hounds, Chiswick
Echo the positive comments about this place, and also the brewery tour. Get a Fullers' card (sign up on the internet for free) in advance and a tasting tour drops to �8 (usually a tenner). Very interesting, and a decent tasting session afterwards, trying eight different off tap and a couple of bottles too. Recommended. As is the Hook Norton tour, if you fancy seeing some place smaller, still using the original brewing equipment.
5 Aug 2010 21:58
The Bell at Mill Hill, Mill Hill
Thought I would follow up my comment about wondering what the food was like by trying it. Answer: Very average.
Still the same pitiful selection on tap, caters mainly to a youngish crowd getting lashed on rubbish booze, and the surliest bar staff I have encountered in a long while.
Definitely won't be going back.
5 Aug 2010 21:54
So if the place is closed up, how come my mate managed to phone through to the pub last night, be told that it was open and to come along and drink there on Saturday as planned?
J
5 Aug 2010 09:44
The Cock and Lion, Bond Street
Had Hobgoblin, Pride, Tribute and Black Sheep when I visited last night. The Tribute was in good form, and enjoyed the fact that my friend got a funky straw with her Coke.
Sky Sports News at one end, football on TV at the other, although sound was off so we were able to talk.
And the list of food on the bar looked pretty decent. Liked the sound of the Moroccan lamb pie.
Small inside, with a couple of tables outside. Felt like a no-nonsense, decent boozer, which is always a good thing.
J
4 Aug 2010 22:05
Popped in for the first time in ages recently. Enjoyed a couple of very decent pints (Betty Stogs and a Tun 50) in the garden.
Friendly service, very clean, no TVs or loud music. And the views are great.
J
3 Aug 2010 15:58
The Ship and Shovell, Charing Cross
Stopped off for a pint or five last night. Went in the right-hand of the two bars (as you look down the steps) until it closed around 10pm. Quieter on that side. And perversely the beer was slightly better.
Enjoyed the always decent Lemony Cricket (�3.25) although there was also standard Champion and Tanglefoot on.
Despite previous comments about the bar staff, they were friendly and efficient, so no complaints there.
Certainly better than many other pubs in the area, and if you're killing time at Charing Cross, you're better to pop downstairs than ever venture into the horrible pub in the station.
J
3 Aug 2010 09:31
In its drinks menu, the Orange Tree talks about the importance of real ale and having a decent selection...
And when I got to the bar I found Pride and Old Speckled Hen on tap. Not the most exciting selection really.
Staff were friendly and attentive, so would disagree with previous comments, but it's definitely not somewhere I would return in a hurry.
Food was okay but expensive, and the menu pretentious - frites instead of chips, and we had to get the staff to explain what a couple of things were on the menu. Not something you should expect to happen in a boozer.
Starters average, mains much better and, to their credit, decent-sized portions (this from someone who will happily chow down a whole 500g bag of pasta on occasions, so read into that what you will), but not enough to entice me to return.
Way too far out to be convenient, which is a shame, as given the location, the pond and large beer garden outside, and the pleasantish interior, it could be a really decent pub.
J
30 Jul 2010 09:36
Think this place changed owners about six weeks ago.
Seemed fine when I went in today. Only one ale on tap - Young's bitter - which was �3 per pint and well kept.
Quiet but friendly clientele. Not sure about food as it was too late, but says it's served from midday.
Better than any other option in that stretch of the High Road.
J
28 Jul 2010 18:04
Popped in for a pint on Saturday and at 4pm was over run with tourists - both drinking anything but real ale, and traipsing through the pub and then out again.
However, mid-afternoon Monday was much quieter and more pleasant.
Both pints which I had (Greene King's Olde Trip and Fossil Fuel from the Isle of Purbeck Brewery) were decent and very well kept. Should hope so from a place that usually has between nine and 12 ales on tap and a hefty turnover meaning the beer doesn't have time to get stale.
Avoid at peak times, but otherwise seek it out.
J
28 Jul 2010 13:19
Fullers pub. Standard beers, rip-off prices. Except they can get away with charging them due to tourists paying for the location.
Friendly staff, which is always good, but there are much better pubs within walking distance - just not by the river.
J
28 Jul 2010 12:52
Current owners have given the place a major facelift inside, making it seem more spacious and light.
Several excellent Cornish beers on tap, and while the food is slightly pricey for pub grub, the quality and size of the portions more than makes up for it.
J
28 Jun 2010 12:15
Enjoyed several pints of very well-kept Lemony Cricket (�3.25 per pint) last night. Also had Tanglefoot and First Gold on tap.
Deceivingly busy from the outside due to lots of people crowded on the pavement, but plenty of seats inside. Let the bar staff know you're going to be sat inside, else you'll get a plastic pint glass.
Anyway, to echo previous comments, it's a decent boozer, doesn't get horrifically busy as it's slightly tucked away, serves good beer and does close very soon after 11pm.
If you're looking for food, can't comment, but enjoyed a couple of packets of McCoys, if that's any help!
J
25 Jun 2010 10:06
The Horse and Groom, Streatham
Definitely not closed, but not exactly overly furnished inside. Possibly because of the England World Cup game in the evening, but furniture was at a premium.
Very limited lunchtime menu (World Cup bar snacks at �2 per option - not too bad considering) and an uninspirational selection of beer. Had a somewhat vinegary pint of John Smiths.
Great place to watch the football if you're a lager drinker, but I won't be heading back in a hurry.
J
18 Jun 2010 15:13
Had a couple of very respectable pints of Pitchfork and Doombar (�3.10 each), but was thwarted in the quest to eat due to the kitchen being shut due to a leak.
Shame, as on Thursdays they do a pie and real ale deal for �8.95. Good value, as the pies are always quite decent and the cheapest one on the menu was about �7.50.
Also had Landlord and Pride on tap.
Gets busy after work, due to the location, but by 7.45pm the area upstairs had cleared out and there were plenty of seats. Or maybe that was because it was pretty warm up there.
J
11 Jun 2010 09:52
The Hole In The Wall, Waterloo
Echo the previous comments. Maybe I was expecting a bit too much.Then again, were I to walk into a random boozer elsewhere and find seven ales on, regardless of the 'uninspiring' selection (although I'm always good for a pint of Doombar - and a good one I had too), I would be delighted.
J
26 May 2010 13:44
Agree with the previous comment about the parking. Thought it would be manic inside, as we had to wait for a few minutes for a parking space, but once we got inside it wasn't too bad.
Dining area was pretty full, but the rest of the pub was okay. We chose to sit outside, though, as there are plenty of benches out back, both on a patio and a grassed area.
Only two ales on - Abbots and Youngs, the latter being okay - and the food was fine. Paid a tenner for fish and chips, which I wouldn't say was inexpensive, but it was very tasty and the portion sizes excellent. Not often I don't finish my dining companions' leftovers once I'm done myself, but had to pass this time.
Bit too pricy and remote (if you don't fancy walking, you're stuck, as the nearest bus stop is over a mile away) for me to consider as a regular haunt, but nice once in a while.
26 Apr 2010 13:09
Was drawn in by the sign advertising traditional ales, and the lack of competition in the area.
Best of the 'traditional ales' was Old Speckled Hen. Decent pint, but not inspiring enough to keep me for a second. Or maybe it was the slightly funny smell inside the place too.
Thai food, on the other hand, did smell decent, and there were plenty of regulars sat around drinking pints of fizzy stuff.
Decor wise was pretty much the same as the last review, apart from some newish looking bar stools, so obviously not much has changed in the past four years.
J
14 Apr 2010 10:16
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
Very impressive. Four different ales - Harveys, Sambrook's and two of which I had never heard before (one was called The Craic - forget the brewery, but decent enough). Friendly enough, not too busy and not overly expensive either. A happy discovery to which I would return.
J
12 Apr 2010 10:23
This used to be a decent, slightly upmarket pub.
However, when I visited a couple of days ago, I found that it had gone downhill drastically.
It's now a Mitchell and Butlers pub, but has the feel of a sub-standard Wetherspoon.
There were only two ales on, one being extra pale (might as well have drunk water), so resorted to the Bass.
Place was relatively crowded at 5.30pm on a Saturday, mainly people getting some cheap nosh and students on jugs of horrific-coloured cocktails.
We were forced to take a table in an alcove on the top floor (which proved to be a blessing in disguise, as it wasn't too noisy), which was sticky and covered in carved-in graffiti.
Service was okay, and empties cleaned away from tables pretty efficiently, but the whole thing just felt cheap, and another example of a big brewery chain letting a once-decent pub go to rack and ruin while only caring about profits.
I certainly won't be heading back to give them any more money.
J
29 Mar 2010 13:11
Not quite sure why this place is listed twice. Anyway...
Popped in last night before watching Plymouth lose at QPR and found the place busy, but not objectively so.
Didn't bother with the food, but enjoyed a pint or three of Landlord. Tasted decent, but at �3.40 per pint I would expect it to do so.
Like the interior and the beer selection seemed pretty good. Top marks for service too, as the staff were very attentive and service was quick whenever I went to the bar, plus tables were cleared of empties quickly.
An oasis in what is generally a poor area for boozers.
J
10 Mar 2010 11:37
The Pontefract Castle, Marylebone
Pretty busy when I went last night, although no great surprise given the location and Thursdays being the new Fridays etc etc.
Five ales on - Doombar, Tribute, Landlord, Fortyniner and Lancaster Blonde. Underwhelmed by the latter, although having never had it before, wasn't sure whether it was just the beer itself or an average pint.
Certainly the Fortyniner and Tribute were in excellent condition, so leads me to believe it may be the former.
Being National Pie Week, also went for some pastry-based fare. Disappointingly only two on offer. Went for the steak and ale, which was very good, albeit a slightly weird combination of flaky pastry on top and shortcrust elsewhere. Tasted good and a decent portion size for under seven quid, so couldn't quibble too much.
Decent decor inside and not overwhelmingly loud that you couldn't hear what your mates are saying.
J
5 Mar 2010 10:08
Hadn't been in here for a while, but was pleasantly surprised last night. Place seems to have been spruced up slightly, and there was a decent selection of beer on offer. Forget the name of my favourite, but it was from the Alton Brewery.
Staff were friendly and while the beer is a bit expensive, guess you are always going to find that in a station pub.
Also enjoyed the fact that they have a TV outside in the smoking area showing Sky Sports News, or whatever match is on that evening.
10 Feb 2010 13:28
The Giffard Park, Giffard Park
I've eaten there a couple of times, and while it is not a place to blow your socks off, it's okay. Especially if they have special offers on.
Would recommend the pound of pie, as that never fails to please, and you can normally get a decent pint of Guinness Red.
Does attract the younger lager drinkers on Friday/Saturday nights, but not in sufficient numbers to make it unbearable.
27 Jan 2010 14:16
The Old Queens Head, Islington
Turn up after 9pm and they try and charge you �4 to get into an already rammed pub with music so loud you can hardly hear what your neighbour has to say. Plenty of better alternatives in the area.
25 Jan 2010 11:50
Can't knock anywhere that serves Betty Stogs. And my pint was fine last time I went in.
Great place to come on St Piran's Day if you fancy celebrating the patron saint of Cornwall.
21 Jan 2010 13:21
A hidden gem, and hopefully it will remain that way.
Beer selection isn't all that (Old Speckled Hen for ale drinkers), but it feels like a proper boozer should do. Interesting decor too.
Didn't sample the Thai food, but several others in our party did and said how good it was. Certainly smelled top notch.
Was a bit worried that we wouldn't all fit in, as there were about 20 of us in our group, but the fact, as people have said, that it is hidden away didn't make it an issue.
Certainly doesn't attract the kids who hang out in Camden and the idiots who head for the Hawley instead, so has to be a good thing.
Didn't ever think I would find myself saying this about a pub in Camden, after so many underwhelming experiences, but would definitely go back.
11 Jan 2010 14:59
Always used to use the manky station Wetherspoons if I wanted a relatively cheap pint of real ale in the Liverpool Street area,.
However - maybe to meet the cost of the now much-improved toilets there - it certainly isn't particularly cheap any more, so instead a few of us decided to try the White Hart instead.
Haven't been particularly impressed with the place in the past, but on my visit last weekend, apart from one surly member of bar staff, have to say it was much improved.
Yep, the mains are about �7 per head, but equally I very much enjoyed my pie (went for the traditional steak and ale, although several others were also on offer). As for beer, as well as the standard (and excellent) Landlord, there were also several others on offer.
Sadly the Ringwood Fortyniner and another guest ale (can't remember which one but it had a celebrity chef gazing out from the pump) weren't available, but they had three others which were.
The (Neathergate) Azza Parrot was very well kept and the best of the three. A hazy memory doesn't allow me to recall the others so easily, but they weren't so well kept.
So, the veritable curate's egg of a pub which has to cater to all tastes. Happily the edible parts of the egg are increasing, and one day this place may be good enough to ever stop me from returning to the ever-decent Dirty Dick's when I am in the area.
11 Jan 2010 14:54
Had three ales on when I visited today, including Youngs, for which I opted. Well kept pint, and when my fiancee complained as her beer came in a glass coated with lipstick, they didn't just pour the drink into a different glass, but got her a fresh beer instead.
Friendly staff who actually seemed interested in the clientele, as well as whether you were enjoying your food... which we certainly did. Generous portion sizes and decent pub grub (around �7 for a main). I'd definitely recommend the pie, which was very good.
Proper log fires, mixed clientele, including kids, and one TV screen in the corner which was showing Sky News.
Would make the detour to go here again, especially in summer, as it looks to be a nice place for enjoying a beer outside.
Definitely the best pub in Mill Hill.
1 Jan 2010 15:56
Was obviously once an Ember Inns pub, but isn't any more.
Friendly bar staff and okay inside, but for ale drinkers, it isn't great.
1 Jan 2010 15:52
Type of place that attracts bar flies to get their fix of average beer while waiting for the next fix of the gee-gees on At The Races.
Not being a lager drinker, I had a choice of Smith's and Guinness. Went for the former, and wasn't overly impressed.
Definitely a locals pub, although saying that, despite being local, I won't be heading back any time soon.
1 Jan 2010 15:50
Well over �3 for a pint, and while it seemed well poured and well kept, I would expect it to be at that price.
Comfortable enough sofas on which to sit for a quick Sunday pint and a quick fix of Sky Sports News, but that's about it, as there's not enough character or selling points to bring me back on a regular basis.
1 Jan 2010 15:46
Hadn't been to the old Bridge, so thought I would give the new-look version a go when it finally opened.
Definitely a place for lager drinkers, because the barmaid didn't have a clue about pouring my pint, and seemed confused when I asked for it in the first place. Very average selection of beers too.
Think the best thing to say about it is a 'station pub'. Maybe somewhere to head for a quick pint, but not a place to linger.
1 Jan 2010 15:44
Standard Harvester. Decent enough food and beer. 'Nuff said really.
1 Jan 2010 15:41
Don't know what it used to be like when people were referring to it as a good, local pub, but I would say that it was anything but.
Only been once, and won't be enticed back. Probably the most expensive pint of Old Speckled Hen I've ever had, and didn't taste well kept either. Pub itself was nothing short of dilapidated and there was a very weird smell too. So, were someone to actually do something with the place, it could be great, given the lack of other pubs in the area, but until then, I definitely won't be heading back.
1 Jan 2010 15:40
The Bell at Mill Hill, Mill Hill
Not a great selection of booze and tables overflowing with dirty glasses despite not being busy when we went.
Used to use another Marston's pub where I used to live, and that was much better. Food was always good as pub grub goes, so would be intrigued to see what gets served up here.
1 Jan 2010 15:35
Decent enough boozer, and while the food sounded nice, too pricy for pub grub. So, had a pack of crisps with my pint and headed off again.
Full marks for trying something a bit different, though.
1 Jan 2010 15:30
Went in on a Sunday afternoon for a late meal. Decent enough food - standard Ember Inns fare, if you like that sort of thing (which I do), and a nice pint of Landlord. Should've had Wainwrights too, but it wasn't on.
Having moved from an area where we had a similar pub as our local, I'd recommend going at quieter times, but definitely not a Frida or a Saturda evening.
1 Jan 2010 15:27
Excellent pub. Two well-kept Hook Norton beers on tap when we visited as well as a good selection of bottles.
The food was great - a decent selection, generous portions and proper pub grub rather than some of the over ambitious dishes that places now insist on serving. The meat is about as fresh as you can get, as it comes from the butcher who lives next door (and has a shop in Chipping Norton).
Owners and staff were very friendly, actually cared when they asked if your food was okay, and it made a change to find a local pub where you were made to feel like a local, rather than just feeling like you were passing through.
If you're staying and planning on doing the Hook Norton Brewery tour (definitely recommended), book into the B&B next door to the White Swan (Pretty Bush Barn). Great breakfasts, friendly owners, very clean and the rooms are very well equipped.
And if it sounds like I'm a local trying to sell the area, I'm not. Pub and B&B alone made the trip up from Essex worthwhile.
21 Jun 2009 19:53
The Lion and Lamb, Milton
Had dinner here with friends after a visit to the nearby country park.
The food was nice and the kids' menu was well priced, but I thought the other mains were a bit expensive for what you got.
Three ales. The Seafarers was in decent nick and I guess £4.40 for a pint is par for the course in these parts.
Friendly staff and clientele and a nice little play area out back.
14 Mar 2020 22:52