BITE user comments - grovetown
Comments by grovetown
You do have to wonder how valid this site is anymore when it's No. 1 pub hasn't been reviewed for over a year...
Anyhow and regardless, the Cuckoo is for sale: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/commercial-property-for-sale/property-75083759.html
13 Feb 2019 16:30
Was served a distinctly vinegary pint of Pride, which they changed promptly enough - yet then spoilt that with a fairly surly "there''s nothing wrong with it".
Plainly unfamiliar with decent Pride - a la The Royal Standard or The Builders - or what Sarsons smells or tastes like in a glass then.
Second one wasn''t much better so abandoned that and, given the chippy (Sarsons, geddit?!!) response above, switched to Trib and, when that ran out, Proper Job: both of which were fine.
10 Sep 2017 12:14
I don't think you'll find Floyd ran it "until recently" blue_scrumpy - he died in 2009!!
And had been long gone, bankrupted, from here before then.
20 Feb 2017 16:09
OK: the benefit of the doubt extended to the chap now has to be withdrawn.
Not only have things not improved, they've deteriorated heavily to the point where what was haphazard and disorganised has descended into the shambolic and farcical.
Latest, best/ worst example, was on Father's Day.
No Chiswick.
No ESB.
No HSB.
Cider mis-labelled.
Stella is Carling.
Chiswick replacement going, and nothing to replace that.
Only a few days worth of Pride left.
The incompetence of it beggars belief.
23 Jun 2015 10:13
Legendary landlord and cellarman extraordinaire Martin 'Polly' Perkins gave up the Royal Standard after 25-odd years on April 13th 2015.
Fullers have installed a temporary tenant, who has apparently expressed an interest in taking over permanently.
While it seems unfair to compare an incomer to a Croydon and Fullers institution like Polly, the new chap - who actually seems an affable and willing chap - has got off to a mixed start.
Beer quality seems fine so far and it is very much hoped that the Standard's astonishingly good reputation for its ales is maintained.
Elsewhere though, there is either disorganization or a slightly reckless disregard for the regulars.
Small things, but e.g: why remove the coat hooks by the dart board (ostensibly because they interfere with the darts); when that's the set all the darts players use...?
The darts scoring blackboard has been given over to massive calligraphy stating the O Level Bleeding Obvious: that London Pride, ESB, HSB and Chiswick are available!
In a Fullers pub!! In the Royal Standard!! As if we didn't know!! Not one extra pint sold as a result of such promotion I'll wager, yet many evening users inconvenienced.
No card payments - it's all cash, as the old card reader has gone and a new one hasn't been sorted out.
And, worse, then: no cash back obviously.
Constant change shortages: everyone's getting fed up with the number of 5ps being handed out.
The WIFi's packed up. You can still see the old network, yet there's no internet behind it. The Fullers' alternative set-up is a joke.
And no-one wants to listen to Capital Radio late on in the evening.
All just little niggles, nothing too epic; just signs of flakiness.
As above, the new landlord seems decent and affable enough yet could do with spending more time on the premises - I've not seen him serving once - and sounding the customers out before changing things; and getting the basic admin right.
Judgement reserved and fingers crossed.
17 May 2015 17:51
Biddy Gamboozler?
Shurely shome mishtake - Binnie (Walsh) perhaps!
23 May 2014 14:06
Absurd situation yesterday.
Dropped in shortly after opening to meet a mate for a drink.
It was 90% empty, yet wasn't allowed to sit down as EVERY table was reserved for dining.
It now then needs to decide whether it's a pub or a restaurant.
If a pub, then make some provision for the casual drinker and passer-by.
If a restaurant, then stop calling it a pub - because, yesterday, it wasn't.
10 Apr 2014 11:10
I'm delighted to see the Anchor open again after a number of years, not least as I've never been convinced by The Ship - that The Ship was my mum's favourite kind of says it all.
Three parts to the operation:
1. B&B that need not trouble us here.
2. Restaurant: been once. My experience was a good one, of well cooked food, at decent prices, in gastro-pub vein. Very nice room and really quite enjoyed it.
3. Pub: been three or four times. Ah...
The Anchor is now owned by the people who have the very chi-chi South Sands boutique hotel near Salcombe. South Sands is frighteningly upmarket, and - having been privileged enough to stay there a few of times - quite lovely if you can stretch to it.
And the Anchor bar has been South Sanded to within a very inch of its life: great in a boutique hotel, far from it in a village inn.
Every vestige of character has been removed and/ or covered in Fired Earth paint and it is essentially an anodyne waiting room for the restaurant.
I so want to like it yet, although the beer is OK, just can't warm to it.
It needs scuffing up, wearing down, scattering with agricultural or nautical knick-knacks and many more tables, seats and stools installed (the centre of the room is an aching void in which - if you can't sit or lean on the bar - you are forced to mill around in aimlessly).
So: marvellous to see it open, good restaurant - and just hoping that the bar evolves into something a little less contemporary and something a bit warmer.
3 Dec 2013 09:01
I think that, of late, the ale at the Oval has been fine, miles better than under the last bloke; and better (dare I say than) under Graeme Miall before him.
I think what Richard is trying to say, Chief, is that - even if it could be improved in the keeping (marginal) - you'd need to be a really awkward CAMRA pedant pf the most forensic kind to take issue with it.
11 Nov 2013 10:36
First visit yesterday under the new - Esther's - regime - and what a transformation.
Admittedly, the last landlord - Graham II - couldn't (as one member of staff put it) "have sabotaged the place more if he tried" so it wouldn't be hard for her to be better.
Yet she has taken all the great things that Graeme I (the last-landlord-but-one) had done; and enhanced them no end. The space has been re-arranged to allow for more and more convenient seating, the beer offer (and cellar keeping) has been improved and the music given a more formal stage with better space for the acts and better sightlines for the crowd.
The kitchen has re-opened and the grub my chum had was not only good, but also great value.
The atmosphere was excellent and - having only been in twice in three years because of the misery of Graham II - can easily see myself being regular again.
Obviously, she is well known for her good works at the Green Dragon and this is all of that, plus the touches that the the latitude of it being her own place now allow.
Hurrah for Esther!
14 Oct 2013 18:22
Pleased to say that The Open Arms has been bought by a local chap; and has re-opened as a pub!
20 Aug 2013 17:13
Recently voted no. 48 in The Morning Advertiser's Top 50 Gastro Pubs - one of only three in Devon to make the list.
31 Jan 2013 16:37
Recently voted no. 48 in The Morning Advertiser's Top 50 Gastro Pubs - one of only three in Devon to make the list.
31 Jan 2013 16:37
Is the Bull's Head still open?
Went past in a cab the other night around 10-ish methinks; and it looked like the lights were out.
25 Nov 2012 17:17
Speaking as one of the clientele that only rates a 3/5, it's shame that Thirstyworker didn't announce himself to the assembled so we could also score him accordingly.
Given his slightly absurd method of trying to rate pubs using an empirical scale: I'd say he's probably a 2.25.
Cheers,
GT.
19 Jun 2012 17:29
Hit or Miss Inn, Kington Langley
An excellent, small traditional village pub. With a restaurant element to boot.
Beers were a bit mainstream, but my Pride was excellent. I have eaten both at the bar - ham, egg & chips style - and the restaurant; and both were good and good value.
Service very perky and chipper. Nice, friendly place.
Only caveat is watch the hours: as certainly not open all day and a late-ish starter in the evening.
22 May 2012 18:05
The George and Dragon, Speldhurst
Really a restaurant (at the weekends) in a very attractive pub building. We come here for Sunday lunches when we deserve a treat.
It's expensive - even by gastro standardfs - but the quality is actually excellent.
Ale good too.
5 Aug 2011 18:01
While Greene King is not a beer range I'm a great fan of, I thought the service here to be very good - it being efficient, quick and friendly. The food is also good value and, for pub grub, competently produced.
Nice garden by the river, and all round a pleasant place and experience.
5 Aug 2011 17:58
I fear I may have fallen out of love with The Smack.
Where once I saw eccentricity, quirkiness and electicism; I now see untidiness, disrepair and a lack of cleaniness. As if basic values of presentation and hygiene can be dodged with the excuse of whimsy.
The garden is a shambles; and a stinky pet one at that.
Shame that its tipped over from charm to this as I used to really like it.
Ale was OK mind.
7 Jun 2011 17:56
The Admiral Codrington, Brompton
Overpowering smell of fish and chips in the bar, disinterested staff and OK Deuchars IPA at a hefty �3.55. And so I found it on 09-03-11.
10 Mar 2011 22:23
I'm with TWG and countyjim in that I quite enjoy Kevin Moran's eccentric brusqueness, and do find it adds to the undeniable charm of the Nag's Head - my favourite pub in central London after the Harp.
And I speak as someone Kevin once ejected from the premises - for some imagined slight - before the first pint had touched my lips.
More power to him and his phone ban I say.
4 Feb 2011 14:47
From my perspective, I am undecided about the new team.
It's a shame that a lot of the old prints, pictures, LP covers and other knick knacks have been removed; and no real effort made (yet) to replace them as a deal of atmosphere has passed with them.
But: no matter - that can come later; and the new people are the new people, and so what of them?
1. They have yet to reveal themselves to be personalities like their predecessor. As yet, while pleasant enough, one couldn't really describe them as personable and certainly not as 'hosts'. This may well change as they relax into the roles, but at the moment they need to cheer up and chat up a bit.
2. Ale good, perhaps even slightly improved in the keeping. Prices remain keen (locally) at under �3 quid a pint.
3. Live music policy remains intact, although it is in this respect I'm not hopeful. Not only have the first of the rock/ tribute/ cover bands been booked; but I overheard one of the new guys slagging off Big Joe Louis - a London blues stalwart. One criticism was that Joe was out of tune. This belies ignorance of the genre, as he wasn't if you're Son House or well versed in blues records c. 1948.
Based on other overheards, I am expecting a lot more SRV, Claptonesque rockist nonsense and like as not the regular appearances of Rik Martin, Bad Influence etc.
In which case, it'll be time to move on.
In the meantime, while signs are not promising, one will try not to judge hastily quite yet.
29 Nov 2010 13:43
Changing hands in October.
What the incomers will do is anybody's guess, but if the music ends it will be a severe loss to the local and London blues scene.
27 Sep 2010 15:31
Just a quickie to reiterate the below. Really nice place, great beer, smashing folk.
Watch the opening hours though: 12-3 afternoons, and 7-11 evenings.
11 Jul 2010 20:23
The Master Builders House Hotel, Bucklers Hard
Superb grounds and location.
Pub-side highly indifferent in every other respect.
Can't comment on food nor accommodation as did not stay nor dine.
If not where it was, I wouldn't trouble it further.
28 Jun 2010 17:19
If Salcombe is for the braying, then this is for their brasher cousins. Good marina-cum-working harbour location.
Heavily modernised, without a whiff of the traditional. Not to my taste, but it is clean, smart and comfortable. The service is fairly prompt and pleasant. Didn't try the beers as driving.
The outside deck space is highly contemporary with tables, chairs and sofas - and really quite impressive. However, as others have noted, it must be the only pub the UK that does not permit smoking outside. Extraordinary that one has to effectively leave the premises completely for a gasper.
Plus points: service, outside space, location.
Minus: no smoking anywhere, anodyne modern interior.
28 Jun 2010 17:14
Extremely popular country pub. Picturesque exterior, and excellent gardens. Interior slightly over-refurbished so veering on pastiche traditional; but not catastrophically so.
Beers on gravity - Fullers/ Gales - were in tip top nick.
Food very good; and some off-the-wall offers, such as Perch. Not any more expensive than this kind of establishment; but better value than many of my acquaintance.
Gets incredibly busy, so book if wanting lunch etc, especially on a nice day.
Apart from all the above positives, what really stood out here was superb, friendly, fast service - even when heaving. First rate for that alone.
28 Jun 2010 17:08
Picturesque country pub that has been done up in 'Fired Earth' style to the nines; but still manages a traditional feel. TV-free.
Bars are, nicely, still divided into public and saloon; and a deal of the pub is given over to food. One accepts that nowadays as survival for more rural establishments is probably impossible on wet sales alone. Didn't eat, but menu appeared typical 'modern gastro'.
Adnams Best on gravity was just fine. Pricing a tad on the high side, but not eye-wateringly so. Service prompt, and - if not effusive - was amiable enough.
Extensive and truly excellent well-manicured gardens.
Would return if in that neck of the woods; and a better option than most, if not all, in Goudhurst and Biddenden (especially if visiting Sissinghurst).
28 Jun 2010 17:02
I note from The Harp's Web site that it is West London CAMRA Pub of the Year 2010.
But no mention on the West London's own Web site, nor seemingly anywhere else for that matter.
is this a hangover from the 'CASK Wars' of 2009 and 2010 I wonder?
24 Jun 2010 12:59
With respect to mdoc62, while the staff of the Ship are to be congratulated for being a top Spoons, the idea that this place does the best ale in the area or is the best bar in town is silly.
Half & Half anyone? Green Dragon? Claret? Cricketers Addiscombe? Builders? Dog & Bull? The Standard? All of which do better beer, and - while I appreciate it is a matter of taste - are better bars.
Again, fair play to the people at the Ship, but one does have to wonder how serious the criteria for this award are given that Tiger Tiger has won it twice!
24 Jun 2010 12:46
Festival starts today (May 28th). Beers on include:
Skinner�s Betty Stogs
Brains On the Head
Rudgate Ruby Mild
Wadworth Henry�s IPA
Dales Golden Daffodil
Warwickshire Bottoms Up
Robinsons 4-4-2
Westerham Freedom Ale
Westerham 1965 Special Bitter
Westerham Audit
Biddenden Dry is the cider; plus the usual Fullers offer.
Actually, two of the above aren�t available, but I don�t know which.
28 May 2010 08:42
It is as plain as a pikestaff, but excellent for that. Bass from the barrel is great too.
My favourite pub in Plymouth, but I do miss artist Beryl Cook drinking in here, as I'll never be in one of her paintings now!
19 May 2010 12:15
I have stayed at the Highway on a couple of occasions, and always a good experience (if slightly dear).
It is essentially given over to food, and one would struggle to drink without eating as all the tables are generally reserved for diners, and the bar counter is tiny. Indeed, it can be awkward to get served when people are congregated around it. That said, when the weather is fine, there are tables on the pavement and the garden is a good one.
However, given the tourist trap that is Burford, most everywhere else is highly food-centric too and you can't knock the HI particularly for that and - when quieter and/ or there is space - it is one of the nicer bars in town.
Ale normally runs to two taps and are generally in good nick, although it can be variable.
I'd try it first over some of the more obvious 'pure' pubs'.
10 May 2010 00:23
Stonecoat
Agree: while the RS garden is OK, the Dog & Bull's in Surrey Street (not that you would know from the road) is far nicer.
23 Apr 2010 16:27
Quite a revelation. Hadn't been in here for around 10 years, due to taking against the previous, miserable incumbent. Not much liking The Fort or The Kings', I therefore always fell back on the (flawed) Ferry Inn.
Wearying of it - and Palmers/ Copper - last week, I gave The Vic another go. And, as I say at the top, something of a revelation.
The large front bar to the right is still that: but somehow cosier and roomier at the same time. Roaring fire, and five taps of St Austell (IPA, two Trib, Proper Job and a.n.other). Good atmosphere, voluble but friendly landlady and the beer all in good nick. With the rest of the pub largely given over to food, it is always a relief to find somewhere that also acknowledges the wet side too.
Back again over a couple of days, and then discovered the excellent garden on a sunny day...
While The Ferry may have the better view (and one only eclipsed by the FBI in Dittisham); I shan't be back in a hurry. The Vic it is from now on...
18 Apr 2010 19:09
Currently closed for refurbishment.
Not easy to improve upon, as it was drear, souless place before.
28 Mar 2010 14:31
As a semi-regular of The Harp, I would put my house on Binnie not having the time nor inclination to engage in smearing Cask.
I imagine that - especially now she's a free house - she is entirely preoccupied with running what is a great pub.
I have been to Cask and it's fine. I'm not sure it warrants some of the adulation it receives here; and I admittedly prefer The Harp. As they are both - happily - geographically quite discrete, I'm not forced to make a choice between either and will use both when in their respective areas.
But the suggestion that Binnie is somehow orchestrating some campaign against Cask is as offensive as it is plain silly.
16 Mar 2010 21:35
A rare Sunday evening visit to this amiable backstreet pub. One of Croydon's better and - as with most of the Croydon's best (e.g The Royal Standard, Dog & Bull) - worth straying off the beaten track for.
It can be very quiet in the early part of the week, but builds towards very social Thursdays through Sundays; largely due to the interesting and quality Blues and Rhythm 'n' Blues acts staged here.
Yesterday's was no exception: a well attended gig for the excellent jump-swing/ Chicago blues turn Rollo Markee and the Tailshakers.
Ale on offer was Tiger and Proper Job; both of which were in good nick.
22 Feb 2010 10:28
The Queens Arms, Corton Denham
Stopped off recently during the bleak midwinter, as knew this to be a decent place for a pint and some grub if needing a break from driving and prepared to stray off the A303.
It is focused on the Barbour brigade - and decorated in 'Fired Earth' style accordingly, and without the usual 'attractions' of TV, pool etc. I haven't witnessed braying, but it wouldn't surprise me.
From the gastro pub perspective it does it well, with competent fare and priced as one might expect for this kind of place (i.e fairly highly). That said, I'm not an 'all you can eat for a fiver' merchant, and it's better than many/ some in the gastro context.
Could do with a bit more seating, but lacks the space required (in the bar). Side rooms exist for overspill and parties; and the garden is very good in the summer.
Service pleasant and efficient in my experience.
Good selection of ales, usually well kept, but my Queen's Revival - see review below - was, although drinkable, definitely on the turn. If I'd been tarrying, I would have asked for a replacement.
Parking can be a nightmare; and there's some brash local Margot Leadbetter WI-types abroad who won't hesitate to tap on your window to object to your location if it displeases them. And irrespective of whether there's any actual inconvenience caused or not.
25 Jan 2010 12:13
Your information about it being only Fullers' ales is incorrect.
I have seen the listing, and there is a significant selection - eight? perhaps 10 - from across the UK. Plus the usual suspects.
21 Jan 2010 07:56
Another festival starting on Thursday 21st Jan - need to be prompt, as the last was unexpectedly popular.
As an added attraction Fullers' Head Brewer is there from 7.30 to host a tasting session, and talk on brewing.
20 Jan 2010 13:42
The Golden Heart, Nettleton Bottom
Given the very mixed reviews for this pub, one wonders how it won Pub of the Year 2009 from the Good Pub Guide?
30 Nov 2009 09:38
The Jolly Brewmaster, Cheltenham
Excellent selection of good ales well kept. And astoundingly well priced - �2.50 for Otter and a Pacific Gem! Very wide range of draft ciders too.
Service very prompt, efficient and quite friendly.
In terms of atmosphere, the nearby Beehive suits me better - but this is a good stop on the way there or from.
20 Nov 2009 16:30
The Old Bell Tavern, Harrogate
A pretty decent place to have a pint - on your way to Hales around the corner.
Distinguished, heritage exterior and interior - although that is perhaps much owed to its retail origins and the fiercely conservationist nature of the council. Despite the enormous amount of dark timber on the walls, the seating set up has a whiff of Cafe Rouge about it, rather than a pub, but far from disastrously.
As for the ale, only sampled Landlord which, frankly, was not great.
As per the opening: go here for a bit - and then go to Hales. Where, 20 minutes later, the Landlord was great, as was the Daleside, Bass, Copper Dragon(s) etc etc.
3 Nov 2009 18:38
Somewhat overrates itself on its Web site: not unpleasant but I find it utterly anodyne.
Essentially a contemporary lager house, with a nod to ale (and mine on 15/10 - Jennings Cumberland - not of the first order).
There are much better houses in Cheltenham.
16 Oct 2009 16:11
Amiable back street pub. Warm welcoming interior; with mixed crowd - young, old, scruffy, suited - all civilized. Useful courtyard garden for the summer and gazebos for rainy day smokers.
Ale selection is often a bit limited - but always well kept. Eg good Doom on 15/10.
Very competent kitchen delivering good quality, traditional fare with a modern update. Restaurant upstairs.
16 Oct 2009 16:05
Binny continuing to assert her new found independence with eight on last night:
Bateman�s Middle Wicket;
Orkney Red McGregor;
Sambrook�s Wandle;
Dark Star Hophead and Dark Star;
Timothy Taylor Golden Best;
Harvey�s Sussex Best; and
�Piddly Xpress�(?).
More power to her.
14 Aug 2009 11:03
Another pleasant afternoon in here last Saturday: food well up to scratch; and enjoyed the Teignworthy Neap Tide and Millbrook Pale Ale muchly.
29 Jul 2009 12:53
Approached with trepidation given 1. the rating here; and 2. a venue slap bang on top of a tourist attraction usually guarantees everything except quality.
However, indolence - not fancying the slog to the better rated Curlew - prevailed and was actually quite pleasantly surprised.
Admittedly, the Canterbury Jack and Black Sheep weren't the best I've ever had; but they were certainly OK. The food was good value, coming in very large portions (if a tad bland (although nothing that a bit of seasoning couldn't sort out)) and satisfied all in our party.
The dining room was nicely appointed, and service pleasant and efficient.
The three behind the main bar worked non-stop and kept well on top of the numbers (a Father's Day Sunday afternoon); if losing track of order-to-be-served on occasion (a minor gripe).
All round a not bad experience at all, where an indifferent one had been anticipated.
21 Jun 2009 19:06
The Waterman's Arms, Ashprington
Have never understood why this place is so highly rated.
It's OK I suppose, and the Copper good, but - when busy in the summer - has the atmosphere (in promotions and clientele) of a downmarket holiday camp.
Service indifferent on last visit - probably a function of the hoardes of happy campers as above.
18 Jun 2009 13:57
First encountered the Malsters in the early 90s when it was Keith Floyd's place. Since he went bust, it seems to have had its ups and downs - but on returning recently, we had a generally good experience.
Quayside a lovely spot in the sun, the outdoor barmaid was pleasant and efficient and the Dartmoor well kept.
Son was also able to wangle a sausage off them for crabbing bait, for a notional sum to the RNLI.
We went to the nearby Waterman's afterwards, and that was awful - like bloody Butlins in comparison.
18 Jun 2009 13:53
The Turtley Corn Mill, Avonwick
Typical gastro-pub, with limited provision for drinkers - but a decent selection of ales; that are well kept. Food is good and priced a typical gastro levels; but the place was/ is a welcome addition given the surprising paucity of decent eateries in this part of Devon. Excellent garden and grounds.
Only caveats are that some of the customers are on the cusp of blingy for Devon, witness the car park, and those U18 are not admitted - EVEN TO THE RESTAURANT - after 7pm. (And I'm talking one minute past seven).
If seeking an evening meal nearby with U18s in tow; try the Avonwick Inn up the road. Different ales, slightly hapless and amateur on occasion - but decent enough grub, keenly enough priced; a pleasant place and they are very friendly.
3 Jun 2009 18:02
Scotsbridge Mill, Rickmansworth
Not a pub in any way - as seems to be almost entirely given over to restaurant dining. Contemporary interior, with old features - mill race - retained and incorporated.
Food average to better than OK. Extensive - but seemingly - bought-in menu. Pricing not too shocking. TT Landlord was not in great order; but drinkable.
Table service - albeit occasionally a bit absent - quite prompt and amenable.
17 May 2009 17:10
Enjoyed a random visit to this recently very much.
Yes: there were a couple of (well behaved) dogs knocking around; and there is a slight whiff of dogginess on first entering. Admittedly, it's not my preferred aroma - but undetectable after 5 minutes and/ or the first Kent's Best.
Interesting, slightly eccentric interior with friendly staff and eclectic clientele. Only beer sampled was Kent's Best; which was very good.
I'd favour this, just, over the well-regarded Ship Centurion Arminius in the High Street; but would endeavour to vist both - finishing here.
15 Apr 2009 17:09
Ship Centurion Arminius, Whitstable
Pleasant establishment, comfortably furnished and decorated, albeit a bit 'loungey'. Exclusively male 40/50+ contigent - ranging from workmen to suits - on my visit; but none the worse for that.
Very chirpy and chipper staff. Adnams/ Pride/ Black Dog etc as mentioned below. All well kept; and while I don't mind Shepheard Neame, the Ship's offer provides a respite from Shep's dominence of the town.
Good, friendly place; although I just prefer the nearby Smack for quirkiness.
15 Apr 2009 17:05
The Sportsman 'Time Well Spent', Mogador
Nice rooms in attractive secluded location. As it's at the confluence of about 12 public footpahts, ramblers, amblers, hikers and dog walkers well represented.
Too much space given over to food; but, one imagines, it's isolation would make survival on bar trade alone difficult.
Service - despite it being packed with walkers and families on my visit - was hard-working and prompt, with orders taken quite quickly given the numbers queueing. Young's Ordinary not first rate; but quaffable. Food OK.
Good spot for a few refreshers when walking the North Downs.
13 Apr 2009 17:55
Re-posted as the owners obviously try to censor anything that isn't platitudinous or complimentary about the place. So...
"Pleasant place, amenable and well meaning staff.
However: that amenability did not stop them from delivering the most hapless and hopeless service I have experienced in years. Not one big issue, but a series of small ones that cumulated into an all-round waste of time on our part.
That said: when the crunch inevitably came and they were politely challenged on the same; the manager responded with grace and professionalism, and did his best to retrieve the situation. All too late.
Ultimately, to no avail, because we won't be back - and, like all dissatisfied customers, have related our experience to probably 10 others already...."
1 Apr 2009 22:26
Like many here I imagine, I'm not a fan of gastro-pubs where drinkers are effectively unwelcome because of an over-emphasis on food. You know...the sort of places where every table is set for diners; and one feels almost embarrassed for just drinking.
However: this is not the Atlas, which achieves a really rather happy balance. If you want to eat (and it is good, hearty fare): fine. If you want to drink: that's fine too. No pressure or compulsion ether way. Beers on at last were 'stock' ales like Pride and Deuchars IPA - both well kept - and Twickenham's Naked Ladies.
Good non-intrusive sountrack from the Blue Note archives; and the garden - more a yard - is pleasant enough.
A stand-out operation in the wasteland of the Earls Court exhibition centre environs.
6 Mar 2009 09:43
OK. Not struck greatly with it, but safe enough. Although ale through a creamer didn't help either.
12 Dec 2008 12:34
The Stag and Hounds, South Croydon
A man has been charged with manslaughter following a death at the pub on Friday evening, 28-11-08.
1 Dec 2008 09:47
Don't know about "going downhill rapdily", but agree the rock thing is being really rather overplayed. Last night's lot - 'Rock the Boat' - were particularly mundane. Not much better than the average 6th Form band, perhaps less so.
It has rendered Friday a dull, noisy finish to the week, rather than a 'jolly' one.
That said, two leading bluesmen - Samuel James and David Gogo - were on recently; and it seems that Wednesday nights (occasional only) are the ones to focus on.
Bombardier and Pride were in good order yesterday.
30 Nov 2008 18:12
The car park - as previous commentators have mentioned - is a (mature) WAG-fest of semi-personalised number plates on X5s etc.
Cher1L
Bev 216
W4ynetta etc.
But, for round there - as a businessman of the non-tax-evading type - it does well enough for a pint and a pasta at lunchtime.
6 Nov 2008 20:39
The Canalside Cafe, Birmingham
Was totally closed up last night. I hope it's simply because it was a dead, autumn Monday night and that it hasn't gone for good.
28 Oct 2008 20:32
The Horse and Groom, Bittaford
A bit harsh below (except for the lighting thing): it's actually OK+.
20 Oct 2008 20:32
The Horse and Groom, Bittaford
Possibly the third man-made structure - after the Great Wall of China and the M25 - to be visible form space thanks to the (always) incredibly (and unnecessarily) brightly lit interior.
Nothing special, but it's OK.
9 Oct 2008 10:54
In something of a pub wasteland, this is actually a decent - if slightly pricey - option if meeting around St James. And much better than it ever used to be.
9 Oct 2008 10:19
The Purley Arms, South Croydon
And I would suggest that having a dying wife may distract one from delivering the aesthetic you demand.
Of course, all our views of all our pubs are ultimately subjective.
My point is that, once in a while, it may be prudent to look beyond the facade - literal and metaphorical.
2 Oct 2008 13:04
A good place - after taking in the wonder of Hales - to take in a bit of R'n'B, although the bands here a generally a bit too rock for my tastes.
Good vibe, decent beers, alternative clientele.
Bloody small for the numbers sometimes though.
28 Sep 2008 13:37
An excellent pub in a town sadly increasingly attracting anodyne, contemporary bars.
Lovely old interior, GAS LIGHTS!!!, and good ale well kept and promptly served. Best in Harrogate by miles; and as good a 'proper' pub as you'll find anywhere.
Always a must-go - along with Manchester's Britons Protection - on my occasional forays to the North.
28 Sep 2008 13:35
A kind of uber All Bar One - stripped back contemporary environment - but better. Not quite as outstanding as some reviewers here would have you believe - but maybe that's because perhaps I'm too much of a traditionalist.
It is the best in/ near the Mailbox for sure though; although I like the Canalside Cafe down the Basin more, for eccentricity.
Trib in good order.
23 Sep 2008 21:34
The Purley Arms, South Croydon
The 'slide' - as Slerpy puts it - may have been related, if it were that accurate, to the landlords John and Teresa being distracted by her being terminally ill.
Still Slerpy: rest easy - Teresa died last week at the ripe old age of 46.
So at least John can now get back to giving the pub his full attention just for you.
12 Sep 2008 09:42
I sometimes wonder, from some reviews on the site as a whole, where 'common' people are supposed to drink? While there's a geezer element to this pub, it is surely behaviour that matters - not tattoos or dress?
I think the below must be a disgruntled ex-member of staff. Yes: things have loosened up since the manager (but not owner) changed; yet since the new regime began, I have not seen any problems in this pub - and I go roughly twice a week.
In fact, there was more yobbery to be seen in the Grandstand Bar at Lingfield one recent Saturday than there has been in the entire two years since the new owners arrived.
It's not the greatest pub in the world, but it's not bad - and certainly the best in Purley.
5 Aug 2008 12:16
The Driftwood Spars Hotel, St Agnes
There are essentially three parts to this extensive operation: pub, B&B and restaurant. Top location.
1. Good pub. Tradtional, (unsurprisingly) nautically-themed comfortable bar. Good range of St Austell and other beers - with the Trib well kept. Large, discrete room with pool etc for those that like that kind of thing - and one that doesn't impose on the main bar. Upstairs family room; and a small-ish snug - which is nice, but not overly-populated or always open. Pretty good boozer all round.
2. Fair restaurant. Modern and quite discrete from the pub. Nice selection of food, albeit slightly expensive for the area; that is eminently edible. Food service a bit slow. Floor staff seem largely to be posh, amenable kids; first jobbing on a surfing holiday. Pleasant but slightly hapless and/ or absent on occasion.
3. B&B (our room) a bit naff - Next catalogue 1985; a bit tired and a bit musty. OK-ish, although not outstanding VFM. Other rooms seemed a bit better - maybe a rolling refurbishment is underway...
I'd defintiely eat and drink here again; although would think twice about the B&B if better, nearby option presented itself.
27 Jun 2008 10:08
Somewhat mystified by the comment about a French �owner�, as it�s still Colin who has direct lineage back to Buzz. Been going for years from first days when the licence situation was chaotic, and it was effectively a secret shebeen hiding under the sandwich shop.
First time for a little while � and downstairs, as ever.
Yes: scruffy and could well do with refreshing.
Yes: the toilets are long overdue for refurbishment.
Yes: it can get a bit touristy.
Yes: it�s no fun when packed.
Yes: mid-afternoon is best.
But it does have an indefinable charm that makes it the obvious, and only, choice as somewhere to hide from the rigours when in north Soho.
19 Jun 2008 09:45
Most definitely closed - now called the Half & Half or somesuch.
7 Mar 2008 14:18
I could spend the rest of my life sitting in the waterside window of this pub...
22 Jan 2008 15:16
The Marquis of Granby, Covent Garden
Advertising for staff in the windows now, so re-opening can't be far off. Unfortunately, that it calls itself an "exciting new bar" on those advertisements suggests hope it would stay a proper pub was optimistic.
25 Nov 2007 11:03
Having worked in Floral Street for 10 years, and hung around Covent Garden for twice that; I can say that this is easily the nicest pub on the patch - and I'll happily walk past the Lamb & Flag to get to it. Beers are excellent, and service impeccable. The less-than-desirable types mentioned below are the scene and prop boys from the English National Opera next door. They can be a little 'geezery', but never seem to be installed for that long. Crowdedness is the only realy downside; but, to that extent, it is a function of its success.
25 Nov 2007 11:00
The Marquis of Granby, Covent Garden
Refurbishment well underway and looks like it may be nearing completion. As far as one can tell through the currently white-washed windows; it's still going to be a pub.....
5 Oct 2007 17:14
The Canalside Cafe, Birmingham
Funny - but pleasant - place, in a cross-between a tea room, pub and scruffy boho bistro kind of way. Only real ale on tap was Eager Owl from Leed (a new one on me, but very nice); with plenty of Shep Neame and a few others in bottles.
Odd, but I quite like it.
15 Sep 2007 12:16
Find Anthea's review amazing. We're far from local; and have always had a pleasant time in here - with a cheery chat from the bar staff. In twice in August; and very nice too - with some decent grub from the barbie too.
11 Sep 2007 18:36
Much, much, much improved since the new owners took over about 18 months ago. Good (rock/ blues) live music every Friday and Saturday (with 'special' acts on occasional Wednesdays). Decent pint; and largely chav-free environment for a pleasant sojourn.
10 Aug 2007 15:32
Trainman was perhaps a bit unlucky - not least as they answer the 'phone when I've rung. Beer offer is normally good - Night Watchman and Pedigree for instance on 09-08-07 (although they do run out on occasion). The Blues nights are every Thursday and usually feature high-quality, well-known acts - and this is reprised on Sunday afternoons too.
All-in-all a comfy, friendly 'boho' boozer - especially if you like British R'n'B.
10 Aug 2007 15:30
Very nice pub in a fantastic location - best approached by (small) boat from Salcombe at high tide.
You will hit your head on a beam/ door jam. Guaranteed.
20 Jun 2007 17:15
Lovely spot, and nothing wrong with it as a pub per se - but, compared to the rest of Lancaster, very expensive; and somewhere for London-born students to visit if homesick for high prices.
20 Jun 2007 17:09
As good a pint of London Pride as you will get anywhere. Bit scruffy and basic; but amiable clientele and a friendly enough place to have a proper pint.
20 Jun 2007 16:37
The Fox and Hounds, Belgravia
RIP Diane Pearce-Harvey.
27 May 2020 21:28