The William the Conqueror, Rye Harbour

There were 2 barmaids behind the bar, one chatting to a customer the other serving. I sat at a barstool, put my money and keys on the bar and waited to be served.
No eye contact or acknowledgement from either barmaid, then a local came in, stood next to me and barked a drinks order as the barmaid finished serving. Still no eye contact from either staff or customer; the customer seemed to notice me looking at him but carried on regardless, ordering a very long round and having a very long conversation with the barmaid in the process.
I eventually got fed up with waiting and, even though I'd driven 10 miles or so to get there, decided to take my business elsewhere and went to the Two Sawyers in Pett, where bar staff and locals alike make a point of welcoming and respecting visitors, which is probably why they are very successful and the William seems to be struggling to survive.
I went hoping to see a band, but came away just feeling angry...beware!

4 Jun 2012 19:13