The Flying Boat, Dartford

I must congratulate JD Wetherspoon on the lavish refurbishment, most admirably described by RogerB and keepthechange earlier on this site. In addition, I need to share my experience of a mid-day weekday visit. Despite previous comments, I found a good selection of SEVEN available ales from the ten pumps. In addition, there was a healthy lunchtime surge in custom more than adequately covered by a timely increase in serving staff - ALL five tills being operated. Whilst the food was no more than adequate, the very competitive prices of both food and drink make the 'Flying Boat' well worth another visit. Just hope the 'silence' is continued at least during the daytime.

23 Jul 2009 16:15

The Continental Pub, Preston

Close to Preston, overlooking the river Ribble, the Continental is both a great pub and a fine restaurant. If you do not wish to mix with the 'eaters' there is an excellent Snug with it's separate access to the bar. And what a bar - a fine selection of well kept ales complimented by an unusually large selection of Belgium bottled beers. It may not be the easiest to find but it's well worth the effort.

23 Jun 2009 12:56

The Museum Tavern, Bloomsbury

Visited mid-day on a Friday to find an excellent selection of well kept ales in a fine old style pub.
With records showing a tavern on this site from 1723, the present venue owes much to the redesign in 1855, with the classic mahogany back bar fitting being evident today. The five bar Victorian tavern was reduced to the present single bar in the 1960s. Much of the original wood and glass decor is still to be seen.
Although it is opposite the British Museum, and had a mix of both overseas visitors and locals, there was plenty of room for all. Very reasonable beer prices and selection of food (not tried).
Most definitely well worth a visit.

13 Jun 2009 08:33