The Jolly Farmers, Betchworth

Came across this large, slightly confusing (from the outside) pub/deli/restaurant/market/farm shop the other day whilst out with a colleague. We dropped in for lunch, to be greeted warmly by friendly staff in the multi-use interior.

We made our way through to the (slightly sterile feeling) restaurant area to one side of te rear of the large bar. There were a large number of somewhat mature iners in the restaurant, but that possibly reflects both the area and the early hour for lunch.

The restaurant is clean and airy, but a little too modern to fit entirely comfortably with the rest of the interior. Our waitress was charming and helpful, taking our beer order and food order promptly and without the fuss you sometimes encounter where you want a bar drink with the restaurant food.

The beer (Summer Ale) arrived in good condition - a very refreshing pint, followed by the most enormous meals!

We had ordered the ploughman's and a deli platter and could easily have fed a family of four with the food! As on occasion quantity is stressed at the price of quality, I was a little concerned, (particularly as the two dished together cost under �20) but without cause! Every element of both dishes was great - from the bread to the cheese, the colesaw and the cured meats. Even the salad tasted delicious!

Having stepped outside after admitting defeat, the staff were happy to let us wander around the farm shop with a pint in hand, before sitting in the comfy sofas in the less formal bar area. We settled up and left with a really good impression of this large multi-role pub/restaurant. All power to the owners for making the most of the location, sourcing as much produce (and beer!) as possible from the local area.

19 Aug 2009 09:40

The Princess Alice, West Thamesmead

As the nearest pub to my office, it is a miracle that I have not been here before. A work colleague and I fancied trying out a pub near to work but not the usual (variety being the spice of life!) so we gave the Alice a go.

From the outside it looks dire. Not anyone (except the architect's) fault. Most of Thamesmead looks the same, and the pub IS new ish building and looks it. Stuck alongside the bypass towards Belmarsh High Security Prison, there is little appeal for passing trade which is a shame, as inside is not bad.

Don't expect inglenook fireplaces and cosy sofas - the inside is as modern as the exterior and treads perilously close to the "Plastic Pub" so loved by interior designers of the late 80's and early 90's.

The staff were friendly and helpful, the beer selection (3 ales on hand pump) good and the prices remarkable (all three ales well under �2.00 per pint!)

The clientele seemed to be mainly young and local - drawn, it seemed, by good prices for beer and a large, affordable menu in the rear carvery. We did not sample the food but the beer was more than passable and at a very good price.

All in all this is a pub worthy of support, possibly not as a regular local, but as an affordable occasional pint vendor - its a good option.

28 Jul 2009 10:50

The Old Mill, Plumstead

Andy has created a gem - I'm almost tempted to try to put people off visitning Plumstead's hidden secret - a genuine Real Ale pub. Always a geat selection of ales, which the landlord takes (suitable) pride in! One of the best reasons to stay in Plumstead!

27 Jan 2009 13:31