The Royal Standard, Blackheath

As previous reviewers have said, this place has had a bit of a dodgy reputation in the past but the current management really turned things around. Nice atmosphere, lots of seating, really well kept beer with some really interesting guest ales. It looks like it's doing well. The decor isn't exactly to my taste but this is a good solid local pub.

16 Dec 2010 15:23

The Hare and Billet, Blackheath

This is a nice, cosy pub in a great location but it is let down by poor service. The beer is generally kept fairly well and the food is ok, but not really any more than ok. A good pub for a session if the Princess of Wales down the road is too full but I wouldn't exactly go out of my way for it.

16 Dec 2010 15:21

The Princess of Wales, Blackheath

I was a regular in this place for a long time, but abandoned it a couple of years ago when the food and service went rapidly downhill. I recently decided to go back for the Tuesday night quiz with friends. Initially I remained unimpressed - sometimes I would go in and the beer would either be off or not tasting how it should, and service was sloppy.

But in my last couple of visits I have been impressed. The London Pride was tasting how it should - really enjoyable pint. And I had a Welsh rarebit sandwich which was delicious, even if the portion was a little on the mean side for the price. Service is still erratic - you always get someone coming up to your table and asking if you ordered a dish when you haven't (next time I am saying yes). But I can live with that. In the summer it's great to enjoy the garden and the heath, in the winter it's cosy. Yes there are lots of children but sorry folks, now the smoking ban is over you're going to have to live with it. I am happy with this pub again.

16 Dec 2010 12:09