The Dog and Bell, Deptford

Excellent pub. Popped in last Sunday afternoon for a pint and found to the beer to be on good form with a decent selection at reasonable prices. One thing that struck in particular with the relaxing nature of the place, a real 'weight off your shoulders' kind of place. Might even pop back in for the Sunday night quiz, reputedly run by a bunch of volunteers.

22 Jul 2011 11:27

The Lamb and Flag, Covent Garden

Certainly a historic pub, with many testimonies to its long existence displayed with pride, including Californian bumper stickers during the proposed redevelopment of the area some decades ago, which was a surprise.

When visited on a sunny Sunday afternoon it was pleasant place to stop for a pint looking out over the alley from the large open windows. Hophead from Dark Star was sampled, which had perhaps seen better days (it's a better pint down the way at the Harp), however it would seem the beers are usually very good in here from the reviews over a number of years, so shouldn't judge on this one experience.

Would also seem to be in the Lonely Planet, given the sheer number of copies on display around the pub (can't complain, it's usually me lugging it about when abroad).

Would certainly add to a crawl of the area.

20 Jul 2010 12:50

Golden Lion, Soho

Chosen as an overflow/second choice after De Hems down the lane on the World Cup final evening (as the queue was 1 in 1 out at 3.30pm, perhaps to be expected). The Golden Lion was decked out in all the brewery paraphanelia you can imagine. Too many large screens for a rather small room added to the attractiveness for watching sport. Soon enough, it was a see of orange (including myself).

First pint sampled was the Brains SA Gold, which was off. However, I only realised this half way in (wasn't paying attention) so didn't take it back (thought that slightly unfair), so can't comment on what kind of a reception it would have elicited. Young's London Gold was in good form, however, which I stuck to for the rest of evening. I was told that the lager was nice and gassy, if you like that sort of thing.

Overall, seems like the beer quality can vary (considering the reviews below).

Can't really say much for the pub itself, given it was packed and covered in "Bud" branding, large flags and TVs. Looked like it could be quite a nice pub underneath. Good for watching sport none-the-less.

16 Jul 2010 17:45