please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Like many rural pubs, this one concentrates on food - although the refurbishment allows it to retain a pub atmosphere.
Part of a local pub group of about a dozen, the place is very busy in the summer because of it's rustic location - and ample parking.
Food is excellent, beer varied. Could be the best country pub in Surrey - get there early.
Dogs and horses are welcomed.
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The pub has lost a lot of character following its refurbishment. I preferred the quirky decor of the old pub. It is now a foody pub rather than a drinkers haunt. Despite there is a reasonable selection of real ales and it was comfortable.
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Deceptively roomy and popular pub on the edge of expansive Surrey heathland. Service is polite and efficient although the interior itself is somewhat soulless. Choice of four or five 'usual suspect' ales (Wychwood, Jennings, Brains etc...) with the Otter Ale being in good condition. A middle class clientele as one might expect from the area. All in all, a dependable, comfortable choice that can probably get pretty busy on high days and holidays.
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Well that was a worthwhile look at BITE this morning knowing we'd be in the Tadworth area and needing a pub, sold by the couple of recent positive reviews. Good pub and the landlord greeting arrivals if he happens to be lurking is a nice touch. Sunny day and loads of walkers and dog owners about, I have never seen so many dogs in a pub 'garden', not surprising though I suppose as it's on the edge of Banstead Common. They were all well behaved though (and so were the dogs). 4 beers on: Skinners Cornish Knocker, Sharps Doom Bar, Rev James and one other (can't remember, but nothing exciting). Food good quality but a little dear at £12-14 for a main, but not too long to wait given it was so busy. Service good. One to bear in mind for future, that's for sure.
PhilR - 21 Apr 2013 18:17 |
The Sportsman at Mogador, What a find ! The Pub is hard to find by road, but when you do, you will be delighted. I took my Mother for a Sunday lunch (27/01/2013) we were greeted by the landlord,a very pleasant man. The place was very busy inside and out, but we had a choice of three tables in the bar area. It was the first sunny day in a long time and the snow was almost gone, so there were lots of dog walkers about. We picked a table near the open log fire, very nice. We looked at the very extensive menu in awe. All of the staff were smartly dressed and very attentive. The food was exceptional and service second to none. I have for years never wanted to leave a tip in many pubs/ restaurants, but this place is on another level. Have already booked a table in the restaurant for next week with special friends. As for the very few negative comments, if you are polite,and well behaved and have control of your pets and children you are guarantied a very pleasant time. Brian Davis
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What a fantastic location for a pub! The views and tranquil ambiance are spectacular. Unfortunately that is where the positive comments end as the actual atmosphere inside does not come anywhere near the visual appeal of the outside.
On one of my few visits it was raining and very windy but we made the effort to walk to the pub with our two children to get out of the house. Upon opening the door to the pub I was immediately told by the barmaid that I had had a wasted journey. I asked why, were they closing and she said no I was not allowed in with children! We sat outside in the cold and rain while the other patrons with their dogs and all, sat in the warmth inside the pub.
On another visit we were met with all the 'locals' stood at the bar ensuring that nobody could get to order a drink! On a final visit we were one of maybe 4 other couples at the pub on a lovely summers day with our dog. She was malting at the time and when we got up to leave we were approached by the landlady who instead of asking if we had had a nice meal or had enjoyed our wine was told to pick up all the dog hair in the grass! We looked around and noticed piles of cigarette buts and ash in the grass where they emptied their ash trays out!
Hopefully you will be saved from making the same mistake as we have on the occasions we have visited and should the management change please do let us know. As I have said, the location is magical but the service and management lead much to be desired!
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What a lovely place! My husband used to come here years ago and we decided to go for lunch with our children and then go for a walk on the downs. The food was extremely yummy and the portions a great size. Staff friendly and polite, even though it was very busy and the toilets were very clean (always important to me). Can't wait for our next visit.
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This website is used far too often for negative comments ( myself included ) so credit where it is due and everyone has a different experience wherever they go.
That is why as an ex landlord of over 15 years experience, critical to the last and genuinely refreshed i post my comments.
We visited for lunch on Bank Holiday Monday at 1.30 ( not an ideal time for the trade ) and yes it was busy and yes there were lots of walkers and dogs ( what do you expect ! ) but we were still welcomed, found a table quickly and made comfortable.
It's been a long time since i found a place that looks good, the staff were excellent, chatty, knew their stuff and personable.( Katie was our waitress but other three were equally as attentive ).
Water without asking, an Indian dip whilst waiting and the food arrived within 10 minutes.
Food was excellent, drink was good and toilets spotless.
Sirs, your pub was a breath of fresh of air and many could learn a lot, i am no longer in the trade but will be back, i am not related or have any interest in The Sportsman but wish i did !
Well Done.
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If you want to drink a pint feeling like a Pariah for occupying a table that could be better used for Diners ,this is 'the Pub' for you .The earlier reviews hardly mention the condition of the Beer (O.K) , or the wines etc. I know pubs need to sell food to survive but a drinker will feel 2nd class to Diners and wet spaniels !
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I think Kirkdouglas sums it up best with (his). comments.
Myself I couldn't concur with all that went before but would prefer to eat my cake latterly. That said, I take contrary opinions at face value and after all, that is all one can reasonably ask.
Good job all round I feel.
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for a first time poster red, that was more an ad than a view (!). good place, but needs better management. michael (poster before you) is on the money!
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Hello all. Recently popped in to the sportsman after a nice hearty stroll across the beautiful walton heath golf course. Me and my wife were only going to stay for a drink but after having a nice chat with the staff we decided that there were too many treats on the menu for us to miss out on. Our dogs didn't mind too much either as there were doggy treats behind the bar to keep them interested. The food was delicious. We had a beautiful duck pate to begin with that set up our main meal which was the slow roasted local belly of pork. What a treat it was! Bursting with flavour and a nice portion size to. We were too stuffed to handle desert but we will have to go back there soon after we have bought some new appropriately sized trousers. The food and service in this establishment were exceptional and you don't find many gems like this left on the pub circuit any more.
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I usually like the Sportsman too and so do my family and dogs! But afraid to say they did seemed pushed to cope over the Christmas and New Year Holiday.
Certainly won't stop us drinking here but will probably avoid visiting during busier holiday celebrations in the future.
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I am amazed to read negative reports on The Sportsman. When Marc took the Pub over everyone in the Village r was delighted. He not only improved the eating facilities but also the toilets and general appearance. If it had not been taken over by Marc - we would not have a pub called the Sportsman in Mogador. I, like 90% of the customers have been coming to Mogador Heath for many years - walking my dogs and ending up at The Sportsman for either a good cup of Coffee or something a little stronger. The Staff are friendly, clean and tidy and i wish them all the very best for the New Year.
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Hi
I visited this pub over the Christmas period after stumbling upon it following a walk. I found the outside charming and it had parking although it seemed a little chaotic at the time i went.
After waiting at the bar for drinks for some time i was abrubtly served by a bar maid and was given no apology for my wait.
I took my seat at a table with my family and whilst the food was average and could have been hotter sat back and enjoyed catching up with relatives.
The plates took a while to be collected and the staff waiting on our table seemed rushed and abrupt and i felt didnt really acknowledge us very well.
I have looked at the web site for the sportsmanand would have to say it wasn't time well spent sadly.
I'll be sticking to The Ramblers Rest down on outwood lane on the way to Kingswood for which is so much more welcoming and isnt too far from the sportsman.
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My name is Marc Jones and I am the owner/ landlord of the Sportsman for 4 years now. It is unfortunate that I have to use this website, certainly on New year�s Day, to exert my right to reply, but such is the emotion when you have been wronged. I will accept fair critiquing of my business and over the years, as you can imagine, there has been a fair amount. I will not, however, let any customers just think it is there right to post reviews on sites like these, when they are simply untrue. I always keep in mind the types of people who post on these sites, serial reviewers need to be taken with a slight pinch of salt as their views depend on which box they are trying to judge the site against and one time reviewers can sometimes simply want to punch and run.
Degoider � I would be very happy to invite you back to the Sportsman with a complimentary voucher to reinstate your confidence in want we do. I would like to point out however, that we have never and, will never, deep fry burgers, the management has not changed for 4 years and we do not serve sandwiches. Toasted Ciabattas is our equivalent and the pricing is lower than all our fellow pub/ restaurants in the surrounding area.
Crazycatred and Davey31 are a couple and alluding to the same situation. They have already sent an email to the company (which I own) and I will reply to the email to rectify their understanding.
They have denoted that the manager was rude etc..But in fact it was me that dealt with their issue.
Davey31 returned to me a bowl (which they had chips in) which had a hairline crack and a pint glass which was cracked and had a small amount of lager in it. I threw them away, offered a half a beer and thought it meant nothing. I do not belittle any customers points, but we were heaving. In the last seven days we have served 2000 people, including revellers in the building till 3am that morning, so shoot me if the incident seemed trivial., By the time I returned from throwing the bowl/ glass away he was gone. 2 minutes later Crazeycatred was aggressively quoting me lines that I had simply not said to her boyfriend. Her manner was abrupt, rude, curt and unmovable. I did say to her �relax, its New Year�s Day� but that was only because I do think that no one should be that het up over 2 pints and a bowl of chips. (which they had consumed!).
Net effect. 2 hours later, 1 email & 2 reviews and I feel an attempt of sabotage to my business.
I will not rant about how poor these people are in complaining. I will say though, that New Year�s Day should be an occasion worth more than this waste of energy over nothing and if you do feel so moved at least get your facts right!
You are right, in saying, that the Sportsman is in a lovely setting with great food etc� so I am unsure why you would want to create such a negative energy about something you enjoy. The email referred to boycotting the pub and I agree that this is the best option for you. In fact I would actively encourage you to take this course of action. Of course I will confirm this by return of your email.
On a more upbeat note � Happy New Year to all the Customers that appreciate and enjoy all the effort and passion we put into all we do at the Sportsman. � Marc Jones
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I have been visiting the Sportsman for 25 years as a walker, rider & cyclist. While the position can hardly be bettered, and the garden is lovely in summer, the food can and does fluctuate with management changes. The extension and refurb has been done beautifully and the menu is good. However, I decided to write with a negative after the last visit we made- hopefully the management may sit up and notice after the last 3 reviews! We visited on a Friday night in December with a couple of friends; the wait was long, the food was pretty poor; they got the order wrong for my partner, who had ordered a burger. When it eventually came, it had been deep fried! The chef was obviously panicking! Ugh- absolutely horrible. Our turkey was ok- the usual-a-bit-too-dry that is often found in pubs- but the gravy had been strangely flavoured with something like carroway or aniseed, not nice. We won't be eating there again until improvements are seen on here- although it's ok for a overpriced sandwich on a rest stop if walking or doing something else on the heath!
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I have eaten and drunk in this pub for many years here and there. It is especially nice after a dog walk. The food and the setting lovely and i have enjoyed sitting in the beer garden during the summer. However... today i visited following a walk with my dog and family. The pub was busy with it being New Years Day and the atmosphere buzzing. Sadly I had to make a complaint to the manager about a minor problem with my food which i initially would have been able to overcome as it wasn't a great problem. The issue I have and the complaint i have made and am commenting on is the appalling attitude of the manager towards my situation.
He was patronising, rude and extremely arrogant which saddened my family and myself.
I just hope that this great pub and the rest of the staff are not affected by the great lack of customer skill and management that this man has.
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i've been here a few times and today was the worse,i found a cracked glass and a cracked bowl today , i spoke to the manager about the concern i had about the issue and he joked and spoke to me and my partner very rudely.
i am not happy with the customer skills in the establishment,the managers words were to my partner was and quote " the last thing im worried about is a cracked glass and half a pint". i wasnt bothered about the drink atall but the issue could of been resolved politely and the point of it is that it could of brokrn in someones mouth and caused injury.
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I am not sure about the comment below, that just because you are a first time reviewer I do not think that it automatically makes your comments invalid or suspect. However, after a recent visit here (and i can't sleep)I have decided to take time to pass on my opinions.
The last time I used this place was a number of years ago and after moving back into the area I decided to get the family together for a Christmas meal.
Even though it is only a stone throws away off the A217 has a distinct feeling of being in the countryside. No roads pass by it so if you had not planned to go there you are probably lost.
We went on a Saturday evening and it was heartily reassuring the pub looks the same from the outside as I remember it. The inside has been �modernised�, but this was inevitable given its grubby style 10 years ago. My expectations weren�t high when I saw it had been refitted but it was comforting to recognise the old bar and the layout. It would appear the people that have spent the cash doing this place up have kept the �feel� of the olde pub vibe. The restaurant has been doubled in size and is now very designer, not overly my cup of tea but I can see why it was busy. The service was friendly and the food very good (big menu) even if the portions were a little on the large side. Four beers on tap and the two I had (Doom Bar & Otter) were top notch. It was packed when we were there but it did feel like that we were looked after very well. Gareth the manager is still there after all this time, amazing! We took the grandparents there and they really liked it and have already rebooked. Just hope they take me and the hubby and perhaps pick up the tab this time. All in all, still a lovely country pub to visit.
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"An absolute treat to find with everything that we look for in a country pub/ restaurant"
Sounds like you visit country pubs on a regular basis. Although strangely, this is the first one you've ever reviewed.
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This place is just pukka! An absolute treat to find with everything that we look for in a country pub/ restaurant. Firstly, no chain. We were chuffed to find a place that does not have the same menu, look and feel as the Derby Arms, Blue Anchor, Ramblers Rest etc�.. the staff seem motivated and genuinely happy to serve you. Me and the Wife took 12 of our friends here last Sunday and just thought it was suburb, food was good, beer excellent, service prompt and the pub looks like a real chocolate box. It was busy but they seemed to have good systems in place. Could not recommend this place highly enough. A true gem!
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Love the new menu guys!!!!!!!(in particular the pork belly & Eaton Mess)
jumbo - 27 Sep 2011 20:14 |
Nice pub, good selection of ale/cyder well kept, modern pub grub well cooked/served. Perfect for a few at lunchtime/late afternoon. A bit isolated but a nice walk anyway. Recommended!
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Always makes me smile on review sites like this to read silly little comments that do not inform anyone about the pub they are looking up. Let�s cut through all the blustering below and get back to the basics that websites like this are set up for. A Review.
The Sportsman indeed does occupy possibly the best location for a good mile or two around here and when we visited you possibly could not get more country pub looking if you tried. In the two and half hours we were here we saw a pack of runners, numerous cyclists, dogs in abundance, ramblers and over a dozen horses trotting past. Chocolate-box stuff. The service was very friendly and it is always encouraging to see staff wearing a uniform of sorts as opposed to the scruffy look that a lot of places are going for now. The pub part is traditional in style with the restaurant looking different, much classier in our view. The decoration is fresh looking which is always a good sign that the management are on top of it.
Prices are not cheap but where is now? The beer choice was good, and even though it was not the best pint I ever had, it was not poor by any standards.
We ate outside and thought that the food was of good pub standard. Not exquisite dinning but then again I don�t think it�s trying to be. We visited on a warm early evening and the place was very busy but seemed to cope with the volume well.
All in all certainly worth a visit or two, but me and missus did concur not the best place around the county but certainly sits in our top 5.
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Kev...calm down, calm down.
But its clear that you don't like people who just see The Sporsman for what it is!
You little devil you.
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Starting to get hacked off with this now, if I want a bunch of stalkers I will ask for them.
I am not "racing or leaping to the defence" of this or any pub.
I have no conection to it and only occasionaly use it, people have made their observations on it which they are entitled to. I have mmade mine, end of.
Now I would appreciate it if certain individuals stop continually have a dig. YOu have your views, I have mine. Try to get over it.
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Last summer, kevmac was saying great things about this pub - he was largely correct. However times change, but still he has to leap to defend this good (not great) pub whose main feature is its location. Its worst - a bad choice of staff....
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I have not "raced" to anybodys defence.
More than happy for people to state their views, I simply wanted to add my comments as a counter balance.
Hardly a crime.
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1800 and kev race to the defence! Why not just let posters state their views on the mediocre beer and food quality in this average pub, in a fine setting.
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I am not going to argue with the two posters who questioned the beer and the food, at the end of the day it's all about personal taste.
Having said that I have use the pub about 6 or 7 times and have always found the beer and cider very good with the food likewise.
Try it, in my view it is a great pub in a nice location.
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One of my favourite pubs, where the real ale and food has always been good, so it surprises me when I read these comments, I think if they had reported this to Mark or Gareth they would have dealt with quickly, and efficiently without any fuss, I do hope these comments that have been posted will not deter people going there, the adults and children could have a great time
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Lovely atmosphere, friendly staff, just shame about the food. Had the most disgusting burger here, tasted like it was cooked then microwaved, thereby removing all taste except for a nasty tang it left in the back of the mouth. The nachos again looked microwaved and all sauces were straight out of a jar. Nice selection of beers.
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4 real ales on during the week. 3 of them were flat. Poor show,
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Awesome place to go to. In my view this is one of the last bastions of a true pub country pub in this area. It has the perfect mix of a �rustic olde world pub� with a stylish modern restaurant which has been recently added.
I use this place on a regular basis for the quick pint or two but decided to take my family there yesterday, mother�s day, and we all concluded it was one of the best get togethers we�ve had for years. The atmosphere, food and service were marvellous and this was at a point when it was buzzing, very busy.
The outside areas are a great people watching spot with the odd horse or two just to add to the charm.
Given the other pubs in the area this has to been one of the best. Given the pub closures in the area all I have to say is �Long live the Sportsman!!
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Ok, so I'm a bit late with this .... but a few weeks ago, before the snow, me and my beautiful girl decided to catch the last 'rays' of sun (Ok a bit poetic but ....) and drive out to check this pub out. We arrived and discovered it didn't open until midday (no we're not alcoholics !!! ...) . So we put on our walking boots and set out for walk. It was lovely and peaceful. Having now earned our glass of wine. We walked in and were instantly presented with the warmest of welcomes, immediately we felt at home , so much so that we decided to have lunch as well!! The food was excellent, well presented, and served, including an unasked for jug of iced water (nice professional touch!), good selection of real ales. The atmosphere was so nice we ended up staying a couple of hours!! So why an 8, well I think it has the potential to get crowded and busy , which of course is good, but may lose that little bit of the charm we experienced, you can hear the M25/A217 when outside and it is so off the beaten track that you have to drive. But these are only minor observations. Highly recommended and yes we would definitely go again and again and again ........... (you get the gist!) : )
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I'd heard of the Sportsman and figured it'd make a nice focal point for a country walk (I live in Epsom). After coming over the Downs in the snow and ice, it was certainly a welcome patch of warmth!
While the layout means that the main bar is somewhat upstaged by the restaurant area, the Sportsman is a lovely pub. Its age isn't really reflected in the decor, which is pleasant "contemporary country pub", but that's no problem... it's a comfortable, friendly place for a drink. Four real ales, and I was happy to miss my first choice of Harvey's Sussex in favour of Wychwood Hobgoblin, which was in perfect condition.
Must try the restaurant next time - this is going to be a regular haunt for Sunday country walks!
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Popped in last Saturday to see me ole mate Marc Jones.
Sadly, he didn't seem to be around, so I couldn't buy him a pint.
The pub was heavily packed with diners, but luckily the weather was mild enough to sit outside.
Enjoyed a couple of pints of Aspalls Cider out there relaxing in the country surroundings and watching the weather change from sunshine to showers, then back again.
One question for Marc. I'm not sure if you personally run the sister pub ... The Yew Tree, but was hugely dissappointed when I popped in there beforehand, to discover the only Cider on draught was Wrongbow.
Why no Aspalls at the Yew Tree?
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Just love this place, fantastic in the summer, and cosy on those cold dark days.Had the best roast dinner today!
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We went to this place after reading all the reviews on this site, merely out of intrigue more than anything. Lived in Epsom for 20 years and never even know this place existed. Only a stone throw away from the A217 you do really think that you are in the country side. It is tucked away at the end of a road with quite a large garden to the side and a fair bit of seating at the front. We went on a drizzly Saturday afternoon so outside was out of play but the inside was very delightful. A modern traditional pub with a real sense of professionalism service and standards. We were greeted, served promptly and felt welcome all very quickly without feeling bustled into anything. There were a couple of dogs in the bar area which were well behaved and very �middle class�, which added to the country pub feel. It has been overhauled (apparently) in the last couple of years and you can tell by the general d�cor & toilets that this is the case. Good selection of beers, Youngs, Doom Bar, Harvey�s Sussex & Otter Ale with slightly less emphasis on its carbonated counterparts. We ate in the Restaurant which is stylish and cosy. Menu is good without being to flash and our food was exactly what the menu said. Overall we are chuffed that we opted to seek this place out and we have already booked next week to take our friends up there (who have never heard of it either). The downside is the slight hum from the M25 if you are sitting outside (we could hardly make it out) and I can imagine that it could get very busy, but it appears well set up to cope with this.
All in all a general good find. Cheers to beerintheevening!
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Aspalls cider (nearest thing to a real cider for several miles around).
Visually attractive location but while it is strictly true that there is "no through traffic" immediatly outside, the pub is only 350 metres from the M25 and while it is hidden by trees it can certainly be heard and smelt. Handy for walks on the Common if you don't mind being so near the motorway.
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VIsited for the first time on a showery bank holiday Monday and have to say I was very impressed.
Certainly the pub is more geared towards food but frankly that is a reality of the pub trade in modern times due to legislation changes.
Clearly a lot of money has been spent on a recent refurbishment and very smart it looks too. A good sign is always the state of the toilets and these are first rate.
Because I was driving I didn't check out the wine list so I can't comment on that. However the beer selection was good with four different beers on pump, I plumed for Sharp's Doom Bar which was very good and clearly well kept.
Menu had a good selection of main meals and snacks. My wife and I both choose bugers from the snack menu and we pleaseantly surprised, the presentation was good and the quantities were generous. Also liked the little touches like a free dip with crackers brought to the table and free water offered as well. Good work.
Staff were very friendly and attentive without being over bearing.
The pub itself is in an excellent location on the edge of the heath and just a very short walk from the North Downs. I would certainly recomend booking as the pub was very busy, although admittedly due to the weather eating outside was not really an option.
Nice to see a walker and dog friendly pub. Will certainly be coming back shortly and bringing friends with us.
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This place is without question in a super spot, one of the best in Surrey with no passing traffic on the edge of a great roaming heath. We have used the pub every month or so for the last few years and have seen the changes under the owners, which have all been positive and in the right direction. The staff are nice & polite and the beer range (so my husband tells me) is always good and the quality �top notch�. We use the pub for our monthly meal treat and we have yet to experience a poor meal, with most being outstanding The menu changes often with the prices never being to over the top. The reviews below seem a bit over the top in my opinion when this place does exactly what it says on the tin. A good example of country pub & restaurant!
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Marc Jones,
Firstly, allow me to praise you for going to the trouble of writing such a lenghty reply. It's obvious from this, that you are very passionate / take great pride in what you are trying to achieve at The Sportsman.
Perhaps I was a tad harsh / rash in my review.
I fully understand that is essential really, if modern pubs are to be successful, that they must offer a high standard of food.
However, I also feel that the most successful pubs have the ability to strike the perfect balance between drinking and dining.
As mentioned in my review, the fact that the same staff member asked us twice, in quick succession, if we wanted to eat, almost made us feel as though we were taking up valuable space by NOT eating.
We made quite an effort to purposefully seek out The Sportsman that day, after reading about it on this website. Travelling by train from Brockley (South London), changing at East Croydon, then trekking through the muck up the steep-faced Reigate Hill. On our arrival, all we wanted was to relax and enjoy a few pints before exercising the dog in the adjacent field.
Having said all that, I would have no hesitation on recommending The Sportsman to friends or indeed returning myself in the Summer, when it must be a beautiful spot to sit outside in the sunshine.
So, no hard feelings and I wish you every success with The Sportsman in the future.
Pat Bateman.
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Lovely pub set in a lovely area in the countryside.
Aspall's cider and Doombar on draught.
Sadly, that's where the positives end.
As is the modern trend (which is quite sad to witness) this pub is set out as 80% restaurant.
There's about 3 sets of tables and chairs near the bar area for proper drinkers. Bench style seats and larger dinning type tables are crammed into what space remains.
Kind of ruins the pub atmosphere, and we were asked twice (by the same member of staff) if we wanted to order food.
If you're part of the nice lunch / nurse one pint for 2 hours brigade, then you'll love this place.
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Thanks to the Sportsman and all the staff for making our evening out with friends (ten of us) such an enjoyable experience. It isn't always easy to find a pub/restaurant to cater so well, especially on a Sunday night, but the service was excellent and food delicious - all we could wish for. We have been before for both food and just a quick drink - we shall keep on coming!!
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I was hoping to keep this gem a secret but alas others have come before me with their praise. This is a great country pub and if you are in the area it is definitely worth a visit. The beer (varied) is very well kept and the food is superb. The location, whilst remote from the main drag is fantastic with its excellent walks through the rambling Surrey country side.
If I had to vote for my pub of all time, this one would probably win hands down.
Please try it for yourselves, but make it an evening I am not there so I can get to the bar. 10/10
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Had a great lunch today at the Sportsman with a friend, beautiful log fire we felt so welcome, cosy, relaxed and warm. Our meals were excellent as was the service.
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wow! we booked our work christmas meal but when we turned up it was like a 5* banquet.The restaurant looked amazing,the service was fantastic and the whole atmosphere made for a great evening,but......the food was outstanding,congratulations to the chef.This certainly started our christmas celebrations off with the right feel,in fact it was so good that we have already booked for next year!!I would thoroughly recommend the Sportsman to anyone that enjoys food,a great atmosphere and 'fun'. It would certainly be 'a time well spent'.
Thank you to all at The Sportsman for giving us such a great time.
' Yes Miss'
december 22nd 2009
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You dont find many pubs like this anymore. My wife and i went to the sportsman last week found it so refreshing to be greeted by happy & friendly staff.Top that off with its location and the food,well needless to say we will be back for more.
jumbo - 24 Oct 2009 16:18 |
Here is a quote from Adam Edwards who has been searching for the best traditional country pubs. He had some rough-and-ready rules: "The pub must serve decent beer [and] be part of the local community. The food must be simple and good, but should not eclipse the important business of drinking. It should not be so popular that the locals have been squeezed out, nor so exclusive that it did not welcome the colonel and the cleaning lady. Ideally, there should be no piped music, no microwaves and no electronic games. Dogs, and gumboots must be allowed. Children could be seen, but should not be heard......." I think we can safely say The Sportsman would pass with flying colours on all counts! This is, in my humble opinion, the best pub in the area for miles - Marc runs this pub with his heart and luckily also has a great business head and knows exactly what the punters want from a pub.
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Every silver lining has a cloud, and the Sportsman is no exception.
The downside to running a pub as good as the spotsman is that unless the service is scalable, its enevitable poularity begins to impact the enjoyment of the place.
Go on a weekday lunchtime and after a pre-lunch amble around its beautiful setting, settle into a chair of your choice and sample a really well kept ale and some simply stunning food. The restaurant isnt cheap but is great value none the less, or maybe try the bar menu which is cheaper and simpler which you can eat in the garden on brighter days.
However the Sportsman gets exposed on Sunny days and weekends in particular when its tiny cramped bar (all 8 feet of it) struggles to cope with the sheer volume of punters and you will wait 10 deep to get served amongst the throng before turning uncomforably pint in hand wondering how on earth you are going to get back to the door without spilling the lot.
A simply brilliant place in many ways - but on those glorious summer days when you sponaneously think to yourself "lets go an sit in a beer garden for the day" go somewhere else...
because about 2000 people thought of it before you did!
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I spent some time in the Sportsman and found that the best thing about it is that it is in MOGADOR!!!!!!!!!! I absolutely love Mogador more than life itself. The pub is lovely but Mogador is bloody amazing.
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I was walking on the Bank Holiday Sunday just gone and stumbled on 'The Sportsman'. The owner was outside on the bbq and the food smelled great. My Husband and I stopped for a drink and ended up staying most of the afternoon. The banter between staff and customers was really great. A good fun afernoon was had and what was really nice, is the pub is very dog friendly. The Sportsman 'Scrufts' on the 1st August is in the diary, and it sounds like it will be a lot of fun for both dogs and owners. We look forward to our next vist before then though!
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This has to be the best pub in the area, great bar staff, great ales and food out of this world.
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Nice rooms in attractive secluded location. As it's at the confluence of about 12 public footpahts, ramblers, amblers, hikers and dog walkers well represented.
Too much space given over to food; but, one imagines, it's isolation would make survival on bar trade alone difficult.
Service - despite it being packed with walkers and families on my visit - was hard-working and prompt, with orders taken quite quickly given the numbers queueing. Young's Ordinary not first rate; but quaffable. Food OK.
Good spot for a few refreshers when walking the North Downs.
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Good choice of beers, good food, and friendly welcome, seemingly in the middle of nowhere... look no further.
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Stopped in here for a quick half while walking. Youngs Ordinary, Sharp's Doom Bar and Pilgrim's Progress. The Progress was very good. Stone floor in the main bar so no need to worry about muddy boots although there were some people putting carrier bags over them. Staff were attentive and helpful.
Certainly out of the way but worth a visit and the countryside the other side of the M25 is lovely.
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I would fully agree with the comments of susan1234; this has turned out to be a fine pub. But, its hard to find - unlike its sister pub, The Yew Tree on Reigate Hill {A217}.
Signs will be important to direct new customers to this former shooting lodge up a laneway/cul-de-sac in rural Mogador.
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WOW- this place has been truly transformed. We went there on this afternoon for a spot of lunch and we were blown away how much this placed has been sorted out. The old smelly dirty & dank toilets have been changed to beautifull, stylish modern wash rooms and the bar area has undergone a very in keeping refit. The most amazing changes are in the restaurant area. The last time we went there the restaurant was small, dark & a bit dirty. It is now a large, open, light and stylish. Our lunch was tasty and the service was really freindly. The owner had a chat with us and his enthusiasm comes across in abundance, quite refreshing in this day & age. We will certainly be taking our friends and family here, the location is great and the pub is fantastic. A real must see.
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was here on sunday and felt compelled to say how wonderfull it all was!!! me and my wife sat in the very lovely and large garden and was amazed by how busy a pub tucked away could be! it appears many others have found how much of a gem this place is. the beer and selection of wines on offer was good, and the menu covered all tastes and reasonably priced. i had the belly of pork, simply perfect, and my wife had the country chicken, again, spot on. had no room for desserts as portions were good. cant wait to see what its going to be like after the building work has finished, and cant wait to come again.
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Always have loved this pub - with the recent changes it is even better! The people of Kingswood are truly lucky. Excellent beers and the best food around served all day. A true class act run by a true class team.
10/10
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It's always worrying to see builders anywhere near rural gems like this, but this looks like more of a rearwards extension than wholesale refurbishment and as long as it's in keeping with the original and not a blot on the landscape that's not a problem. We shall see come the final unveiling.
Anyway things are looking on the up. The existing rooms have been smartened up nicely without destroying the original character, the menu not overly gastro - not overly cheap either - and the beer range improved: Doom Bar in good condition yesterday if rather too cold.
Let's hope that when its finished it doesn't veer too far to the restaurant side and the walkers and riders who've enjoyed this pub for decades remain welcome to stop for a pint and a packet of crisps.
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My husband and I went to the Sportsman last Wednesday for a nice afternoon drink and were suprised that they did food throughout the day. After looking at the menu we decided to eat and loved the food (especially the puddings!!).
This pub is a real gem, it is in a beautiful location and is one that HAS to be visited!! This is now on our regular pubs to visit list and can only get better with the building work that is currently being undertaken.
Well done for putting this gem back on the map!
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RIGHT GUYS, THIS SORT OF TALK IN THE REVIEW SECTION IS NOT ACCEPTABLE.
I HAVE REMOVED ALL UNECCESSARY AND UNCONSTRUCTIVE REVIEWS, AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO IF YOU CARRY ON WITH SUCH POSTINGS.
REMEMBER THESE PAGES ARE TO REVIEW THE ESTABLISHMENT AND NOT TO HAVE DISCUSIONS. THE FORUMS ARE ALWAYS THERE TO HAVE CONVERSATIONS AS LONG AS THEY ARE CLEAN, BUT PLEASE REFRAIN FROM CONTINUIING YOUR CONVERSATIONS HERE.
THANK YOU,
FRAN - ADMIN
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just want to say good luck dawn and greg. when we have visited the pub you and the staff havs always made us feel welcome!take care.
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I KNOW I SAID I WOULD NOT VISIT THIS SITE AGAIN BUT I COULD NOT RESIST IT, HAVE NOT LAUGHED SO MUCH IN AGES. THANK YOU TO OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS OVER THE LAST FOUR YEARS, AS YOU PROBABLY KNOW WE HAVE LEFT AND IT HAS NOW BEEN TAKEN OVER BY MARK AND MAUREEN WHO WE WISH LOTS AND LOTS OF LUCK TO. I KNOW THAT THEY WILL MAKE IT THE PUB WHICH IT DESERVES TO BE. ALL THE BEST DAWN AND GREG.
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over the years i have been a customer of the sportsman.the pub has changed recently not all for the better. the staff are frequently changing and not always appearing very happy. on sunday we had lunch in the restaurant which was very pleasant. the food was good (although not cheap)and the young waitress was very pleasant and efficient.
the pub has always been very popular with the ramblers, dog walkers, cyclists and locals to relax and enjoy a drink/meal in a country pub and perhaps the food should accommodate their needs and not trying to make it something that its not ie:serving posh nosh!!
i think some of the comments towards the owners are personal and unneccesary.
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I take strong exception to the remarks made by 'disgusted customer'. They were far beyond normal criticism and I can only think that the anonymous writer has a grudge, which he/she found easier to express behind their anonymity.. I am a regular eater and drinker at the pub (name Derek Allcard), and must refute the remarks made both about the bar staff and the owners. I have always been well looked after by both.
How many owners would keep a pair of hair trimmers to cut the hair and trim the beard of a disabled customer? How much effort does the anonymous writer put into charity, compared with the owners?
I for one will be sorry to see two special characters leave the pub.
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I used to go this pub years ago; a real charmer in the countryside, wonderfully positioned by walton heath, a ramblers delight one might say. Of late it appears it's taken a turn for the worse though. I've been here twice over the last few weeks trying to re-live the memories I had from years ago of supping a quiet pint by the fireside, the first, my wife and I enjoyed a romantic meal of confit of duck by blue flashing lights, as the owner arrived and beat up one of their own bar staff and was promptly arrested. These things have been known to happen in the license trade from time to time, so at a second attempt, I arrived at 9pm last sunday with my father to find the pub shut without explanation. A disapointing memory best forgotton.
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Went here on Friday evening.Ordered a wine for my wife
tasted warm and foul,returned it.Next wine was better but still warm.I pointed out that wine cooler had no ice in it hence all the opened wines would be warm.
Barman looked at me as if I was mad..strange,surely this is a basic thing.
Oh and the wadsworth 6x tasted not good oh well and believe me I am not a professional moaner.
Mixture of clientele..food looked good tho
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Went to this pub last week after the smoking ban. Unfortunately we could only find a table next to the front door. Every time the door was opened we still got the stink of cigarette smoke wafting for outside. Perhaps we should have a law as in irelend where smokers have to be a certain distance from the pub before they can light up
anonymous - 30 Jul 2007 10:05 |
Went in this pub last friday, I think the smokers are having their "last gasp" before 1st July. I have never seen so many people smoking. A lot of them were smoking cigars, and it is only a small pub. Roll on 1st July 2007 !!
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A nice pub, with a decent size beer garden both to the side and in front of it. Easy to stop and park your bike and enjoy a well deserved pint.
As everyone points out the food is on the expensive side, but I was pleasantly surprised at how fresh and tasty it was, and I am usually the first to criticise. Certainly the food is better than a lot of restaurants charging the same amount so it is fair value.
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A small traditional pub just off Banstead Common. Popular with walkers and car drivers alike. Small bar with a good choice of cask ales, including Wadsworth 6X and Charles Wells Bombardier. Was doing a roaring trade for food (Good Friday) though the Al Acarte menu was very pricey and really only suitable for a special meal in the evening. Lounge was small with rather firm church pew type seating which was not comfortable for long periods. However most of the customers were sat outside. A pub with great character and well worth a visit.
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There are not many pubs left as good as this one friendly staff food is a bit pricey but it is very good lager and ale is great
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Used to be a beautiful pub 20 years ago but now all you hear when you sit outside is the constant drone of the M25
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Lovely pub, nice beer, good food (above average proces but good size portions) - great in the summer and winter alike
moany - 20 Jan 2007 17:54 |
Yes indeed the food here is expensive however the choice is massive and the quality is absolutly superb.
I think some complain becuase they think this is a normal coyntry pub and are surprised by the cost if the small restuarant. However this is not a normal country pub restuarant at all.
Good choice of wines and ales too.
The Sportsman is best though of as a nice country pub with a small yet very high quality restuarant.
I would view eating out at the Sportmans as a special occasion not a normal pub grub place.
Full marks for this place.
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The only good thing about working for an abysmal corporate in Lower Kingswood was its proximity to the Sportsman. My regular lunchtime escapes here quite probably saved my sanity. Having quit from Satan's employ, I now miss this pub terribly. The food was expensive but always fantastic, the ales and wines were exquisite, and all the staff (but particularly the landlord) were incredibly warm and welcoming.
A real gem of a boozer.
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Good country pub - though I didn't try the food it looked ok but expensive.
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Good, proper public house. Great location, good beer. Decent atmosphere good mix of regulars and passing trade (walkers, riders etc). Not eaten here for a long time but was pretty good if i remember.
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I love this pub! The beer is great. The owners and the bar staff are lovely. The food is fantastic! There is a menu that caters for all tastes and pockets. The Sportsman has a lovely rustic charm. Yes, it can be a bit smokey, and the Gents leaves a lot to be desired, and perhaps desserts are a little on the rich side at �4.95. But these gripes are insignificant! It's a great pub for walkers and dog owners and all those who tolerate them!!. For me, it is everything that an English country pub should be.
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A fantastic walk across Walton Heath can get you to this lovely pub. However there is a sting in the tail. Take out a small bank loan if you want to eat here
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An unusual fairly unspoilt pub on the edge of woods and heathland inside the M25. Best kept a secret.
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Well off the beaten track, a typical country pub (ie a bit shabby looking, but a friendly atmosphere nonetheless). Bizarrely, it has a collection of chamber-pots hanging from the ceiling. Not bad, worth a try (the pub that is, not the chamber-pots).
I didn't see a horse, but it was quite dark. Maybe next time...
The Parkhillian - 12 Nov 2004 10:15 |
went there had a nice cider. saw a horse.
anonymous - 19 Sep 2004 12:57 |
Nothing wrong here once you've found it. A fine destination if you're out walking and a nice stop on the M25 as it's just off the Reigate turn.
Nick - 1 Aug 2004 01:35 |
The Sportsman is situated on the edge of Walton Heath, on Surrey's North Downs, close to the World Famous Golf Course. Dates back to 1500 when used as a Hunting Lodge by members of the Royal family. Today, the Heath is used by walkers, dog-walkers, horse riders and cyclists - rare old fashioned pub - GREAT!
anonymous - 9 Jan 2004 15:47 |
A country pub for those who know how to find it (as it's off the beaten track ). Good beer & food , much favoured by walkers and people with horses , not far from Reigate .
Gavin Dulley - 5 Nov 2003 21:12 |
