The Oval Tavern, Croydon

My wife and I visited the Oval as we had been told it had been taken over by a new landlord who really takes pride in his beer. As we had finished work late we decided to pay the pub a visit. Had to use the GPS to get my bearings but to my suprise it literally is a stones throw from East Croydon station.
Upon entering we were greeted with a warm cosy pub with lots of nooks and crannies great if you like to sit and people watch, chat and enjoy the beer. Music played in the background and did not impede quiet conversation just adding to the atmosphere.
I chose a pint of Doombar and my wife had a half pint of Strongbow. The Doombar was certainly on form, smooth with brussels lace very morish and quaffable, the Strongbow was also spot on. Of late when we have gone into the pubs in the area pub we never seem to both get what we want it's either good beer and average to poor cider or the other way round. 10 out 10 landlord.
The landlord in question is called Graham apparently he is an ex Rugby player with the nickname of Beastie and his wife Jan were a delight to chat with and made us both feel like we had been regulars for years. We didn't try the food but if is anything like the beer they are on to a winner. We would highly recommend a visit if like ours this is your idea of a good night midweek. Good chat good beer and cosy surroundings.
Apparently they have live music towards the weekend...... Rock and Blues....sounds like a good way to end the week .

13 Jan 2011 09:14