The Hand In Hand, Wimbledon Common

Read the comments by LondonColin - the refurb was (in my opinion) purely cosmetic and the Hand still retains its cosy feel. You want olde worlde antiquated feel, try the Rose & Crown.

Think it's a wonderful little pub - well worthy of it's claim to be Wimbledon's Best Little Boozer. The staff are amazingly friendly (and good to see the manager - Andrew? - out in the pub making everyone feel more than welcome - how many places these days do you see the manager out with the customers?).

Food is great (Caroline's kitchen rocks!) and all in all it's an amazing place. It's a cheap dig, but have occasionally wandered next door to the Crooked Billet which, when compared to the Hand, feels like it's in the second circle of Hell, whereas the Hand is pure Paradise!!

23 Sep 2008 12:05

The Crooked Billet, Wimbledon Common

Visited the Crooked Billet last week and was utterly disappointed. On a chilly day, all the doors were open with the net result that it felt colder inside the pub than out.

There was also a hideous mouldy/musty smell about the place - given that it is strongest near the rugs, I assume that the owners' dogs are responsible (have previously witnessed them urinating on the carpets without any chastisment). They also seem to have the run of the place which is offputting if you don't like dogs and would rather enjoy a quiet drink without being hassled by a four-legged spotty thing.

The staff, when visible, seemed to be huddled round a table at the end of the bar eating away and paying scant attention to the customers (unsurprisingly there were only a couple in there)

All in all it was fairly unpleasant visit. I trust that the managers will do something to at least ensure that a warm welcome is extended to customers and improve the atmosphere and attitude of the staff

22 Sep 2008 13:30