The Magpie and Crown, Brentford

This pub is a bit of a paradox - for years I would travel past before I noticed it and even then it looked shut most of time. Whilst there's no denying that a refurb was needed, especially if it wanted to attract the new more affluent clientelle that was moving into the area, but I can't say its proved much of a success: removing the ornate surround above the bar was a mistake, painting the walls and ceiling pure white has made it too stark, and yet the one thing that really did need to go - the dodgy 70's gas fire - still remains!

Still, its a small price to pay for the decent selection of regularly changing real ales but the real attraction has to be the farmhouse scrumpy or cider that is often available.

The Thai restaurant is a nice touch, although the last dish I had was WAY too hot.

4 Jun 2008 00:41

The William Web Ellis, Twickenham

OK, OK I won't disagree with the raft of comments about the poor bar service but the food service wasn't bad and how about some positive comments on the interior in this tardis of a pub?

When I was last in one lunctime the front part was full of pensioners enjoying the comfy padded arm chairs. And how about the impressive and atmospheric circular fireplace near the back of the pub? With gas prices being what they are these days that must cost a fortune to run!

Beer is decent and cheap, pub is smart and clean.

4 Jun 2008 00:11

The Plough and Harrow, Hammersmith

I'm a BIG fan of Wetherspoons, but this has to be my least favourite. It seems "soulless" and, in direct contrast to the previous comment, I always find it suprisingly dark and dreary inside - it feels as if some of the light bulbs are permanantly blown.

Sure it serves decent cheap real ales but that really doesn't redeem it. Please don't prejudge other Wetherspoons on the basis of this poor offering.

3 Jun 2008 23:58