The John Baird, Muswell Hill

Having spent a considerable amount of time staying in Muswell Hill for work, I have become an 'occasional regular' in the few pubs there are up here, and the John Baird stands head and shoulders above its competitors. I've always found the staff to be friendly and efficient, particularly for London, and the drinkers tend to follow suit. During a recent visit a chap asked whether he and a friend could share my table, and gathering that I was alone they asked whether this was my first visit to the pub. After a pleasant chat they continued their conversation and I went back to my paper until my (excellent) Thai curry arrived. They left, and the seats were quickly taken by a couple who were in for the pub quiz. Again, they noted that I was an unfamiliar face in the pub, and made me feel most welcome in their local - this seems to be the rule, not the exception.

The landlord clearly has a passion for real ale, and the broad selection (usually 8 brews) changes very regularly. I have never had a disappointing pint here, and god knows that's rare enough in these parts. They generally have several guests on the go, and I have discovered a couple of beauties - try Sharp's Atlantic IPA if you get the chance.

An oasis in a bit of a real ale desert.

23 Mar 2011 18:07

The Barley Mow, Southsea

A 'local' pub in the best sense of the word. They have an excellent, constantly changing range of well-kept ales, including many from small/obscure breweries that I've not come across before. The open-plan lounge bar is comfortable and the garden, though fairly compact (good luck with your double pushchair!) is well-maintained and a pleasant place to relax with a pint when the flora is in bloom. I've always been made to feel welcome there, even with a baby or toddler (and there are loads of games and toys to keep them amused for the duration of a pint). There is clearly a vibrant community atmosphere, as evidenced by the variety of groups and activities advertised on the walls, and they levy a fine for any use of mobile phones within the bar (phone users are 'invited' to take their call in the open-air annexe adjacent to the front door). An antediluvian jukebox stands against one wall, but I've never seen it working, so I don't know whether it is ever in service or simply there as a remembrance of times past.

There's very little to criticise this pub - and it's not helpful to post a review of a pub that you last visited six years ago. Give it a go, Thomasgx1, you might just be pleasantly surprised.

25 Aug 2009 11:10

Old Horse, Leicester

I left the waking horror that is the Stoneycroft Hotel just off London Rd, desperately seeking sanctuary in a sympathetic hostelry. Happily, I didn't have to walk for long - about 4 minutes. The Old Horse is a large yet homely 'come-one-come-all' boozer with a good range of beers (including Everard's Sunchaser - in December?!) and a big menu. The food isn't as impressive as the beer, and one of our party had to send his inedible chicken back, but it's serviceable pub grub. (If you want haute cuisine, there are about 10,000 curry houses in Leicester vying for your custom.) A friendly, vibrant atmosphere, very good ales and no holds barred with the Christmas decorations - just the job to stave off the terrors of staying at a cross between Bates Motel and The Overlook (off of The Shining).

12 Dec 2007 17:44