please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Over-priced tourist trap that we all keep going back to simply because it's the done thing to sit by the river and watch the world go by. The beer is Youngs-by-Numbers and the food nothing to write home about but hell, Location Location Location.
Of course if you keep an eye on the tide tables it is possible to get stranded inside, but aside from this novelty there's far better places to drink.
|
A victim of its own success in that there are no free tables inside at lunchtime! But mid-afternoon it's reasonably quiet, and the food's still on. The staff are friendly and ask almost TOO often whether you're happy with the food! Standard Youngs beers but no guests.
|
Used to be a cracking pub that sold food: now a food-selling machine which doesn't keep any space for. or give a tiny rats ass for, the drinker. Went in at 3pm - 3pm! - to find every table occupied with fat, chobbling monsters and a stink of cooked and cooling food that knocked you down : plates full and empty-but-uncleared everywhere. More like a posh greasy spoon that the good pub it was. Much to the management's bank balance's satisfaction no doubt. Turned on heel: off to an proper pub; not going back. It's been 'Richmondised'. Shame.
|
Well-kept Youngs (limited selection of other beers), passable food, exceptional riverside location.
|
My first visit to this large Young's pub on the river's edge.
Various pumps all dispensing Special, Bitter and Bombardier. My pint of Special was perfect.
Downstairs bar is a strange shape, busy on my Saturday tea time visit so standing spots were at a premium and seats even more so!
Nice building, large outside area but the weather wasn't so great so the majority of people were inside.
Quick and attentive bar staff, so no complaints re this place from me.
|
Still one of the best pubs in Richmond. A 'must visit' on a sunny day, or when the river is at high tide! (which is every fortnight, or lunar month). Mentioned in the book "Strangest Pubs in Britain" because it has 2 x fireplaces underneath windows..! :o)
I have a soft spot for this pub. Landlords come and landlords go, but the White-X stands alone, on the bank of The Thames. Forever serving the good folk of Richmond, and any passing boat trade, or walkers on the busy towpath.
You can travel a few thousand miles around the globe to find a location like this, glorious on a sunny day! Enjoy it. :o) TJ
|
Years ago when I last visited this used to be a faux-Victorian pub and very comfortable it was too. Went in yesterday to find that it had changed to less welcoming gastropub standard design which doesn't suit the place at all (and over loud background music). Friendly service and good beer (if pricy). Food slightly disappointing. Its a pity that Youngs have yet again ruined what was once a cracking pub.
|
Odd policy of trying to 'turn tables' quickly in the bar area at weekend lunchtimes - made to feel very unwelcome. Limited choice of ales
|
great location, good service and unbelievable prices. �9.20 for two beers.
|
I don't think I can dispute that this is the best pub in Richmond. Love the fireplace under one of the windows. Service is always polite and efficient and there is an excellent range of beer (mainly Youngs).
Winter? I go here during the winter - cosy atmosphere and, if the sun is out, it is great to have a pint right on the riverbank.
Summer? Totally overrun by the hordes. I am sure they cope admirably but, other than rugby internationals, I am not keen on pints in plastic but totally accept that is practical for them because of the sheer volume of numbers going there.
|
You simply can't beat the location, and the drink pricing reflects that. Seriously wallet damaging prices, not only on wine, but beer too. On the major plus side, they had Otter beer from Devon on at the weekend - not sure if it's a regular, but I'd still pay the tourist tax and make a lengthy detour to have a couple of pints of that in London
|
Nice pub with good service, food could be a little..... more imaginative. And I know its Youngs but the choice of ales are pretty bad. Still worth a visit though.
|
Never had a bad pint in here. Welcoming staff, perfect ambience (no music) and comes into its own around Christmas.
|
Still the best pub in Richmond. It knows what it is doing and it keeps doing it well.
|
2nd visit. Walked down the river in the fading light after completing 7 miles of the captal ring. The neon lights just pull you in! The place oozes character and personality. Had a quick pint. Would have stayed for tea if they had steak on. Great location.
|
Still a good pub, but why have the tables on the upstairs balcony been replaced with silly bar stools that look like they are from a 1970's nightclub. These tables where the most popular spot in the house, today they were empty.
|
Never go back they say... but on my first visit for the best part of two decades since this was a regular of mine, I was pleasantly surprised. Mostly I was worried about what havoc Young's might have wreaked on the interior, having experienced some of their other dog's dinner refurbishments (the Buckingham Arms in Westminster being top of that particular tree), but there was nothing to get too worked up about.
Young's Ordinary was fine and not outrageously priced for the outstanding riverside location. The London Gold seemed a bit lacking in character to me, though I'll put that down to the brewery not the pub. Bar staff coped with the throngs of bank holiday what-do-we-do-in-a-pub? once a year drinkers with robust good humour.
|
Rip off alert. Beer at �3.45 seems to be the norm these days, but �4.80 for a pint of lemonade (from the line) - ok, it was reduced to �3.80 by a barmaid who saw the absurdity, but ....
|
Lovely place. Given that there must be an incentive to turn the place into one of those soulless gastropub abominations that are appearing courteously of folks like the Capital Pub Company the White Cross continues to be an island of tranquillity in a sea of mediocrity.
The location alone makes it worth a visit as it is situated along Richmond�s picturesque river bank where rowers mingle with tourists wandering over from Kew gardens and locals from well to do families converse with casuals from across the river in Isleworth (that�s me). It�s a Youngs pub so you get their bitter and special (shame there�s no Chocolate stout or Kew Gold but no-one�s perfect), and today they have Bath Ales bitter which is a rarity on tap round these parts.
Food prices are decent. Main meals all for under a tenner (minus the epic Cumberland sausage platter) and a good selection of sides and deserts. The Milano salami platter seems to have been shrinking of late; cut it out folks I can feel the diminishing thickness! (said the choir boy to the priest). Anyways they also have a nice upstairs lounge with views over the river and a large beer garden out the front which has a bar open during the summer months.
It�s a pub that wears its history comfortably without need for gimmick or pretention. This isn�t uncommon for the area. Richmond is a genuinely affluent area and has been for decades. This has the effect that places like the White Cross don�t have to try very hard to evince an air of prosperity and authenticity. This sits in stark comparison to the new temples of artisanal beer culture who seldom seem satisfied unless their monument to middle class disdain is predicated upon an approximation of slum clearance. Make way for the McLaren buggies and desk killers of the future! The White Cross needs none of this and as such it combines local familiarity with genuine openness. Xaven says yes!
|
Superb location, but sadly complacent pub. Squeezy plastic glasses only in the garden (why? Understandable if going by the river itself but the garden itself is enclosed and of course, a lot of people were bringing their terribly dangerous glassware out anyway.)
You pay for your Sunday lunch at the counter...then have to go back and fetch it yourself! Plenty of staff milling about...
Still, the beer was good, the food very good value; well-cooked free range belly pork 'n trimmins for under a tenner in Richmond.
|
A reasonably sized pub the river. Beer garden out the front with river views. Three ales on during my visit. It was a rugby day and the place was packed. Service was slow but it was expected given the large number of people in there. Serves food but we didn't sample any.
|
I am a regular at this pub and have been for a number of years. We always find the atmosphere relaxed in the winter and buzzing in the summer. Great with caring bar staff and a well looked after beer. We often come down just to get stranded when there is a high tide. David and Julie the new managers are great and the fact we can take our dog down is great as they welcome him with a bonio! Long may it continue being the best pub in Richmond
|
The special is now being served at a "super cool lager " temperature. Very dificult to taste anything for the fist half of the pint. Bar staff not bothered.
|
Bar manager is a total c*cksocket.
I hear he rapes puppies. Hard.
|
Decided to pop in for a late lunch thinking we could get a simple, well cooked bit of pub grub on a freezing cold day. Unfortunatley we choose the wrong day!! We ordered sausage & mash and a steak and ale pie with mash. The mash was badly lumpy and the spuds not even cooked properly. The onions were not caramelised and smothered in dried herbs and too much bisto!! The pie had the same affliction of lumpy mash and was bascially beef casserole with a puff pastry lid.
On a positive note the guy working behind the bar that dealt with problem was most apologetic and gave us a full refund. I hope this is just a one off as we regularly use the pub.
Come on chef, take a bit more pride in your work.
|
The lack of a decent fire and the loudness of the canned muzak is making the pub less desirable. Beer is still good ( but expencive )
|
The lack of a decent fire and the loudness of the canned muzak is making the pub less desirable. Beer is still good ( but expencive )
|
Depending on what time of day you are here it is possible to be cut off by the high tide. Good excuse to have another drink
|
Great location right on the water front. Good fast service by capable staff, havent eaten here so cant comment on the food. Very busy in the summer but well worth a visit. A proper pub and one of the best in Richmond.
|
Have heard that the new management is trying to do table service. Does it really need it? It hasn't for the last few years when the pub has been busier and better than it's been in a long while.
It's a shame the old publicans were forced out by Young's management who thought they knew better...I quess only time will tell...
|
New Landlord & Landlady are noticeable by their invisibility.
But lets hope they are strong enough to stand up the the experts at Youngs who would like the pub full of Juke Boxes, Fruit Machines, TVs, and small children.
If they loose any more of the locals, the pub will be empty from October to March
|
Called in on a hot July afternoon and found it to be a wonderful place. The interior is full of charm and atmosphere. There is a good range of beer. The staff were friendly - even though it was busy. There is also an outside area overlooking the river - a fantastic bonus even if it does get very busy in Summer.
|
Excellent "ordinary"; good quality food, usually good and attentive staff, nice mix of people..... A good place to settle in for the evening, especially when the river is "up"...
If they dumped the Gordon's and Schweppes for Tanqueray and Fever tree, (and expanded the range of malts), it would get the 10!
|
Great pub and for me most probably best in Richmond now. Do a really good job on packed summer days and never a massive wait. Beer good and a great atmosphere - a must on a summers day or even in the winter when it reverts to a cosy riverside pub.
|
Probably the best pub in Richmond. The lack of electronic honey traps is a breath of fresh air. The outdoor bar brings a touch of the Riviera to the Thames on a summers day.
|
Group of 8 Camra members and I arrived 8pm . Upstairs ...beer okay. Tribute better than the tired Youngs ordinary. At 1045pm a beared gent arrived spraying tables and sighing. Including the one we are drinking at! At 10.55 the final orders bell rings... we go downstairs to order ...we are told it's too late... we say it's only 1055 they grudgingly serve. At 10.10 the bearded wonder arrives and tells they're closed and we have to go!!!! We protest ..he storms off in a huff...fat lady with black hair arrives shrugs and walks away.... We ask for landlord etc., they shrug ... we leave amidst silent staff with a chair barricading one of the exits. UNPLEASANT IGNORANT staff after what was a good evening...despite tired Youngs orindary.
|
Well known Youngs pub in a picturesque setting on the river front at Richmond.
Reflecting the fact that spring high tides can flood the outside patio at the front ( even though there's a cobbled roadway between the river and the pub frontage ), there's a separate entrance up some steps at the side of the pub. Many an unwary motorist has parked outside at the front of the pub and, despite the prominent warnings, returned to his car to find it partially under water.
Inside the pub, despite a recent refurbishment several years ago, the pub still retains something of a drawing room feel with 2 separate distinct areas served by an unusual kiosk style central wood pannelled servery. Also of note is a fireplace situated directly under a window and a stained glass panel at the rear of the pub reflecting the fact that the pub stands on the site of a former Convent of Observant Friars, whose emblem was a white cross.
The pub has become more food orientated of late, principally to cater for the large number of visitors to Richmond. Unusually, food is not cooked to order, but is served from a rather ugly factory canteen style food counter towards the rear of the pub.
There's an outside bar for those drinkers using the large patio at the front of the pub, for which the inevitable plastice glasses are required, but there's no real ale. There's also a family room upstairs - no separate bar.
Despite the summer crowds who flock to the pub in fine weather, the White Cross retains a slightly upmarket feel, helped by the absence of any TV's , fruit machines etc.
On my recent visit, both the Winter Warmer and the St Austells Tribute were in good form. The pub is listed in the 2010 GBG.
This is still a pleasant pub, despite having lost some of its character over the years, and, if you're a first time visitor to Richmond, you should try and make time to get here.
|
a fantastic pub. Great centre bar with guest ales and a warm reception. Superb views of the thames and an outside bar in the summer too. Can't go wrong.
|
The White Cross in my opinion is the best pub in Richmond. A traditional hostelry serving good quality Youngs beer and it has a nice atmosphere. it does not seem to attract the larger lout brigade found in some pubs in the area. Good food reasonably priced. Because of its riverside location it can get uncomfortably crowded on a warm summers evening.
|
This remains my favourite pub in Richmond. Was pleased to find it packed on a rainy Thursday evening and even more pleased to find Kew Gold on tap. A warm friendly pub that feels like a room in your own house filled with good friends and good beer.
|
I've always been quite fond of this pub as I used to drink here with my late Father.
Good range of beers within a very pleasant riverside setting and quick, efficient bar service.
I have a particular resentment though, when it comes to the extremely rude way I have observed the staff shouting aggressively at quiet and respectable customers to finish their drinks even before the pub is due to close.
Everyone knows the staff are keen to go home after a busy night, but at this particular pub they are renowned for going about this in an inappropriate and entirely unnecessary fashion, which could potentially drive many customers away.
A little more decorum please chaps...
|
Externally graceful, internally stylish and in a beautiful location: sit outside, next to the river or on the balcony for a panoramic view of the Thames.
Warm and friendly staff, even when it gets busy. A delightful, tranquil place to have a pint with friends and predictably popular with Richmond�s resident celebrities.
That said, if you're passions are football, foul language and 'avin' a fight, you'll be extremely disappointed here.
|
Great evening on Wednesday, stuck to the Young's bitter that was top notch. We were served quickly and I was dead impressed by the way the manager handled a drunk who turned up for a pint, a friendly chat and he was on his way.
There was 5 or 6 groups of of morris men dancing by the river, organised by the Spring Grove Morris Men.
Great beer and great entertainment - it doesn't get much better that this.
|
Good Youngs beers and always good service even when busy - like on a six nations match day. Rarely takes more than 30 secs to get served. Watching the tide come up the river can be fun - especially when the flashy drivers of fancy cars (parked illegally by warning signs) suddenly realise what idiots they have been.
|
This is a young�s pub with superb views down the river. Young�s Bitter is �2.80 a pint � that�s OK, and it tasted fine. The interior is very bright and comfortable (apart from a couple of high stools and tables). The service was friendly when I was in there at lunchtime last week. Worth a visit for the views alone.
|
Bit pretentious, but the beer is OK
|
Imposing solid looking building in a prime riverside spot, elevated to allow for high tides with the seperate side entrance to allow access under said conditions. A raised terrace to the front overlooks the river; a more intimate upper balcony is accessed off the higher level inside. The interior is elegant and retains many original features including wooden shutters to some windows.
A Youngs house with the usual offerings but also St Austell Tribute, also spotted recently at The Rose & Crown in Wimbledon Village. Is this a new Youngs/Wells policy? If so I'm in favour.
|
One of best pubs in Richmond. New management done a good job of improving place. Good beer, atmosphere and service, still feels a local and tradtional pub despite the throngs that visit it - even better in the week. Teejay correct that the food may not be quite the gastronomic delight that prices suggest so loses a couple of marks but still a very strong 8/10.
|
Ah, the good ol' "White X"... you just can't stay away for long..! Even my sister went here at the weekend, now there's a recommendation!
This is one of my all-time favourite pubs, if Martians ever invade planet Earth, we will (Bleep!) NOT (Bleep!) surrender the White X...!!!
However, a little observation... since the new management took over, the food is passable certainly, but not up to the same high standard, although the food prices are the same...! (Maybe it was a bad day, or the chefs day off. I'll monitor the situation)!
Can't complain about the location tho', on a splendid sunny afternoon.
But cyclists, please be aware! The River Thames goes up and down, twice a day, every day! If you diligently lock your �500 bike to the rail opposite the pub, every 2weeks for a couple of days there's a "high" tide, and your new bike could get water-logged while you're in the bar getting merrily sozzled oblivious to the monthly lunar effects...
I've told you now! You are now Tide aware! TJ
|
Ah yes, Bank Holiday weekend on the Richmond Riviera..!! The tow-path was packed on Monday, where were you..?!! I haven't seen so many folk down here for a long time, fantastic weather, brings 'em all out! You know, those cyclists wot can cycle on water..!! And the geezer on the mobile phone, paddling thru' 18inches of water, towards the slipway(!) who suddenly disappeared in the drink up to his shoulders...! "..I've just fallen in the river..!!" he exclaims to his phone mate..!! Priceless!! If you're reading this mate, well done! How you kept a straight face in all of that, I'll never know! Has your phone dried out yet? If you want a copy photo for your wall, i can email you one..!!
Haven't seen anything so funny for a long while..!!!
Pub was busy,but there was more folk outside watching peoples antics...! See'ya nextime..! TJ
|
Lovely pub for a drink. Great staff, good beer, great location. The food was not good when I had it, however it's a pub not a restaurant so who cares. I've never known the pub to be cold though on any of the times I went in. Could I suggest this was a one off?
|
On my last visit to this pub it was friendly, warm and the beer was good. In fact it is now my regular pub whereas it previously just an occasional venue.
|
Good pub for conversation & beer always good
BUT beware " Canned Muzak " is now being played in the Gents !!? Why ?
Beware the brewery may try to get it turned on in the bars.
|
I am surprised some think it is cold. I was in there recently and it was lovely and warm, they have a really cosy fire, the food was fabulous, the range and qaulity of drinks good, the staff weer really friendly, a great time was had by all. The only shame is the photos on the walls, the original pictures, that were hanging before the refurb were fabulous, better than the dismal re-hashed versions.
|
I don't know who you are, but to feel cold in this pub,you must be really thin. A simple solution would be to dress appropriately for Winter, or if you really don't like the pub, use another one - dead simple. Everyone else in the pub seems to love it
|
It seems that the reason the pub is cold from time to time is because us, the punters, turning off the rads... please dont... now we've been told....
|
It is sad that such a nice pub is allowed to be so cold, you'd have thought that at the prices charged, Youngs could afford to keep the heating on and at a level to keep the patrons warm and welcoming.
|
Nice 'walk-around' bar, good bar service. Unusual open fire underneath front window..!! Excellent location, but...ohh bugger..! the river's come up again, we're marooned in the pub for another 2 hours..!! River water a good 14inches outside today! (May be higher tomorrow..!) I saw many a wet trouser leg, and a few wet socks, go by today..! Clientele all well behaved tho'... TJ
|
Still my favorite pub for sitting in (or outside) on a sunny day or for taking that well-earned break on a shopping trip or for breaking that walk along the river or for including in a town center crawl. This is what pubs should be like.
|
Nice place. For real ale fans, it's a great place to go. They've just had a refurb and lost some of the character though - it now looks a bit standard gastropub.
blink - 24 Jul 2007 12:36 |
Great riverside location although it means that it's always packed on a sunny day. Beer was good but had better.
|
No smoking allowed, so its a nice clean atmosphere in here. On my first ever visit to Richmond I toured all four Good Beer Guide pubs and the beer quality here was the lowest, though not bad.
Being right on the river the place is a understandably a magnet for tourists, though the prics are reasonable.
|
This pub now provides a taster of things to come on 1st July and it�s fantastic. It now looks more like a modern pub and less like your grannie�s lounge yet has retained some of the cosiness. The upstairs looks so much better and I�m pleased they�ve kept the balcony, a fine place to sit and watch the world go by. More sensible seating outside. Gutted they�ve lost the comfy sofa, my favourite winter spot, but the large table that stands in its place is more sensible for getting a big group of people in. Nice work.
Food extortionate, can�t bring myself to pay for it so unable to comment on quality.
|
Lost a little warmth with the refit but not really an issue - still same pub, great in winter and early week then over run at the weekend summertime. Saying that a good pub espeically for the tourists - seems to be better under the new management I think
|
St George's day was a great success. The speed of service is better than ever before, beer not bad, and great music. refurb a bit so-what-ish, haven't looked upstairs. Like most pub refurbishments it will look fine after about 20 years wear and tear.
bulky - 24 Apr 2007 00:31 |
with its lovely building and great riverside position, this was probably a good pub 50 years ago....these days it's often a heritage version of a chain pub, churning out hundreds of pints and meals....in other words, it's lost much of its original charm. best to avoid at weekends and warm evenings and to try the watermans round the corner.
|
Went in last Wednesday, yes, I agree the refurbishment is not too drastic, but a good deal of the old fashioned drawing room atmosphere to which a previous contributor refers, has sadly been lost.
In many ways, it's a typical Youngs refurb - all new pastel colours and clean lines, which contribute towards a rather clinical and cold atmosphere, I'm afraid.
The upstairs room looks attractive, but I am concerned to see a plasma TV now in situ - hopefully it will remain a chav - free and football - free zone
On the plus side, the splendid central enclosed kiosk style serving counter has been retained, as has the stained glass window at the back and also the fireplace under the window.
Having witnessed many Youngs refurbishments over the years, I can truthfully say that this one could have been much much worse ( eg - Dukes Head, Putney and the Albert Arms in Norbiton ) , and we must be grateful for small mercies, I suppose.
Finally, I note that on St Georges Day, they are selling beer at � 2 per pint between 6 and 8 pm, and there is live music ( presumably in the upstairs room ) , so, in celebrating St Georges Day, well done to the new landlord for not kowtowing to the tiresome PC lobby.
|
Went in on Good Friday; seemed a gentle update to me; it looks more like a "now" gastropub than the rather old-fashioned drawing-room it was before, but I don't mind that "clean lines" look and they haven't been too aggressive with it. The upstairs room in particular looks much better. Beer is still good if not cheap (why should it be given the location); didn't eat but the menu looked good. If you liked it before, I don't see a reason not to like it now, and I'm a bit of a fogey about these things.
anonymous - 10 Apr 2007 13:58 |
The pub re-opened last weekend. It is certainly non-smoking throughout the inside rooms and smokers are accomodated outside under the heaters and the marquee - no idea if this will be a fixture during the winter. some good points like the high table and stools near the bar and the smoking ban although im not anti-smoking at all. The menu seems to have got bigger and the kitchen staff increased by several times. That said its lost a fair bit of its old charm and looks very much like any other painted premium priced pub that puts more emphasis on food than beer/wine- the prices also went up again - poss the dearest place in richmond during normal hours but thats not a real surprise. Hopefully they will finish off the clinical looking food area of the pub which looks more like a commercial kitchen than a front of house area which doubles up at a standing area when its crowded. After ten years+ we are moving from the pillar by the fruit machine (well the old space as its vanished) to the ship as this feels much more like a pub - but obviously back to the river when its great weather like this easter weekend.
|
The 'White Cross' is closed from yesterday (19March) until 31st March 2007, for refurbishment. It will open on Sat.31/3/07 as Richmond's FIRST no-smoking pub! (At least, that's what the notice on the door and window say)! Well.. there's progress for you! TJ
|
What a turnaround! Really well done to the new management team and what a fabulous night for the St Patricks Day party! Great live band, and good crowd. Rally happy atmosphere, a pleasure to have good live music in Richmond. Foods a lot better until this team too. Well done to all. PS- Please dont change it too much in the refurb!!
anonymous - 16 Mar 2007 12:37 |
Ace burns night, absolutely packed & full of regulars eating haggis.
By the way, this pub has never allowed children inside, its a totally adult environment, thank god!!
anonymous - 29 Jan 2007 22:21 |
Lovely pub, pleeeeeease don't turn it into anything like the slug & lettuce or the many other bland pubs in Richmond... Beer looking up too lately.
|
I attempted to visit this pub over Christmas period 06 with two children. Outside it was about 6 degrees centigrade. The pub looked lovely, we wanted lunch and went inside. We were headed off by a member of staff and told in no uncertain terms that we weren't allowed to bring children inside at all. He informed us he had put a heater on in the outside seating area. How welcoming and helpful. Do you think we stayed to eat out there, relegated to the freezing cold? I think you can probably guess what we did... we went to the Slug & Lettuce next door where, though service was slow, we were welcomed and had nice food.
|
Cracking evening on Burns Night - haggis etc plus a blues band - the place was packed. Congratulations to Alex (the new landlord) for turning the White Cross around so quickly - back on the list for a regular visit!
anonymous - 28 Jan 2007 12:51 |
"Beer is living proof that God loves us and wants to see us happy!" - Benjamin Franklin (US Statesman)
|
"Beauty is in the eye of the beer-holder"..!!
And this certainly is a beautiful spot here by the River Thames, and the White Cross.
If you've not experienced this little beauty, take note, and make a window for it in your social calendar..! And if you look really closely.. under that window, you may see a fireplace..! Now that's unusual.. and probably why this pub gets a mention in "The Strangest Pubs in Britain" (2002). TJ
|
Food served - yes,
Riverside location - yes
Real ale - well maybe, but not as we used to know it Jim!
The white Cross is one of the best pubs in the country and I should know! Ive been using it for over thirtyfive years. During that time - (apart from one grim period when walls were taken down to demolish the individual bars), it has remained largely unchanged. It always was and still is one of those places where people are able to meet, talk and swap banter - after work, or before going out or at the end of the evening, without the intrusion of redundant television screens, musak or games machines. In other words, it is a proper pub!
The white Cross had one other atribute. It sold the finest bitter in the country. The best bitter (Special) and the ordinary were the finest examples of London style ale available - and the seasonal Winter Warmer was unique, not to say miraculous. All this has gone, I fear forever! Last night I tasted all three beers - each was as tastless and as characterless as the next. Each indistinguishable from the other. I felt I was at the scene of a crime - but no-one was investigating! The White Cross will always be a great pub provided it manages to withstand the Young's drive to turn it into a hotel foyer style bar as it has done elsewere. But what can we do about the dreadful state of the beer?
|
Young's Ordinary definitely on the up, good food and Winter Warmer also.
|
We seem to get a lot of people on this pub site who don't know who they are...('anons' all over the shop)! Never mind, Father Thames knows one & all, who venture along these banks, and this is one of the more favoured watering-holes in the area!! Long may it be so. (TJ)
|
Must wholeheartedly agree with the last comment.
The new management are like a breath of fresh air, pub looks cleaner,staff are smiley and even the food looked appetising.
So far, so good.. keep up the hard work.
anonymous - 15 Nov 2006 19:52 |
The new management has arrived and what a welcome change. The plastic glass nonsense has largely stopped, the Bombardier is a welcome addition and the Guvnor is in evidence on a regular basis!
Also the summer riversniffers have gone and one of the best winter pubs in the area is back on track. Cheers!
anonymous - 7 Nov 2006 16:52 |
Email to Youngs must have worked - lemonade now only �2/pint (see below). Evidence of C Wells tie up, - Bombardier on last night.
|
Just to let you know the old managers have left & the new ones take over late October.
Lets hope for better things to come.Looks better already!!
anonymous - 20 Oct 2006 21:37 |
I must say, that it's been a while since I've been to the white cross. I try and go when the old man and his missus are not around, which is not very often. He is the most horrible human being that I have ever had the displeasure of meeting. I've been abroad for quite some time now, but distinctly remember his horrible wife berating a poor little south african girl behind the counter for wasting time by being friendly. Horrible lady. I was so looking forward to their retirement which was meant to be in September, only to find out it has been moved to the end of the year. Very very sad!!!! I have no idea what Youngs and Co were thinking when they let that man and his horrid wife run such a beautiful pub. I bet when the new manager gets there, the pubs reputation will sky rocket (hopefully it isn't another arrogant, stuck up, "I'm-so-caught-up-in-myself-and-my-massive-ego" geriatric like the one there now)
Now all that needs to happen is for youngs to drop their prices a bit... what do you say?
anonymous - 6 Oct 2006 11:41 |
Reasonable Youngs Special, reasonable price (for Richmond) = �2.70 a pint, half of lemonade (from gun dispenser) = �1.70, equivalent to �3.40 a pint!
I'm sure there's a moral in there somewhere.
|
Nice to see the 'White X' is using the 'hard' plastic glasses again, for outdoor use. Who wants to sit inside on a day like today! Scorchio..! TJ
|
I'm not to familiar with the Richmond drinking scene, but whenever I am there I find myself drawn to the White Cross. It's Young's so you can always expect ale of a reasonable standard, and yes, it location is fantastic. Worth checking out if you are in the area.
anonymous - 3 Sep 2006 14:57 |
I just happened along one Saturday afternoon.. ooh about a 4weeks ago now.. and I saw the biggest crowd I've ever seen outside the White X. A band were playing in their little forecourt area, by that little outside bar bit, and music was blaring and people were dancing and having a great time!! What a great idea! I had to stop and soak up a drink or two. You had to stand in the newly cobbled road to get a view! Nice to see so many folks enjoying themselves, on a sunny early evening, and at no extra charge!!
MANAGEMENT - Is this a regular event?! (Was there anyone famous in the band, they were quite good)!
It must have been very good for trade. TJ
|
Yes it's expensive but look at the location, great place to sit, chill and get drunk. Also the prices keep out a fair few of the river rats. If the Landlord is rude don't speak to him all in all a great little spot.
|
My venue of choice in Richmond these days, I take it all back when I said I wouldn't want to spend an evening in here. It's great at any time of day, nice balcony upstairs for those commanding views across the Thames. Beer's always delicious (good old Youngs) and well kept. Yes it's expensive but it's worth it cos it's such a nice pub and entirely chav-free. Toilets are always clean too. What's wrong with the staff? Always had very prompt and friendly service myself. Thoroughly recommended.
|
Great setting, but I echo other comments about surly staff - but as also noted by others the direction comes from the top. I believe the management is due to change in the Autumn - I certainly won't be going back there until the change has taken place
anonymous - 12 Aug 2006 17:28 |
My Dad first took me to the 'White Cross' when I was about 10yrs..! Thats a few years back now! He saw the beauty of this wonderful venue, and now so do I. But I moved out of Richmond and 'lost touch' with this lovely pub for 20yrs or more. Now, I will visit this pub as many times as is humanly possible in a week!! ..so long as Old Man Thames keeps flowing, and the Pilsner doesn't dry up!!!
What will happen when 'Youngs' Ram Brewery at Wandsworth shuts down next year!? Will the 'White X' survive? Yes.. if you keep up your custom here, it will. (Despite all the best efforts of the staff & management, who according to this very review site, have an uncanny knack of upsetting customers, and even their own employees, without even trying)!
Don't worry, the Thames and the White Cross are a perfect match, and will long outlive any current surly encumbants!!! Check-out the river wildlife!
The monks really did a fine job inventing the White Cross ! Keep faithful now, but don't make a habit of it!! God bless all who sail in her!! TJ
|
i'll get this out of the way first; i worked in this pub during the summer of 2003. don't take it personally if the landlord is rude, he's like that to everyone- especially the staff. the pub is fantastic so the sooner Mr & Mrs H (the landlords) leave many more people will be able to enjoy this Richmond landmark.
|
Traditional pub, with 'walk-around' bar and a unique fireplace directly under a large window, over-looking The Thames. Splendid spot on a sunny day, good Youngs ales, and plenty of Pims on tap for the ladies! Tends to attract the 'more mature' drinker, so no Chavs or loud music or football here!
Visitors to the area can get caught out by the rising high tides, which occur fort-nightly, when the tow path immediately outside the pub floods during the time you've had your first pint..! Regulars are marooned by the river for hours some days..! Such is life by the river...cheers!
|
My experience on a recent sunny weekday afternoon:
Pleasant riverside location;
Staff were friendly and efficient;
Clientele were civilised; and
Youngs Bitter was reasonably priced and tasted lovely.
Meets the criteria for a return visit when next in Richmond.
|
This is definitely NOT the best pub in Richmond. It's the most expensive and has some of the worst service.
If they sorted this out it would be worth a visit as the location is lovely.
TheGP - 16 Jun 2006 10:40 |
Richmond's best football free pub - so no chavs or scumbags, therefore highly recommended
|
Still the best pub in Richmond, and by some margin.
|
And I'm glad the guy below doesn't like it!
|
Rubbish group of 15 rugby fans kicked out for singing, unbeleivable rubbish
|
Agreed, so am I !
|
A really excellent Youngs pub . Very pleased the individual below doesn't like it !
|
Horrible, horrible, horrible - dank, smelly, smokey and no atmosphere.
If you must come here, because you don't like the other riverside choices, get a drink and stand outside as the threat of lung and psychological damage is high inside this place.
|
Sorry but has to be the most over rated pub in Richmond. Wow I can see the river....
|
Good selection of beers and nice terrace for river views. Food is basic but adequate. Decent atmosphere in the hot summer months but very quiet at other times of the year. However I must agree with the other reviewers that the landlord tends to be a little aggressive. Perhaps he's had to deal with too many kids from the private schools down the road getting drunk and falling in the Thames.
|
Lovely pub to while away a few hours of an afternoon, especially if you can bag the sofa and gaze out onto the river. Nice and cosy too with real, open fires, strangely under the window in one room which accounts for its entry in the somewhat misleadingly titled 'Strangest Pubs in Britain' pocket book. Food's quite nice. Has a different entrance for high tide as the garden gets flooded regularly. The piece de resistance at the moment tho is the delightful St George's Ale which they have on draft. Really tasty and worth a visit just for that. Friendly enough staff but they don't take kindly to you putting your feet on the table :) Fair enough.
Not too sure I'd fancy a night out here tho, definitely an afternoon pub.
|
Drink Prices are stupid - even for richmond.
The Pub is pretty dead, lacks atmosphere.
The bar staff arent great.
The Land Lord smells of penis.
|
Nice pub - good beer and food, a tad expensive but not outrageous. Beware the landlord, but we found the landlady at the food counter just as bad!
|
Nice little pub, the Landlord seemed to be behaving himself when I visited though he ignored my comment about it not being cheap to drink bitter anymore. Lovely in the evening with the fire and not too smoky.
Toilets clean and tidy possibley installed after the pub was flooded a couple of years back.
|
Perhaps someone should tell YOUNG'S about the landlord.
|
I wonder if the previous posters are talking about the same chap, a short, thin, white haired man with a real attitiude... certainly not the best barman i've ever encountered
anonymous - 9 Jan 2006 21:58 |
Pub - 9/10
Landlord - 1/10
The only previous bad comments written about this pub are all about the Landlord, hmmm wonder why, he is just so very rude.
It really is such a shame, it is a fantastic pub, blessed with River views, good (Youngs) beer, quiet, relaxing atmosphere, good d�cor, lovely balcony. Best pub in Richmond. I�ve been going there for years, just don't know for how much longer...
A plea to Youngs: do something about the Landlord, he�s costing you business.
|
This is a great pub if you know the landlord, don't bother going if you don't.
Having drank in this place many times over the last five years or so, it was a massive shame that on a recent visit the landlord was in such a beligerent mood that saw us nearly barred for sitting in the wrong seat. A bit of an over reaction to a simple mistake. Though of course there was nothing on the table to indicate this reservation. What followed was general moaning about the number of people in there. Again a strange reaction for someone running a business.
The beer is okay, but not looked after brilliantly and there isn't the biggest choice from a brewery that produces so many different and great beers.
So basically, what could be the best pub in Richmond with a fantastic building in a brilliant location it is limited, and it makes it all the more heartbraking, because of the potential of this place going to waste because of the guy in charge.
|
Sorted! Where else can you enjoy a nice pint or two of Youngs while watching the incoming tide cover the stupidly parked cars! A real gem.
|
This is a fantastic little pub right on the river. Gets very busy in the summertime, and in the winter it's a nice little warm cove to have a good pint of youngs bitter and while away an afternoon.
I've been here a few times, and always make a point of having a pint in the white cross whenever I'm in Richmond.
Sadly, the only thing that lets it down is the landlord. A few months back he got quite offended when I asked if I could plug my phone in (atleast I asked!!) to charge - despite the fact that we'd been in there for a few hours racking up a bar bill that could definatley pay for the .01p needed to charge a phone. Second time was recently, on a fairly busy night when he cocked up giving me 20 quid cash back and left me �10 short, when I asked about it he stroppily game me a fiver, then when I (politely) quieried that it should be a tenner, with receipt...etc in hand, he slammed open the till, exclaimed that he "couldn't be bothered with it" and threw a fiver over the bar to me.
All in all - the pub rates a good 9/10 for me, but the grumpy landlord severely lets down the atmosphere, so I've downed it to a 7.
|
Like this pub...Not a great Youngs fan but the beer was ok...Usually a few people here who like a beer & a laugh.....Also woke up with more drunkenly taken mobile phone snaps of the river/bridge taken from the balcony & ground floor window...David Bailey-NOT
|
I love this pub.Great little balchony upstairs.
|
Good beer, served in good condition. Service is a bit slow, but friendly. A perfectly acceptable watering hole.
|
A price of Young's Bitter is �2.45 - great value for what is a lovely pub with a great view of the river and the world passing by. Lager is more expensive so don't drink it because it ain't worth it.
A great pub on a sunny afternoon but avoid at weekends when the riverside at Richmond is clogged with people.
|
Who does the pictures for these pubs? Rather better looking than the picture suggests.
|
Any complaints about beer prices should be routed to Gordon Brown (plonker).
This is a good pub with great food, good atmosphere and I've never had a bad pint here in 15 years.
Keep an eye out for the first day of Winter Warmer - breakfast and a pint. Yummy stuff...
One of Richmond's finest, and certainly one of Youngs' best. Keep up the good work.
|
Youngs Special well kept. Lively crowd of the Richmond gentry. Great location along the Thames--with outdoor seating in the garden and on the balcony. Lovely view from the windows. Walking distance from transportation. Bar staff quick to serve. All in a pub that actually has been around a while. What more can you look for?
|
I don't understand the complaints about prices. I paid about �2.50 for a pint here - that's standard across London. Also, apologies to the Triple Crown Inn - it's the White Swan I was thinking of.
|
Have to agree with GP, Location great, prices even greater. Does keep out the P&P and and chavs though which isn't all bad.
|
The Triple Crown Inn is more expensive than the White Cross? Thats 2 pubs I won't be visiting in future.
The location is all the White Cross has going for it - Everything else about it would make it an average ripoff Richmond pub. Go to the Watermans Arms around the corner instead, it has a far better atmosphere and you'll definitely get a better pint.
|
Excellent range of well-kept Youngs, good traditional food, fantastic location right on the river bank, and (in answer to TheGP) not as expensive as the Triple Crown Inn. Having said all that, I don't like their policy of making customers in the beer garden use flimsy plastic tumblers - there's something very disconcerting about drinking beer from a wobbly glass!
|
Visited again this Sunday. All well with the world. Youngs special and Winter Warmer in good nick at �2.50ish a pint. Great roast pheasant lunch. No piped music, just conversation and approaching-middle-aged, middle-class guys like me reading newspapers and enjoying a small Partagas. Lovely if you like that kind of thing. If you don't then there's lots of other pubs in the world. Enjoy!
anonymous - 1 Feb 2005 12:49 |
A lovely riverside pub, friendly staff and good food. Gets too busy on summer weekends.
Maurice - 16 Nov 2004 10:45 |
I am surprised at some of the recent negative comments - I like the pub. They are deliberately trying to keep the Friday Night Psychos / Budweiser Boneheads out - hence the high prices for lager. Yes, staff turnover is high, but is that not true of most Richmond pubs ?
A great atmosphere - still one of Richmond's gems. Long may it remain. We don't all want to drink in places such as All Bar One and Slug & Lettuce, you know
John - 14 Oct 2004 12:53 |
Gone downhill. Used to enjoy this place with its lovely "living room" feel on the Thames. However, desperate Landlady and rapid staff turnover do nothing to enhance the service here nowadays. Food is dreadful, as are the overpriced wines and warm beer. Feel like writing to Youngs to complain. With a gem of a place like this, its a shame people can be allowed to run it into the ground. Avoid! Maybe if patronage dies off they won't assume they can charge the earth just for the privelege of being in a good location.
Shel - 13 Oct 2004 13:15 |
If anyone can find a more expensive pub in Richmond, please post it on here.
I wouldn't mind, but their main lager is Castlemaine XXXX - Not even a decent brew..
TheGP - 25 Aug 2004 14:12 |
Brilliant location and a great old style Young's pub that serves a decent pint. Maybe the lager is a bit pricey, but if higher prices help to keep the yobs out that is just fine with me.
Kris - 16 Aug 2004 18:52 |
This has all the potential to be one of the best pubs in Richmond, but the frankly preposterous prices put paid to that.
I know it is in Richmond, but this just a ripoff.
TheGP - 10 Aug 2004 13:21 |
As someone who has both run the White x and got v.drunk there i might b a little bias, but i can honestly say the White x is perfect in everyway.
Ryn - 31 Jul 2004 13:44 |
Great location but 3.20 for a Stella, hello. Priced to keep youngsters out which is maybe fair but better pubs in Richmond if not better location
Neil - 27 Jul 2004 14:49 |
A perfect place to start the weekend on a Friday night watching the world (and some v. attractive women) pass by as you sup a pint of Young's. Stella at �3.20 is about the most expensive I have encountered but it is worth it for the location and the atmosphere of the place.
gearbox - 19 Jul 2004 16:44 |
My local and I love it. Anyone under 25 will hate it, which is fine by me! Good Youngs beer; plain good food, not overpriced by Richmond standards; no music; no TV; comfy furnishings and decor (just refurbished - not "past its prime! though maybe reassuringly un-groovy). A million miles away from a 'style bar' and long may it remain so.
anonymous - 1 Jun 2004 13:54 |
BEST pub I have EVER been in .....superb atmos....staff are great!
Sam - 1 May 2004 00:10 |
Best pub in Richmond.Anyone who says its too small should look upstairs.Great for Sunday lunch if you get there early.Expensive beer but not a burberry baseball cap in sight.
squatter - 14 Apr 2004 10:25 |
I really liked this place. I went with my fiancee and a couple of friends. The Sunday lunch didn't look too appetising; you know the kind of thing - food that has been on a hot plate for ages. The beer however was excellent and I loved the decor.
Alistair - 6 Apr 2004 13:35 |
I understand the picture above - whenever I've been there its been dark outside or the tide prevents any view of the front. Can get busy but there is an upstairs lounge if you wish to avoid the post rugby crowd and its lousy outside. Decor also looks a bit past its prime but this is a must for a Richmond Crawl
|
Has the hallmarks of a classic boozer. Decent beer. Great location and place for letching in the summer. I always want to get smashed in this pub.
Adam - 5 Mar 2004 12:55 |
In the winter there just isn't enough space for people in this pub - strange considering how big it looks from the outside...
In the summer, everyone has a great time enjoying the beautiful riverside scenery
|
woof woof woof said this wet dog!
thats what happens when i dont get my hot pepperami! very nice pub, right by the river, but beware of the tide, it can come in and your car will go underwater-ive seen this happen many times, -and yes its expensive, but its a chav free zone-which is excellent, no feltham freds here!!
badgayboy - 23 Feb 2004 12:51 |
Only good in summer. Full of old blokes and wet dogs
Sam - 18 Feb 2004 12:37 |
Historic old hotel that maintained high standards. Really ood pub grub and friendly, helpful staff. Quick service and the best location right on the river. Outside seating fantastic on a summer day or evening.
Jay - 14 Feb 2004 14:40 |
Like the place but beg to differ with Loz on the food comment! Prince's Head has much better food and value for money. That being said, pubs are for drinking in as far as I'm concerned and in that regard the White Cross is great!
Shel - 4 Dec 2003 18:06 |
Second only, maybe, to the Princes head as the perfect place to settle for an afternoon of good honest drinking. Good beer if a tad pricey, but hey, this is Richmond. Piss's all over it's two neighbours. Bravo!
Good for: Anytime really.
James - 26 Nov 2003 16:07 |
Possibly the best place for a pub lunch in Richmond - quick service (at the food counter), plenty of seating inside/outside, and lots of good reasonably-priced meals.
Loz - 19 May 2003 16:57 |
Always has, always will be the best in richmond
muffla - 24 Apr 2003 13:08 |
Great pub with a very friendly atmosphere and well worth including in any pub crawl of Richmond.
Angus - 19 Mar 2003 19:17 |
Better than all the theme pubs that surround it. Very nice atmosphere, well worth a visit.
Mike - 18 Mar 2003 16:59 |
great pub, great staff and a good landlord (certainly looks after you as long as you treat the place with respect - ie feet off tables/stools etc. great views etc and unlike the nearby chain pubs (slug, pitcher etc) they don't tend to get many of the young/irrating snobs/fashion victims that are in the area - very worthwhile visiting in the winter as great cosy atmosphere
simon - 30 Sep 2002 13:21 |
great atmosphere for post match drinking and celebrations
Jim - 22 Jul 2002 14:51 |
