BITE user comments - 5thearlofwimbourne
Comments by 5thearlofwimbourne
I've visited several times since the Canterbury Beer Festival last July, and always had a cracking good pint - or three - on each occasion. There are half a dozen ales on engines, an engine for cider, and some of their beers also come in the aerosol-dispensed variation. There is a selection of European bottled ales and beers, including one from our troublesome colony on the other side of the Atlantic.
The food is good and not over-priced for Canterbury. I swerved in last week and not only did I have a pint of Christmas Pudding Ale - which had strong overtones of cloves and cinnamon - I couldn't actually discern the orange that is also present; I also had a couple of pints of Single Hop Pale - Fan-blooming-tastic! A chat with Thomas, the brewer, rounded off the visit.
This pub just goes from strength to strength, and is now my favourite pub within the city walls. 8/10.
16 Dec 2011 16:31
The Waterloo Tavern, Canterbury
Absoultely vile!
All the classic clues are present for the previous post being made by the owner!
"Self-praise is no recommendation". [1853, Charles Dickens, "Bleak House".]
16 Dec 2011 15:20
Unless the local mafia, or local Parish Council get their way. I suspect they may be one and the same.
The local grapevine has suggested that the vicarette may take the place over as her vicar(ette)age.
16 Dec 2011 14:49
The Queen Charlotte has closed since the last review, and has subsequently been bought by some cove from London. After being closed for some months and having been altered and retro-renovated internally, it now resembles a real pub once more, with real ale and a selection of bottled ales.
It was busy on my visit, but there was plenty of space at the bar, and two barmaids - only one of which was serving at the time. I was either wearing a cloak of invisibility, or the only people who are welcome in the Queen Charlotte are members of the landlord and barmaid�s cabal!
Having been totally ignored for several minutes and incandescent with rage, I immediately repaired to a far more welcoming hostelry within lurching distance, and slaked my thirst accordingly.
No ales consumed and no service in any way, shape or form. Nul points!
15 Dec 2011 16:17
T.A.V. �markos�.
U kun nu kopen echte Engelse kaas ( rijpe �Cheddar� ) bij �The Conqueror�.
De �Cheddar� kaas, een varkensvleespastei, een keus van mosterd, en een uitstekende pint!
Wat meer kond u wensen?
Een goede maaltijd voor een redelijke prijs!
Mvg.,
5de Graaf van Wimbourne
15 Dec 2011 15:01
The Beer Engine, Newton St Cyres
This is more of an open letter to "devon 21", and those of a similar persuasion who think it �cool� to drink straight from a bottle.
Gentlemen, and indeed Ladies, please feel free to indulge you baser urges by all means, but do be aware of the very distinct possible repercussions of your actions, and you will understand why the fellow behind the bar said "we don't serve in bottles", should the following happen to you.
Initially, you will suffer with flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, myalgias, intense headache). The flu-like illness may resolve without treatment but, in some cases, an immune phase follows with a return of fever, jaundice, red eyes, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or a rash. In more severe cases, there may be organ failure, e.g. the kidneys, or meningitis.
� Approximately 10% of those infected become jaundiced (with hepatocellular necrosis) and have a severe and rapidly progressive form of the disease with liver failure and renal failure.
� The jaundice appears during days 5-9 of illness and is most intense 4-5 days later, continuing for about 1 month.
� The degree of jaundice itself is not indicative of prognosis but leptospirosis without jaundice is very rarely fatal.
� Purpura, petechiae, epistaxis, minor haemoptysis and other signs of bleeding are common.
� Other symptoms include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, skin rashes, conjunctival haemorrhage, and uveitis. There is often a severe headache, retro-orbital pain, and photophobia. A severe myalgia (lower back, and legs) is common. Leptospirosis may present as aseptic meningitis.
� Pulmonary symptoms vary from cough, dyspnoea, and haemoptysis to adult respiratory distress syndrome and massive pulmonary haemorrhage.
� Hepatomegaly: hepatic percussion tenderness is a useful indicator of continuing disease activity.
� Kidney dysfunction (leptospiral nephropathy) is usual, sometimes with life-threatening renal failure with signs of uraemia and disturbance of consciousness.
Congratulation if you have any of the above! You have contracted Weil�s Disease! How cool is that?
15 Dec 2011 12:31
I've visited the Clachaig Inn on a number of occasions over the years, the last being a fortnight ago. It's a magnet for any person taking part in outdoor activities, and the only place really worth visiting in the Glencoe area. The Clachaig has three bars in total, each with its own character. Real ales, malt whisky and good food are served in each of the bars, with the Boots Bar serving the larger variety of ales, and this is where you'll find the majority of walkers and climbers.
The venison burgers are extremely filling and they are not mean with their portions either. Although the Clachaig may be a winner of the CAMRA "Best Pub in Scotland" award, I have found that the ales can be a little "hit and miss" on each occasion I have visited, and certainly the first pint of the Isle Of Skye Brewing Company's "Red Cuillin" ( 4.2% ) had a distinct touch of the "Sarsons" about it. It was changed without any hassle, and I have found the bar staff are more than happy to give you a "taster" if you ask.
The Atlas Brewery "Three Sisters Scottish Ale" ( 4.2% ) was a dark refreshing pint in good condition. The Caledonian Brewery's "Dunkelweiss" was a particularly dark and delicious wheat beer. Also amongst the various ( exclusively ) Scottish ales available over the weekend was "Latitude" ( 3.6% ) from The Atlas Brewery described as a "Cask Pilsner" and a couple from The Cairngorm Brewery. There are fifteen engines on the bar and eight to ten were in use at any one time.
Sunday afternoon was a very jolly affair in the Boots Bar, quaffing industrial quantities of ale and gargantuan amounts of food, whilst listening to classics on the juke box such as "Who killed Bambi?" ( Tenpole Tudor ) which was very apt considering where we were, Jilted John, Carlos Malcolm & His Afro Jamacian Rhythms, The New Vaudeville Band and John Otway.
A great place let down somewhat by the beer, so regrettably only a 7/10 instead of an 8/10.
Whilst in the area, The Kingshouse inn and hotel is also worth a visit and can be found at the eastern end of Glen Coe at the junction with Glen Etive.
2 Nov 2011 16:02
The Three Judges, Partick Cross
Should you be en-route to Glencoe for the weekend, and you happen to be passing through Partick looking for a Morrisons in order to negotiate the purchase of victuals to sustain you, should you find your grasp of the local geography to be somewhat limited, then you would be well recommended to drop into The Three Judges for directions and a pint.
An excellent corner pub with nine ales on offer. The locals are both friendly and helpful, and the barman most efficient. It was rather quiet as the visit took place early in the afternoon, and I can imagine it to be lively of an evening.
I had a pint of "Ochr Tywyll y Mŵs" ( 4.6% ) from Y Bragdy Mŵs Piws ( "Dark Side of the Moose" from The Purple Moose Brewery, for the non-Cambrian speakers ) served in tip-top condition, as was the Beartown Brewery "Black Bear". It would have been nice to have extended our sojourn for a wee while longer but Morrisons was tempting us with Square Sausage and other Caledonian comestible delights, and we still has a hundred miles to cover to our destination.
An excellent 8/10.
2 Nov 2011 15:49
I paid The Horseshoe a long overdue visit when I went back to Glencoe the other weekend - my first visit since returning from Arran in May 2006!
"If it isn't broken - don't fix it!" Well, it wasnae broken so they didnae fix it!
I popped in with three friends early Friday lunchtime having driven the best part of 500 miles from the South East, and the pint of Deuchars' I.P.A. was quaffed with gusto. An excellent pint and the service was as brisk and prompt as before.
The three course lunch is no longer available for �3.45 as it was five and a half years ago. It has now gone up to �4.25, with a larger choice of main course, and I don't just mean that you get a choice of either baked beans or mushy peas with your Scotch Pie! In addition, other food options are the "Two Meals for 5.50" deal, Burger & Drink for �4.49, Wednesday Grill - �5.99, Thursday Curry - �4.99 and Sunday Roast - �4.99.
I've just read the above paragraph back and it look more like an advert for 'Spoons than for The Horseshoe. But 'Spoons it definitely ain't!! The previous score stands.
2 Nov 2011 15:22
"expertoppion" may have posted his/her entry below on 17 February this year, but the visit to which he/she refers was made a long time ago, and most certainly predates my last posting of 26 February 2009 when a refurbishment had just taken place, as a result of a new landlord taking over the reins!
I can, with certainty, place "expertoppion"'s visit between 04 April 2006 and 17 February 2009!
"Do try and keep up, 007!"
25 Oct 2011 14:07
The Conqueror has nearly been open for a year, and is named after a paddle steamer which used to ply its trade between Ramsgate and the French channel ports. The captain of The Conqueror was the landlord�s grandfather, and there are a number of photographs of The Conqueror adorning the premises.
Three ales � always served in tip-top order which is only to be expected as the landlord was chairman of the local CAMRA branch before opening The Conqueror. Proper Cider is also served. Snacks are limited, and the speciality of the house are the hand-raised Pork Pies, with an interesting selection of mustard.
No music, no fruit machines � just conversation and good ale. If you live nearby, it�s the perfect watering hole if you are doing your Dhobi as it�s only a couple of hundred yards from the local launderette. A far better proposition that sitting in said launderette watching your long-johns flailing around in a washing machine!
The opening hours are limited which sometimes is not a bad thing, and The Conqueror is closed on Sunday evening and all day Monday. It is situated on the �Thanet Loop� bus route.
It certainly gets a �thumbs up� from me! 8/10.
22 Oct 2011 15:59
I can�t understand previous reviews where difficulty has been encountered in finding the brewery. The tour currently costs �6.00 and there is a gift shop, and a comfortable private members� bar, where you can have a couple of halves prior to the tour, and they are more than happy to serve you a pint or two after at around �2.65 a pint.
The tour guide was a fellow called Mick who was rather entertaining and reminded me of a character played by Sir Ian McKellen in a northern-based �soap opera�. He did have a tendency to drift off subject quite often and I was on the last tour of the day which might explain something.
Informative, entertaining and fresh tasty beer � what more do you want? 8/10.
22 Oct 2011 15:06
The Lendal Cellars, as the name implies is subterranean and was the last hostelry visited on my Eboracum odyssey. After having gotten accustomed to the gloom, I was served a pint of Rooster�s �Yankee� by a charming young lady with a winning smile.
It�s an interesting pub belonging to Greene King, so alongside the aforementioned Rooster�s �Yankee�, you got the run-of-the-mill, insipid �I.P.A�, or �Old Speckled Hen� � which Greene King emasculated as it was a superior product to their own �Abbot Ale�.
There were a couple of young mothers inside accompanied by a gaggle of mewling offspring, so I took my pint outside to sit in the sunshine, And although sunny, it was akin to sitting in a wind tunnel, as can be seen from the photograph.
Apart from the nice lass behind the bar, there is not really a great deal to recommend The Lendal Cellars, hence a rating of 4/10.
22 Oct 2011 15:02
The Old White Swan is quite a pleasant old coaching inn, and my first impression was that it had the look of a pub group �refurb�. Sure enough - it is one of the Nicholson chain, with some nice Victorian features behind the bar.
It was rammed when I walked past earlier in the evening, and had quietened down considerably upon my return. The bar staff were most polite and attentive, and I partook of an extremely potable pint of Salopian �Darwin� at �3.05. John Smith�s cask Bitter was also on offer, along with Cropton Brewery �Red I.P.A.�, Thornbridge �Jaipur�, and most unusually, all the way from Michigan, North Peak Brewing Company�s �Furry Black I.P.A.�.
A not-to-be-sniffed-at 6/10.
22 Oct 2011 15:00
The Snickleway Inn is yet another pub vying for the title of �Most Haunted Pub in York�. A comfortable, pleasant, high-ceilinged pub, with two distinct areas in which to drink. It was a Saturday evening when I visited and very quiet compared with some of the pubs in Goodramgate.
There was a decent enough range of ales on � Wharfebank �Tether Blonde� at �3.00, Timothy Taylor �Landlord�, Rudgate �Viking�, Jennings� �Snecklifter�, Ossett �Silver King� and John Smith�s Bitter which was cask!
Nothing about The Snickleway really made an impression � either positive or negative. 6/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:58
The Golden Slipper is adjacent to The Royal Oak and a different proposition altogether. There was a lively, convivial atmosphere thanks to a duo called �Two Bob� � one Bob played guitar and the other Bob played the fiddle, although it may have been the other way around.
A jolly gathering of patrons was spread throughout the several rooms leading off the main corridor/bar area, and a beer garden at the rear which is the size of a pocket handkerchief. The old �Magnet� sign bears witness to this being a former John Smith pub.
I availed myself of an excellent pint of Timothy Taylor �Best � at �2.85. Also available were Deuchars� �I.P.A.�, Wells-Young�s �Bombardier�, Courage �Best� and Rooster�s �Yankee�. A good, solid 8/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:45
A comfortable two bar pub with a snug, and a labyrinthine, vertigo-inducing climb to the Gentlemen�s Lavatorial Facility. Unfortunately, a pub on the moon would have more atmosphere than The Royal Oak. As with The Three Tuns, you can have three one-third pint samplers, or, should you prefer, three malt whiskies for �10.00.
The choice of ale was between Timothy Taylor �Landlord�, Bradfield Brewery �Farmer�s Harvest�, Theakston�s �Old Peculier�, Greene King�s �Abbot Ale� and Leeds Brewery �Samba� at three guineas � absolutely outrageous for a 3.7% beer!
Not at all inspiring, I�m afraid so I set off for pastures new�.5/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:44
The Yorkshire Terrier Inn, York
The front �room� is the shop for the York Brewery. You can either access the bar via the shop, or by the right hand entrance along a corridor. The bar has three distinct areas, and for a Sunday, when all the tourists were busily milling around outside, it was uncannily quiet inside.
There were four ales from the York Brewery, plus Skinner�s �Splendid Tackle�, Bowland Brewery �Sawley Tempted� and Holden�s �XB� at an extremely modest �2.85.
Very good, friendly service and a cracking pint, but rather quiet. 7/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:42
This is an Edwardian pub where, in a similar fashion to The Blue Bell and The Swan, the rooms lead off to one side of a corridor, and between the front and rear roms, there is a serving area in the corridor. The pub has interior glazed brickwork, and being outside the city walls, it�s not what you would term a �Tourist Trap�.
On the contrary, it is a very friendly welcoming locals� pub with good beer and good banter in abundance, although when the average price inside the city walls was �3.00 a pint, it stuck in the craw somewhat paying �3.10 without the city walls for a pint of Jennings� �Crag Rat�. Their �Snecklifter was also available, as was Marston�s �Burton Bitter� and �E.P.A.�. The fifth ale on was Ringwood �Old Scrumper�.
Still worth 7/10, however.
22 Oct 2011 14:41
I wanted to like this pub � I really did, but something is just not right. It�s a one-room pub, the television was not intrusive and the there was background music playing, but there was definitely something utterly intangible about the place.
The beer wasn�t bad, but not great. On offer were Theakston �Old Peculier�, Greene King�s awful �I.P.A.�, �York Guzzler� from The York Brewery, Castle Rock �Harvest Pale� and Maxim Brewery�s �Delilah�, which at �3.19 had me pulling my hair out!
Very disappointing, with the most expensive beer that I bought over the entire four day sojourn. 4/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:40
This is a Grade II listed building and is a contender for the title of York's oldest pub with its entrance down a small snicket. which opens into a patio area. On my visit, there were a dozen young �chaps�, presumably on a stag evening. They were more likely to be students, as notwithstanding the fact that they were wearing tweed jackets, not one of them was sporting neckwear, and every single one was wearing Pantalons de Nimes!
The inn, itself is a lively multi-roomed affair and there is another patio area to the rear.
The bar area is not particularly large so it can get somewhat crowded. Yet another pub in York which is reputed to be haunted.
Ale on offer this particular evening were Ossett �Lion Brew�, Theakston �Old Peculier�, Sharp�s �Doombar� ( which seems to be coming even more widespread than Wells-Young�s �Bombardier�! ), Little Valley �Cragg Bitter� running in at �3.06, Harviestoun �Bitter and Twisted� and St Austell �Trelawny�.
A little disappointing which is reflected as 6/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:25
This pub has a light airy feel that gives it an almost continental atmosphere, and its frontage is no longer the lurid blue depicted in the accompanying photograph above. Good, friendly, attentive, young bar staff added to the ambience.
On offer was �Edwin Taylor�s Extra Stout� from Banks & Taylor at �2.95, York Brewery �Scrum Down� & �Centurion�s Ghost�, Burton Bridge �Golden Delicious� & Knot Brown Ale�. Again, no music but the gentle hubbub of conversation made for a lovely relaxing atmosphere.
7/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:24
I visited this pub on the recommendation of the keeper of the most easterly alehouse in Kent! I liked this pub so much, that, like The Blue Bell, I made three return visits over the course of a weekend. There are numerous enamel advertising signs from a bygone era and a wooden panelled ceiling which, upon scrutiny, turns out to be made from recycled doors, in this single bar pub.
There was no music � just people chattering away. Sunday Lunch for me was a portion of chilli chips, and you could see that before the chips came out of �The Dragon�s Pantry�, they were made from real potatoes! The portion was generous, and all the other dishes that I saw emerge from the kitchen were of a similar generous size. Several patrons were unable to finish because of the quantity.
Shaun, the landlord, was most affable, so I am afraid I cannot make comment on previous postings about his attitude. Ales on over the course of the weekend included Black Sheep �Best� and �Golden�, Rooster�s �Silver Lining�, �York Guzzler� from The York Brewery which is only a couple of minutes walk away on Toft Green, Wentworth�s �Raisin & Oat Stout�, Isle of Purbeck �Force Four�, Kirkstall �Best Yorkshire Bitter�, Milestone Brewery �Harry Porter�, Top House �Kingdom�.
Fruit Wines, Perry and Cider - including Biddenden Cider, and various other European beers are also sold. The ale averaged out at �3.00 a pint, which seems to be the average throughout York, with the Notable Exception of Samuel Smith hostelries.
It's got a totally different atmosphere to The Blue Bell - they are both superb, and having given The Blue Bell 9/10, I'm also giving The Maltings an equally liver-quivering 9/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:21
This is what I call a real local pub, with a glazed brick facade. The Golden Ball were serving Salamander Brewing Company �Golden Salamander� - �3.05, the increasingly ubiquitous Wells-Young�s �Bombardier�, Everard�s �Tiger� Northumberland Brewery �Black Dog� and Timothy Taylor �Golden Best� - �3.00.
Ceramic nick-nacks abounded in groups of three around the periphery of the Bar Room � the flying ducks, beloved of Hilda Ogden, corpulent ladies, frogs, chickens, Guinness toucans, pigs 7 swallows.
A superb, unspoilt Victorian pub with a glazed brick bar � 8/10
22 Oct 2011 14:19
One of Tetley's �Heritage Inns�, admirably described by John Bonser in a previous review, which is also on CAMRA�s National Inventory and Grade II listed.
On offer were Dark Tribe Brewery badged as Dixies Marine Ales �Full Ahead� at �3.00 a pint, Tetley�s, Timothy Taylor �Landlord�, Saltaire � Blonde� also at �3.00 a pint, Bradfield Brewery �Farmer�s Stout� plus real cider and perry. 7/10.
22 Oct 2011 14:11
A nice enough pub - subject to flooding. Unfortunately, all the beer is keg, and even at �1.70 a pint, Samuel Smith�s �Old Brewery Aerosol Bitter does not cut the mustard.
3/10 purely because it�s situated in a nice spot.
22 Oct 2011 14:09
There are not enough superlative to describe this delightful pub, which is listed in CAMRA�s National Inventory.
No music, just the gentle sound of conversation. One touch of which I particularly approve is the notice requesting patrons not to use mobile �phones in the public bars.
Beers on offer were Timothy Taylor �Landlord�, Bradfield Brewery �Farmer�s Bitter�, �Farmer�s Stout� and �Farmer�s Blonde�, Rooster�s �Yankee�, Rudgate �Ruby Mild� and Ossett �Silver King�. All beers sampled were in the finest of fettle.
I was so impressed that I visited on four occasions over the course of three days, and have no hesitation in giving this absolute treasure a rip-snorting 9/10!
22 Oct 2011 14:06
This pub announces itself thus:-
�The Golden Fleece is York's Most Haunted pub, thus one of the England's most haunted sites. Visit the Oldest Inn in York and you can be sure of a friendly atmosphere, quiet surroundings and traditional services.�
Is it because the ghosts that haunt this establishment are violent that the services of a �bouncer� are required on the door? I declined to enter and to my utter delight, discovered The Blue Bell just around the corner.
No visit, no score.
22 Oct 2011 13:51
Previous descriptions are just about spot on, with the emphasis definitely on food at lunchtime. The ceilings are quiet low and consequently there are warning to �Mind your head�. 80�s music was gently lilting in the background.
On my visit, there was a choice of Jennings Bitter, Marston�s �Sweet Chariot�, Wychwood�s �Bountiful� and �Hobgoblin�, Ringwood �Old Scrumper� and Bank�s Bitter.
The �Bountiful� was served in good condition, and if you are undecided about your choice of ale, you can have three one-third pint samplers served on a custom made wooden tray. This option costs �3.30, if memory serves me correctly.
Prompt, friendly service.
Jason the landlord is nick-named �Pork Chop� Lord only knows why, but he was certainly conspicuous by his absence..
6/10.
22 Oct 2011 13:49
To get to the Bessemer Arms, you really need your own transport. I, being the philanthropic cove that I am, gave Champ, the wrinkled retainer and chauffeur, the day off, and it was the Devil's own job to get there by public transport, involving a train journey to East Grinstead, and a bus from there to Kingscote station - the most northerly on The Bluebell Line, then a leisurely steam-hauled train ride to Sheffield Park. It took an hour and forty minutes to get from East Grinstead to Sheffield Park!
The Bessemer Arms is named after Miss R.E.M. Bessemer, the redoubtable granddaughter of famed Steelman-Inventor Sir Henry Bessemer. Notwithstanding the fact that the previous reviewer likens the atmosphere to that of a cafeteria, the food was nonetheless tasty and good value. They were doing a roaring lunchtime trade on the day of my visit and there were plenty of friendly, efficient staff so queuing for either food or ale was minimal. Tables were cleared in a very prompt manner without patrons being made to feel rushed.
There were three very well kept ales on offer; Harvey's "Best" & Hammerpot "Martlet" representing Sussex breweries, and from Manchester, a guest appearance by Hyde's "Summertime Blue".
The reason that they were particularly busy on the day of my visit, and hence the third ale being available, was due to the annual re-union taking place of the retired enginemen from the old Nine Elms motive power department - now sadly the New Covent Garden Market!
An excellent day out - and not just "for the kids", I would hasten to add. The whole set up is extremely well run and, personally, I look forward to the day in the not-too-distant future, when the Bluebell Line connects to the mainline railway service at East Grinstead once more. As an ale-loving gricer, the whole package warrants 9/10 - the Bessemer Arms itself, 6/10.
28 Aug 2010 16:42
The latest of "Wimbourne's Wailway Wambles" took me from Shepherdswell to Sandwich, following Col. Holman F Stephen's now defunct East Kent Railway. The line passed slightly under a mile to the west of The Five Bells, and the time being approximately 13.00, refreshment was called for.
The Five Bells is a friendly unpretentious two-bar local, with a veritable suntrap of a courtyard outside. The pub is home to the local P�tanque team. The local branch of British Legion also meet at The Five Bells. Food appears to be home-made, and I had a substantial round of cheese &onion sandwiches to accompany my pint(s).
Two ales were on offer on my visit - G.K.'s ghastly "I.P.A.", so I went for the alternative offering from Bateman's. I don't remember the name of the ale, not because of over-imbibing, but because the name of the ale and its pump clip alluded to the Football World Cup competition - something towards which I feel a morbid congenital antipathy.
All in all, a good, solid, village local apparently surviving rather nicely, which, thank my sainted trousers, hasn't been turned into a gastropub. I have visited previously and seen - and drank - cask mild. There's a very good, proper Fish & Chip shop just over the road.
6/10.
26 Jun 2010 16:09
The Magpie and Crown, Brentford
I didn't realise how long it was since I last paid a visit, until I saw the last entry from "Matthew_of_Ham"
26 Jun 2010 14:29
Following our visit to The Saracen's Head at East Symonds Yat, the faithful chauffeur & manservant, Champ, conveyed us to The Boat Inn. It is exactly as described by "Phantom Raspberry", bar the fact that it was a beautiful April afternoon, so a log fire would have been totally superfluous.
The pub is set in a very pretty location indeed, and it was a pleasure to sit outside watching, through a rheumy, pickled-onion eye, more canoeists trying their hardest to kill themselves!
Wye Valley Brewery's "Butty Bach" was in top form and I partook of a few which went down particularly well with a bowlful of Presbyterian in my favourite Straight Bulldog Pipe, whilst poor old Champ, the wrinkled retainer, had to make do with Vimto, or some such other vile muck.
The food looked and smelled delicious, but I never actually got around to ordering let alone eating as my back teeth were floating due to imbibing an excess of the aforementioned "Butty Bach".
A lovely little pub in a bucolic location, worth a highly respectable 7/10.
26 Jun 2010 10:38
The Saracens Head Inn, Symonds Yat East
Re last posting - my ale of choice was Wye Valley's "Butty Bach". Obviously having a senior moment.
25 Jun 2010 13:40
The Saracens Head Inn, Symonds Yat East
Paid a recent visit accompanied by my "gentleman's gentleman" for a weekend in the Forest of Dean. This is a lovely pub on the banks of the River Wye where you can sit and watch the swans and ducks, in addition to the large number of canoeists paddling up and down the river - a rather novel way to commit suicide, if you ask me!
The service was very friendly and efficient, with several jolly good ales on offer, although I did not partake of solids on this occasion.
An idyllic location in which to sit on a beautful sunny day, quaffing a pint, smoking the old Bent Apple Billiard, and simply watching the world going by!
Marvellous! 7/10.
24 Jun 2010 16:00
It re-opened the week before last, and has been re-named, with stunning wit & originality - "Cecil's Bar & Grill", or some other such nonsense. It's situated in Cecil Square, you see.
It's had some sort of minor makeover, so it looks pretty much as it did before. The management appears to consist of pimply youths dressed in cheap black shiny suits that look no better that the expensive grey shiny suits worn by the English Football Association's national team!
Actually, it's no different to what it was on my last posting nearly four years ago, so there is no point in repeating myself.
Correction - Gadd's "No 5" and Courage "Best" were available, so for that reason and that alone - 1/10.
24 Jun 2010 14:52
Well "dopey00" & "angela_eyez", so much for "bigging-up" this apology for a licensed premises in which you so obviously had a vested interest - it's now closed. Such a shame that it didn't close with all the Margate lowlife locked inside and then demolished with a wrecking ball!!
24 Jun 2010 14:30
I visited this establishment on the recommendation of a yachting chum of mine who used to live in Lymington, and to be honest, I was not disappointed in the least. 5 ales - Hog's Back "T.E.A.", Fuller's "London Pride", Adnam's "Best", and Ringwood's ubiquitous, at least for the area, "Best" & "49er".
I had a couple of superb pints of the Hog's Back, a starter and a main course, all for a gnat's whisker in excess of �22.00! The food was excellent, as was the service.
Certainly the best pub that I visited on the day, and therefore merits a highly respectable 8/10.
23 Jun 2010 07:55
Ringwood "Best", "49er" & Marston's "Pedigree Chum". A "Spoons" in all but name. I endorse "Jonnysaints"s comment about staff singing its praises.
As it is so much like a "Spoons", the 2/10 reflects this.
23 Jun 2010 07:54
Again, a pub that looked very nice from the outside but a little disappointing on the inside. The only cask beer was Ringwood "Best", and it was fine. Service was prompt and friendly, and the food that was being sent out looked appetising. Again, I think the previous poster may have a vested interest. If you are wondering why, see my posting on The Snakecatcher at Brockenhurst.
Only one ale available - 4/10.
23 Jun 2010 07:53
Best summed up as a "Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde" type of pub. This pub looks perfectly respectable from the outside, but what you do not see are on the photograph are two small signs proclaiming the following:-
"These premises are strictly for over 21's".
"Smart Casual Dress Only. No Headwear"
Sporting a Panama hat, and undeterred by the second sign, I entered and ordered a pint of Ringwood "Best", the other offering being "49er". The beer was in good condition, and I repaired to the outside courtyard. No smashed glasses and other such detritus but this was a lunchtime visit. Presumably, the 40 M.P.H. sign does not appertain to any vehicular speed limit, rather than to the average I.Q. of the individuals that "Jonnysaint" mentions.
Not a great deal of atmosphere, I'm afraid - 4/10.
23 Jun 2010 07:53
Arriving at Lymington, my intended first stop was The Bosun's Chair which had not yet opened, so a ten minute walk took me to The Borough Arms - a proper, friendly, local pub. I don't think I can add anything of relevance to "Jonnysaint"'s comments apart from the beer that was on - Everard's "Sunchaser Blonde" at 4.00% - absolutely excellent and a real thirst quencher. Hog Back "Dark Mild" ( 3.8 % ) was also available as was Ringwood's "Best" & "49er".
I enjoyed the company of the landlady and one of the regulars after getting over the shock of paying �3.15 for the Everard's and score The Borough Arms with a respectable 6/10.
23 Jun 2010 07:51
The Snakecatcher, Brockenhurst
My suspicions are always aroused when I read a gushing review submitted by someone who only registered the previous day, has made no other postings since and in addition, hides their profile details - it invariably indicates that said reviewer is either the owner/manager of the establishment or someone who works there, and I'm sure my old chum and fellow reviewer, "Biker" will bear me out. This will be further confirmed should the reviewer report this posting for removal. As for not many pubs doing four largers, I don't know of one, let alone what a larger actually is!
The Snakecatcher, which in time gone by was called The Railway Inn, is named after Harry "Brusher" Mills ( q.v.) - the local 19th century snakecatcher, and a lot of wall space is dedicated to him. It is, perhaps, a little too bright and airy as a result of the refurbishment, but I do not think that detracts from the character too much. I arrived very shortly after 11.00 and found a couple of staff members who had just finished the cleaning and obviously having had their customer service skills honed, possibly as a result of previous posting, received a very quaffable pint of Ringwood "Best". Also on offer were "Top Hat" ( 4.8% ), Marston's "Merry Monk" ( 4.4% ) and Ringwood "49er".
If you're waiting for a train to take you to Lymington and fancy a pint, you could do a lot worse! 6/10.
23 Jun 2010 07:50
Totally agree with you, kristofferson. I've been in there on several occasions after having been out on railtours various. A pub that is very close to a railway station that is not an absolute toilet - very much a rarity these days! The Harveys is always in good condition. 7/10
21 Apr 2009 14:34
Neil C, old boy, I can answer that for you.
The pub re-opened on Tuesday after having been closed for eight days. It has undergone a light refurbishment, of which it was in dire need. A splendid chap with the sobriquet of Smudge is the landlord, after having been drinking there for a good number of years. Roscoe is still the troglodyte wizard of the cellar.
Smudge informs your humble correspondent that once the Bitburger has gone, the font will be replaced with a 6th engine! Marvellous news for the ale-drinking cognescenti of Planet Thanet.
26 Feb 2009 11:50
Absolutely fantastic pub that, very deservedly, has recently been awarded Pub of the Year by the local CAMRA branch.
The Butchers Arms bar features the original chopping blocks as tables, plus hooks and other implements from its days as a butchers. " Compact & Bijou - two words that might have been invented for this pub - it measures 15' by 12'.
The bar has seating for ten and room for another 10 or so standing customers.
There is no music, no TV and no machines and visitors are sure to enjoy plenty of banter with the locals whenever they visit - I know I do!
An argument between two locals about whose home grown pickles were best, resulted in what has become an annual contest. Each of them brought in a jar of their produce for judging, the event was opened up to all-comers and the pickle contest was born. One jar of pickles contained roundish objects with the remains of where they had originally been attached to the torso of the animal concerned - "no exactamente los cojones de un perro!" the label proclaimed. How we chortled and chuckled.
The excellent beer comes from stillage at the side of the bar, and Martin, the landlord does off sales. If you want, he'll even sell you a cask! Dark Star beers seem to make quite a regular appearance.
It's on the "Triangle" bus route between Sturry and Herne Bay. The opening hours are limited so I would recommend planning any proposed visit.
"If I had all the money I'd spent on drink - I'd spend it on drink!" A well deserved 9/10
13 May 2008 16:04
Royal Harbour Brewhouse and Bakers, Ramsgate
I am most surprised to see that the "Belgian Bar", as it is known locally, has not been rated - despite having been recommended over a month ago!
This bar used to house Eddie Gadd's brewery until expansion of his business meant that he outgrew the premises. The on-site bakery was set up to provided belgian pastries and suchlike. The business went bust and, like Lazarus, has been risen from the dead.
The premisies physically go back a long way and the decor has changed over the years since it opened. The original Brueghel-esque murals have largely given way to more contemporary decoration, and art exhibitions often take place. There is seating outside where you can watch the world go by, and eat your Fish and Chips from the excellent Peter's Fish Factory immediate adjacent.
There are two real ales on handpump - Greene King I.P.A. was one, the other being London Pride, if I remember correctly. However, with the exception of the Cafe Belge chain, they do have the best range of Belgian bottled beers in Kent. I had an absolutely gorgeous bottle of Orval - most refreshing on a hot sunny day.
Unfortunately, the belgian staff are no longer there, and whereas previously, my Orval would have been served in an Orval glass, it was served in a standard pint sleeve. Whether this is due to the new barman ( from Sweden ) being new to the job or the correct glasses no longer being available in these premises, I wouldn't like to say. I'm sure I heard Polish being spoken behind the bar as well. Thw staff here are young and friendly.
The food range has been extended. Three different styles of "Mosselen" are on offer, and there was a large pan of Paella on the go which smelled delicious. They also do an all-day breakfast, in addition to sandwiches and suchlike.
Please sort the staff out - any visiting beer drinking Flemish or Walloon cove would have a fit of apoplexy at being served St Bernardus in a sleeve, or get the correct glasses. Certainly a better experience than that encountered in the other seafront bars and pubs that line Ramsgate's picturesque harbour. 6/10
12 May 2008 13:41
It's re-opened. I popped in after finding that Harveys next door had closed down. No sign of the �5-millionaires or much else for that matter.
It was early evening on Bank Holiday Monday, and the lass behind the bar was talikng to a couple sitting at the bar. In a corner by a window sat a couple having a meal. They must have felt like goldfish sitting in a bowl.
I was served in a prompt and friendly manner with a half of Ruddles which was in good condition. I did not risk a pint, lest I lost the will to live!
I hope for their sake that their trade picks up, or Jackson's Wharf will just be another statistic amongst the increasing number of pubs that have gone to the wall in recent times.
No �5-millionaires in sight, which was a blessing, so 4/10.
7 May 2008 16:39
"fran" has excelled him/herself with this addition to BITE - Harveys promptly ceased trading, and scaffolding abounds. No score!
6 May 2008 13:08
I worked at this pub in 1975. Of course, that was in the days when I was an impoverished student, before I inherited the vast Wimbourne fortune and the obligatory stately pile.
The pub itself is two or three old buildings that were all knocked through to make one building quite some considerable time ago.
Back then, the former Tomson & Wotton house had a circular open fireplace in the Saloon Bar with a copper canopy over it and underfloor flues drew the heat all over the upstairs accomodation. This has sadly long gone, and has beem replaced by a pool table. A certain amount of internal alteration has taken place over the years, without actually damaging the pub's character.
Whitbread Trophy was the order of the day. There was Trophy "C" and Trophy "D" - one was cask, the other keg. We always had cask, which used to be raised by gas. There was a redundant hand pump that the guv'nor and I renovated, we cleaned everything and hey presto - cask ale through the engine.
It's now a Sheps' pub, and "Mr Blue Sky" is no longer on the jukebox. It's still a cosy, friendly little pub tucked away within yards of the town centre, and they have live music on occasions.
Even though nostalgia isn't what it used to be - it gets 7/10 - and not just for old times' sake.
6 May 2008 12:58
An eminently forgettable Sheps' boozer, apart from the fact that Frank Muir was born there, so for that reason alone - 1/10
5 May 2008 17:46
There used to be four pubs along this quaint street that I remember - this is the sole survivor, recently resurrected by the Braganza family. Well worth including if you're on a trundle around the Westcliff area of Ramsgate, particularly if the delightful Samantha is working!
Going in an anti-clockwise from here, you've got the Bedford, having turned right into Westcliff Road, ( but avoid the ale if there is any available ) the Artillery, then along Royal Road to Churchills, along the Paragon and into Nelson Crescent arriving at the Foy Boat.
The Charlotte gets a respectable 5/10.
P.S. If I discover who "fran" is, he/she will be getting invoiced for my comments!
5 May 2008 17:00
The mysterious "fran" strikes again! A reasonably fair assessment by Thebman, although I'm not sure about his comment in respect of the landlord. I've been using this little pub on and off for quite some considerable time, and the landlord never has been what one would call a barrel of laughs.
The beer tends to be either Bombardier or Courage Best/Directors' and I've only ever had one "iffy" pint there. It's worth a visit, but only before gravity takes you downhill towards the "Monty".
You might want to pop into Feeney's - you'll generally gat a half decent pint of Courage there, but I don't think I would go so far as to submit it for inclusion on BITE.
As far as The "Honey" is concerned - 6/10
5 May 2008 16:33
The only thing you can say is that it's on the Thanet Loop bus route, but I'd not bother getting off - there are better pubs along the route!
5 May 2008 15:42
Honestly, "fran", what is the point of adding a pub if you are not going to leave a comment? This pub could be "twinned" with The Greyhound at Aylesham ( q.v. ), only this place had a crackhouse opposite until the police closed it down a few months ago.
0/10
5 May 2008 15:38
As "fran" has added this pub, and not left a comment, suffice to say that it's a pretty nondescript Shepherd Neame pub in the St Luke's area of Ramsgate.
Not visited for some while, so no score awarded.
5 May 2008 15:25
Thebman - you've just about summed it up, although I cannot see how it warrants 7/10. I have also noticed that "fran" has recommended several pubs in the locality, yet not vindicated the recommendations by posting any comments - a somewhat pointless excercise, if you ask me.
Whoops - nearly forgot 3/10, and that's only because I like Trixie.
5 May 2008 14:51
Thebman - friends of mine had a similar experience last Friday. They are both ale drinkers, and they went there as it was herself's birthday.
The Titanic they were offered smelled absolutely rank and had all sorts of detritus floating in it! The barmaid said that it was fine and supposed to look like that. When asked whether she was an ale drinker, she replied to the negative.
The barmaid then asked the "chef" for a second opinion, who confirmed that it was supposed to look the way it did. It transpires that he, too, is not an ale drinker.
It further emerges that the Titanic had been on for a week "and we're not allowed to change it until it's gone".
Sorry - nul points!
5 May 2008 13:51
Popped in at Easter with the manservant. Redecorated, although more as a restaurant than a pub. Still serves a good pint of locally soureced ales at a reasonable price.
5 May 2008 13:22
It's closed down - I suppose all the �5-millionaires now pile into Miles' Bar ( "Cafe Culture" ). I've seen more culture in a Petri dish!
13 Feb 2008 12:52
The St Lawrence Tavern, St Lawrence
Was it really a year ago since my last visit, and thus, posting on this pub? Called in for a snifter early last Saturday evening.
The Abbot was spot-on, so I stopped for a second - not something I would normally do.
GK I.P.A. and Fuller's London Pride were on, but remained untried.
If you're in the neighbourhood, you may well try the "Aussie" ( Australian Arms ) and the "Deadwood" ( Southwood Tavern ).
13 Feb 2008 12:49
There's something afoot - this pub and the others that currently appear ( 08 Feb ) as "recently added" have all been added by the same person - "fran", and not one of them has a comment posted.
8 Feb 2008 15:50
Another change of regime took place on Monday - the new guvnor is a Jim McDonald sound-alike from Dungannon.
The beers are still the same as the last couple of postings, and my �2.90 pint of Wherry was well short of the line. I pointed it out to the landlord who invited me to take a sip then he'd top it up, which he did - and no mutterings or tuttings!
Good luck to the man - he'll need it with Enterprise Inns. 6/10
25 Jan 2008 14:21
I just love this little pub and I can't imagine why I've never posted a comment on it before now. No point waxing eloquent about it's history, decor and suchlike as it's all been said by previous posters.
Four real ales on:-
Adnam's Bitter + Broadside.
Tim Taylor Landlord.
Deuchars' I.P.A.
I has a splendid pint of Deuchars washed down by an equally good pint of Landlord. The food as it is, is good value. The little old chap behind was very friendly, had obviously been pouring pints for years and is a veritable fount of local knowledge. 8/10
25 Jan 2008 14:01
Welcome back to an old friend. Refurb is of a very high stsndard, and the partitioning was fine when I visited mid-afternoon on Monday, but I agree that I can't see it working at busier times.
The OBB was excellent and at the standard Sam Smith's price. The victorian urinals haven't been touched, I'm pleased to say, and it didn't pong down there either.
Service was friendly and prompt, and the Guv'nor was on fine form. 8/10
25 Jan 2008 13:30
The Lamb and Flag, Covent Garden
A delightful old pub that has thus far eluded any form of "tasteful refurbishment". The two barmaids were both attractive and very pleasant. Service was certainly with a smile.
Six real ales were on:-
The almost ubiquitous G.K. I.P.A. & Abbot.
Youngs Ordinary & Special.
Adnams Best & Broadside.
I tried a pint of each Adnams. Both were in very good condition. I'm impressed by my first visit, on a friend's recommendation, and were it not for the curmudgeonly-looking stout fellow behind the bar who was chatting to the cook ( presumably ) - a lady who had a face that could strip paint at 50 yards, I'd quite happily give it 8.
Until you cheer up - 6/10!
25 Jan 2008 12:48
The sort of place where you wipe your feet on the way out. The beer is no great shakes either. The natives are mostly harmless. 3/10
25 Jan 2008 12:03
I popped in with some friends after a little trundle around Ramsgate. Andy now has three engines on at all times and I fell victim to Dark Star's "Critical Mass" @ 7.8%
A few pints of that and I endedup as a Critical Mess. Subsequently, I had to remove a page from my diary. Marvellous stuff!
25 Jan 2008 12:00
After the Ben Crouch, this was a far better proposition. Yes, it was busy, but service was prompt and efficient. 5 real ales on offer and the ones I tried were in good condition. I'll quite happily give it a respectable 7/10.
14 Jan 2008 16:08
Ben Crouch's Tavern, Fitzrovia
Visited with friends last month. "Interesting" decor, good bar staff, and a not very inspiring choice of beer. It's pleasant enough, but rates no higher than 5/10
14 Jan 2008 16:03
This bar used to be an Italian restaurant, and changed to a bar several years ago. A pleasant enough place with prompt friendly service. A most creditable pint of Everard's Tiger in a Real Ale desert.
5/10.
I also checked out Macauleys. Quite a cosy single bar with a fair number of shoppers and assorted people in possession of the "grey pound". To get to Largs involved a 500 mile road trip from the Kent Coast, just to dicover that Macauleys' guest ale was Shepherd Neame Spitfire! Doh!
3 Sep 2007 16:40
Abundantly clear that the previous poster has just signed up! Hardly constructive criticism, is it?
14 Aug 2007 11:31
Now named The Samuel Peto, after the constructor of some of London's most prestigious buildings, including Nelson's Column, who then went on to become one of the major contractors in the burgeoning railway industry.
This does not alter the fact that this is a "Spoons" and that you cannot polish a turd!
Score as previous comment.
16 Jul 2007 11:51
The Bell and Crown, Canterbury
Spent a pleasant hour in there a week ago last Saturday, nattering to two of the hostesses from the Pullman special that was in Canterbury for the weekend.
Whitstable I.P.A. was on good form, but I was disappointed that the other ale was Ruddles Best. The service was good, the pub is clean and worth a visit if you find yourself in Palace Street.
6/10.
10 Jul 2007 09:17
I've used this pub on and off for some quite considerable time now, and would use it more often but the thing that puts me off is the fact that you need a second mortgage. Yes, you do have a stunning views from the garden, but that, in my book, does not warrant �2.90 for a pint of Bishop's Finger.
Nevertheless, it's still a good pub, with a good crowd and ambience. 6/10
14 May 2007 14:52
I think the previous poster is mistaken as regards his comment in respect of a sellout. The last time I visited on 22January last ( q.v. ), they had G.K. ales on, and as I recall, they've not sold out, but done a deal to take G.K. in exchange for G.K. doing cellar improvements for The Yew Tree.
He does not say whether there are other ales still available from local micros. I cannot make any comment about the barchap's tonsorial attributes, and as far as I am concerned, it still rates 8/10.
16 Apr 2007 15:59
Cover_Point - you are indeed correct, Sir. It has changed hands since your last report, and my last visit.
It is still a pretty country pub in an idyllic spot, with a lovely garden, only a couple of minutes walk from the railway station.
There beers are still well kept, but not having eaten there, cannot rate it more than a respectable 6/10
16 Apr 2007 10:48
Two visits this week! The Tring Brewery mild was so good, as was the Tim Taylor, and so I had to go back for a second visit. A marvellous pub - 7/10.
14 Apr 2007 13:49
A fantastic building, as previous posters have commented. A friend was recently the victim of a pickpocket and had his wallet lifted here, so wtch out for the less salubrious types that tend to frequent "Spoons".
At the end of the day, you can gold plate it and encrust it with diamonds, but a turd is still a turd.
3/10.
14 Apr 2007 13:44
No visit to Folkestone town centre is ever complete without a visit to The Chambers, and last Monday was no exception.
The usual mixed bag of clientele who all seem to rub along with each other. I had only been in there a couple of minutes and two friends, each from different other parts of Kent, strolled in within a couple of minutes of each other.
It's just one of those places where you never know who might come in that you might know.
I'm just sorry that I could not get to their beer festival at he weekend, but enjoyed an excellent pint of Eddie Gadd's "Ship of Fools" at 6.6%.
It ticks all the right boxes for me and still warrants a deserved 8/10.
14 Apr 2007 13:35
A traditional Victorian brick-built pub less than a minute's walk from The British Lion.
The Guildhall has more of a "proper pub" feel to it, with a friendly landlord, and a good beer range - I had one of the best pints of Adnam's I've enjoyed in a long time.
Of the two pubs in The Bayle, this is my preferred choice, and therfore warrants a good, honest 7/10.
14 Apr 2007 13:24
Cosy little pub with excellent beer and good, reasonably priced food. Separate non-smoking eating area, and a small, sheletered patio area.
Busy last ( Bank Holiday ) at lunchtime, which I feel speaks volumes for the food.
Friendly staff and friendly punters, so it warrants a worthy 6/10.
14 Apr 2007 13:17
No change in the last six months,then. I went in Saturday morning for a pint and breakfast as I was on my way to help out at the beer festival. Filthy tables as usual littered with dirty ashtrays, plates and glasses.
My pint of Stout was eventually served but the service was pitifully slow - only two behind the ramp and one of those was also bustling around with food orders. I actually felt sorry for the poor wretches. Breakfast was virtually inedible, but I thought the two lost souls condemned to Margate's equivalent of purgatory, were suffering enough without me adding to their woes. The stout was very good, although because of the obscene amounts of ale quaffed over the course of the weekend, I cannot recall "marque et modele". I received a full pint, amazingly enough.
The usual selection of scrotes, scallies, pikeys, chavs, Thanet inbreds and ne'er-do-wells were much in evidence. I had the cheapskate contingent sitting next to me moaning about the fact that one of them went to the beer festival, to be asked for an admission fee of �3.00 including commemorative glass and programme, and that beer was �2.50 a pint. What the semi-literate did not mention was that there were 200 ales ALL in the finest of condition going up to a bollock-twisting 10.5% ABV!!
The best thing that can happen is that this carbuncle is either sold to a local entrpreneur with the initials J.G., with predictable results for those who know of the said individual, or alternatively, lock the place shut with the inmates inside, and set about it with the wrecking-ball!
1/10 - for feeling pity for the poor sods that were working there!
11 Apr 2007 16:03
"but hopefully trade will pick up when all pubs are non-smoking" - I wouldn't put money on it. It was reported on the radio this norning ( B.B.C. Home Service ) that since the smoking ban was introduced into Scotland a year ago, trade has fallen by 11% and jobs have been lost to the industry as a result.
I still rate The Blackfriar at 8/10, for the interior if nothing else.
22 Mar 2007 10:30
Paid a visit last night for the first time for many a long year.
Bare floor boards and scrawlings various on the ceiling and walls are the main feature of this excellent, friendly, one-bar pub.
The Tim Taylor Landlord was in excellent condition. Also available were Vale Brewery "Special" and Cotleigh "Kookaburra".
A thoroughly enjoyable, albeit brief, visit as there were "other fish to fry".
A deserved 7/10.
8 Mar 2007 13:15
The Opera House, Tunbridge Wells
A fantastic buikding ruined by the usual dregs of society, especially those in the evening, whosr idea of a good night out is getting tanked up on cheap alcohol, a mass brawl, followed by projectile vomiting.
An excellent example for the arguments in favour of a neutron bomb - the building remains standing, whilst those inside are blown to Kingdon Come!
3/10 - for the building alone.
25 Feb 2007 12:39
Kalala Bar and Restaurant, Folkestone
It's a chinese restaurant with a small bar. Aerosol beer only, but what do you really expect? The food is very good, and the running lunchtime buffet is about half the price it is in the evening! Top Tip - Avoid rice and noodles if you really want to get your money's worth!
Modern decor makes it rather soul-less, and the picture windows do not do it any favours. The service, as you might expect, is exemplary.
As a restaurant, 6/10, but as a bar, it's a zero I'm afraid
20 Feb 2007 18:41
The St Lawrence Tavern, St Lawrence
Service was spot on as usual, although it was unusually quiet in there on Sunday morning. Adnam's "Broadside" was on, and in fine condition, in place of "Spitfire", the other three being as in the previous post. So what does do to my rating?
+1 - for having Adnams on.
-1 - no bar nibbles on a Sunday morning - disgraceful!
So it's still 6/10.
13 Feb 2007 09:00
Under new management as of last week. I've net visited yet, but did read in the local rag that cask ales will continue to be served. No recent visit, therefore no rating.
5 Feb 2007 12:46
The St Lawrence Tavern, St Lawrence
"If the choice/quality drift back into the usual Thorley mediocrity, then this will be reflected in any future review."
Service is still exemplary, and the ales are still well presented, but the range seems to have regressed. I had an excellent pint of Sheps's "Spitfire".
The two usual Greene King offerings and Courage Directors were also avalailable.
So it's down to 6/10.
3 Feb 2007 11:32
I visited last week and had to send back three pints on the trot! The pub itself is pleasant enough, as are the staff and locals, but the ale quality really does need to be improved.
a none-too-impressive 4/10.
1 Feb 2007 11:09
Unfortunately, I am unable to comment on the pub itself, but my local "down south" is currently selling "Cook's Endeavour", and is proving to be most popular. A note in the diary to pop in the next time I find myself in West Yorks!
31 Jan 2007 10:32
The John Logie Baird, Hastings
After not visitng for a couple of months, I walked in, looked around, and walked out again! It's still dire. Consoled myself by going to The Filo - a real pub!
25 Jan 2007 10:24
The Filo (First In Last Out), Hastings
I cannot add anything to Silk Tork's most accurate description of the pub.
I paid a visit on Tuesday, my first for nearly two years, and passed a few very pleasant hours quaffing "Crofters". Friendly and efficient staff and a mixed nag of local clienetele make this a very pleasant, Chav-free environment in which to while away the time.
The lunchtime nosebag is good, with nothing over �5-10/-.
Apparently, they hold a pub quiz on the first Sunday of the month, and regular ( but not too regular ) music nights. An excellent pub, which in my book warrants a worthy 7/10.
25 Jan 2007 09:57
I had an excellent pint of Harvey's "Best", whilst my chauffeur had a pint of Timothy Taylor "Landlord", a week ago last Saturday served by the Landlord himself.
Also on handpump were Fuller's "London Pride" and Shep's ubiquitous "Master Brew".
The restaurant area is mom-smoking, whilst smoking is permitted in the bar itself, even though there are no ashtrays on the bar, but you need only ask. The landlord pointed out that the fire ( which is open on two sides ) that dominates the pub creates more smoke and smell than tobacco.
Extra seating is available in the patio area which has a retractable awning for the more clement weather, and the garden is lovely on those lighter evenings, where you can watch the local team playing Bat & Trap.
I still cannot pass comment on the food compared with what it was like under the previous owner, but if the Phantom Raspberry generously feels that the new landlord has still to settle in, all I can say is that if the standard has not increased over the last eighteen months, then what he and his family had last Sunday will be about as good as it's going to get.
Having said that, it's still one of my favourite country pubs in very pretty surroundings, and thus maintains its score of 8/10.
22 Jan 2007 10:56
I visited with my chauffeur - the "Phantom Raspberry", for my first visit since the pub reopened on Auld Year's Night. I was served by a most charming young lady with a superb pint of Hopdaemon "Skrimshander".
I had a chat with the fellow behind the bar who turned out to be Chris, the new landlord. He spoke enthusiastically of his plans for increasing stillage in the cellar.
Time was not a luxury afforded us and had to depart before sampling the other Hopdaemon offering - "Incubus", or Phil Goacher's excellent Mild. Also on tap were Greene King "Abbot" & "I.P.A.", and for those who like such things - Biddenden Cider, although I cannot say which.
Keep up the good work - you still merit 8/10
22 Jan 2007 10:21
Called in Saturday tea-time after fighting the hordes in the sales! The Unicorn was busy, but I was served after a minimal wait. The Ringwood Best was extremely good as was the Gadd's Seasider.
I got chatting to a couple of Wimbledon supporters who were breaking their journey after the fixture at Ramsgate, and who use this site for planning stops when attending away fixtures.
They certainly rated the pub for its friendly welcome, and that the landlord didn't mind the fact that these chaps had their children with them.
8 Jan 2007 09:47
The bottled ales are rotated and last week, I had Jennings "Sneck Lifter" and Old Specklesd Hen. The Landlord told me he is always open to suggestions for other bottled ales.
8 Jan 2007 08:46
Sandwich is an excellent, historical place to go on a crawl - there are nine licensed premises, all within five minutes walk of each other, three of them within 50yds of each other at the Market Place, and none of them further than ten minutes walk from the station.
Just a quick mention of the "George and Dragon" in Fisher Street before moving on to "The Greyhound".
The George & Dragon dates back to the reign of Henry VII. It has been resurrected from near-dereliction by the ex-landlord of the St Crispin Inn ( q.v. ), and has an excellent menu. It's not particularly cheap, but you get what you pay for, and if you are on expenses and work for Pfizer, then what the heck. The smallish bar area is well stocked and I enjoyed a pint of Harvey's Best in superb condition at �2.60. Two other ales were available - Directors' and Master Spew.
I hadn't been to The Greyhound for 30 years until my visit. It hasn't really changed. It still doesn't look very welcoming from the outside, but don't let that put you off. It still retains the dark wooden panelling up to picture rail height, which tends to make the pub appear gloomy. The pool table has long gone and replaced by a bar billiards table.
Service was prompt and friendly, and of the three engines on the bar, only Shep's Master Spew was available. A rather tired pint but only �2.20 - cheap for Sandwich. A fair selection of early afternoon punters, mainly middle aged people with their shopping, and a brace of young mums! I soon fell into conversation with a lady who remembered me from 15 years ago, some advice I offered at the time but she declined to accept, and consequently ended up �17,000 out of pocket.
I like this pub, which has evidence of being used by Camra members, and would have rated it higher had it not been for the solitary "tired" ale available.
5/10
5 Jan 2007 09:45
Apologies for the "Typo" - the Acorn jollop was reaaly on top form!
25 Dec 2006 02:07
Extra racking installed in the celler yesterday.
The Acorn Brewery "4th Noel" is in superb condition. I drank an obscene amount of it so it does not fall into tht hands of impressionable young teenagers!!
Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Prosperous New Year to the moderators of this site and all serious contributors.
25 Dec 2006 02:04
It's not that quiet in Midhurst when thing kick off in the Chinese Takeaway 200yds down the road - and that's every Saturday night!
The Wheatsheaf is a good pub, but �6.15 for a Magner's and a bottle of Corona - hardly reasonable, in my book.
After all, the majority of Midhurst residents are not the polo-playing, landed gentry types.
An excellent Fish & Chip shop is situated opposite, by the way.
11 Dec 2006 17:02
The St Lawrence Tavern, St Lawrence
I do hope things are not in decline following Alan's departure. I visited a week ago last Saturday, and the place was heaving. Of the four engines, the only two in use were Abbot & G.K.IPA., so I had a pint of "mixed"
Service was friendly and immediate, notwithstanding the number of people in there. I just had the one then headed for the "Aussie" just along the road.
I called back first thing Sunday morning, and received the same prompt friendly, service from the fellow who had serverd me the night before. It transpires he is the new landlord. I was impressed that he remembered me from the previous evening, and greeted me with a cheery "Good morning, pint of "mixed"?"
However, ther were still only the two engines on.
I visited again yesterday morning, and he still remembered me and what I had ordered. As all four were in operation, I had a pint of London Pride, followed by a pint of Director's.
The ale was on good form, but I am concerned that there will not be the choice available as was on offer when Alan was landlord. Hopefully, this will not be the case and it's the new chap just settling in.
I will maintain it as an 8/10, but will be keeping an eye out. If the choice/quality drift back into the usual Thorley mediocrity, then this will be reflected in any future review.
11 Dec 2006 16:12
The John Logie Baird, Hastings
And 'Spoons had gotten rid of that the last time I was in High Barnet a year ago. It's been replaced by a similarly, eminently forgettable establishment.
1 Dec 2006 11:03
It's on the CAMRA National Inventory of Unspoilt Pub Interiors. Without doubt the finest hostelry in Kent.
29 Nov 2006 17:08
Allegedly metamorphosing from The Chromatically challenged Swan to The Chronologically challenged Swan, and supposedly due to open as such next Monday.
22 Nov 2006 08:43
The John Logie Baird, Hastings
If I ever find that I have awoken to discover that the Wimbourne manse has been reduced to rubble, and I am reduced to a state of abject penury, then I think I would move in. Truly the last refuge of all that is worst in this once-great nation of ours!
21 Nov 2006 15:47
The perfect venue for �5-millionaires, and the Good Lord knows that there are no shortage of them skulking around the picturesque harbour area. This is Ramsgate, not St Tropez.
As The Crown, it used to be an excellent pub, full of locals, yachtsmen and truck drivers awaiting the ferry, and everyone used to grub along very nicely.
Hey-ho! Nostalgia isn't what it used to be.
20 Nov 2006 13:35
Visited last Thursday prior to an evening's 10 pin bowling. Friendly, efficient staff, and even the manager was working behinfd the bar.
It was an early evening visit, so there were a fair few in for an after work drink and the Thursday Curry Club. No dirty tables either!
On the beer front, the "usual suspects" were present - Abbot, Spitfire, Chum and suchlike. In addition there was Hopdaemon "Incubus", and an excellent pale 5% I.P.A from the York Brewery.
No Swan-neck dispense either!
Definitely one of the better Spoons.
20 Nov 2006 13:16
Absolutely dreadful. Filthy, overpriced, awful beer ans inept bar staff. A great pity that I'd left the napalm at home on the day of my visit.
Worth a second visit, but next time, I'll not forget the aforementioned combustible!
1/10 - because it is Friday,and I am in charitable humour.
17 Nov 2006 13:25
So what has happened to the railwayana that is no longer there?
10 Nov 2006 15:32
It was so good that I had to return. Three splendid pints of Oyster Stout, and a pleasant chat at the bar. Several people were eating and the food both looked and smelled delicious. I shall take solid sustainance in addition to that of a liquid nature upon my next visit.
10 Nov 2006 09:48
I hoped to visit the Eight Bells yesterday afternoon, but when I got there just before 2 p.m., it was closed. I had neither the time nor the inclination to hang around for it to open at three o'clock.
10 Nov 2006 09:37
The funny thing about arriving at Canterbury ( West ) by train is that when you get to the end of Station Road, the automatic reaction is to turn left, towards the Westgate Tower. I urge you to resist the temptation, and cast your eye to the right. On the opposite side of the road approximately 100yds away is The Unicorn.
It is a very attractive building in keepeing with much of Canterbury, with low beams and dark wood panelling inside.
On to the heart of the matter - the beer. I popped in for an hour early yesterday afternoon. Service was immediate, friendly and efficient. First off, a pint of "King & Barnes Sussex Ale", sadly no longer brewed by King & Barnes. A good hoppy pint to start off with nonetheless. Pint No2 was an excellent Deuchar's I.P.A., followed by Whitstable Brewery's fabulous "Oyster Stout", actually with oysters in the ingredients, I hasten to add. The fouth on offer was Shep's "Master Brew", which, if I choose to drink it, will do in a Shep's pub.
Being without the city walls, The Unicorn charges sensible prices ( �2.30 - �2.40 ) and the food is moderately priced for Canterbury. If this splendid pub was inside the city walls, it would be charging accordingly, adding a good ten shillings to the price of your pint.
A veritable jewel in the crown that is Canterbury. 8/10 - no quibble!
8 Nov 2006 11:30
No more real ale here. It was good whilst they had it on, but I suppose more was being thrown down the drain than being sold. However, they now stock a number of bottled ales, so all is not lost.
On my visit yesterday, whilst waiting for a train, I had a bottle of Marston's "Owd Rodger", followed by a bottle of Wychwood "Fiddler's Elbow". The other two on offer were Wychwood "Hobgoblin" and Theakston's "Old Peculier".
It seems to me therefore, that although the pub cannot support a regular real ale, there must be a market amongst the lagerboys who go there for real ale, and full credit to the management for that.
8 Nov 2006 08:52
Kurt was out but his charming wife and daft Boxer dog were in charge. It was very quiet on my visit - only two other customers, who were very friendly locals.
Both the Woodforde's Wherry and Harvey's Best were both served in excellent condition. Totally enjoyable visit - just a shame it wasn't long enough.
Serves basic, good value food such as Ham, Egg and Chips, and no television to annoy or distract you from a decent pint and good ale.
Excellent pub - 8/10.
4 Nov 2006 14:58
Thought I'd wander in to see if there was any change here. Outside, the pub sign proclaimed proclaimed it to be an "ale house". Call me Mr Picky, but I do not consider a pub that only has one engine on selling Bass to be an ale house.
On entering, it was packed out with incredibly noisy football supporters from Italy. There was no chance of struggling through to the bar.
Downgraded to 3/10.
If you fancy a decent pint and you've just been to The Dolphin, then pass this pub by, as you're only a couple of minutes walk from The New Inn in Havelock Street.
4 Nov 2006 14:45
Visited a couple of days ago for the first time in some years and what a transformation. An interesting mish-mash of furniture give the front ( smoking ) bar a nice homely feel. Those interested in railwayana might be interested in the two British Rail posters from the late sixties - early seventies.
Two of the four handpumped ales were available Greene King Abbot Ale, and Timothy Taylor's splendid Landlord - served in its own branded glass. That is something that I've not seen outside Yorkshire until now. No guessing which Ale I chose. The other two unavailable ales were Fuller's London Pride and Greene King IPA.
Service was efficient and cheerful, and at one time I ended up translating for a French family who ambled in looking for lunch. The food did look good, but there was a wake going on in the back bar, and the French were about an hour early for the advertised lunch time serving hours.
For people who like "country wines", there were 24 different fruit wines available ranging from Apple through to Strawberry.
I like this pub, and I'll give it an extra point for being a television-free zone - 7/10.
4 Nov 2006 14:34
Whoops - a bit of a typographical error yesterday. The roast of the day ( Beef ) was �6.95. Lovely large, thick slices, Yorkies, Roasties and four other veg! Yum Yum!
18 Oct 2006 08:38
I've just returned from having lunch here. It was busy, but in spite of that, service was friendly, prompt and efficient.
A well presented pint of Courage Directors served in fine condition was an excellent accompaniment to my lunch of roast beef. The lunch was �7.95 and very tasty, and considering how busy it was, I cannot grumble about the 20 minute wait for food.
I'm going to "up" my score to 8/10, and furthermore do not believe the previous poster's comment is typical of this pub.
17 Oct 2006 14:13
I was informed by my rural correspondent, Brabinger, that the Yew Tree closed last week, and had it confirmed last night. Hopefully, this wil only be temporary.
As it has been said on numerous occasions and by numerous people - "Watch this space"
17 Oct 2006 09:39
"bobinman" - rest assured the windows are even better when you are sitting inside the best of Minster's three pubs.
I enjoyed a couple of very good pints of Skipton Brewery's "Copper Dragon" on Tuesday last! The two usual Greene King offerings were also available, but hey - you can get them at most places now.
Service friendly and impeccable as usual. A good place to go for a spot of lunch as well, and won't put a big dent in your bank balance. What's more, you do not come out smelling like a deep-fat fryer - "The Bell" - please take note.
Just 100yds along from the New Inn is The Saddlers - a Shep's pub.
There's a rumour afoot that the pub may be on the market soon.
As stated, the New Inn is the best in the village. Long may it remain thus. 7/10
7 Oct 2006 17:09
A cosy little pub tucked up a narrow street. It was quiet when I visited mid afternoon.
Service was good and friendly. There are three ales on offer - "Old Speckled Hen" ( still at 5.3 % - get it before Greene King really ruin it! ), but way overpriced at �2.90. The other two ales were "Bass" and Flowers' "I.P.A."
For afficionados of Pfizer's produce, there was Staropramen and Stella Bock.
It'll be some considerable time before they prise any of the folding stuff from my grasp - 4/10.
7 Oct 2006 16:41
Visited again last Tuesday. The young lady behind the bar was quick, smiley, efficient and knew what she was doing behind the bsr. She looked rather like Tracey Emin, but don't let that put you off! She was wearing a leopard-print skirt, and had an upper left arm to match it.
The "Hobgoblin" was excellent so I had a second pint. Interesting mix of clientele, the majority of which seemed to have lumps of metal welded to various parts of their anatomy.
Very good, well priced nose-bag as well. "Doorstep" slices of bread are always a plus point.
A selection of daily newspapers are provided for patrons' perusal.
I'm upping the score to 7, as long as they don't rest on their laurels!
7 Oct 2006 16:29
A pretty average Shep's pub. Only one engine working on my visit dispensing Invicta Ale. The chap behind the bar was polite, friendly and efficent - but bore a worrying resemblance to Cain Dingle off Emmerdale!
The food looked pretty average. 4/10
7 Oct 2006 16:11
"kiwimaj" has got it spot on - it's a restaurant that happens to sell belgian beer.
Their menu actually says that all mussel dishes are priced at �9.95, unless otherwise stated. Personally, I think it's overpriced - but hey, it is Canterbury.
I can, and do eat "mosselen met frieten en boerbrood" in Brugge for half the price! - 1/10
7 Oct 2006 15:52
The Bishops Finger, Canterbury
A Shep's pub whose exterior blends in well with the local architecture.
Good friendly service with a choice of Master Brew, Bishop's Finger and Late Red. The latter is a seasonal offering from Shep's and very tasty!
Food decent and not overpriced, but I'm none too impressed by Sky, occasional Karaoke and background "muzak".
6/10
7 Oct 2006 15:16
SilkTork & Roger B - I think you'll find that the mantle of "smallest pub in Kent" has been taken over by The Butcher's Arms at Herne.
Notwithstanding, The Little Gem still rates highly in my book.
28 Sep 2006 16:17
A friend of mine ran this pub for a fellow called Declan several years ago. He succeeded, in the face of all odds, in turning it from a pikey pub, into a reasonable pub, with reasonable food. He managed to introduce real ale, and anyone wearing a baseball cap would not be served. People soon got the idea that if they stepped out of line, they did not get served.
He left to work for the same Irish chap who had another pub in Wokingham, before it burned down. From there to a third pub owned by the same cove, situated somewhere in the badlands between the A12 and A13.
Sad to say, the Spotted Cow has gone back to being a pikey pub. I'd rather gargle Nitric Acid and poke red-hot needles in my eyes than drink here again.
"Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it" - Georges Santayana.
1/10 - for nostalgia only!
28 Sep 2006 16:02
One small point, "robnest". I think you'll find the Happy Hour is, in fact, 30 minutes and yes, The Ship does fill up very quickly within that period.
Having said that, on a recent visit, the abbreviated Happy Hour had passed, and I was more than happy to spend another hour and a half there sampling the wares of the house.
27 Sep 2006 12:29
The Ruddles was all that was on offer.
My review was based on a mid afternoon visit, when it was really quiet. I will visit again, and if my visit is a better experience than my last, then I will be more than happy to give the pub an improved score.
26 Sep 2006 15:17
I'll second that - totally unnecessary. So much for Abraham Lincoln and his Gettysburg Address!
13 Sep 2006 12:33
The third pub on the tour, only a couple of hundred yards from The Rising Sun, it's right on the shoreline with an unspoilt view of the English Channel.
A charming young lady with a rather wide belt ( or possibly very short skirt ) greeted my companions and I, and asked us what we would like at the exact same moment as the fellow I take to be the landlord. Very impressive.
The pub is smallish and cosy. No music - just the buzz of convesation. Beers on offer were Shep's Master Brew and Spitfire, and Green King I.P.A. We were too late for the Old Speckled Hen - a great pity as it was the "real McCoy", not this new-fangled 4.5% old jollop brewed in Bury St Edmunds.
Food is of a high standard with the specials all being of a piscatorial nature. Definitely more gastro than pub grub. The chef's special at �32.00 was an impressive sea food dish composed of just about everything that swims, crawls about the sea bed or attaches itself to rocks. A couple nearby were tackling this gargantuan repast with great gusto.
So whether you want a decent pint and a bag of Mini Cheddars and sit outside watching the ferries and other channel traffic, or stay inside for some quality nosebag - this pub does both quite happily.
It doesn't quite match the ambience of the King's Head, but is still worthy of a respectable 6/10.
13 Sep 2006 12:25
Second stop of the evening - again GrahamA gets it right! The Castle Eden was was served up in fine fettle, by a smiling young lady in equally fine fettle!
The menu looked good, and the food also looked good - all home made fare by the look of it. Carnivores and Vegetarian alike are catered for - Someone on a nearby table had a Vegetable Korma which looked most appetising - fair praise from a dyed-in-the-wool red meat eater. Definitely good, solid pub grub taher than gastro!
The lighting was rather bright, but at least it meant you could see what you're drinking. Lots of old photographs and pictures decorate the walls, so with the bright lighting, it means you don't have to squint if you're a myopic old fart like me!
The King's Head has the edge, but the Risng Sun is certainly worth a visit, and as such gets 6/10.
If you're going down to the Zetland Arms ( out of the door, turn sharp right down the side of the pub ) take a torch if it's dark. It's an unmade road with "sleeping policemen", potholes and other trip hazards. There are no street lamps on the approach to The Zetland Arms.
13 Sep 2006 11:44
I agree with GrahamA about this being the best of the three. This was my first stop last night at about 18.45.
There were about half a dozen locals in one bar and a couple in the other. Good friendly service with a smile - it really does go a long way.
I had an excellent pint of Goacher's Mild, the other two ales being the ubiquitous Greene King I.P.A. and Fuller's London Pride. The pump clips attached to the ceiling bear witness to the diverse range of beers that have been sold in this charming little pub. It certainly has a cosy ambience to it.
A good, honest village local that rates 7/10 in my book.
13 Sep 2006 11:24
The tentacles of "Effing Frank" have now enveloped this seafromt pub. I've not been in since it's been taken over, but I can't imagine that it has had the usual Thorley makeover - however, I could be wrong.
The pub featured in the film "Last Orders" starring Bob Hoskins, Michael Caine and Ray Winston.
The next time I feel like putting myself through hell, I'll take a trip to Margate and check it out properly.
12 Sep 2006 16:35
A lovely, traditional Kent village boozer. The usual Shep's offerings. Worth a detour off the A2.
12 Sep 2006 12:31
The Wasdale Head Inn, Wasdale Head
If you eat the porridge, you'll not glow in the dark, by the way. That's Windscale!
12 Sep 2006 12:13
The Wasdale Head Inn, Wasdale Head
Superb base for a weekend break in the lakes. Breathtaking views. Excellent food and beer. They'll even make you up a packed lunch if you'ew off hiking for the day, and as Terry_W correctly observes - no idiots.
I had a fantastic long weekend there recently, and can hardly wait to return.
An truly deserved 9/10.
12 Sep 2006 12:09
My local charges 2.20 as shot, AND it's on a 35ml optic - i.e. 40% bigger than the standard 25ml. A bottle of tonic is �0.95. Thus a large G&T in my local will set you back �5.35.
"Caveat Emptor"
12 Sep 2006 11:14
Popped in the other night with a couple of buddies. The curmudgeonly one stuck to his usual tipple of Archers Village ( 3.6% ), whilst I and my other imibibing companion partook of Eddie Gadd's "Dr Sunshine's Special Friendly Wheat Beer".
This pub gets crowded on Thursday evenings if "Andy's Angels" are playing darts at home, but Andy takes it all in his stride and he never keeps you waiting long for a beer. You do, however, run the risk of being mugged by the girls' darts team for raffle tickets. Still, they'll always offer you some of their nosebag!
Just up the road is Feeny's, which has recently changed hands, possibly reverting in due course to its original name of "The North Pole". Quality of ale varies from undrinkable to good.
Tucked behind Feeny's is The Honeysuckle - also worth a visit if in that part of Ramsgate.
The Monty rates a well deserved 8/10
11 Sep 2006 16:44
Do I go straight to the station and catch a "stopper"? Or pop in the Westgate Inn for a pint, then catch the "fast". I decided on the latter. I walked in, walked out, did a double-take and walked back in. The reason? It was 15.45, the pub was pretty empty, and no dirty tables! I imagine it's because it's the wrong time of the week, and all "the usual suspects" have spent all the dole money that I ( and others like me ) give them!
Having said that, I got served straight away by a happy young lass - she was just about to finish her shift and go on her hols. Harviestoun "Schiehallion" was the order of the day. A crystal-clear, full pint was placed before me. I joined the other three pariahs in the sheltered sun-drenched courtyard for a cigarette, and savoured a very good pint indeed.
I had, or rather made time for a second pint, served up by an equally affable young chap, who had been called in at very short notice to cover for someone else. Again a full measure. All in all, a good decision not to go for the earlier train.
7 Sep 2006 16:18
The Queens Head, Boughton-under-Blean
I alighted the train at Selling and ambled through some very pretty countryside, and after nearly being run over in a hop field by some maniac tractor driver called Jerzy or Stanislaus, I arrived some thirty minutes later at the Queen's Head.
I had an excellent pint of Master Brew. Staff are friendly and efficient, and I soon fell into conversation with a friendly local couple.
A separate side bar is home to a pool table. There is a separate dining room by the look of it. The menu looked good, but I didn't have anything as I got there half an hour prior to closing for the afternoon. The Queen's Head also offers accomodation.
There is live music on this weekend - a folk group or somesuch. A pub I shall return to for a longer visit.
Well done Terri - I like your pub. 7/10
7 Sep 2006 14:22
Popped in yesterday too see what all the fuss is about. Five minutes walk from Dover Priory station. It doesn't look much like the photo at present due to scaffolding having been erected.
Abbot Ale was on, but as I was on a mission yesterday afternoon, I settled for a very good pint of London Pride. A friendly little pub, with cheerful service from the lass behind the bar. A selection of rolls are available. Pool and Darts are both played here.
If you've some time to kill before catching a train, The Golden Lion is a far better proposition than either The Dover Priory Hotel (q.v.) or Renaissance (q.v.)
A good solid 6/10
7 Sep 2006 13:47
I tend to agree with Conniwot. Thank you Widescreen - for alerting me to pubs that I should give a miss.
7 Sep 2006 13:16
It's on the Herne Bay Road, on the left, heading toward the sea.
5 Sep 2006 15:45
A two minute walk from Yates's, up Margate's pedestrianised High Street will take you to Sheldon's.
I walked in, looked around, turned on my heel and promptly exited. A fine melange of the cream of Margate society - there was the local "Staffy" owners' club having a meeting, a motley selection of Chavettes with mewling brats, and the entire cast of extras from Deliverance. "SOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooeeeeeeeeeeeeEEEEEEEEEE !!!!!!!!!"
I'll leave you to draw your own conclusions - I was rapidly losing the will to live, so curtailed my Margate jaunt by omitting the Sread Eagle and Barnacles.
As regards Sheldon's, superlatives fail me! 0/10.
5 Sep 2006 11:05
Q. What do you call a very slightly upmarket "Spoons" with no real ale?
A. Yates's.
I ambled in and stopped dead in my tracks - a lovely faux-marble topped bar adorned with all these shiny fizzy beer dispensers - not one engine in sight! I suppose the "Wine Lodge" of the group's title should have given me a clue. Undaunted, I approached said bar and asked the pleasant, smiling youg lady who greeted me for a pint of Guinness. "Very sorry, I can't serve it - the tap's broken". "When?", I ventured. "Oh, yesterday", she replied brightly.
Faced with a choice of John Smith's Smooth or Tetley Smooth - I'd rather stick red-hot needles in my eyes than drink either - I elected for a cup of coffee, at sat at the least dirty table. Looking around, the clientele appeared not to be the types that frequent 'Spoons. Middle aged ladies with shopping, a couple of business types, and a few young mums with their infant brood, and a few couples. The atmosphere was not unpleasant, but with the darkish paint, and the blinds pulled most of the way down, it looked dark and gloomy, as the sun had now moved further round no longer bathing Cecil Square in sunshine.
Then, a flurry of activity - the blinds were being pulled up, dirty glasses collected, tables and ashtrays being cleaned. The Gents need some attention - one trap with a broken seat, jamming door and bust lock. Sorry, Yates's, you did nothing for me - not even a Guinness. 0/10.
Right then, off to Sheldon's�������..
5 Sep 2006 11:01
The usual mid-afernoon dross sitting outside and inside. Once you'd gotten past them and to the bar, you encounter the one solitary person whose badge claims that she is a supervisor. There were only two others and I at the bar, and she couldn't work out who was next to be served.
I was served a reasonable pint of Hopdaemon "Incubus", and took my place at one of the few vacant ( and dirty, glass bedecked ) tables.
The toilets were spotless. I returned to my pint just in time to see a reasonably well turned out inebriate swerve in to the bar area, survey the back-bar area whilst gently swaying in the non-existent breeze, and swerve back out.
Back up to 1/10 for entertainment value only. Hey-ho, onward to Yates's
5 Sep 2006 10:59
Once in a while, in order to make you a really appreciate a pub, it is necessary to visit Purgatory! Last week, for me Purgatory became Margate. I suffered in four establishements.
First on the list is the Flag and Whistle. Conveniently situated opposite Margate railway station. I suppose the sandwich board outside advertising Kamikaze on a Friday night should have been a warning.
The large chap behind the bar was very polite, friendly and said hello as soon as I got to the bar, and I was served straight away with a pint of Kronie Blanc. Shame about the very pretty barmaid with her swearing head on! Still, she was on her break, so that makes it all right. Oh, does it really?
The pub is rectangular, open plan, with a couple of pew-like benches and tables, and a pool table at the side facing the station. The pub itself is pretty bare inside - the only railway memorabilia being a couple of platform destination boards rescued from Faversham station after the electronic CIS was installed. The notice board has a painting of what is claimed to be "The Flying Scotsman" - what is in fact portrayed is a much older 4-2-2 in G.N.R. livery!
It's all aerosol beer - the Blanc being the best of a bad bunch ( "Wifebeater" and suchlike ). I made a mid-afternoon visit and apart the fellow in overalls, two middle aged ladies and I, the other 8-10 people were chavs, complete with the fake burberry baseball caps, trackies and cheap "Lizzie Duke at Argos" bling.
I drank my beer and bid my farewell to the chap behind the bar, who responded with a cheery "ta mate - see ya soon". I don't think you will, old son.
4/10 - that's only because I like Kronie Blanc and the service was good. Next stop - The Mechanical Elephant.
5 Sep 2006 10:30
I can certainly see why "canaryboy" enthuses about this bar.
Four real ales on offer - Woodforde's "Wherry", Young's "Special", Adnam's "Broadside" and Shep's "Whitstable Bay Organic Ale".
A very wide range of interesting aerosols on offer - Stigel has already been mentioned. Staropramen and various other quality European beers are available, backed up by good selection of Flemish & Walloon beers, including all three types of Chimay.
On my next visit, I shall certainly make an afternoon/evening of it and eat there as the food appeared excellent.
O.K., so it's no-smoking, but I can suffer that for a few hours in such a nice atmosphere. The staff were polite, friendly and obviously enjoy working there.
A well deserved 7, which may well get upgraded upon my next sojourn.
2 Sep 2006 15:57
This pub never fails to impress! All five engines running, offering "Summer Lightning", Eddie Gadd's "No3" & "No7", Deuchars "I.P.A." and Shep's "Master Brew". The "Summer Lightning" was on fine form, as are all the beers served here.
Service was prompt, efficient and with a smile. Again it's a local's pub, and the clientele are nice and friendly.
A well maintained 7/10.
2 Sep 2006 14:56
I didn't know this pub existed and it's only 100 yds or so from The Ship!
A very friendly local pub, with good friendly service. There were three ales on offer - Cottage Brewing "Dawlish Ale", and two beers from Eddie Gadd's brewery in Ramsgate, namely "Gadd's No7", and "Dr. Sunshine's Special Friendly Wheat Beer". I sampled the Dawlish, and it was presented in splendid condition.
I cannot comment on the food but I have heard from people that have eaten here that the food is very good.
A traditional pub with a traditional feel to it - well worth 6/10.
2 Sep 2006 13:37
Popped in as the starting point of a Deal crawl. Being a Sheps' establishment, beers on offer were the ubiquitous Master Brew and Spitfire, both served in fine condition. I went for the seasonal Whitstable Bay Organic Ale - also in excellent form.
This pub never ceases to impress, with its friendly and efficient staff, and chatty locals.
It maintains a good, solid 7/10
2 Sep 2006 12:37
I was deposited here to wait for a train last Friday, and only had about ten minutes to wait, so it was not worthwhile travelling further afield.
It was quite empty for a Friday. Two beer engines but no real ale, so it had to be Liffey Water! Service was quick. Bare floor boards - I don'r know if it's because the old carpet was so filthy or because of the new floor boards, or possibly both.
A fairly mixed bag of clientele, and it didn't feel threatening or intimidating, and for that reason alone, I'll upgrade my score to 4/10.
This could be a half-decent pub if some money and T.L.C. were put its way.
29 Aug 2006 14:50
Previous comments just about sum up The Chambers. There's something to appeal to everyone from young, trendy gadabouts to miserabnle old curmudgeons such as I.
Staff are very friendly and efficient. They're also multiskilled, in so far as they can actually talk and serve at the same time - a welcome plus in my book!
I had a pint of excellent Ringwood "49er", followed by an equally impressive Hopdaemon "Skrimshander" - and not at Simple Simon's (q.v.) exhorbitant prices. Also on offer was Adnam's Bitter and Eddie Gadd's No5. The fifth real ale was "Engels" ( English ) from Brouwerij de Molen ( The Mill Brewery ) in the Netherlands.
For afficionados of yellow fizzy stuff - an interesting choice on offer - Bitburger, Grolsch and Hoegaarden.
And if a pint of Old Tooth Rot is your tipple of choice, The Chambers can offer you either Thatcher's "Cheddar Valley" or Biddenden "Bushels".
One word of caution - mind your head if you are over 6'4" - the ceilings are a little on the low side. All in all, this is my favourite non-pub in Folkestone, and worth a good, solid 8/10.
29 Aug 2006 13:52
The Office (Southcliff Hotel), Folkestone
I didn't notice the Kronie Blanc on my previous visit, RaeOfSunshine, and would be visiting again this evening, were I not going to a wedding reception.
The reception isn't being held too far away, so I may, time permitting, pop in for a Blanc ( or two ) en-route to the railway station.
I will try the food on my next visit, and if it's as good as you say, I'll be delighted to amend my score accordingly - upwards!
25 Aug 2006 14:48
What a shame the pub is for sale. I visited it on the way to St David's a couple of years ago. Both the welcome and the beer were exemplary.
I hope it's sold and remains a pub, but in this day and age, I very much doubt it.
24 Aug 2006 11:36
The Office (Southcliff Hotel), Folkestone
It's still like Elmo Putney's Wine Bar! They now serve Kronenbourg Blanc. It's a little bit heavy on the citrus for my liking, but that didn't stop me having a couple of pints last night.
Good staff, and food looks good. It was the first time that I've seen Merguez on a bar menu.
I like this place because it is so different from my usual haunts. 6/10
19 Aug 2006 11:16
My last stop after Blakes and 'Spoons - why the hell did I bother? Big pub, three other customers, a dozy barmaid with her hand superglued to her mobile. I eventually got served a pint of Ruddles Best - that in itself was an oxmoron! I was given a short measure and had to ask for it to be topped up, which it was with acompanying "tut" noises. If I had visited this grothole before 'Spoons, the latter would have gotten a score of 5-6 instead of 4.
Truly awful. the only reason it gets 1/10 instead of zero is because it's Friday afternoon, and I'm in good humour
18 Aug 2006 14:46
My visit to Blakes must have put me in a good, devil-may-care mood. I breexed in through the flotsam and the jetsam, that is the unemployed, the un-employable, the halt, the lame and the blind(drunk) of Dover, that made up the vast majority of that particular afternoon's clientele. The size of the frontage belies the size of the interior. The pub goes back a fair way, then dog-legs to the right.
Tables with dirty glasses and ashtrays - as seems to be the norm for 'Spoons! Undaunted I approached the bar, and was served straight away - with a smile as well. I plumped for a pint of the Spinning Dog Brewery's "Top Dog", a 4.2% bitter. She put the berre down, took my money, gave me my change, picked up my pint and topped it up without being prompted.
Out of the corner of my eye, i caught a scurry of movement. No, it was not a bout of fisticuffs, but TWO members of staff clearing/cleaning the tables and ashtrays.
I'm unsure what to make of this place - the service was good and cheery, I got a full pint from a hitherto unknown ( to me ) brewery in Hereford, which was in good condition. I can't speak for the nosebag or the toilets however. I can imagine that this place is bloody awful at weekends, with the less salubrious of Dover's residents frquenting it, so based purely on the above observations, 4/10
18 Aug 2006 14:09
Popped in for a pint of Goacher's Stout - excellent as usual. I also tried a pint of Westerham Brewery's 1965 Premium Bitter ( 4.8$ ). That was also in excellent condition.
All ales are priced at �2.40, irrespective of strength. If you want to strip the enamel off your teeth and consign a few thousand braincells to oblivion, you have the choice of Mole's "Black Rat" cider, or Thatchers' cider - both 6.0% and �2.50 a pint.
Blakes is now non-smoking, so I'll have to smoke my pipe in the garden in future.
18 Aug 2006 13:08
"What a difference a day makes" to quote the old Esther Phillips record. What a difference seven years makes - since my last visit, hence the previous posting.
I popped in here after my visit to The King's Arms in Elham. Don't be put off by the cardbord cutout Reindeers ( last year's Christmas decorations ) on the car park fencing, or the tacky fibreglass pirates and parrot!
It's reverted back to what it was fifteen years ago, but with the addition of a restaurant built on to the back. If you want to eat, you would be well advised to phone to find out if the restaurant is open. The pub and the restaurant is full of an eclectic mix of memorabilia, bric-a-brac and muck and tat. And it works!
There is a large field at the rear that can be used for camping. There is an hourly ( No 17 ) bus service from Folkestone to Canterbury, and the bus stops outside The Palm Tree.
The service was good, and the locals were friendly. Fuller's London Pride was on, as was Harvey's Best. I cannot speak for the Fuller's, but the Harvey's was served in tip-top condition.
I enjoyed my visit. The pub has greatly improved since my last visit, and I will not leave it so long to my next. I'm more than happy to double my previous score and give it a respectable 6/10
18 Aug 2006 12:56
The number of times I've been up and down the Elham Valley, and I was blissfully unaware of this lovely little pub, situated in a square off the main road, so I am grateful to my Dutch colleague for suggesting a visit to The King's Arms, as the next pub - my colleague's local, was not yet open.
Three beers on offer - the ubiquitous G.K. I.P.A., Flowers' Original and best of the three - Harvey's Best. The landlord is a friendly cove, and the ale in first class order. I got into conversation with a local who'd lived in the village for 30 years, as a result of him asking about the Van Gogh pub in Ramsgate ( q.v. The Churchill Tavern ).
Food is served and the prices are very reasonable. If you are travelling towards Canterbury, when you get to Elham, turn right immediately before the Shep's pub. Certainly worth a return visit.
7/10
18 Aug 2006 12:17
It's still not a patch on the nearby, and lamentably closed Three Horseshoes, at Lower Hardres.
15 Aug 2006 14:52
THE FOLLOWING REFERS TO "THE ROYAL", HARBOUR PARADE, RAMSGATE.
The Royal does not warrant being added to this site. I am posting a comment here, because Sheldons's is also "A Thorley Tavern".
I, and some friends, had a very good meal in the upstairs restaurant a fortnight ago. The restaurant has excellent views over Ramsgate Royal Harbour. Service was prompt and efficient, the food of a high standard, and not excessively priced. There is a small restaurant bar but no real ale which I can, on this occasion, overlook. No sign of anything microwaved or boil-in-the-bag. No hesitation in giving the restaurant 10/10.
However, the restaurant is only half the story.
Downstairs is the bar, which is so-so during the day. it gets very crowded in the evening, especially at weekends, with doormen having to contriol the number of people going in. It has a late licence and charges for admittance after a certain time - but why? It's only a pub at the end of the day. Admittedly, they do discos, kamikaze ( or whatever that damn' caterwauling is called ) and have live bands. Trouble does flare up occasionally.
As you walk in and approach the bar, your eye is drawn to the nicely signwritten proclamation - "An excellent selection of fine hand-drawn ales". That statement alone is in contravention of Sale of Goods Acts various. There are three engines of which only one is connected, offering a very tired pint of Webster's! It was not busy early evening, but nonetheless, there were dirty table with dirty glasses on them. If you like drinking Alcopops/WKD/Wifebeater and suchlike, fine. Otherwise, go elsewhere. An extremely charitable 1/10.
To summarise, go upstairs to the restaurant, enjoy your meal and the view over the harbour, and leave.
On a different tack, does anyone know why only one of Frank Thorley's London pubs ( "Aldgate Exchange", Whitechapel ) appears on the company website as there are several others on THIS site alone? Answers on a postcard, please..............
15 Aug 2006 14:14
The Rifle Volunteers, Maidstone
Having walked the 250 yards from The Style & Winch, you encounter this gem - it's a Goacher's pub!
Three Goacher's ales on hand pump, all in splendid condition - the Stout was particularly good - once you'ver tried it, you'd not want to try Guinness/Beamish/Murphy's again.
No junk-box, no fruit machine, just a good old fashioned back street boozer where you can drink superb ale, and have a sensible conversation. As a result of my visit, I had to severely curtail my planed crawl. Ho hum, always another occasion, I suppose.
9/10
14 Aug 2006 13:56
Better than the other Spoons, and that's not saying much! 3/10
14 Aug 2006 13:09
The pub is named after a defunct local brewery that expanded throughout its 170 history until it was bagged by Courage. I decided to visit as the name is also emblazoned in tiling on the extrior of Tha Man of Kent in Rochester (q.v.)
What a mistake. There is nothiung basically wrong here. Service was prompt and cheerful and the locals didn't have grazed knuckles ( from scraping along the pavement! ) I had a pint of London Pride which was past its best. I imagine they don't sell too much proper beer, as only one of three hand pumps were in operation.
If you have approached this pub from Week Street, you'd be well advised to walk another 250 yards.
Disappointing - 5/10
14 Aug 2006 13:07
Popped back in yesterday to try a pint of wallop! A very good pint of "Directors'" - yes, I know that seems like an oxymoron! I don't think Conniwot would approve as it also sells F*****'s.
6/10
10 Aug 2006 14:17
It just gets worse!!
A report in the local paper of a local ne'er-do-well who was going to belt someone with a stool, was restrained by staff, dropped the stool, struggled free, grabbed a glass and and threw it at the manageress' head. It hit her in the face causing an injury to her cheek requiring stitches.
I was generous in giving it 1/10 previously. Now it's a big fat zero!
10 Aug 2006 12:48
Ing, the Malaysian landlord, now cooks on Wednesday evenings alternating between a choice of four curries one week, and four noodle dishes the next. They have proved very popular. They're normally sold out by 20.30, they're really tasty, and priced between �4.00 - �4.50. I haven't cooked on a Wednesday for the last coupkle of monthe now!
9 Aug 2006 16:39
Well, what a surprise! I called in yesterday evening before catching my train. Prompt service indeed - in fact I was so stunned that I didn't even notice the two beer engines that had been installed ( Courage Best and Director's ) until I'd ordered my Guinness.
I feel someone has gone way overboard with the number of England flags around the walls and ceilings.
The clientele were a real mixed bag of types, and this time not a baseball cap or a pair of Reebok Classics in sight! In addition to the pool tables, there is also a bar-football game, and a couple of games machines and Sky Sports - good to see England win the second test yesterday.
Food appears to be good value, although nobody was eating as it was early evening. It's no longer a "Mr Q's" pub, and has improved considerably since my last visit. 5/10.
9 Aug 2006 15:42
A fantastic country pub selling Shepherd Neame beers. The black pudding sandwiches are legendary, and if you cannot finish said sandwich, go into the garden and the ducks will be more than happy to dispose of it.
Chris, the landlord, does not sell lager during lent!
If you like "Sheps'", and country pubs, you'll love this place.
8 Aug 2006 14:32
ADDENDUM FOR NAME-DROPPERS!
Paul O'Grady a.k.a. Lily Savage popped in with a "friend".
8 Aug 2006 10:07
Thanks Cap'n - I'm more than likely going to pop in there for a pint on the way home this evening. it really is one of Dover's few redeeming features!
7 Aug 2006 18:15
A friend and I decided to take a break from the Bus Rally thst was taking place over the weekend, and suggested we had lunch at 'Spoons.
I agreed with some apprehension, especially as the majority that I have thus far visited have been pretty dire to say the least.
I was pleasantly surprised. There are two separate non-smoking dining areas, one of which afford a sea view. There was none of the usual posters for their special offers.
As it was Sunday lunchtime, I expeceted the place to be heaving - which it wasn't! The Bateman's "Summer Swallow" was very quaffable, and the "Abbot Ale" also very good. Again, at my friend's recommendation, I tried the Aberdeen Angus Steak Pie, which was spot on!
I had a minimal wait when I went to the bar to make my several orders. The young lass said there was a 20 minute wait on food, and my order appeared in less than fifteen!
There was sufficient staff covering, and none of the usual aimless wandring about, not knowing who was next in line for a drink and suchlike.
The toilets are on the gound floor which is a boon to an old duffer like me with severely creaking hips, and the Gents were spotless.
The only criticism is the endemic reluctance shared with all 'Spoons to clear the table of glasses.
Whether the Saxon Shore reverts to the normal 'Spoons standard during the week and evenings, I cannot say, but I was pleasntly surprised on my Gricer's visit to Herne Bay for the day.
Had it not been for the table clearing, I would have given it 8. Saxon Shore loses one point therefore.
P.S. "Effing Franks" tentacles have spread further - there's a Thorley Tavern across the road!
7 Aug 2006 14:31
Popped in with friends over the weekend. Beer was of a high standard but damn' pricey! �2.90 for a pint of Hopdaemon "Skrimshander" (4.5%) and it's only brewed up the road. I can get the same pint in my local for �2.20. This is Canterbury, NOT London. In fact, I think London tends to be cheaper. No wonder the average student debt after three years at Uni is �12k!
The food was excellent. The price of the beer stops me giving this lovely old pub more than 7/10.
24 Jul 2006 15:00
Does Patsy Kensit still drink there? It's slightly of the beaten track, but "in my parish" as it were. I, too, have not visited for about twenty years, so somewhat overdue for a visit.
18 Jul 2006 08:59
Excellent news - Blakes' no longer stock aerosol stout.
It's now Goacher's Imperial Stout and it is superb!
14 Jul 2006 12:01
The Hare and Hounds, Northbourne
I visited this pub with my chauffeur on Tuesday. The beer is fine as far as "Sheps" goes, and I wouldn't go so far as to say the food is great.
It is a nice pub, albeit non-smoking - indeed it prides itself on the fact, but you can travel two miles in either direction ( towards Sandwich or Walmer ) and find better with a better range of ale and a proper local pub ambience!
I cannot agree with "scragm" that this pub deserves 10/10. Anyone visting after having seen the score awarded by "scragm" will be sorely disappointed.
Before the smoking ban, I would have awarded 6 points, but now, only an average 5/10
14 Jul 2006 11:36
Although having ridden past the Dering Arms on numerous occasions on my trusty Matchless over the years whilst en-route to Sussex, I decided to pay a visit last Friday. Having gotten off the train at Pluckley, I walked the 200yds down Station Road to the Dering Arms. Being in "Darling Buds of May" country, it is in idyllic surroundings, the silence being punctuated by the birds singing.
All the doors were open and wheelchair access as well, so no guessing how to get in! It had just opened and I was the first person in. Fantastic - no intrusive noise, just the ticking of the clock. No fruit machines here!
To be honest, the Dering Arms is a restaurant that sells beer, rather than a pub selling food, but if you like good quality seafood, this place is excellent.
Two beers were on offer, both from Phil Goacher at Maidstone. The Dering Ale is re-badged Fine Light at 3.7%, and my tipple of choice was Gold Star at 5.1%.
Not exorbitantly priced at �2.60 considering the sort of place this is, it did have a slight bloom to it, which I put down to the weather, and was very good to drink. It's lovely and "hoppy", with a tang of citrus to balance the malt.
I will certainly return. 8/10.
5 Jul 2006 13:51
Yes, the quality of the beer is up and down like the Assyrian Empire. There are better pubs in Canterbury.
28 Jun 2006 14:27
I have absolutlety no hesitationin awarding this pub a truly deserving 10/10!
Please allow me to qualify this score on a point-by-point basis.
Right, here we go��������..
Male patrons sporting cheap fake Burberry baseball caps bought ( stolen? ) from the market in the High Street - 1/10
Above males with a complexion like a pepperami pizza, due to an excess of KFC, Maccy D's, &c. - 1/10
Proliferation of eye-blindingly white Reebok Classics - 1/10
Pasty faced or "Tangoed" females sporting cheap ( "Lizzie Duke at Argos" ) hoop earrings, so large that a Pterodactyl could used it as a perch - 1/10
Not forgetting a point for wearing tacky clown pendant as above - 1/10
Above females sporting the "Croydon Facelift" - 1/10
And drinking WKD or some other lurid coloured chemical muck - 1/10
Whilst pregnant - with bulging stomach protruding between low-slung trackie bottoms and cropped top - 1/10
Being called Baz, Gaz, Daz ( male ), Kaz, Shaz, Chardonnay or Lambrini ( female ), and face contorted in a perma-scowl - 1/10
And there you have it - the perfect Chav boozer.
I would rather poke cocktail sticks in my eyes than darken their door a second time.!
Avoid like the plague - you have been warned!!
20 Jun 2006 17:54
I've been here for lunch on a couple of occasions this year. The food is good and reasonably priced and the Bombardier certainly passed muster.
Notwithstanding the fact that it's now a restaurant selling beer, rather than a pub selling food - which is the only way that a lot of these small country "pubs" can survive these days - I'm happy to give it 7/10.
17 Jun 2006 15:17
I called in here on Monday evening with a friend down from London, and had primed him upon what to expect. His jaw just dropped when we pulled up outside. He was just speechless when we entered.
Doris was chatting with another couple of ex land-army girls who were visiting locally.
Goachers Ales very much in evidence - the Imperial Stout was superb!
Further to my January posting, "Southern"'s new summer railway timetable has just come out ( 11 June ), and joy of joys, vitually every train to and from Ashford now stops at Appledore. Oh happy day.
By the way, there will be the annual midsummer beer festival on 24th June - one day only, and the pub is open all day.
14 Jun 2006 15:20
Popped in for an early one Monday evening. Had a beer on the landlord's recommendation - and excellent it was. It's a proper pub, insofar as it's unspoilt by IKEA flat pack rubbish and pale yellow wood flooring. The landlord obviously cares more about his beer than a bit of peeling wallpaper.
There is a notice prohibiting the use of mobile phones - put up at the request of the locals. Hooray! One unfortunate forgot to turn his off, and was given a load of good-natured abuse by his pals.
First time I've been in for a couple of years, but it's still a good pub.
14 Jun 2006 13:25
I stopped in Glasgow after having been to Arran for a short break. I had some time to kill before catching a bus back to the land of the heathen English, so with a friend from Ayr, descended upon the Horseshoe Bar.
If this bar were in London, it would be called a Victorian Gin Palace. Once you've gone through either of the double swing doors, and gotten past the people that congregate around the front of the eponymous bar, you realise what a large place this is. It has superb victorian full-length acid etched mirrors on the far wall making the bar seem even bigger. Even the proliferation of television screens showing "the fitba" was not intrusive.
Once at the bar, service was prompt, efficient, and our pints delivered with a smile. I spent a good few hours in there and not once was my beer topped up with keg, and I didn't move away from the beer engines!
On offer were Caledonian 80/-, Deuchars I.P.A., Brains S.A. and Caledonian "Flying Scotsman" Prices ranged from �1.95 - �2.20, and the quality equalled that of some of the best watering holes south of Hadrian's Wall!
As concerns victuals, the Horseshoe must be the epitome of Weegie Cuisine - Soup, hot Scotch Pie with either beans or peas, and a choice of dessert - Rice & Fruit, Jelly & Fruit, Fresh Fruit or Ice Cream. And what was the tariff for this epicurean delight? A niggardly �3.45!
All in all, this pub bar is an absolute treasure - certainly one of the best I've been to in a long time, and I've visited a few over the years. Tim Martin should should send his managers in order to find out how a large bar should be run.
Consequently, I have no hesitation in awarding a bollock-blistering 10/10
25 May 2006 15:36
I totally agree with you, "Sharpe". The best thing to happen to this cesspit would be for it to be sold to Jimmy Godden - and we Thanetians ( and Folkestonians ) all know what has a tendency to happen when JG gets his paws on something, don't we?
Could be worse though - it could be Another Bleedin' Thorley Tavern!
19 May 2006 13:26
A chav pub on a chav estate. People tend to have a scar on one shoulder where they've chewed their second head off! I had feelings of deja-vu, then realised I was confusing this carbuncle of a pub to the Greyhound at Aylesham!
The landlady takes over a much nicer place at the end of the month, and God knows shw deserves it after having to put up with the deadbeats that frequent this dump.
10 May 2006 16:37
The Queens Head, Boughton-under-Blean
A new landlady takes over at the end of this month. She is a lovely lass who deserves a decent pub.
10 May 2006 16:25
Chris Parry alert! The miserable old git let slip that he will be popping in over the next couple of days!
10 May 2006 15:53
An absolute gem of a country pub tucked away in the Kent countryside, eight miles from Canterbury and twelve miles from Dover. It can take a little finding, but believe me, it's well worth the effort!
Heather and Charlie run this splendid pub which was East Kent Camra pub of the year for 2004-5. They serve well kept real ales chiefly from local independent brewers, and Mild is alaways available. Local cider is also available and comes from either Thatcher's or Biddenden. If you join the "afternoon club", then your beer will be discounted up to a maximum of 50p. There is live music on Thursdays.
The home cooked food is excellent and not a sign of "portion control". If you decide to go there for Sunday Lunch, I would certainly recommend booking in advance.
There are smoking and non-smoking bars, and the restaurant is non-smoking.
I just love the pub and you get a nice mix of clientele - definitley no Chavs here. No hesitation in giving it 9/10.
1 May 2006 14:58
A smashing backstreet pub only a few minutes from the festering boil that is Bromley High Street.
The Sheps' Early Bird was served in excellent condition. The barman was friendly and efficient, and good home cooking was very much in evidence.
The Early Bird was expensive at �2.75 a pint, but it's a small price to pay to drink in a pleasant Chav-free environment. There is a patio which is pleasant on a warm sunny day, but on Saturday, it was a question of moving to stay in the sun.
Two medium sized T.V.s were screening Man U - Chelski match at a bit of an intrusive volume if standing at the front of the pub near the door, but this didn't really detract from my enjoyment of the pub. I arrived there just before 13.00 to meet some acquaintnces and did'nt leave till gone 17.00, so it can't have been too bad.
All in all, worth the trip up from the coast, the Anglesey Arms warrants a well deserved 8/10.
1 May 2006 13:54
Still the best pub for real ale in Ramsgate. It ain't broke, so the landlords haven't fixed it!
1 May 2006 13:10
I have seen it at night!
The beer ( Deuchars' I.P.A. ) was fine, as was the service.
I have to disagree about the atmosphere, however. A soulless place, bouncers on the door, stainless steel toilets. If I wasn't hanging around for a bus back to Blighty that particular evening, wild horses would not have dragged me in.
I won't go as far as to say I'd never rubbish a Spoons again, but it's pretty damn' close!
If the Deuchars had not been as good as it was, and the service as good as it was - Spoons, take note - this bar would not have rated the 5/10 I am giving it.
26 Apr 2006 13:20
I don't see what the problem is with the Guv'nor answering critcisms on this site - it shows he takes an interest, and, I presume, tackles any serious issues raised accordingly. Take a look at The Magpie & Crown, Brentford.
It does annoy me when people criticise a pub, and not this one in particular, and lack the courage of their convictions to the extent that they feel the need to post anonymously.
Wimbourne.
26 Apr 2006 11:45
A real town pub - in the sassenach sense, rather that the usual hotel bar affair.
It was particularly lively the afternoon I visited, possibly due to the fact that there was a race meeting at Ayr, and everyone was glued to the two screen and phoning the bookies to place bets.
The Bass was the best I've had in a long time, and the barstaff were cheerful and very efficient. Again, there are "no smoking" signs next to the cigarette machine - and there were a couple of people smoking, and nobody was in the least concerned about it.
I spent a good hour and a half here whilst the girls went shopping, and thoroughly recommend it. A good boozer with a good atmosphere. I bet the place was good last Sunday for the "Fitba" - the Old Firm derby.
A respectable 6/10
26 Apr 2006 11:29
The Lochranza Hotel, Lochranza
I stayed here for several days last week. The hotel is opposite the small open harbour on the northwest of the island.
The ale was Deuchars I.P.A., which, I felt, was overpriced at �2.85 a pint. If you like your "Uisge Beathea", you'll be in your element - there are in excess of 100 malt whiskies available. The only factor that will limit you is the size of you wallet! If you look at the "menu" and there is no price marked adjacent to a particular malt, and you need to ask the price - then you can't afford it.
The food is excellent, and the cooked breakfast will certainly set you up for the day. You can eat your evening meal in the bar or in the dining room. The bar can get busy in the evening with people turning up from miles around.
It a great base if you're staying for a few days. You'll see Golden Eagle on the hills above the distillery ( half a mile from the hotel ), Deer wandering along the side of the road, and Seals basking on the rocks.
The only only downside - and this applies countrywide - is that smoking is banned in bars and hotels. Having said that, you'll see signs saying that smoking is illegal stuck right next to a cigarette machine, so I'm inclined to think that there is a certain amount of laxity.
A well deserved 8/10
24 Apr 2006 16:15
I wouldn't go so far as liquidlenny.
It does the full range of Arran Ales ( the brewery is only 5mn away ), but like the majority of watering holes on the island, it's a hotel bar rather than a pub, so consequently has the hotel feel to it.
That said, the beer was good, service prompt and cheerful, and the natives were friendly.
6/10
24 Apr 2006 15:59
The Breadalbane Hotel, Kildonan
Visited this hotel last Tuesday.
Very friendly locals with a great sense of humour.
Good ale - Ringwood's Best & Deuchars I.P.A. I didn't try the food but the prices were good and the food looked delicious.
I would love to have had the time to return to sample some of their cooking, but unfortunately, my itinerary did not permit this, so purely on the beer, ambience &c., I'll give it 7/10.
24 Apr 2006 15:54
This is simply a superb little pub right "out in the sticks", which is nonetheless easily accessible from the A2 from Dover to Canterbury, or the A256 Eastry by-pass.
Their web site will give you a good idea of what they're about. It was an absolutely filthy, rainy night last last when I visited, and the small public bar was pretty full.
The landlord sources his ales from both local breweries and those independents futher afield.
Last night's offerings were Incubus (4%) and Dominator (5.1%) from the Hopdaemon Brewery at Canterbury, and Clifton Ale (4.3%) from Cottage Brewing Co Ltd.
I've been here on several occasions and the beer has never been less than 100% I've had good reports on the food served here, but until I actually try something from their bill of fare, I will rate them on their excellent ales only and give them a well deserved 8/10.
12 Apr 2006 14:25
I visited this pub last night for the first time for about 18 months. It was a rather nasty night and all the table were occupied by diners.
The new landlord is very affable and my companions and I enjoyed a couple of excellent pints of Harvey's Best. The old stillage behind the bar is no longer there, and the four ales on offer are dispensed through a more conventional beer engine, fitted with, and this is one of my pet hates - a swan neck dispenser.
The other three ales on offer were Adnam's Broadside, Bass & the ubiquitous Greene King I.P.A.
The Crispin appears to be in safe hands and I shall make the effort to get here more often - it's only a 20mn stroll from Sandwich railway station. A superb country pub. Until I've had something to eat there, I'll rate it on the beer alone and give it a well deserved 8/10.
12 Apr 2006 13:34
I popped in to meet a friend after work last week, in order to "wet the baby's head" - my first trip since the changeover to Fullers. No change seems to have occurred - "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!"
It wasn't broke, it's not been fixed, so it's still a jolly good pub as far as I am concerened.
11 Apr 2006 15:44
"Le Roi est mort. Vive le Roi!"
The Archbishop has relinquished his see after seven years at midnight last night.
Report on new regime to follow in due course..........
30 Mar 2006 16:00
As I had the arduous task of finding a venue where a group of railway commuters from various parts of Kent could meet up for a pint and a natter, Ashford seemed pretty central. The pub had to be within 10 minutes walk of the station, and serve ale.
So here I am at pub #2.
Patient: "Sometimes I feel like a wig-wam, and sometimes I feel like a tee-pee"
Doctor: "Ah yes, I see the problem - you're two tents.
The Star has the same problem insofar as it doesn't know whether it wants to be a Pub, a nightclub, a venue for bands or Elmo Putney's wine bar.
A traditional appearance from the outside, you open the door into what is basically an open plan building with tall stools and tables down the side, with more traditional pub-style furniture at the back, and at the very back, two comfy looking sofas.
The bar is halfway down the right hand wall, brightly lit, with a vast array of gaudily coloured liquids pumped full of E numbers, and all the other paraphernalia associated with a cocktail bar. I can imagine the scene on a Saturday night:-
Barstaff: "Yes sir, what'll it bee then, please?"
Bazza: "I'll have the Metal Mickey, Gazza'll have the Brazilian Garage, and I don't know what Shazza's drinking, but it looks like a glass of phlegm with a tree in the top!"
Nestling between the fonts dispensing Pfizer's finest chemical brews, there are three beer engines. Charlie Wells' ubiquitous "Bombardier" ( 4.3% ), Jocks & Geordies' "Theakstons Coopers Butt" ( 4.3% ) and Adnam's "Explorer" ( 4.3% ). The couple who own it are pleasant enough, and I ordered a pint of Adnams. It seems they do not sell a great deal of real ale ( certainly not when I visited ) as the landlady pulled off two pints before offering me the third. Not enough pulled through, so I handed it back. She was more than happy to replace it. Nice citrus tang to it.
So there you have it - a pub with an identity crisis. "Whirr, whirr, whirr" - Yep - it's Lizzienrobs parents spinning in their graves! Forget the pilgrimage, and continue to reflect on the past through those rose-tinted specs.
As I only drink ale, I can only give it 4/10, down to nice clean toilets!
30 Mar 2006 13:39
As I had the arduous task of finding a venue where a group of railway commuters from various parts of Kent could meet up for a pint and a natter, Ashford seemed pretty central. The pub had to be within 10 minutes walk of the station, and serve ale.
How apt that the first pub on my list was The Locomotive, a sturdy looking building with a longish L-shaped bar. Said bar sported a couple of "jewish candleabra" dispensing various sorts of chemical liquids. However, there are two hand pumps.
The first was Shepherd Neame's Master Brew ( 3.7% ) at �2.20 per pint.
The other was one from a sizeable range of Archer's "Locomotive Series" ales that have been served here over the last few months. Tuesday evening's offering was a delicious "Great Bear" ( 5.0% ) at a bargain �1.80 per pint.
Bumped into a colleague a little later in "Spoons", mentioned this to him and he returned here later on in the evening.
I cannot comment about the food as I was on a mission, and time was of the essence.
I could spend happily spend an evening getting quietly legless on the extensive range of malt whiskies.
I like this pub. I like Archers ales. 7/10
30 Mar 2006 11:35
Yes, but at least the barmaid's tattoos were spelt correctly!
9 Mar 2006 11:21
The Magpie and Crown, Brentford
My dear Pandora,
I certainly will visit again in the not too distant future. You will recognise me instantly because of the cunning disguise.
As for the sarcasm - I have the skin of a pachyderm! ;oD
All the best,
Wimbourne.
6 Mar 2006 13:22
This pub is named after Sir Moses Haim Montefiore (1784-1885), the most famous British Jew and Philanthropist of the 19th century. The last decade of his life was passed in comparative quiet upon his estate near Ramsgate.
This Thanet CAMRA Pub of the Year - 2005, is an excellent no-frills pub less than 10 minutes walk from the town centre. There is no intrusive juke box blaring out. Although there are but two real ales on, Andy the landlord serves them in the best of conditiion. The "cooker" is normally Archers ( 3.8% ) and the other is in the 4.5%+ bracket, and changes most frequently. Last week's offering was Dorothy Goodbody's Wholesome Stout - absolutely delicious.
A very friendly pub situated adjacent to the Thanet Loop bus route. The "Monty" is halfway between the "Elephant & Castle" and "The North Pole" bus stops.
Andy runs the pub on his own hence the Wednesday closing, and the traditional pub hours.
3 Mar 2006 12:29
The Magpie and Crown, Brentford
First of all my thanks to Bob the Binman of Egham. Hadit not been for posting on Doris' pub, I would not have found the Magpie and Crown.
Having read through all the comments, however spurious some of them are, I decided that I would make the journey from Planet Thanet.
I ambled in around one o'clock yesterday, and was greeted by a charming smiling lady who turned out to be Angie, the landlord's partner. I apologise to Steve for distracting him away from compiling his quiz. Steve is a lovely fellow, and a "gricer" to boot. I spent a few pleasant hours chatting with them and a couple of the regulars.
The pub has a lovely lived-in feel to it and just didn't feel like a town centre pub, and I certainly can't understand the postings about the lighting or the alleged size of the place. Whomsoever was responsible for the latter remark has obviously never visited The Little Gem at Aylsford, or "The Smallest Pub In Kent" ( the name of which eludes me ) in Snargate Street, Dover.
I had a delicious Thai meal at a reasonable �3-19-00 ( �3.95 to anyone born post 14 Feb 1972 ).
As far as drinking, this pub has something for everybody - a good selection of well kept real ales, czech lager, cider, Hoegaarden and Belgian bottled beers. I tried five different pints - not a bad trick with four handpumps!
Burton Bridge XL Mild - 4.0%
Welton's Schneider Leicht - 4.1% - so nice, I had another.
Grand Union One Hop Pioneer - 4.5%
Grand Union Stout - 4.8% - again, so good that I had a second pint, and finally, by way of "one for the road" -
Twickenham Strong and Dark - 5.2%
Prices between �2-7-0 (�2.35) & �2-10-00 (�2.50).
All in all, a superb town pub, with bags of character, a cosy atmosphere, excellent, well cared for ale and a great landlord. Well worth the journey.
Avery highly deserved 9 out of 10!
Bravo.
Pandora - thank you for your concern. I am extremely meticulous and precise in the application of Elastoplast to my spectacles.
2 Mar 2006 16:04
The Magpie and Crown, Brentford
Having read all the comments below, I will pay a visit tomorrow in a cunning disguise.
One false padded tie-on beer belly.
One voluminous jumper to conceal above.
One pair of Jack Duckwooth style spectacles with Elastoplast on the hinge.
One false long straggly beard.
One matching hairpiece.
One notebook.
One pewter tankard.
A selection of well-chewed biros.
One hat adorned with beer festival badges.
Yes, I think that's everything - a report will follow in the next few days.
28 Feb 2006 12:27
Daisy, de eigenaar, en de bemanning zijn heerlijk.
Man kan meer als 200 biersorten genieten, en redelijke borrelhapjes, spaghetti en lasagne.
Het "pub" is klein, gezellig en sveervol, en find hetzelf 5mn van De Grote Markt.
10 vaniut 10 - uitstekend!
Probeer "De Hobbit" for en goede maltijd voor een redelijke preis - Specialiteiten, "Ribbetjes a volonte".
14 Feb 2006 15:46
The Office (Southcliff Hotel), Folkestone
Elmo Putney's Wine Bar on a bad night. I'm ashamed to admit, however, that on the occasion I went in for a friend's works leaving do, I found it rather pleasant, and barstaff friendly.
As you might expect, you've as much chance of finding real ale in a place ilke this as you have of finding a virgin in Amsterdam's red light district.
So nothwithstanding the fact that it's not really the sort of place I'd frequent through choice, I'll give it 6/10.
21 Jan 2006 13:04
I visited this pub about 18 months ago, together with one of its ex-local, to whit, one Chris Parry ( Archbishop of Canterbury impersonations a speciality ).
A smashing pub with character and characters! Certainly the best of those visited in Barnet that weekend.
To those regulars who are mentioned in preceding reviews, I have sent this whole page to Chris & Michele - you may well see a posting from them.
20 Jan 2006 13:01
A Pikey pub in the middle of a Pikey estate. Avoid like the plague. Nothing to redeem it! If your curiosity gets the better, make sure you take the Purdeys!
18 Jan 2006 14:35
A superb, unpretentious local with a marble topped bar. The pub has been in the same family for 90 odd years, and everyone who knows of its existence know it by its nickname, "Doris's". It rates a mention in CAMRA's outstanding pubs booklet.
A midsummer beer festival takes place in June and the pub stays open all day! A selection of old traditional pub games can be played.
The train service has been drastically reduced making a weekend vist by train a non-starter. During the week there are only two trains that run from Ashford International to Hastings, but more frequent in the opposite direction, so the other alternative id a 'bus to Brenzett - approximately 1 mile in the opposit direction from Appledore station. Travellogue over - back to the pub.
As mentioned, beer is gravity direct from the barrel, and Goacher's is the staple. The only concession to food are crisps and suchlike, nuts and jars of cockles.
It's a gem and well worth the effort of getting there, even though it may require a similar amount of logistics as that involved in a major battle.
10/10.
18 Jan 2006 12:35
If 'Spoons ( as a chain operator ) could be compared to a compost heap, and I suspect it probably can, then this particular example would be the biggest weed growing from the top!
I can scarcely put into words how I feel about this place. It has nothing to redeem it whatsoever.
This place is so soul-destroyingly depressive. The usual assorted mix of in-bred, grazed knuckle ( from dragging along the pavement ), feckless, fake Burberry wearing troglodytes and their Kappa slappers. I swear I saw a "Staffy" with a club foot!
In addition the other "regular" variety of pond life was also in evidence the late afternoon/early evening that I visited.
I'm tempted to return with my two friends, the Purdeys, and a serious amount of napalm!
A big fat zero out of ten, and apologies to all cave dwellers everywhere. For troglodyte, kindly substitute window-licker!
Apologies if I have upset anybody who actually likes this dump, but I'm only posting what is my opinion of it.
17 Jan 2006 15:24
During December, I popped in for a pint to see if the beer had improved. I had a great pint of Hobgoblin - so good, in fact, that I stayed for a second!
Praise where praise is due. I was none too impressed on previous visits, hence my comment last year.
Well done and keep up the quality control.
The 5th Earl will be back - soon!
7 Jan 2006 13:52
Friendly enough pub but on the last couple of occasions that I have visited whilst awaiting a train, there was a dearth of real ale. Shame, as the pub looks nice from the outside.
23 Dec 2005 13:22
The best Shepherd Neame pub I've ever visited, and a vast improvement on the grotty little back-street boozer I first visited thirty years ago.
It's bright, airy with a nice relaxing atmosphere. The garden has been opened up and barbecues take place in summer.
A credit to Jeff & Chris.
23 Dec 2005 13:00
Friendly back-street local, serving excellent real ales. It used to be Charles Hawtrey's local.
23 Dec 2005 12:56
A very good pub. John, the licensee, used to be Chef at The Oak Hotel on Ramsgate seafront. The food is excellent as are his real ales.
It's a nice friendly local with a grandstand view of Ramsgate's picturesque harbour
23 Dec 2005 12:42
The St Lawrence Tavern, St Lawrence
Whilst not being a great fan of Thorley Taverns in general, I have to admit that the St Lawrence is an excellent pub. Sue and Alan will always provide a friendly welcome.
The pub caters for all ages and types. The food is excellent and reasonably priced, providing both restaurant meals and bar snacks. Booking is recommended especially at weekends.
Alan is passionate about his ales. His regular is Greene King I.P.A., and three guest ales are always available, and always superbly looked after.
There is a pool table, and Sky Sports for the footballing cognoscenti.
A well deserved 8 out of 10!
23 Dec 2005 12:25
Typical "Spoons" pub. Pile it high, sell it cheap. The food is awful, and the service even worse!
I'd rather pay an extra pound for a pint in decent surroundings with good attentive staff. I also have an aversion to places where they have doormen.
One less reason to visit Tonbridge.
This pub gets a big fat zero out of ten!
23 Dec 2005 11:18
Marginally better than "Spoons" at Victoria station, and that's not saying much.
23 Dec 2005 10:51
I popped in last Saturday, having travelled down on a rail tour from Ramsgate for the day. Having only just over an hour's turn-round time, I exited the railway station and cast an eye around.
The first thing I saw was the sign outside the pub. My seven colleagues and I descended upon this pub with the speed of a thousand gazelles!
A lovely pub whos frontage belies its size. It is an elongated "L" shape with a pool table tucked around the corner at the rear of the pub. As stated, it is a Hop Back pub, and I slaked my thirst with three splendid pints of Summer Lightning at what one would consider to be a bargain price of �1.75 per pint. Yes, you did NOT misread that - �1.75 per pint!
Only 'Spoons charge less, and if you read my comments on some ( or most, come to that ) of the 'Spoons I've visited, I'd rather pay the extra every time. I'm used to paying between �2.20 - �2.50 for Summer Lightning.
Also on offer were Crop Circle and GFB. I had taster's of both. The GFB had a lovely finish to it, but, unfortunately, the Crop Circle was the last in the barrel, and time was not a luxury that was on our side, so we were unable to wait for a new barrel to be put on.
All in all, a smashing little pub.
22 Sep 2005 12:45
Friends visited this place Monday evening. They informed the waitress that they had just been served the second worst meal they'd ever had. They then told her that the worst meal ever was six months earlier IN THE SAME PLACE!
"Sharpe" - I'm in total agreement with you.
10 Aug 2005 10:15
I did a 500 mile round trip on a 48 year DEMU train to Exeter a fortnight ago. A fantastic day out, and a couple of hours in "Spoons" was the icing on the cake.
The beer was excellent, and although busy, service was prompt, polite and efficient. It was Sunday lunchtime and I was told there was an appoximate waiting time for food orders of 25 minutes. The food arrived in 15 minutes, and delicious as well.
Good beer, good food, friendly AND rakes of totty! Best "Spoons" I've visited - and I've visited a fair few.
If you're ever at Victoria railway station in London, avoid that particular "spoons" like the plague. It is truly awful. You would obtain more enjoyment from poking cocktail sticks in your eyes!
5 Jul 2005 13:10
No ale!
Plenty of Chavs, Kevs, Scallies & Neds.
If you've had the misfortune to miss a train, try going teetotal 'til the arrival of the next train.
17 May 2005 14:58
The Park Inn Hotel, Folkestone
I use this pub occasionally on the way home from work. I've certainly seen an improvement since the change of licencees. One hand drawn ale in the form of Wells' Bombardier is on offer. I don't think a great deal of ale is sold, so consequently it can sit and deteriorate in the pipe. Having said that, if the beer is "iffy" having sat in the line for some while, the staff will cheerfully eschange it. I've not eaten here, but the food looks delicious. Who knows, next visit perhaps I'll have the perfect pint of Bombardier and a meal!
17 May 2005 14:22
It's a shame the "fine selection of alcohol" referred to below does not run to real ale! I do, however, endorse Mr Scott's opinion of the provender, and it certainly is a sun trap in summer.
17 May 2005 14:01
The Man of Kent Ale House, Rochester
After a few months absence, I visited this splendid pub less than a fornight ago. I notice that there is now a range of bottled Belgian beers available and Strawberry beer on draught. I quaffed a couple or three pints of ale from the Millis brewery, and found it to be most acceptable.
17 May 2005 13:41
The Man of Kent Ale House, Rochester
This is an absolutely superb no-frills, back street pub, less than five minutes walk from the railway station. The pub exterior is bedecked with victorian tiling, proclaiming to the world that this establishment is part of the ( long defunct ) Style & Winch estate.
Five hand drawn ales are available, sourced only from independent brewers in Kent ( both Kentish Brewers & Brewers of Kent! )
I have not visited this fine ale-vending emporium for a few months, so I do not know whether German bottle-conditioned beers are still available.
There has recently been a change of tenure, but the regime is as it was previously. If in Rochester, and you've missed your train, it's well worth the small walk to this pub.
18 Feb 2005 17:32
I prefer the nooks and crannies in this Wetherspoons to the open plan layout of the Thos. Ingoldsby ( ex-Nasons furniture shop ). Even at quiet times, service can be likened to that of a gastropod. I would concur with "carbs" comment in respect of table clearance. This pub also does seem to attract the flotsam, jetsam and general detritus on Giroday, but this is not unique to this pub. Avoid "Dole Day" and it's not too bad.
16 Feb 2005 15:57
Not a great deal of atmosphere, but it's a good place to have a reasonably priced meal washed down with a couple of pints! It is also a good place to sit and watch the world pass by. The last I visited this Wetherspoons was on a stag night which co-incided with Halloween. Although, very busy, there were plenty of barstaff on hand so service was prompt and efficient, and the door staff very relaxed, friendly and professional.
16 Feb 2005 15:22
This pub is absolutely splendid, and easy to miss if you do not know of its whereabouts. The garden is sheltered so that one can sit outside in inclement weather, and in the summer, a veritable suntrap. The range of beer has improved over the last few years ( as has the quality! ). Excellent live music and good attentive staff.
16 Feb 2005 14:15
Ship Centurion Arminius, Whitstable
An excellent, friendly pub with well looked after ale. And, yes, treat Armin's ringstingers with respect!
9 Feb 2005 16:11
The Opera House, Tunbridge Wells
Time has passed this place by, and so have I...........on many occasions!!!!
9 Feb 2005 16:06
Humph...........
I remember when it WAS a pub, and a damn' good one at that!
9 Feb 2005 16:04
The Old Buttermarket, Canterbury
Just the sort of place to appeal to our continental cousins and gullible Americans. To be avoided like the plague. Shame The Locomotive can't be rebuilt - the beer was awful but it did have its own down-at-heel, shambling charm!
9 Feb 2005 15:54
A superb pub well worth the hunt! Kurt looks after his beers well. Perhaps he ought to show them how it's done @ The Hobgoblin. Well, perhaps not.
9 Feb 2005 15:47
A truly abysmal establishment. You'll enjoy it if you wear a Burberry baseball cap, and your idea of a good night out is drinking a couple of gallons of yellow fizzy stuff ( manufactured by Pfizer ), a large doner kebab with extra chilli sauce, and followed by projectile vomiting!
9 Feb 2005 15:44
This place may as well be on the moon for the amount of atmosphere it has! It's best feature is the door - on the way out. Go to the Spread Eagle - you'll not get the "pile 'em high, sell 'em cheap" prices, but at least you'll get a decent pint in pleasant surroundings
9 Feb 2005 15:25
Excellent Sunday night entertainment for fans of Trad Jazz. Good ale. Recommended it thoroughly!
9 Feb 2005 15:18
A sad shadow of its former self, after having been vandalised, sorry - "tastefully refurbished" by Twitbreads.
9 Feb 2005 15:08
Although this is a good pub, it's not a lot of good having "good beers from Wychwood Brewery", if they're not looked after. I visit Canterbury with half a dozen drinking chums every couple of months for a night on the beer, and the beer certainly leaves a lot to be desired. Still, endeavour to persevere, as they say. One of these days, I may be pleasantly surprised and actually be served a decent pint!
9 Feb 2005 14:53
POINTS OF ORDER. Firstly, Vasili, a very valid case, albeit extremely badly presented. Secondly, and take especial note cjfield1966, that the pool table was removed at probably the same time that the Officers left their (alleged) Ramsgate Billet ( & emporium of horizontal relaxation) to partake in Arthur Wellesley's "Jolly Boys" tour to chew the fat with some french wallah, who in the not too recent past had returned from a none too succesful bout of fisticuffs with a brace of Russian generals, who went by the names of January and February.
History lesson over. Marvellous pub with an on-going beerfest. Five Proper Beers ( One regular & four guests ) well cared for by the curmudgeonly landlord and his good lady wife. Door-stop sandwiches are heartily recommended. This most august establishment is home to the "Tuesday Hat Club" - an informal gathering that takes place weekly between opening time & 15.00 - the only stipulation being that some sort of headgear ( the more outlandish, the better! ) is mandatory and worn between said hours, where both jovial banter and fine ale is partaken of in equal measure by a veritable cornucopia of raconteurs, wits, bon-viveurs and all-round good coves. The landlord apparently belongs to a clandestine organisation that goes by the title "Archbishops-r-us".
"An oasis in the midst of a desert of mediocrity" - Oliver Pynt, food and drink critic, The Cleckheaton Thunderer.
9 Feb 2005 08:54
A marvellous welcoming interior, totally belied by its exterior. Plenty of railwayana on display. Well cared for Proper Beer served in excellent condition by friendly staff. Because of its proximity to a major terminus, there is always a good selection of ale from all over this great realm of ours.
8 Feb 2005 16:18
Back to 5thearlofwimbourne's profile
The Lifeboat, Margate
One day, an entrepreneurial cove bearing a remarkable resemblance to Nosferatu the Vampyre, who is named Julian and whose age ranges ( according to the local press ) from mid-thirties to late-eighties, decided to visit the doyen of East Kent micropubs with a view to opening one of his own.
Having been advised to do "This, This & This", our Julian promptly did "That, That & That", which resulted in the genesis of The Lifeboat, causing his erstwhile mentor to exclaim in rage "that man wasted three hours of my life!"
A broad cross section of clint�le imbibe here, and the one thing they seen to have in common is Julian-baiting. See how quick he moves when you inform him that he's given you too much change!
Whilst it is a free house, it is not a micropub by any stretch of the imagination. He has gained a reputation for the range of ales and ciders on offer, and gained 3rd place as the local Camra Branch Pub of the Year 2011, and winner of Kent Camra Cider Pub of the Year. A micropub may offer a limited selection of cheese, nuts & crisps, but not The Lifeboat. Julian makes a great deal about the provenance of his local food.
Ashmore Cheese - from the Dargate Creamery, which is 20 miles away - but it sounds like Margate. The cheese used to be served with its wrapping, so you could open it yourself AND see the price. It is now served without the wrapper and that's when you get charged "market price".
Ramsgate Sausages - sourced from a butcher which has branches throughout Kent, so being locally sourced, they should really be called either a Margate sausage, or,�if sourced at the "posh" end of town, a�Cliftonville sausage. These are lovingly cooked on Julian's Thanet-famous "George Formby Lean, Green, Grill Machine".
Then there's Mrs Moxham and her home-made produce which includes her Ripe Fig, assorted chutneys and pickles and Medlar Jelly - that's the Medlar Jelly made with a fruit that smells of rancid wine and resembles a cat's bottom.
Margate Bread from an Italian baker in Margate, Birchington Pies from Broadstairs - Julian is rumoured to have a very tenuous grasp regarding sense of direction. Still, both places are local and begin with a "B". Also on offer are "Duck Egg Dave"'s Duck Eggs - all proceeds to the R.N.L.I.,, Micky's Pickled Walnuts, Kent Crisps, produced in Kent by Quex Foods, available in four flavours, Pistachio Nuts, Cashew Nuts, AND a Partridge in a sodding Pear Tree, I shouldn't wonder!!
So with all the above on the menu, It's definitely NOT a micropub. I will not mark it on its "food". Service can be particularly lackadaisical, especially when Julian has the phone clamped to his ear - which is 95% of the time. The ales and ciders are definitely not in the "Spoons" price bracket, but the ale is generally on form. Overall, I can only give it 5/10.
26 Sep 2012 11:17