BITE profile - Alesonly # beerintheevening.com

The Fishmongers Arms, Southgate

Not sure why this place is on a Pub site as its strictly not a Pub. Its just an over priced restaurant with a limited selection of mediocre Ales nothing outstanding. It could easy have been an excellent craft Ale pub but no its absolute abysmal how this place has been destroyed. If people want to run a restaurant there's plenty empty in Muswell Hill why not take over one of them instead of wreaking what was a good Pub. The good news is the tide is turning and there are some very good craft ale pubs opening around now so these places will just fad away.

15 Jun 2014 11:40

Nearly four years since last review here. I'm not surprised when I went in there were just a few old boys leaning on the bar. Not many others in except for a crowed of loud youths playing pool. Beer & staff OK and other customers friendly enough its just the place is in urgent need of decorating its not been touched in years there is damp stained patches all over the ceiling & walls and general appearance is very tatty. Its all the little things that could easy be fixed like worn or broken fittings & furniture and lack of general maintenance. Its OK for a quick pint or watching football but not a pub you could stay in for a session.

6 May 2014 10:03

Well I've been in here a few times recently and its been totally refurbished and did it need it. New toilets are downstairs in part of the old cellar an extension has been built on the back including disabled toilets and its finished to a very high standard of decoration & restoration 100% better than before and its not been wreaked by the gastro brigade. Its serves good food & has three real Ales on tap was well also still has plenty of screens for showing sport things are look good lets hope they do well as they have certainly spent some wedge doing it up.

22 Mar 2014 13:30

The Admiral Byng, Potters Bar

22 Mar 2014 13:28

Glad to say this spoons has got much better since my last review there seems to be much a better selection of guest ales on offer now days and they are much better kept must have got a new cellar man may be they poached the one from the New Crown. This spoons has always been good for food and remains so. The only bad thing in here is sometimes you get a lot or crowds coming in together for food and there is never enough staff serving at busy times to cope with them as they all seem to pay and order separately so you can end up waiting ages just to get served a Beer but apart from that its a reasonably good pub for a spoons

16 Nov 2013 12:46

The Railway Tavern, New Barnet

Since my last review this place has gone down hill again terribly worse that it was a few years ago. All the good staff have left only to be replaced by unskilled Kids of around 18-19 Most seem to have no experience of keeping or serving a good Ale the cellerman must have gone to another Pub as the quality of Ales is nowhere as good now. Also why the last few times I've been in here is there a overpowering stench of bleach emanating from behind the bar so bad it even taints the beer. Definitely cant recommend this place any more until there's a change of management.

16 Nov 2013 11:50

Was in here again last night The staff & other customers seemed friendly enough with good service I tried a few pints of Bombardier which was in good form. Looking around most customers were drinking Lager Cider or Guinness at the time but there was also Eagle on tap it seems to be a good sports type Pub with two large screens at front bar and a few others around the pub there is even screens complete with sound in the toilets above the urinals so you don't miss a goal whist having a wee. This is a large L shaped Pub at front with a large extension area at back where there were a group of customers eating. There is also a good menu of traditional Pub Grub if you peckish. All in all its a good traditional drinkers pub for a few pints playing darts or watching the football. Well worth popping in when passing.
(The review below was posted by Akapub in error was meant for the spoons and I must say I agree with his comments its a dire place this is a much better drinkers pub.)

16 Nov 2013 11:29

Was in here last night for a few. I Tried three pints and all Ales were in excellent condition. Nice welcoming & warm pub especially at back near the fire. There is also a rear extension out back in the Old barn and also a side extension part that used to be the alleyway on the right which has glass doors like a conservatory now. Nice beer garden for the summer as well. I would say its the best Ale pub in High Barnet and would recommend it to anyone who is in the area.

12 Nov 2013 16:20

Had the misfortune to go in here a few times lately with friends for a few pints it don't seem too bad but but I would not chose to go here out of choice its a typical estate type pub bit rowdy & loud with non stop swearing. The staff seem to have worse manners than most of the customers No please or thank you when serving at the bar and just bung your food on the table and say there you go?.. There is still a few large screen TVs for showing football & sport when there's sport on and free Wi-Fi that's about the only saving grace I could find. There is also Three hand Pumps available with Green King IPA on Two And the famous no named bitter on the third I've tried the Ales on a few occasions but never found it in good condition as it seems to be more of a lager drinkers Pub. Prices are reasonable for Ales & Food typical G K selection on the Menu.

7 Oct 2013 11:38

Well past today and noticed its closed and in the process of being totally refurbished and did it need it. The temporary wall at back I thought was permanent has now gone and things are looking good. Lets see what its like when its finished. I will update later.

24 Sep 2013 22:41

The Railway Tavern, New Barnet

24 Sep 2013 22:39

Railway Bell, New Barnet

First off this pub has been totally refurbish and extended since my last visit. It now resembles an Ikea canteen complete with stainless steel food serving counter at rear. This Spoons seems too be deliberately set up to be food led judging by the number of people just eating its working. Gone are the dart board TVs and every other traditional pub feature. Now onto the Ale only two Ales on tap Ruddles and Abbots all other pumps had no labels on. Not bad for a quick pint but there are much better drinking Pubs near by such as The Builders Arms just around corner or the Lord Kitchener

13 Sep 2013 12:21

Was in here recently staff & other customers seemed friendly enough service tried a few pints of Bombardier which was OK after the first pint which was a bit warm. Looking around most customers were drinking Lager or Guinness as it seems to be more of a sports type Pub than an Ale drinkers Pub judging by the number of large screen TVs. This is a large L shaped Pub at front with a large extension area at back where there were a group of customers eating. All in all its a good pub for a quick pint when passing.

13 Sep 2013 12:19

The Builders Arms, New Barnet

I only Nipped in here after walking out the spoons which had no Decent Ale on. Glad I did what a surprise to find a nice traditional old style Pub just around the corner looks nice even from outside. Inside its just as good tried several Ales which were on tap all were in excellent condition. I Found staff welcoming and other customers friendly service was good and quick. Will definitely come back when I've more time to enjoy it for a few pints.

13 Sep 2013 12:15

The Ranelagh, Bounds Green

Much improved from my last visit had a few pints of Doombar & Pride which were both in good condition and service was quick and polite. There is a nice Beer garden in the summer if its not overrun with kids but it was constant raining on my afternoon visit so never used it. Overall its a much better Pub now. But much more could be done on the Ale front I feel there missing out big time especially as there's not a decent Ale Pub around here for miles now that The John Lawrence has gone Northern Star has gone The Turrets has gone The Bank has gone even The Orange Tree the only pub just hanging on is the Springfield and that's half closed and run down.

25 Aug 2013 13:52

I've been drinking in this Pub regularly since 1975 over the years its changed from having a central bar and being a real good Pub to now just being about a quarter of its size and being right run down. Only one small front part of the pub remains what used to be the front bar. It now just don't have the same atmosphere it had before it now feels very threatening and a lot of the old trouble makers which were banned have creped back in. Its as though its being deliberately run down for closure. Toilets are now downstairs in what was part of the original cellar totally inaccessible to disabled but the rest of the pub has now been bulldozed and is now flats even the upstairs rooms and back part so It would not surprise me if the rest follows very soon. Do not think I will be back until it improves if it ever does before closing.

25 Aug 2013 12:41

25 Aug 2013 12:39

O'Neills, Muswell Hill

To update previous review as I regulally pop in here for a few Pints as its just around the corner from my house. I seem to remember this was the Temperance Hall when I was young its still a nice Building inside. I find this Pub is not bad during the day time Or Early evenings During the week but I would always Avoid weekends & when there is Sport on as it gets full & very noisy. Worst aspect of this place is most the staff are absolute abysmal and arrogant with no Manners no Please or Thank you just slap the change on the bar and walk away. Prices are very cheap For food & Beer in comparison too most other local places on the Broadway but the Only Ales on are London Pride or Doombar and Both were served with far too much head. Much better Pub on the other end of the road with more choice of Ales.

24 Jun 2013 12:22

Been drinking in this boozer years but it seems to have lost half the pub at present only the small front part remains with no proper toilets just one little cubical its not good in a busy pub full of beer drinkers have to queue for a slash they need a couple of portaloos outside. I do hope this is only temporary as they appear to be turning the rest into flats. lets hope there going to extend the back part and build some new facility's.

4 Apr 2013 01:20

The Torrington, North Finchley

4 Apr 2013 01:16

The bit at the back has now been turned back into a Pub from a fish restaurant its now called Torrington House Bar. Front part still a waste of space coffee shop.

4 Apr 2013 01:02

Gertie Brownes, East Finchley

Ive been in here a few times recently and had a few Pints & ive always found it too be a nice Bar. There are plenty of TVs too watch sport on and few few snug corners. Its only one large room but there's lots of seating and alcoves too sit in. They serve a Nice Pint of Guinness as well. There is also a heated smoking area outside at the front. I Found the staff & other customers very welcoming & polite.
I would say its one of the better Places too have a drink around East Finchley I will visit again when in the area especially as I live just off fortis green and there's not many good pubs in that area.

23 Mar 2013 11:18

The Waggon, Southgate

This pub will be closing soon to become yet another restaurant just what southgate needs I think not. I cant see that lasting long either there's just too many places around here for gut stuffers to feed there guts cant see enough customers to support another one that's the reason this ones closing. This pub will be no great loss as its never been that good in recent years since it went all foodie and ended up like a restaurant anyway and with no real ale or atmosphere it was on a looser from the start.

25 Feb 2013 11:50

I went in here late on Monday night on the way home from a CAMRA drink up in town and just got off the train and thought Id have a few pints and give this place a try to see if its improved instead of walking up to the Bald Faced Stag. Tried several ales all of which seemed to be in excellent condition including UBU. The pub itself has been wreaked over the years by modernisation loosing its three separate Bars now having just one large rather dark soulless room with just a small Bar in the centre making it feel cold and empty. Pub was very quiet only around 5 other customers in. There were two woman just talking over empty cups one guy non stop gassing on his mobile with his feet on the table and just two customers drinking but staff attitude was absolute terrible no manners or please & thank you and Twice getting short changed once can be a mistake but twice in the same visit.? Overall a good Pub but its still badly let down by untrained staff that don’t seen to have any customer skills or give a monkeys maybe I was just unlucky as it was a late Monday night.

15 Jan 2013 12:25

I would have too agree with poster below this place seems to have deteriorated vastly over the last few months and the staff seem to be changing on a daily bases. The staff and duty managers are always looking so glum & browned off as if they don't want to be there not a smile between them. Politeness seems to have gone out the window no manners what so ever from any of them No Please or Thank You just chuck the change on bar and walk away fast before you can complain if there is a problem with the Ale. The other bad points are the Ales on tap are not usually in as good condition as they used to be any more there must be new cellar man as the last few times I have been in there were around Six guest on Tap along with the usual Abbot & Ruddles that's good but Two out of Three Pints I tried were well past there best. Now for the only Good points there is a Dart board & Large projector Screen along with several large TVs for watching the football or Rugby now in the bottom bar plus a load of gambling machines which seem to get well used if nothing else Pub seems very quiet on my last few visits which were on Tuesday Friday & Saturday evenings. I would not visit again till there's another change of management it seems to have gone done hill terribly since my last regular visit I find it hard to give it a three. P/s Must also have the worst toilet facility's of any spoons I've visited Bet they wont put is one in there groovy Loos.

21 Oct 2012 11:02

The Cask and Stillage, Potters Bar

We visited this ale house again on Thursday as part of our regular pub crawl of Barnet. I would say without doubt this is the best ale house in High Barnet for selection and quality of ale which is the main reason I go in Pubs to drink Ale. There was Five Ales on Tap and we all had a Pint of each and found all were in excellent condition. There always seems to be a good turn over of sales from a busy crowed which makes a change these days long may it continue. I have always found the staff and other customers welcoming polite and friendlily whenever I've been in here. The pub its self is a nice traditional Old building that's been modernised over the years but its not been wreaked by the modern foodie brigade its still feels like a proper Pub it has some nice old features & fittings plus there is some nice snug corners to sit in. I would say its well worth a visit if your in High Barnet just for the quality of the Ale and the history of the building.

11 Aug 2012 10:08

Do not be fooled by the name as there's no Cask Ale on tap only Keg beers. Which is a real pity in my opinion because this part of Potter's Bar really needs a good Real Ale Pub as there is no other good real ale bars around this part. Pub its self is good and service good but very quiet for a Friday evening when I went in.

15 Jul 2012 13:28

The Bridge, Potters Bar

Sadly this pub has now been knocked down and removed never to come back again. if someone wants to update it and mark it as closed. Potters Bar is getting very devoid of decent Pubs.

15 Jul 2012 11:25

The Southampton Arms, Gospel Oak

I managed to get over to this Pub a few days ago for the first time in years to see if it was as good as everyone says. I must say I found it an excellent Pub there was around 12 different Ales on tap and I sampled 5 Pints of different Ales which were all in excellent condition which makes a change for a Pub with so many on tap I wont bother naming them as the Ales continuously change. Only fault I could find is it was extremely packed even for late afternoon but thats what we need to keep Pubs going these days. I will definitely go in here again when passing lets hope I pick a time when its a bit less crowded. I would highly recommend a visit.

27 Apr 2012 11:34

The White Lion, Barnet

We were in here recently on one of our regular Pub crawls of Barnet. Its now a Fullers house but its a very nice and well kept & clean pub. Looks like its recently been decorated. Its a Nice traditional pub with Two bars one at front and a larger bar at back where there was a band playing some Jazz. We had Two pints Of ESB and a Pint of London Pride both Ales were in excellent condition. We found the staff & other customers very welcoming and polite. I would definitely recommend popping in if passing and I will adding this Pub to our regular crawls of Barnet.

2 Apr 2012 15:46

Ye Olde Monken Holt, Barnet

This was one of the Last Pubs we went in on our Barnet crawl after around 10 pints so I cant remember which Ales were on Tap but I do remember we found it a nice welcoming Pub especially some of the barmaids. The other staff were very friendly and polite as were the customers they had some decent Real Ales on tap in the front section where we were in comfy cozy Conner too the right where we finished of the night. Even though there was music & a Quiz on out back section it was not too noisy to have a conversation even though there was Music playing in the back section which was very full of customers which is a good sign these days. I would definitely return when passing well worth a visit if your passing the area.

2 Apr 2012 15:37

This is the First Pub we started off in on our Barnet crawl recently and I would say from previous crawls its one of the best Ale houses in Barnet. They always try to have Five Real Ales on during weekdays and Six at weekends and these are always changing so I wont bother naming what was on Tap only to say the Three pints I tried were all in Excellent condition as were all the other Ales tried by the rest of the crowed. This is a very nice original old Pub not spoiled by modernization. There is plenty of nice little corners to sit in and always a very friendly welcome from the staff and other customers. I would say if your in Barnet this is a must visit Pub just for the Ale Quality & the history of the building alone.

2 Apr 2012 15:30

The review below must have been paced in Error . This pub is now a Tesco Express so if you want a quick take away too stick in the Microwave its OK. Probably better & cheaper than most pub grub as well.

27 Feb 2012 10:55

The Gatehouse, Highgate

As Ive said before in previous reviews this is one of my favourite Wetherspoon Pubs. I find this is a very good run Wetherspoons as the tables are always cleaned almost as soon as customers are finished. Plus theres always a very good choice of Real Ales on tap that are always in excellent condition whenever Ive been in. The food service and Staff seem very good & fast as well and you cant fault the cost or value for money. I usually walk up here for a Large Mixed Grill & a Few pints when leaving Highgate tube station as theres no real Pubs near the tube station now except one and thats too much like restaurant with table service. So In my opinion this Place is much better more like a traditional Pub with good priced food and good service. I would have no problem recommending this Pub to others.

7 Feb 2012 13:21

This place seems to have improved vastly again in the last year or so since my last visit. Theres now no long waits at the Bar and theres plenty of staff on duty. I also found when ordering food the service is also a lot quicker now and staff also remove used plates and dishes from tables once customers are finished all good improvements. Theres also a Dart board & Large projector Screen along with several large TVs for watching the football or Rugby now as well in the bottom bar. The other good points are the Ales on tap are usually in good condition and staff are always friendly & polite. The last time I was in there was around Six guest on Tap along with the usual Abbot & Ruddles thats good for a Friday evening. Then again I would try to avoid Friday and Saturday evenings after around 21:00 as it gets full of the young loud larger crowed later in the evenings tanking up before going up west or to a club.

Overall I would say its improvement since last time I was in and well worth visiting if passing or in need of a good food fix.

6 Feb 2012 02:39

The Admiral Byng, Potters Bar

I must say this place has improved vastly over the last year or so. Theres always a very good selection of Ales on tap and a fast turn over of Guest Ales meaning there always in good condition. Staff are always very pleasant and getting served has improved vastly very rarely have to wait unless its busy. Just shows what a good management team can do. Well recommended for a visit if passing. The food service in this one seems good as well fast and no long waits I had nice extra large mixed grill very good. The other good points I noticed is tables are also cleared & cleaned quickly when customers are finished eating Rather then dirty crocks left laying around for ages.

4 Feb 2012 10:12

I would have too agree with the last poster This place has certainly gone down hill since last time where I give it 8/10 now I would struggle to give it 2/10. Ive been here at least Three times in recent weeks and every time Ive had too return at least one Pint of Ale and consistently ask for other pints to be toped up after getting short measures I would not mind if it was only trainee staff but this was by the Duty Managers & Team Leaders according too there name badges. I also found the staff are very rude and arrogant with no manors or Please or Thank You at all as they seem too busy talking to the drunk regulars propping up the bar rather than want inconvenience of serving customers. The last time I was in only Three guest Ales were available and Two out of the Three Pints I tried were undrinkable and cloudy. It now Seems to be full of customers just coming in to eat the cheap food or buy soft drinks whilst other regulars stand near the bar getting well Oiled on Lager. There was not much Ale being sold when I was in again a few times over the last week probably why it not in the best condition. Lets hope it picks up again soon but I doubt it until theres a change of management as its been like this for well over a year now.

4 Feb 2012 09:54

Cock, St Albans

This was one of the Pubs we went in on yesterdays Pub Crawl as it was one of the last it was very busy late evening. There are around three or four Ales on Tap But the bar area is far too small with everyone standing around it. But Its still as the last poster said at busy times there is nowhere to stand Or sit down and have a pint yet the bottom Bar was totally empty and all the tables were set for food. In my mind this is just laziness as they could easy clear half these tables in the evenings allowing drinkers to sit down for a beer and gain easer access to getting served at the bar. I'm sure if They done this they would get more customers in the evenings as we were barely able to get in the pub so had one quick Pint and left. Had we been able too sit down we would probably stayed till closing time.

18 Nov 2011 15:21

The Robin Hood, St Albans

This was our first stop on our Pub Crawl yesterday where we meet up as usual as its the nearest decent Pub too the Station. There was three Ales on I tried the Hobgoblin & Blacksheep Both of which were in good nick if a little warm but then it was very hot in there and being a quiet afternoon not much Ale was being pulled. Staff & other customers were all friendly & welcoming enough. I noticed there is a Dart Board & few fruit Machines and large TVs scatted around seems a nice cosy place for a few pints if you waiting for the train or your meeting someone. I will no doubt be in here again soon.

18 Nov 2011 12:54

The Cross Keys, St Albans

We ended up in here yesterday as one of the Pubs on a Pub Crawl after Finding The other Spoons The Watered Barn too packed for getting a Meal. Glad we did really as this one was much better that I thought it would be. Being smaller and less packed we found a nice snug corner too sit and have a Mixed Grill. This Spoons looks very Similar too The Alfred Herring In Palmer's Green in decoration Over-sized lighting Etc and From the Red signage it had years ago denoting it was also one of the original Non Smoking Ones years ago. We had a good Blow out and a few pints before continuing our pub crawl. Staff see friendly enough and Ales we tried were all in good condition there was about five on tap at the time and a few coming soon including a Christmas Ale. Other than that its you usual Spoons Menu and a good selection of Ales I would go in again when Passing as its in a handy place.

On 18th November 2011 - rating: 7

18 Nov 2011 11:34

Waterend Barn, St Albans

We were in here yesterday as one of First pubs on our pub Crawl I Had a Pint of Abbot as thats all I could see as it was so packed solid and we could not even get near the bar. No it weren't a Saturday night It was Thursday afternoon. I was told there was some sort of special college do on thats why it was packed never mind. Nice old style building very large barn type of place serving the usual Wetherspoons food menu good selection of Ales on Tap about 9 but could not see which ones were on tap. I would pop in again when I'm passing as its a nice place well worth going if your with Friends for a Meal during the day time which was our intention. We went too the other Wetherspoons The Cross Keys instead

18 Nov 2011 11:13

The White Swan, St Albans

We were in here yesterday as one of the last pubs on our pub Crawl so My memory of which Ales were on are a bit vague I Had a few pints the Hobgoblin which was in good condition so good I had two Pints and there were a few others on tap. It appears too have gone back to the original name of The White Swan from the signage on the outside sign. As already said its a bit bare inside but its OK for a few pints and we found the other customers and Staff friendly and welcoming enough. I would pop in if I'm passing again

18 Nov 2011 10:50

The Boot, St Albans

I was in here yesterday with my Brothers and Farther in Law On a regular Pub Crawl of the area. As already said this place looks more like a pub should nice old style building with plenty of character and it has some nice cosy corners too sit in. Its been modernised over the years but its not been wreaked and keeps a lot of its original character. There were a good selection of Red Squirrel Ales Plus other Ales on tap and between us we tried most of them I'm pleased too say they were all in excellent condition. We found the staff & other customers very welcoming & happy too give us advice on which Ales they had tried and enjoyed. I would say this is well worth a visit if your in the area. I think we will be putting this on one of our regular Pub Crawls as there are Not too many better Pubs nearby now days.

18 Nov 2011 10:25

The Verulam Arms, St Albans

I was in here yesterday with my Brothers and Farther in Law On a regular Pub Crawl of the area. As already said the place looks more like a licenced caf� than a pub. Its not very cosy or welcoming and its badly laid out nearly every table was set for food making it feel even more like a caf�. The bare wood floor and stripped out interior Don't make it feel any better. I found the staff very offish and unwelcoming added to the fact the few other customer that were in all sat around the bar making it difficult too get severed and were giving you evil eyes just for making them move. Between the four of us we tried all the Ales on Tap plus the Old Rosie Cider which were OK but there was nothing outstanding. I don't think we will be putting this on our regular Pub Crawl as there are much better Pubs nearby

18 Nov 2011 10:02

The John Baird, Muswell Hill

Now closed down permanently being redeveloped Into flats as usual. Not a pub for miles around here now nearist proper pub is the Bank at new southgate

22 Sep 2011 10:33

I was in this Pub a few weeks back on my way home after the GBBF as its only about 200 yards from my house. The good points are they have some very good guest Ales on Tap and there always in excellent condition last night time was no exception plus theres several other good bottled Ales & Lagers all the ones I tried were in excellent condition. The Pub is always clean & tidy and the Staff are always very polite.
The only bad point I find is that they allow food too be eaten anywhere in the Pub not just in the restaurant part and I find the smell tends to put me off my beer as it smells like sweaty socks. But this apart its not a bad Pub providing you go in there when theres no sport on TV. All in all Its worth a visit just for the Ales & Its much better During the weekday Evenings or during the day time as its a lot quieter.

For Beer & Ale Quality 10/10 overall score 7/10 due too the constant smell of stale food. I feel it would be much better if they rebuilt the wall and kept food at one side then it would be much more popular like a lot of the Craft Beer Houses that are becoming.

16 Aug 2011 15:49

I went in here last night after walking out the spoons. Much better Place found staff very friendly & Polite Also very good customer service. The other customers treat you just like your one of the regulars nice friendly atmosphere which makes a change Excellent Pint of Guinness as well Not sure what other Beers or Ales were on as I was already been on a good session all day. I would definitely visit again next time I'm finchley Its well worth a visit if you prefer to go in a Pub not full of loud mouth Kids & screeching Girls where every other word is sworn out loud. Still has Dart Board Plenty & of TVs showing Sky Sports as well.

16 Aug 2011 15:34

I Went in here on a Friday evening around 20.00 hrs. As the pub was not that full and there were plenty of empty tables but as usual it was about three deep at the bar I waited around 10 minuets too get served first time as usual.
If the post below is right and its going to be refurbished they need too put the bar back as it used too be its far too small for a pub this size it should have two separate parts again make it two bars again one for the foodies that sit there all night over a glass of coke & one for drinkers would be better as it gives customers more choice and encourages a wider customer base.
I was going to get a second Pint as there were some good Ales on tap but we gave up after waiting well over 15 Minuets and went elsewhere.

6 Jun 2011 00:23

The Phene Arms, Chelsea

Why is this place still marked as closed its been open at least a year judging by the latest comments and bad reviews people have given it.

27 May 2011 10:40

Just Too address a previous comment by ccfc 10
The Only time there is Loud unavoidable noise is on a Saturday night's when the karaoke is on it gets loads of non drinkers screeching there Lungs off on the karaoke then and Ive never seen them told too buy a drink if you avoid it then like most regular drinkers do its a good old boozer a bit run down but its ok.

I often use this Pub during the week and have done for well over 30 Years but I would not use at weekends when the Karaoke is on as I don't like that racket and I'm a bit too Old for Karaoke. Other times its a nice old fashioned Pub that showing all sports like Football Horse Racing Darts Etc. The grubs also very good but cheap like Pie & chips around �3 cant be bad. Also Beer prices are as cheap or cheaper then any other Pub locally. Theres a Pool Table & Dart Board as well as plenty of TV Screens too watch the Footy. All in all its a good boozer like anything else you go in when you like whats on if you don't like it you go elsewhere why complain

10 Apr 2011 11:42

Elementz Bar, Muswell Hill

10 Apr 2011 11:41

No its now a Caf� / Restaurant, Its no longer a Bar so it should be marked as closed.

7 Apr 2011 02:05

I went in here on Friday evening too see if its improved any since my last visit No such luck. I waited nearly 10 Minuets too get served the first time whilst three of the staff collected glasses bottled up of served food even though there was a Que of customers four deep at the bar. Too make matters worse they were mostly Young kids buying multi coloured jugs of cocktails taking ages. Why is it that Wetherspoons make big Pubs but never have enough staff too serve all the customers. Out of ten Pumps there was only two guest Ales on tap the rest were all showing coming soon apart from Abbot & Ruddles very poor show for a Friday evening. I was going too get a second Pint but after I queued for about another 10 minuets I gave up and went elsewhere. I would not recommend this Pub at weekends as it always seems to be full of young loud student types of 18 if that.

27 Feb 2011 18:44

This Pub was closed for much needed refurbishment over the last few weeks but has now been redecorated & reopened. I Had a few pints in here on Saturday evening and it seems much better than before by 100%. Gone are the Pool Table & Dart board on the left hand side as you walk in which has been made into a much better quieter Seating Drinking & eating area making the place feel much more friendly and less rough. I found the staff and other customers very welcoming & polite. Theres still a few large screen TVs for football Etc so its best avoided when theres sport on if your going in for a meal or quite group meeting. Theres Three hand Pumps available with Green King IPA on Two And Old Speckled Hen on the other Prices are very reasonable for Ales & Food with a good selection on the Menu.
I would say its definitely worth a visit if passing and I will call in again when I'm passing

27 Feb 2011 10:28

How much difference a Year makes. Since my last review this place has now been left too go to down hill for instance the only cubical in the gents has not had no door on it for over Two weeks and the general cleaning standards have been a disgrace. Also the most off putting thing is the amount of smokers always hanging around the doorways allowing smoke too drift into the Pub and it is not just roll ups there smoking by the sell of it. This needs addressing as it puts customers off coming into the Pub I watched at least three family groups turn and walk away whist I was there. The only good points are the Ales on tap are usually in good condition but last time I was in there was only Two guest Ales on Tap and the usual Abbot & Ruddles not that good for a Friday evening thats when you manage too get served why is it theres never enough staff in these places on a busy night

26 Feb 2011 11:09

The Cock and Dragon, Cockfosters

The good news is this place is now closed down for a much needed refurbishment & rebuild. The insides have completely been removed and rebuilding & remodelling is now in progress its due too reopen next month.

9 Feb 2011 19:56

I go in here occasionally for a few Pints after work if I'm working in the cockfosters area as this is now One of the best Pubs around the Oakwood & Cockfosters area. I find it Has that nice old fashion country Pub feel to it. As you go in the front door the left hand side is more the Food side but the Right hand side is more traditional Old Pub style. Although it sells good food It has not been turned into one of those horrible Gastro type Pubs and keeping it slightly separate means it is still a traditional Pub where you can go just for a few pints of excellent Quality Real Ales on tap. Which just Proves If Its done Properly a Pub can still sell food and not be ruined. I would say its well worth a visit during the weekday early evenings.

29 Jan 2011 23:44

The Oakdale Arms, Harringay

Sad too see in my local Paper this Pub will be closing for good on 19th March Only to be replaced with yet another over development of flats. Ive had many of good Pints in this Pub over the years going right back too around 1976 which was the first time I went there was when my Brother was working at Maynard's just up the road. Seems unbelievable it was 35 years ago Now theres not a decent Pub left in the area and they call this progress.

29 Jan 2011 11:29

The Lord Kitchener, Barnet

Updated Review.

As this is the nearest Pub to my house I often pop in here on the way back home after work or Shopping. Its a nice relaxed Pub thats not been wreaked modernised or taken over by the foodie brigade theres lots of old sixty's memorabilia on the walls & theres also a Dart Board that gets well used. Also theres Table Football yes the very Old type where the players are on metal rods excellent. Now theres also a old school Pinball machine as well as a good Jukebox with loads of good 60s Rock. I often have a Pint of St Austell Tribute or Abbot or sometimes one of the other Ales that are on tap. Staff are always very welcoming friendly as are the other Customers. Its well worth a visit if you like drinking in a real Pub rather than a Licenced Restaurant like most Pubs are sadly around Muswell Hill are these days I will certainly be back in here again when passing.

16 Jan 2011 09:32

I was in here a few times just before Christmas when working at Cockfosters and found it a very good friendly traditional Pub I found Staff & other customers were welcoming on all occasions I went in. Ales I tried were all in good condition & nice and clear including AK & Country Bitter. Its about the nearest decent traditional Pub left in the area that has not been wreaked by the gastro foodie brigade . I also found the Prices very reasonable in comparison too where I live in Muswell Hill where your lucky too get a Pint for less than around �4.00 now. I will definitely visit next time I'm in the area.

15 Jan 2011 18:22

The Station, North Kensington

Now reopen again so ignore my last Post. Its Now under new ownership after being sold as the wishing well Chain went into receivership back in march.

25 Dec 2010 20:01

I would go back too the original Name it was know as (The Latimer Arms) for years it was a excellent Old style Pub during the early seventy's which still had a lot of the original fittings a architecture now all lost for good. I used to go there regularly on my way too white City Stadium just round the corner sadly its not the sort of place I would go in now as its too modern & food orientated and not a Real Ale drinkers Pub its OK for a quick pint on passing but its not a pub you could spend all night in.

25 Dec 2010 16:41

Now Closed down & boarded up with steel shutters. It don't look like it will reopen anytime soon.

19 Nov 2010 23:03

Molly's Bar, New Southgate

As the only Pub left in the area now the Triumph is closed so much more could be made of this place it seemded very run down when I poped in. I did not see any Ales on Tap so had a pint of Gunness which was Ok but not perfect. I dont think I would go in again till it improves a Bit.

6 Nov 2010 16:53

This Bar has Now Been refurbished and redecorated. I think its much better than before seems much more light and modern as the shop front has now been changed & modified it feels much warmer in here now. I Only Had a quick pint as I was on my way too the station but I would definitely go in next time I'm passing. I found the staff and other customers polite & friendly enough and I would prefer this to the Arnos Arms.

6 Nov 2010 10:16

O'Neills, Muswell Hill

I sometimes pop in here for a few Pints as its just around the corner from my house. First thing I noticed its been repainted & decorated since the last time I went in here. I seem to remember this was the Temperance Hall when I was young nice Building. I find this Pub is not bad during the day time Or Early evenings During the week but I would always Avoid weekends & when theres Sport on as it gets full & very noisy. Prices are very cheap For food & Beer in comparison too most other local places on the Broadway.

5 Nov 2010 00:27

The Waggon, Southgate

I went in this Pub last Sunday night the first thing I noticed was Its Painted A Horrible Pink colour on the outside. I only had a Quick Pint as I found the place very lacking in any welcome Or atmosphere and there was no Ale on as all as the Ale pump clips were turned round. The Barman seemed more interested in watching the Football on the TV rather than serving any waiting customers not a good sign. I found the Place was not that busy even though there was football on.
After a quick Pint I left and went over the Spoons instead as the Ale Festival is on.
I Don't think I would go back in here next time I'm passing as theres much better Pubs in the area.

3 Nov 2010 20:52

The Last Post, Southend on Sea

I went in here I found it very over crowded especially for a Mid weekday afternoon it was full of Kids & every Table was full of Dirty Glasses Plates & crocks being a school holiday. I waited at the Bar well over 10 Minuets trying too get served but gave up in the end and walked out. There was a big lack of Staff behind the Bar or in the Pub. I may have Picked a bad day and Staff were off sick or Etc. I will go in next time I'm Passing as I have been here before and it was OK.

3 Nov 2010 20:43

The Triumph, Barnet

No further News its Still closed & empty I think an application to turn it into housing was rejected maybe waiting appeal.

3 Nov 2010 20:03

The Bridge, Potters Bar

Pop in this Pub on my way down too the Station its not too bad nice traditional Old style Pub as already said its got all the proper Pub stuff including a Dart board Etc. The only down side was no Real Ale on tap when I went in. Being a Tuesday early evening it was quiet when I went in but I will definitely go in next time I'm Passing I also found the Staff & other customers pleasant & polite

3 Nov 2010 18:12

Roseview Hotel, Muswell Hill

I went in here on the way home recently as the Pub I usually go in was closed being as it was early afternoon. So I though I would give give this place another try and see if its improved but no such luck. Since this Pub was taken over Its now just a licenced Restaurant not a Public House in my opinion. For someone too wreak a good Kinks heritage Pub like this was such a shame. As a long term resident of Muswell Hill since the early 1970s this Pub was always a local landmark that I used very regularly until it was changed we used too go play Darts matches watch football Etc now its just been turned it into another a gastro Restaurant offering nothing special. Theres now No bar down in the lower end this has been removed so now and if you want a drink you have to go up the top end which is more of a restaurant plus It seemed too be mainly table service. when I visited. I got the feeling they don't like just drinkers preferring foodies only. I found the Place very bland it felt more like drinking in a hotel Bar it had no atmosphere whatsoever only saving grace I could find is they serve a few good Real Ales.
I would not bother returning as I prefer a more traditional Pub like the Alex just opposite

13 Oct 2010 09:48

This is a nice Small Bar Just off the Broadway in same road where I live so its very handy for a Quick Pint when I'm in need. As already said its part of a Small Family Run Hotel but it is more Like a separate Pub Its not like your usual hotel Bar. It gets full of the Regulars that used the well till it closed down well worth a visit if your in the Area.

13 Oct 2010 08:45

The Osidge Arms, Osidge

This is not a bad Pub in my opinion its more of a traditional Pub with Pool Darts & TV. I find it much better than the other local horrible Gastro Pubs at least this place don't get full of Young Kids or non drinkers sitting on low stools drinking coffee it seems a proper drinkers Pub had a good selection Of Beers & Lagers but only one Ale on. I found other customers & Staff very welcoming & frendly I would definitely go in here again if I'm in the area as theres no other Real Pubs locally Except the cavalier and thats more of a restaurant for non drinkers.

7 Aug 2010 00:13

The Bricklayers Arms, Putney

Please ignore previous idiot its still open and Ive reported all eight of his posts for removal as all say exactly the same comments.
I was in here just a few days ago its a excellent Pub with some excellent Ales always on Tap and welcoming friendly staff .

A/O

5 Aug 2010 11:02

Sun, Southgate

Its now called (The Coach House) At last its gone back too being a proper Pub with Sky Sports & Real Ale. Plus it was actually full of customers instead of empty like it always was before. The builders were still doing alterations when I went in so I will call in later in a few weeks too see how much its improved and update Review but its at least 10 times beter than before.

3 Jul 2010 11:40

The Drum, East Barnet

Was being done up by Builders yesterday when I passed by. I Asked one guy who was filling skip with rubble if he knew whats replacing the Pub and it looks like its going too be a another Licenced Restaurant

3 Jun 2010 19:17

Spouter's Corner, Wood Green

I was in the wenlock with Tony one of the regulars just a few days ago and I asked him If theres any truth in these Rumours of it being sold or for sale and theres not. Also theres no Truth in the owners retiring soon as far as he knows. Its probably just Rumours & jealousy put about by local Gasto Pub owners because they cant attract the crowd's or money that the wenlock dose. This Place is what a real Pub should be Good Ales & Real Bar food and a decent crowed yes its a bit tatty but thats character not some made up plastic Pub theres not many decent Pubs left like this so lets hope it keeps going for a long time yet.

3 Jun 2010 10:07

I went in here on 30th March whilst I was down in Wood Green shopping. I thought I would see if it had Improved since my Last visit which was over a year ago. The Ale Quality was much better this time as both Ales I tried were in good condition so was the service as I actually got severed this time with only a short wait. I could only see Two guest Ales on when I went in Plus the usual regular Ales. Looks like the place has been cleaned up & some better staffing put in place since last time I was in. But for some strange reason I always feel uncomfortable in this Wetherspoons as if I need too keep looking over my shoulder but that could be just the area. Its OK for a midday drink but I would not want too go down here in the dark evenings.

1 Jun 2010 20:39

Arnos Arms, New Southgate

I went in here a few Months back that was a bad mistake there was only around five other People in and place at around 20.00 Hrs on a Saturday night was a Absolute dive really filthy & run down. Music was on full blast it was so loud it was distorted had trouble hearing staff there was No decent Ales on at all. They sell is Abbot which I tried but it was disgusting so I left it and walked out went too across road. Definitely got worse since I last went in here.

1 Jun 2010 20:30

All though this Pub is only around 400 yards from where I work this is only the second time Ive been in here in about the last ten years. Theres no Real Ales or decent Beer and its more just a cheap food Pub It has no atmosphere what so ever even the staff look as if they don't want to be there very boring & dull.
It seems a sad waste of a good Pub too me.
I used too go in here regularly in the 70s & 80s when it was a brilliant Pub it had three separate Bars A large Games Bar Room with Darts Pool Snooker Etc a Saloon Bar & Public Bar Now theres absolute nothing worth going in here for. Only good point is its near the station for a quick get away.

1 Jun 2010 20:11

Yes Closed again it was a good free house with some unusual Ales but what spoilt it for me is when they started allowing children in & showing Sport Etc. As this was already done by several Pubs in the area including the spoons which was cheaper It seemed silly. This Put off Most the drinkers that just wanted a quiet Pint & too read the Paper they just went elsewhere.

1 Jun 2010 19:55

The White Hart, Southgate

Was in here on Saturday Evening a few weeks ago for a few beers Its a Nice Irish type Bar without the Plastic feel. I found the staff very good & the locals that were in good & frendly atmosphere nice. I had Two Pints of Guinness But I also see on Hand Pump was the following Ales as well Young's Gold & London Pride. Makes this place well worth a visit if your in the Area Much better than the Pub over the road. They also show most sports on a big screen.

1 Jun 2010 18:42

The Gatehouse, Highgate

I was in here just a few days ago. This is one of my favourite Wetherspoon Pubs Its a very good run Wetherspoons The tables are always cleaned & cleared of clutter almost as soon as customers are finished. Plus theres a very good choice of Real Ales on tap that are always in excellent condition whenever Ive been in. The Service and Staff seem very good as well and you cant fault the cost or value for money I would have no problem recommending this Pub to others.

1 Jun 2010 18:22

The Triumph, Barnet

Work in progress too reopen dont know what as mayby a restarant as all the inside has been striped out.

1 Jun 2010 12:51

I went in here last night after the spoons was getting mobbed out with all the kids & yob drinkers coming in too tank up on cheap Booze before moving on too the Sun Etc.
This place seems too have been decorated a bit lately It looked reasonably good and staff were friendly & polite. It was not too bad for a Friday evening around 21.00 it as was not full of the usual Friday night piss heads or loud crowed. I had a Pint of Guinness But there was also G/K IPA on Tap which was the only Ale I see. Theres also plenty of outside seating in the beer Garden at the rear and also seating out the front as well.

22 May 2010 17:14

The Hill Restaurant and Bar, Muswell Hill

I went in last night for a quick few pints as it was early evening to see if its Improved since last year as there is now a new manager. It was very quiet so I got severed quick which makes a change by the sounds of things. This spoons has a very limited choice of Ales and seems too be aimed at the younger crowed there was only Four Ales on when I went in that was the usual Three Abbots Directors & Ruddles Plus one Guest Ale. I tried Abbots which was Passable but not perfect so next I tried The Directors which was absolute Rank took one gulp and left the rest. Beer quality certainly seems too have got worse. So I decided too leave and go too the New Crown instead.

19 Mar 2010 11:24

The Bank, New Southgate

Ex Wetherspoons Pub near to Arnos Grove & New Southgate stations. Very cheap & cheerful and OK for a few pints. at least its better than the Harvester at Arnos. Directors was in good condition when I went in recently and at �2:30 A pint I cant complain.

1 Mar 2010 01:36

Its Closed down yet again for another refurbishment. with a bit of luck they might just turn it back into a decent a Pub selling Real Ale. I would like too see a company Like Wetherspoons buy it refurbish it like it original was. This area in need of a good traditional Pub.

28 Feb 2010 18:05

I remember this Pub years ago when it had three Bars Large Saloon Bar on the Left Large Public Bar on the Right & a Snug in the Middle which we called Platform Five.
This Pub tends too suffer the same problems that most these food orientated Pubs it suffers from the Bar serving area being too small for the size of the Pub. And a lack of good experienced bar staff so there's always a queue three deep waiting at busy times.
There was at least four good Ales on when I went in I tried two both were in good condition but due too the wait at the Bar I decided against a third after waiting around 15 Minuets the First & Second times

28 Feb 2010 10:56

This place is not too bad for a modern food Type Pub. At least it don't feel like you drinking in a restaurant like some tend too do. The Ales on Tap when I went in recently were Black Sheep & Landlord both were in good condition. It Was mid afternoon on Thursday when I went and it was reasonably quiet so the service was good & quick

28 Feb 2010 10:36

Since this Pub was taken over by a Wonder Boy it is now absolutely dire & a very boring place its now like a Plastic Man Ikea flat pack and now Just a Licenced Restaurant not a Pub. In my opinion For someone too wreak a good Kinks heritage Pub like his they should be ashamed of themselves lets hope they have met there Waterloo Sunset . As a long term resident of Muswell Hill since 1972 this Pub was always a local land mark that I used very regularly until a few years ago now its just been turned it into another a cheap gastro place and that is beyond me. It just surprises me that any local resident would want use it. I would call on all you Muswell Hillbillies too boycott this hell hole and use the Alexandra, John Baird, or The Royal Oak instead and let them take this place down a Dead End Street Maybe it will be The death of a Clown.
Of all the over 150 reviews Ive done this is the first time Ive rated a Pub at 0/10 but my guess is they were just trying to be a Dedicated Follower Of Fashion. If this is so called Modern Pubs Bring back Bass Charringtons.

28 Feb 2010 01:18

The Famous Royal Oak, Muswell Hill

Have not been in this Pub for over a year after the bad service last time so I thought I would give it another try too see If its Improved that was a bad mistake. This used too be a very good Pub just a few years Ago but the current Management seem too be running it into the ground. Staffing levels always seems too be very bad with arrogant staff that just don't seem too care and have no manners what so ever not even a Please or Thank you and they often just serve their own east European Friends first whilst other customers are left waiting. But I suppose thats what you get using cheap labour. Went in on Saturday Evening recently with the wife for a Meal both lots of food was under cooked & stone cold The Beer quality is not as good as it used to be either.
I would not return till things Improve a lot it Needs a complete new lot of more experienced staff IMHO.

27 Feb 2010 17:11

This is a good old school traditional Pub which is now about the only decent Traditional Pub left in Muswell Hill that has not been wreaked by the foodie brigade. I would always recommend to anyone a walk down to here if your in Muswell Hill area Rather than going in any of the Restaurant/Pubs around the Broadway that are mostly just over priced licenced restaurants.

Tottenhansean as Far as I know the Famous was added just too stop confusion with the other Royal Oak that was in Sydney Road Muswell Hill N10 2NL

25 Feb 2010 21:25

The John Baird, Muswell Hill

I been into this Pub a few times on Saturday evenings as its only about 200 yards from my house But I only occasionally use it. Good points are they have some very good guest Ales on Tap and there always in excelent condition. Its Always clean & tidy and the Staff are always very polite.
But too me these are out weighed by the bad points It only has one small Gents Toilet in a big pub this size. The TVs are always on Blasting out so loud it makes it Impossible to talk or have a normal conversation. Even on the Saturday evenings when we went in it had the usual Saturday night drivel on that most People go out just too get away from.
To me the main Problem is it feels just too much like your drinking in a waiting area provided for the Restaurant the lack of carpet & curtains dont help and tend too make the accoustics & atmosphere even worse .
For Beer & Ale 9/10 for Ambiance 3/10

25 Feb 2010 21:08

Rising Sun, New Southgate

This Pub is now called The Finchley Tavern Its Still as good as Before and even seems too be Improving.

22 Feb 2010 21:39

The Triumph, Barnet

Its Been for sale for a few Months but its now closed down. don't no if it will open as a Pub or something else but is now been sold.

22 Feb 2010 21:33

Nearly a Year later Its Now more of a Licenced Restaurant rather than a Pub with a small Bar. Has a limited choice of Beers & Spirites only One Ale on Tap.
As Strongers has said for A real Pub I would sooner go too the York.

6 Feb 2010 11:35

The Malt and Hops, North Finchley

Now Its been redecorated In traditional style Its much better than before. Its One of the best Spoons in north London in my opinion being A traditional Old Pub It reminds me of what it was like in the 70s only better. There were several good Ales were on tap this visit all in good condition. I would recommend this Pub too anyone Its well worth A visit.

30 Nov 2009 18:09

I went in here recently One afternoon for a quick few Pints of Pride and found it a nice traditional Old style Pub which has Not been wrecked by the Gastro foodie brigade like so many good Pubs have been these days. Good friendly Staff nice old style surroundings And the Ale was good so all in all I will definitely visit again when Passing.

17 Oct 2009 21:24

I Walked in and walked out. I found this Pub dismal No Real Ales from what I see just a few People sat watching the Racing on Goggle Box .

16 Oct 2009 20:51

I'm glad too see This Pub is Back to its traditional old self as it was when I used it Regular years ago. Gone are the TVs In my Opinion thats of the one biggest improvements And its back to being a Traditional Old Ale House with some decent conditioned Real Ales on Tap again.
I will Definitely pop in again for visit whenever I'm shopping in Barnet Its just a pity its not closer too Muswell Hill otherwise It would be my Local.

9 Oct 2009 00:18

The Lord Clyde, Borough

Yes A very nice good Looking Pub from outside and still has several small bars Inside. I had A few Pints of Pride that was in good condition when I went in. I would say Its a good Pub overall. But only spoilt for me when I went in by the TV showing the football being on far too loud.

8 Oct 2009 14:22

The Ranelagh, Bounds Green

I went in here last night on my way home from a Drink up with a few CAMRA Lads as I only live just down the Road.
I tried Two Pints of ST Austell Tribute which was in Excellent condition very enjoyable. The Pub itself is in good order apart from those Pink walls make it look strange but its much better than other Pubs locally I found the Staff friendly and welcoming.
I Must try too get in more for a drink as its the nearest good Pub too my house.

7 Oct 2009 00:04

I pop in this Pub around Once a Month on my way home and I find its best after 20:00 in the Evening as you get no kids in then. I find it a OK Pub with A few good Ales on Tap But its A bit too food orientated for me it has that feel like your drinking in a restaurant instead of a Pub. Its OK for a few Quick Pints but its not a Pub you can have a all Night session in.

6 Oct 2009 21:34

The Admiral Byng, Potters Bar

This pub seems too have improved a lot since I last visited there is some good Guest Ales on. All Ales I tried were in good condition. Staff And service good. And as a bounus The Wifi works as well Im using it too Post this.

21 Sep 2009 19:41

Not too bad for decent Ales as there was some excellent Guest beers on Tap when I went in Early on two previous times but thats the only good point.
It was too full of screeching Kids running around whists the parents just sat there stuffing there Guts with cheap food and other idiots were shouting into the mobiles on my first visit in the afternoon. Then on the evening visit it was full of 18 to 21s drinking Alcopops Its even worse on Friday & Saturday Nights I'm told. One girl even Pissed herself as he sat there she was so far gone.
Staff seem to treat & think Customers are a inconvenience and have that bad habit of asking who's next even though there was only three people waiting at bar?. I would not bother retuning just too go in there again even if I'm passing I think it needs a Older more experienced Management and Staff as it seems too be staffed by far too many youngsters working there and thats attracting all the kids.

21 Sep 2009 16:19

La Zeez, North Finchley

It Is definitely closed down Now a notice on the door says ceased trading on 8th August Closed till further notice And its still closed today on 18th August.

19 Aug 2009 00:45

The Drum, East Barnet

First Review for this Place. Its Now Closed Down and boarded Up. Amazing Two People Have Rated it but No One left a Review. ?

10 Aug 2009 02:19

The Fox Public House, Palmers Green

pop in yesterday afternoon too watch the cricket for a hour not too bad Pub but like most been ruined by modernisation bar area is smaller than it was years ago I remember this Pub in the mid seventy's with the three separate bars etched glass windows and larger bar with glasses above bar just one big soulless room now with now . Biggest grip No Real Ale looks like Ale Pumps had so much dust on them don't think there been used since Strongers said there was none on Six moths ago.

1 Aug 2009 14:17

The Bricklayers Arms, Putney

Called in here one evening during the week after seeing it in the GBG.
Excellent Range of TT beers including Mild and other Guest Beers as well I wish Id found it earlier. Its well worth a visit and I would recommend too anyone. I will return whenever I can.

19 Jul 2009 17:52

The Beef and Barrel, Ponders End

I Went in here last Night for a few on leaving the Station but give up after waiting ages to get served there was a queue at least three deep at the bar and only two staff serving whilst loads of staff were stood around in the cooking area doing nothing. I gave up after waiting over 10 Minuets and went too the Windsor Castle instead. I will try again some other time maybe But this seem always the same problem every time I go In. There is always a Lack of Staff & long queues to get served. It seems very badly designed the bar area its too small now compared too what it was years ago.

8 May 2009 15:54

Now Its been reduced to Just A Pile of Bricks when I last went Past been replaced by Block of Flats.

12 Apr 2009 20:44

The Wishing Well, Southgate

I went in here for a few beers earlier in the week with the wife again Its a lot better now than It was before theres No loud Music or Pool tables now. On My occasional visits The Ales are always In good condition and different Ales are Avalible each time I go in. I used too go in the Bells up the road but This place is much better you can sit and talk with Friends without too much Loud Music. I Tried three Pints of TT Landlord and it was in Nice condition. I did not think its over expensive around the going rate for London Unless your comparing it to Wetherspoons I would certainly go in again on passing. Cant remark about the Food as I only Drink Ale in Pubs.

30 Mar 2009 01:19

Closed At Present for Refurbishment.

10 Mar 2009 18:54

The Princess Alexandra, Crouch End

Oh dear another good Old style traditional Pub has been wreaked and turned into a another glorified licenced Restaurant. Soon there will only be The Royal Oak Pub left round here.

25 Feb 2009 19:58

Ha Ha Bar and Canteen, Muswell Hill

This Pub is Closed and changed hands over a year Ago See new Profile for Slug & Lettuce

25 Feb 2009 01:21

The Boogaloo, Highgate

As I Went Past here today looks closed from outside windows very Dirty Paint peeling off the walls and doors outside no lights on inside and locked up & closed. I remember this Pub years ago when it was the Shephards Inn it was a nice old boozer in them days looks very run down now if its still open.

24 Feb 2009 19:56

Yates Wine Lodge, Blackpool

Now Closed due to serious Fire.

16 Feb 2009 00:03

The Erris Tavern, North Finchley

(Hi stev 1963 no sadly the Copper top bar is no longer there). I remember that as well. I was in here last night for a few Two Pints of Pride & Two Pints of ESB all in good order must be the best Pub in North Finchley and to shows It was reasonably full with Drinkers for a Monday Evening. Lets hope they keep up the good work as its a very good Pub not like some of the others locally that have sadly closed.

30 Dec 2008 19:23

La Zeez, North Finchley

This Place also Appears to be closed as well as Erris opposite but there again not as much of a loss.

30 Dec 2008 19:07

This Place sadly now appears to be closed with all signs Removed. Lets hope its only a temporary closure.

30 Dec 2008 19:04

The Well, Muswell Hill

Well the new restaurant they put here did not last long just Six Months. After replacing a very successfully Pub that was always full of drinkers & very busy with a horrid veggie restaurant it lasted only six months. Maybe someone will make it back into a proper Ale House again we live in hope.

12 Dec 2008 19:17

The Maid of Muswell, Muswell Hill

Seems too be on the up again lately with much better choice of Ales and the staff and service seems too have improved no end with well manned & polite staff . I Was in on Wed &Thurs Nights and it seemed much better no wait at the bar and food was served within 10 minuets of ordering. Just shows what difference a good duty manager makes. I would agree with Half Tuppence on that point.

28 Nov 2008 23:50

Very strange Pub locals look at any outsiders like you've just farted in a quiet Church. Also anyone who's not a regular seems to be made to feel about as welcome as a fart in a space suit. I would not go back in again. As for the best Pub in Muswell Hill this Pub is more in Bounds Green area anyway. Muswell Hill Has The John Baird The Royal Oak The Alexandra Arms All Miles better in My Opinion with a much better Ale choice as well.

4 Nov 2008 22:24

The Pembury Tavern, Hackney

The is the first time Ive been in this Pub since the early 1980s when I used to go there to watch 50s tribute bands like The Flying Saucers & The Rapiers. It was mainly a Guinness & Lager pub in them days.
Much Better Beer choice Now with some good Real Ales on tap and its been restored nicely to its original appearance where possible.

21 Oct 2008 11:01

As I said before I still use this Pub regularly and have been doing so since 1975 I still find it as good now as it ever was. What i like is Its still a proper working mens Pub. OK its Not Posh or tarted up I admit but its what a Pub should be in my opinion. It serves a good Pint of Guinness & even better now seems to have London Pride & Courage Best Ales on as well. Theres always a good crowd of regulars in to talk to and have a laugh with and the staff are always very good & friendly so I would agree with others try it you may enjoy a proper Pub not a plastic manufactured one like so many other Pubs are these days.

11 Oct 2008 11:02

The Admiral Mann, Kentish Town

The only thing Cigano probabley brews is Tetleys and thats in a cup with hot water.

This Pub is a good Old fasion Boozer not some Gasto Pub its a Proper Old style Pub as Pubs should be whit Good Qulitty Ales and good Old fasion Bar snacks Not some over priced Letuce leaves on a Plate

17 Sep 2008 10:02

I Went in here a few days ago This seems to be a very good nice old style Traditional Pub. I had a few Pints of Country in excellent condition. Surroundings good and other customers & Staff very friendly.
It Makes a change to find a nice proper Pub with good Beer on tap instead of all these foodies pubs around these days hope it don't ever change definitely 9/10 would recommend to anyone and will return again.

14 Sep 2008 21:45

The Black Bull, Whetstone

Now compleatly demolished not even a Pile of bricks left just flat ground.

31 Aug 2008 22:33

The Albion, Barnet

Went go go in here yesterday but notice on Door says closed until further notice.

30 Aug 2008 14:12

The Borough Hotel, Southend on Sea

I Went into this Pub again yesterday its still a very good Ale house with some of the best Fullers Ales on tap and always in top condition. Staff are always very helpful and friendly and the restaurant is separate upstairs out the way so it don't spoil the Pub like some other Pubs have done. I would say overall its the best Pub in North Finchley by far and I would have no problem recommending this place to anyone.

3 Aug 2008 22:03

The Gatehouse, Highgate

A very good run Wetherspoons with good choice of Real Ales that are always in excellent condition whenever Ive been in. The Service and Staff seem good as well and you cant fault the cost or value for money I would have no problem recommending this Pub to others.

21 Jul 2008 00:44

The Boogaloo, Highgate

I used to go here occasionally a few years ago when it was The Sheppard's but on passing here the other day noticed it seemed very Run down now and in need of a good Paint & decorate as it looks very dirty and dark from the outside.

21 Jul 2008 00:30

I was in this Pub at lunch time today seems very good for a Sea front Pub. Yes I can confirm this Pub has change its name back to the Borough Hotel.

24 Jun 2008 21:02

Elementz Bar, Muswell Hill

Whilst waiting at the bus stop outside I thought I would nip in for a quick pint. Only Two taps on the bar Carling Lager OR Grolsch Lager No bottled Ales or Beers So a very Limited choice If your not a Lager Drinker.

23 Jun 2008 20:54

The Royal Oak, Borough

I was in here on Friday the 13th June for a meet up with a few others. I found it to be a very nice old style Pub with a very good selection of good Real Ales including Milds Tried four or five different Ales and all were in excellent condition. The good thing is the Pub has not been spoilt too much by the Gastro foodie brigade. Would definitely recommend this Pub to others.

22 Jun 2008 22:50

The Slug and Lettuce, Fitzrovia

Typical Of a Slag & Lettuce Pub no good Real Ales just your typical half Pint of coke merchants sometimes with a lemonade Or Coffee Not my sort of Pub. Could not and would not recommend a trash house like this my advice is Find a decent Ale house.

22 Jun 2008 00:54

The Beehive, Tottenham

I was in this Pub a few days ago Its a very nice old style traditional Pub I have been going in here occasionally since the late seventy's since when I was living in Scales Road just round the corner. The thing I like about this Pub is it has not changed too much and is still a very welcoming Pub serving decent Real Ales. This is a Pub I would recommend to anyone providing its NOT a match day otherwise it can get too full and uncomfortable.

21 Jun 2008 01:54

The Last Post, Southend on Sea

Now Finished being Repainted and It has been Renamed Keenan's Looks much better from the outside not had a chance to try it yet.

19 Jun 2008 17:18

Was in here today during lunch time with the wife seemed a very good run Wetherspoons. Food was of good quality for the Price Paid as long as you don't expect A five star restaurant Quality Meal at this cheap price. The Three guest Ales I tried were all in very good condition. Will definitely go in here next time I'm in the Southend area In the early evening if possible maybe on a mini Pub crawl.

17 Jun 2008 22:12

Yates Wine Lodge, Southend on Sea

Now closed and gone for good being redeveloped.

17 Jun 2008 21:43

The Falcon Hotel, Southend on Sea

Now a Green King Pub the last poster was right. Its not too bad and one of the most bearable on the Sea front at least its not all lager and has a few Good Ales on.

17 Jun 2008 21:28

The Minerva, Southend on Sea

Now permanently Closed Down & boarded Up. Don't know if its going to reopen as a Pub or something else.

17 Jun 2008 21:23

At the moment It still Open but Its also being Painted & Decorated after a recent Change of Managment. I dont think The karaoke is on at Present as theres no notice outside. Another Pub to try In a few weeks time once its finished.

14 Jun 2008 23:41

Its being given a make over & Paint job at present. It is also now under new Management according to the sign outside so I will give it a few weeks and try it again to see if its Improved. Well it cant get any worse can it ?

13 Jun 2008 16:35

The Cavalier, Whetstone

went in with the wife for a few pints last week this Pub seems Much better than it was last time I went in there over a year ago. It now has NO more TVs blasting away in the background or yobs watching football & playing Pool. Seems to have a much better atmosphere now and is more family friendly and the beer has improved no end. I don't know about food as I did not eat there but looked good.

21 May 2008 01:40

Thought I would Pop in here on way home from work for a change as The Well was closed first time Ive been in since it reopened. Its now just a shadow of its former self totally wrecked in my opinion for what should have been made Into a Kinks Heritage Ale house its now just another glorified restaurant. I think thats a Big mistake & missed opportunity because now its like every other Pub in Muswell Hill and has nothing unique to attract the customers. It had about as much Pub atmosphere as a Wacky Warehouse when I went in. There was just 3 other customers in here I cannot see this lasting without drastic change. Only good point was theres a few Real Ales on Tap but nothing good enough to make me return thought.

13 May 2008 01:06

The Well, Muswell Hill

Sadly Now closed at Present Hope its only a temporary closure.

12 May 2008 14:40

Rising Sun, New Southgate

It dose not look good either with all the staff standing in the door way smoking. Also as well as this you now get the local youths standing in the door way smoking when not playing pool. I see at least three people/customers put off coming in by this whilst I was in here. Ales London Porter was in good condition but G/K IPA was not all that good. Pub surroundings are in good condition & nice and clean even the toilets. Good points no TV or kids make it worth a visit as well as some good Ales on.
there taking part in the Mild in may month in May so should see some good Milds on.

27 Apr 2008 11:22

This Pub is now just a ordinary Public House again. Its no longer a awful Harvester which I think is a good thing and it seems to have Improved a lot since. I will go back in a few months and see if the beer range has also Improved as its early days yet.

15 Apr 2008 20:00

The Griffin, Whetstone

I went in here on Friday evening for the first time since it was a Scruffy Murphy's and was terrible in those days. After reading some good reviews on here I thought I would give it a try and I was surprised at how much better it is now completely changed now seems more roomy than before and with very good Ales in good condition. Only stayed for two Pints as it Was Packed with office staff being a early Friday evening so couldn't find a seat. I will try it again when I get time during the the weekdays but from first impressions I say well worth a visit.

31 Mar 2008 01:34

Yates's Wine Lodge, Wood Green

Now Closed Down signs taken down & place emptied of furniture & fittings. Now all there excustomers will all go into the wetherspoons which will make that even worse if thats possible.

30 Mar 2008 23:44

The York Arms, Whetstone

What a very nice Pub it has not changed at all in over thirty five years since I last went in There. The only addition I could see was a TV set apart from that it looked exactly the same as it did when use to go there regularly after work when I used to work at Standard Telephones in 1975 brilliant a real traditional Pub. The only down side is that theres only one Real Ale Best but apart from that is a good real old style Pub with separate Saloon and Public bars and with the centre bar joining both hope its never changed or altered.

29 Mar 2008 18:02

As I was in Palmer's Green on Monday I thought I would give this Pub another try and see if its improved as I have not been in here for over 6 Months. Sadly it has not Its still full of uncontrolled kids running around and climbing on the tables. The service and staff were absolutely useless I waited a good 10 minuets to get served the first time even though it was a not that busy as it was early evening. Why don't Wetherspoons have a separate till for all the foodies to order at so they don't take half hour making up there mind at the bar holding up people trying to get a drink I would not mind but then they sit there three hours just eating egg & chips with half a coke. This Pub seem to be run like a licenced restaurant Not a Pub It needs a decent Management team urgently to turn it round and employ more competent Staff. I did try to get a second Pint but gave up after waiting ages and just decided to leave and go to the Whole Hog instead.

26 Mar 2008 20:39

The Cock and Dragon, Cockfosters

First time Ive been back in here today at lunch time for about 6 Years. I must say what a Improvement its Back to its traditional old self as it was when I used it years ago. Gone are the TVs Hooray that one big improvement And its back to being a good Ale house with decent condition Real Ales again.
I will Definitely pop in again for visit whenever I'm shopping in Barnet.

13 Mar 2008 18:07

This is now One of the best Pubs around the Oakwood & Cockfosters area. It Has that nice old fashion country Pub feel to it. Although it sells good food It has not been turned into a horrible Gastro Pub it is still a traditional Pub with excellent Quality Real Ales on tap. Which just Proves If Its done Properly it can be done. Well worth a visit during the weekday evenings as It can get full at weekends.

12 Mar 2008 21:15

The Waggon, Southgate

I have been going in here occasionally on a Thursday Evening whilst waiting for colleagues to turn up on our way to a Meeting seems to be a nice OK sort of bar but with a modern feel to it. No Kids or under 21s makes it good you also don't get the show offs and fake designer wearing flash Harry's Like some Pubs in this area. Beer seemed to be good if a little limited in choice. Don't Know about food as Ive not eaten in here but it looks good.

12 Mar 2008 14:17

The Bald Faced Stag, Burnt Oak

For some reason this Pub Seems to be stuck as Pub of the Day for the last few days.
I did go in this Pub a few months ago whilst in the area going to Maplins ETC. Im not surprised its all one post entry�s trying to big it up its terrible no good no ales on tap when I went in and was full of a young & loud crowed of lager drinkers never went back again.

10 Mar 2008 11:08

The White Hart, Southgate

Its reopened now as it was only closed for a few days change of Management. There were no decent Ales on tap the day I went in but the Guinness was good I will give it another try at a later date & post update.

9 Mar 2008 11:46

Sometimes I occasionally go in here once a month on a Thursday evening whilst waiting for friends to turn up before we go on to a meeting. Not a bad Pub now it�s defiantly getting better after years of Bad management that seemed to attract the kid & hooligan element. The Beer is certainly Improved lets hope it picks up a bit more now there�s a better Manager.

7 Mar 2008 07:47

The Queens Hotel, Crouch End

Went Into here yesterday afternoon around 15:30 was nice and quiet but it just don't seem to feel as good as it used to be seems to restauranty. I had a few decent Pints of Real ale all in good condition seems a very nice old Building with character but its lost that originality of before.

6 Mar 2008 21:36

The Wishing Well, Palmers Green

I was in here a few times recently watching the Rugby ETC found it very good excellent Guinness friendly Customers and Staff. Ive never had any Problems in here. I stated using this one when the one at Southgate went down hill seems to be Much Better.

2 Mar 2008 22:47

Yates's Wine Lodge, Wood Green

If your over 21 do yourself favour go elsewhere This crap-hole is even worse than that Wetherspoons next door and thats saying something. Always full of the dregs of society. Its absolute dismal.

29 Feb 2008 00:19

The Toll Gate, Hornsey

I must say this is about one of the only Wetherspoons left in North London I know thats still good. Has very good Staff Polite & well run. The Ales are always spot on when I go in here and Ive never had a bad Pint. I only ever go here in daytimes or early evenings on my way home but its always been OK and welcoming.

26 Feb 2008 22:34

The Bull, Edmonton

Nice Pub spoilt only by having the TV set on showing coronation street when I went in there at 19:40 Turn it off when theres nothing worth watching on.

26 Feb 2008 21:59

Been back here A few times in the last four weeks and what a change from six months ago. This was a good Pub run well now its terrible. I have often waited over 10 minuets to get served. last night was no different the first time when I did get served the staff had no manners whatsoever no Please or Thank You. Ordered food & Ale. When I get the Ale it was cloudy and not in good condition at all another regular occurrence lately. The food was half cold when arriving after waiting 30 minuets. Tried again to get A second Pint after waiting over 10 minuets again and watching bar staff just talking to Friends in the corner and serving just them I got browned off and I walked out and will not return until theres a change of Management or Staff. There seems to be a real down turn in Wetherspoons management team lately service is diabolical to Non existent not just in this Pub but most of there Pubs lately. Gone down in my opinion from about 8/10 to 3/10

26 Feb 2008 21:48

The Three Wishes, Edgware

I went in here last night early 16:30 Monday evening. found it very good nice & quiet with no TVs Blasting out or Kids running around like that awful Wetherspoons up the road. Had three Pints of Red Squirrel Conservation Ale which was in very good condition served in over sized glasses as well and at only �2.00 A Pint very good value as well. I would definitely return and recommend to others. Good Pub if your with company or want to talk & chat with Friends.

26 Feb 2008 18:52

Railway Bell, New Barnet

Not too bad for a Wetherspoons had some good Real Ales on Tap when I went in and the Staff were polite and helpful. I went out to the back part as there was too many kids running around in front part it was like a nursery. I Sat out at the back in conservatory That was Big mistake it was bloody freezing and not helped by nicotine addicts going In & Out the back door every 5 minuets mind kept beer cold. It could be Improved easy by just installing better heating at back & discouraging people from using the back doors.

23 Feb 2008 21:19

I went here before Christmas whilst I was shopping in Edgware for the first time in about three years I seem to remember it was A Wetherspoons when I used it back in them days called The Blacking Bottle. Seems much better now Had good few Pints of London Pride in here and its still the best Pub around Edgware Station.
P/s I did try to post A review back then but it went missing twice so thats why its Late.

21 Feb 2008 21:24

The Famous Royal Oak, Muswell Hill

Glad to here its reopening Lets hope its as good as it was before with some good Real Ales on tap. I will definitely give it a try over the next few weeks and post update.

19 Feb 2008 00:25

As I Have lived here in Muswell Hill for over 20 years after reading the reviews on this Pub I thought I would give it a try as never been in here before even though I pass it nearly every day.I Was pleasantly surprised to still see a proper Pub thats not been ruined or turned into a awful gastro Pub like every other boozer in Muswell Hill. I will definitely return again and have no problem recommending it to others. Very good service good beer & pleasant customers.

19 Feb 2008 00:07

Arnos Arms, New Southgate

Not a very good Pub seems full of teenagers most the time and it looked absolutely filthy only been in there the once for one Pint and left. Would not want to go back.

18 Feb 2008 16:20

The Bank, New Southgate

Not a too bad Pub sometimes go in here when in the Arnos Grove area about the only Pub round here except that awful harvester at Arnos Grove cheap & cheerful.

18 Feb 2008 01:47

Only good Point is its next to Arnos Grove tube Station. The Food & Beer was not very good and the service was extremely slow even though it was a very quiet afternoon.

18 Feb 2008 01:41

The Oakwood Tavern, Oakwood

Only went in here as it was the only Place near Oakwood Station except that Kids Bar The Maze Inn which is always full of yobs and Lager Louts up the road. Had Good Few Pints Of Guinness and ended up staying in here a lot longer than I was intending too. Staff & other customers pleasant with good service. Will definitely recommend to others and will return when I'm in the area.

14 Feb 2008 20:46

Monaghan's Tavern, Wood Green

Walked in here yesterday only had One Pint of Guinness then left and went down to the Sprigfield. Seems to be too clicky with own little crowed. You get the feeling they don't want to welcome new customers.

13 Feb 2008 21:52

The Hill Restaurant and Bar, Muswell Hill

A Terrible over Priced restaurant thats not even pretending to be a Pub. No decent Ales on tap when I went in just Keg & fizzy water. Now I Know why it was always empty whenever Ive Passed by.

8 Feb 2008 16:19

Spouter's Corner, Wood Green

Nice Old style Pub. Nearest good Traditional style Pub to Muswell Hill that hasn't been wreaked by the Gastro foodie brigade. Much better when theres no sport Blasting out on the telly. Has some good Real Ales on tap. And I must agree it seems to have definitely Improved over the last few years.

8 Feb 2008 16:08

Goose, Wood Green

Not a too bad Pub when quiet. Cheap Prices but it dose get full of loud lager louts sometimes. OK for a quick Pint better than Yates or that horrible Wetherspoons opposite well it couldn't be worse could it.

3 Feb 2008 21:39

Went into this so called Pub last night early evening it was full of drunks smellys & winos waited for about 10 minuets to try to get served with no luck so walked straight back out again. and we went to a decent Pub instead what a crap hole this is The Goose opposite & the Yates and all diabolical. whats happened to the Wetherspoons chain there seems to be a drastic down turn in a lot of there Pubs the new managers of most of them seem very bad with little or No Experience and seem far too young and it shows.

2 Feb 2008 18:19

The Slug and Lettuce, Muswell Hill

I still use this Pub at least once a week and have been doing so since 1975 and I still find it as good now as it ever was. Its still a proper working mens Pub. Not Posh or tarted up I admit but its what a Pub should be in my opinion. It serves a good Pint of Guinness & sometimes has a good Real Ale on as well. Theres always a good crowd of regulars in to talk to and have a laugh with and the staff are always very good & friendly so I would agree with tottenhamsean try it you may enjoy a proper Pub not a plastic manufactured one.

25 Jan 2008 20:58

I only went in here just to see what it was like I had a Quick pint then left. It was just too full of non drinkers for my liking. It seemed more like a cheap Mc Donalds restaurant than a Pub. There was hardly anyone drinking Beer it was just full of foodies eating and a few Coffee drinkers. The odd few people that were drinking were only having a glass of wine.
So I left & went to the Well opposite much better more like a real drinkers Bar with Good Guinness.

25 Jan 2008 20:29

Having been back in here a few times during the week day evenings I would say this Pub has definitely Improved a lot In recent months with some very good guest beers on offer. And the two worst mannered guys that worked behind the bar seem to have left. So please disregard my earlier post as this was based mostly on Saturday visits and the down side on Saturday evenings is the left over Drunks from the football crowd especially on days when theres three games on like 12.30 15:00 17:30 because this causes some people to spend all day in the pub then they cause problems Saturday night being loud and troublesome nothing serious I add but enough to put some Customers off going in here on Saturday evenings I know this is not strictly the Pubs fault more the fault of Greedy Sky.

19 Jan 2008 18:15

The Fishmongers Arms, Southgate

Popped in here last night on my way home. This is the first time I have been in this Pub for about 5 Years even though Its just up the road from where I live and is the nearest Pub to my house. It is much better than it used to be since being refurbished a while back. Seems to be very nice small Pub few decent Ales on Tap & friendly locals will go in here again when I get a chance. Only thing I did not like was the Pink coloured walls or was that my beer Eyes after too many Pints of country in the Windsor Castle and a Few Pints of Pride in Maddens.

13 Jan 2008 18:49

Went in here last night after work nice relaxing pub with nice quiet area at back thats good to sit in if your reading or talking to company without the loud music or TV. Good Pint of London Pride I would say Much better than most the other local Pubs. Has TVs & Pool In the large front Bar If thats what you like.

9 Jan 2008 21:03

Ye Olde Cherry Tree, Southgate

I went in here last Tuesday as I was on my way past going to the Windsor Castle. Ive never been in here before I was pleasantly surprised a very good nice Pub not to crowded and excellent Guinness good friendly crowed and Staff. I will most defiantly return here again. At least I now know at least two Pubs that I like in Finchley.

6 Jan 2008 21:37

Went I here for a Pint after coming out the Woolpack. What a let down I think I would agree with last few posts its gone down hill a lot in recent years used to be a good Pub in the 80s and early 90s I used it regularly in them days not now it feels like a hotel bar soul less.

6 Jan 2008 21:11

The Woolpack, Southgate

Still very good after Refurbishment Its not been changed too much very good. It has a much better atmosphere now its non smoking as before you used to get cigar & cigarette smoked out in a thick cloud because its quiet small. Good Guinness & Ale good Pub.

6 Jan 2008 20:46

The Three Horseshoes, Whetstone

This pub has definitely gone down hill. I used to go in here regularly up to about 3 years ago whenever I was working at Wheatstone Station once a week. Now its terrible. As a lot of others have already said there are too many TV sets' Too much noise' No Quiet corners to talk or drink in And most important No decent Real Ales on tap glad I don't have to work over there now.

19 Dec 2007 20:50

The Windsor Castle, East Finchley

What a nice haven away from all the awful Plastic restaurants that call there selfs Pubs in East Finchley. Excellent few pints of Mc Mullen's Country was had. I will defiantly return here again best Real Pub in East Finchley nearest thing we have to the Wenlock. Keep up the good work & don't change it.

8 Dec 2007 17:18

Ha Ha Bar and Canteen, Muswell Hill

Went in tonight on way home as I came out East Finchley Station before getting on 102 to Muswell Hill. Its still as Dull & Dreary as ever seems too dark & dank and the staff are Just too slow takes 10 Minutes or more just to get a pint and this was at 16:30 in the afternoon its God knows what its like on a busy evening. Now just a shell of the former original Great Pub that was the Old White Lion with three Bars. Its a real shame because this could be a Real good ale house with the right Management and maybe some Proper tables and chairs and some better Lighting.

6 Dec 2007 21:08

I only went in here just to see what it was like I had a Quick pint then left. It was just too full of non drinkers for my liking it seemed more like a cheap restaurant than a Pub. There was hardly anyone drinking Beer it was just full of foodies eating & Coffee drinkers. The odd few people that were drinking were only having a glass of wine or cocktails.
So I left & went to the Well opposite much better more like a real drinkers Bar with Good Guinness.

4 Dec 2007 19:54

Well this is just a bad a restaurant trying to be a Pub but the problem is the food is diabolical & plastic just warmed up pre cooked meals just like on a plane. Trying to get a drink is almost impossible because of the lack of staff. What with kids running around uncontrolled and the amount of under aged drinkers that appear to be in this Pub I'm just surprised it has not been closed down yet. If this is what a modern weatherspoons is like then I will drink else wear whatever the cost they seem to have totally lost touch with what the customer wants & what there original market was witch is what made them good in the first place what a pity.

21 Nov 2007 23:22

I went in here on Tuesday for a few Beers Excellent Pub still serving Excellent Real Ales with a real good changing selection. Its just such a pity I live at Muswell Hill so cant get the time to get over here more often.

I Just hope one day that someone with more business sense than Money makes one of the terrible restaurant style Pubs where I live in Muswell Hill back into a Tradition style Ale House Pub like the Wenlock. Well done keep up the good work.

CAMRA Life Member

1 Nov 2007 22:48

Before the new owners open I would strongly recommend they read the reviews for the Wenlock Arms in Wenlock Road Hoxtox. Then they and think about making it into traditional Ale house. Don't make it into another glorified restaurant theres too many round here in Muswell Hill already thats why I have to go all the way to the Wenlock Arms in Hoxtox.

1 Nov 2007 22:17

The Wishing Well, Southgate

A reasonably good small bar with good Guinness. Much better than the Chave and Kid filled Tally Ho opposite or that under aged drinking den The Autumn House.

26 Oct 2007 00:41

I Went in here last night for a Quiet few Pints after shopping in ASDA but it was too dead there was only me & the Barman ?. Its OK if you want a Quirt Pub to yourself buts thats too dead So I went To New Crown next door.

23 Oct 2007 21:30

I must say theres been a sharp deterioration of standards at all the wetherspoons Ive been Into lately they seem to be trying to attract far too many young drinkers. Also the managment seems to be very bad far too many young staff not enough experience behind the bar or in the trade and it shows. I have stop using most of them these days. One day they might bring in a over 21 rule for the staff as well as the customers most look as if there not old enough too drink.

21 Oct 2007 23:27

Yes she dose look good especially in those tight leather Jeans/trouser's. Its just a pity most the staff are diabolical and cant understand English very well. They just tend to stand there gassing to each other or Friends instead of serving customers also they have a bad habit of taking your beer when the glass is still half full and I mean with at least two inches in it not just a splash. theres also far to much noise in here now most of the time with groups playing TV on or music on full blast in the back ground. Would not be any good to have a meal in or eat as you cant here yourself talk most the time I used to go in here regularly with the wife for A meal at least once a week Now I would not bother anymore.

14 Oct 2007 18:08

The Well, Muswell Hill

This is the only decent Bar left in Muswell Hill Broadway as all the Other Pubs around here have been turned into glorified over expensive restaurants.
They serve a good Pint of Guinness in here and it has friendly staff & customers. Best when theres no sport on the TV as otherwise it gets a bit too packed probably because its the only decent bar round here at least it don't get full of foodies & half Pint merchants.

11 Oct 2007 10:59

Madden's, East Finchley

I only popped in here last night for a quick Pint and ended up having about four. Good real Ale & Excellent Guinness. It has a smallish bar area at the front but also has really good large seating area to the rear of premises.
Good customers & most staff seemed friendly with good manors. Only down side was the girl that served me did not seem to crack a smile laugh or say Please and Thank you to Anyone all night which totally let down all her colleagues hard work and good manners Just shows one bad member of staff can make a big difference. But over all a very good Bar.

8 Oct 2007 10:50

I Went back in here last night it to see If its any better on a Saturday. NO it was even more full of kids you would have been Hard pushed to find anyone over 21. Its still feels more like a McDonald's than a Pub even on a Saturday night with that Horrible Blackstone bar and again it took ages to get served as there were far to few staff on duty and there only interest seems to be feeding the foodies.
You defiantly get the feeling its not real drinkers Pub because in here theres only foodies buying food and Kids sitting there all night with odd bottle of Lager. It seems to be run more like a restaurant than a Pub.
I still say its the worst Wetherspoons Ive been in with below average Management I would say it defiantly needs a maybe a more mature management couple to improve it.

7 Oct 2007 15:45

This Pub appears to be closed at present. Its now for lease/rent according to the board outside.

3 Oct 2007 15:29

The Ranelagh, Bounds Green

I Must say Ive been drinking in this pub for over thirty years on & off since the days when I lived in Wittington Road opposite and I used to Drink Double Diamond here. In those days the bar was in the middle of the Pub. I must say have never seen any serious trouble in this Pub the odd argument but thats all but you get that in whatever Pub you go in where People drink plenty that happens thats life. This Pub is and always has been a good workingman's Pub Its not ponced up like other Pubs around here but its a good old style Pub thats what I like about it full of proper drinkers drinking plenty of beer. At least its not full of half pint Merchants and Shandy drinkers full of pretence like a lot of Pubs these days.

30 Sep 2007 11:13

I went in here for a quick Pint on leaving Bounds Green tube Station the Beers not too bad but far too expensive for a backstreet Pub in the Bounds Green area it Seems to charge the same prices as City of London Pubs around Liverpool Street or even More. This is more of a foodies Pub than a Beer Pub like the Maid of Muswell or The Old White Lion. There mainly interested in selling food than Beer it even feels more like a back street restaurant than a Public House. Its OK for a quick Pint But I would not want to spend the Evening there.

23 Sep 2007 17:31

The Occasional Half, Palmers Green

Twice recently Ive been in here and the beers been too warm & cloudy. I do hope this is just a one off and not a regular occurrence as its a good Pub with good staff but it seems the Ale quality is suffering a bit. It maybe because theres to many customers drinking lager & bottled beers and not enough Ale sales when I was in there. I did not see anyone else drinking the Ale but it was very quirt for a Saturday evening.

16 Sep 2007 10:13

I only went into this place for a Quick Pint on my way to the Springfield Tavern and I ended up stayed for three very nice staff friendly & polite good local bar.

15 Sep 2007 09:14

The Three Wishes, Winchmore Hill

Now Reopened went in for a quick pint last night. Its not to bad still looks & smells very clean new carpet paint etc. At least its not full of chaves & kids like the bar on the corner. Seems nice & friendly with polite staff & customers.

15 Sep 2007 09:04

The Coconut Tree, Finchley

Never been In there since about 10 years ago. But on passing when leaving Finchley Central Station on my way to a decent Pub theres always gangs of kids & under 21 outside, It makes it feel a right horrible intimidating place.

14 Sep 2007 15:31

I went back in here last night Excellent Ales. Pint of London Pride & Pint of Seafarers Ale & A Pint ESB Ale. All in good condition gets my vote for best Pub in North Finchley by far. And it don't get full of Lager louts like most the Pubs around here.Its got good staff friendly Pub.

CAMRA L M

14 Sep 2007 12:41

I went past here last night on my way to O'Nells at 21-30 on Thursday night. It was packed full of kids most look under 21 and loud. As I said before Its good in daytime for lunch or or good Ales also early evenings OK but gets to full of younger larger louts in the late evenings.

14 Sep 2007 12:30

Nice good old style Pub its what a Pub should be. Its not full of foodies half pint merchants or poser's like a lot of Pubs around here Pity there's no Real-Ale on tap but Guinness Is good.

9 Sep 2007 10:28

I used to go in this pub in the early 80s when I was based At East Finchley Station it was Known as Platform 5 to us then. In them days it was 3 separate bars and a Much better Pub than now.
Its far To dull & dingy and the service is diabolical I waited at least 10 Min's to get served but then Again its not a proper Pub now its a glorified Restaurant selling beer far to expensive there only Interest seems to be selling over priced food.
I say Bring back the real Pub.
CAMRA LM.

9 Sep 2007 10:12

Why the hell don't these Idiots make it into a good traditional Ale Pub like the Wenlock Arms in Wenlock Rd Hoxton. Theirs far too many of these foodies Pubs around here now as others have said.
Theirs not a good traditional Ale house/pub left around here at all The Old White Lion The Bald Face Stag The Alexandra The Clisold Arms The John Baird the Green Man and All the pubs In Muswell Hill Broadway have all been turned into glorified restaurants. There seems to be too much competition it will go broke in months.

8 Sep 2007 09:57

The Wishing Well, Southgate

A reasonably good weatherspoons one of there best locally In my opinion some excellent Ales on Tap when I went in there. It seems to have a much better atmosphere since the Smoking ban came in to force now its not to smoky anymore.
Theres also a good heated outside smoking area If your a smoker.

8 Sep 2007 09:12

I went in here again tonight to see If it was just the bank holiday weekend that it was so quiet.
So on the way home from work tonight I just went in for a quick pint and Oh dear its not got any better the Guinness was terrible & there was Just Two customers In the place why has someone turned a good Irish style Pub into a cheap Chinese Restaurant with Expensive Beer and no atmosphere whatsoever. This place used to be busy every night of the week now its deserted.

5 Sep 2007 19:46

The Maid of Muswell, Muswell Hill

There was some Nice Ales on tap when ever Ive been in but it seems to have a horrible atmosphere everyone looks shifty looking away from you when you turn round like People do when your on the tube. Also the staff seem to look at you like your a alcoholic if you drink a Pint of Beer quick or drink more than a pint it seems to be more of a foodies Pub run like a restaurant than a real drinkers Pub. It was all full of half Pint Merchants and Shandy drinkers with the odd cocktail drinker when ever I have been in there.
Its OK for a stop off for the odd Pint on the way somewhere else but its defiantly not a drinkers Pub you could have a all night session in.

5 Sep 2007 19:11

Went in here last night its far too full of kids for me. Its more like a McDonald's than a Pub with the Horrible Blackstone bar with chrome fittings no character whatsoever plus it took ages to get served as there were to few staff on duty.
You defiantly get the felling the management don't want real drinkers in here only foodies buying food its run more like a restaurant than a Pub.Only One out of Ten from me. Usually I like Weatherspoon Pubs but this seems to be the worst Ive been in.

CAMRA LM

29 Aug 2007 15:59

The Woolpack, Southgate

Closed at Present for refurbishment.

26 Aug 2007 18:33

I went here last night and was most surprised its much improved since I last used this Pub. I used to drink in here during the late 80s early 90s when it was The Moss Hall Tavern but I had never been in since it changed names I must say its Much better a real good Pub in Finchley.

26 Aug 2007 10:40

Sun, Southgate

Still Closed Down no sign of work going on.

25 Aug 2007 10:24

The John Baird, Muswell Hill

I went in here after walking out and leaving the wishing well with no customers whatsoever.

I went to the New Crown Now a good run weatherspoons not full of kids anymore I had some good Ales tried four on tap excellent Ale good crowd and good service no wait at the bar much better Run than it was about year ago.

CAMRA LM

25 Aug 2007 10:19

Went in here two weeks ago its much better than before. The Beer London Pride was very good the pubs clean & bright now vast Improvement.
The Only down side is they still show sport and the TV is never turned Off even when nothing is on and no one is watching it.

CAMRA LM

19 Aug 2007 18:45

Excellent real Ale in a real old style boozer its a pity theres not more like it in North London.
There seems to be too many Plastic gastro restaurant types of Pub that try to be a Pub but end up like a restaurant just selling bad beer.

Lets hope that a Few Landlords/Licensee's read these reviews for this Pub Maybe there realise whats missing from there Own Pubs.

19 Aug 2007 17:11

Well I must say What a Improvement in The quality of ales since the last time I went into this Pub. There was a good choice of Ales on tap All in very well kept condition excellent. Also the pub looks and feels much better now. Because theres no sport on all the time and no pool tables It don't get full of Young kids like it used to making it a much better Pub in My opinion.

19 Aug 2007 11:15