The New Inn, St Johns Wood

I was looking for a pub with a good atmopshere near Primrose Hill for my birthday but couldn't find any that didn't have the charge of 'pretentious' levied against them - until The New Inn. I went for my birthday and had a wonderful time! The pub is quietly sat in a residential area with green tiles, hanging baskets and tables outside. Inside is traditional (traditional 20th Century!) Carpetted, wooden bar with stools, wooden tables, cricket paraphenalia.The pub is particualrly notable for it's tasty, authentic Thai food menu and fantastic pub band - George & Friends - an over 60's trio singing Jazz/Swing and taking requests. Despite being firmly a locals pub, the locals were very friendly and they clearly love this place as by 10pm the place was (comfortably) packed! The bar staff were not so friendly but in more of a slightly shy and hardworking way, rather then rude. Fantastic place - please let it stay loved & unspoilt.

13 Sep 2010 11:55

The Pilgrim Bar & Kitchen, Kennington

I have a real soft spot for this lovely local pub. You are greeted like a regular whenever you go in, making you feel like you are living in a village as opposed to practically central London! The Pilgrim doesn't try to compete with the pub/bar market or the 'gastropub' concept, it just wants to be a fun place to hang out. Best points: Amazing landlord and bar staff who are friendly & engaging, authentic pub Alsation, sunny beer garden, big screen for sports, pool table in designated area (so no jogged elbows) games machine, themed evenings and simple pub grub. I suggest you leave your Pimms in the White Horse for one evening and give this place a try.

18 May 2008 17:58

The White Hart, Kennington

The White Horse seems to have firmly established itself now and has a healthy-sized group of regulars. Particular strong points: the large overhead fans that keep things cool on a warm day, key football games being played on either a large retractable flat screen or a smaller inobtrusive screen by the bar, good range of wines, changing (albeit a little overpriced) menu, the interesting wooden interior with range of seating options (sofas, booths, table & chairs) It's a lovely space and the staff are always helpful & friendly.

18 May 2008 17:45

The White House, Clapham Common

The drinks prices are a little scary (ie central London prices) but I feel this can be justified as this is one of the best places to drink & dance in Clapham or the surrounding area without compromsing on style, people or music. The music is always great, people are always smiley and chatty (even complete strangers!?) I think it's as good as a trip over the river but with a much cheaper cab fare home.

2 Jan 2007 18:17