BITE user comments - Pat_Bateman
Comments by Pat_Bateman
This is a cracking old style pub with flagstone floors etc.
The lovely beer garden out back has a real countryside feel to it.
There's not much else in Freshwater Bay, so, if you find yourself in the area, I strongly recommend a visit to The Red Lion.
I didn't find a better pub on the Island.
12 Oct 2018 09:30
Has the feel of a glorified Wetherspoons.
Quite a nice old style interior, ruined by fruit machines.
Worth a visit if passing for the massive beer garden.
12 Oct 2018 09:25
Lovely old pub with very relaxing little courtyard as stated in other reviews.
Would highly recommend stopping off here for a drink.
However, we drove down intending to have lunch. I was quite astonished to discover they are charging 15 quid for a pizza and 17 quid for a prawn or crab salad.
I simply don't spend that much money on lunch.
I settled for a pint and some locally sourced pickled onion Monster Munch.
20 Sep 2018 12:55
Lulworth Cove Inn, West Lulworth
This is more like a hotel bar / restaurant type place, than a pub.
Having said that, it does have a large outdoor seating area which is a lovely sun trap.
I found the drink prices very decent, considering this is the only pub near the actual Cove. They really have a monopoly and could charge a lot more.
That's my problem with Lulworth Cove in general ... there's nothing there. No pubs, no newsagent, nothing.
The Castle Inn half a mile up the road is a much more traditional pub. However, watch out for the Castle's vastly overpriced standard pub grub.
14 Mar 2018 14:11
The Pump and Truncheon, Blackpool
This was the one of the best 2 pubs we found on our weekend in Blackpool.
The other one being The Little Black Pug on Talbot Road.
The Truncheon has a very traditional pub décor inside with beams and wooden floorboards, with part flagstone floor around the fireplace.
Very friendly nice mix of people in the pub. It's on a back street with nothing much on it, so the chances of getting invaded by stag party lager louts are minimal.
They had 4 real ciders in those box things on the bar, but sadly the draught cider was Strongbow ... which I can't stand.
It's also the CAMRA 2017 Blackpool area pub of the year.
30 Jan 2018 15:19
Mixed feelings about this pub.
On the plus side, it''s a lovely old bar inside. The beer and cider is cheap at roughly £4.20 per pint.
It has a cracking elevated grassy beer garden out the back with a nice view of the hills.
What lets it down is the rip off tourist prices for very average food.
9 quid for a jacket potato with cheese and beans is just not on.
I paid 13 quid for an ultra bland chicken curry, containing very little chicken.
My advice would be, drink plenty here, but eat elsewhere.
12 Sep 2017 16:04
A must visit purely for the location.
Although I totally agree with the previous comment:
"Quirky, but interesting decor, although a proliferation of laminated signs and posters rather upset the effect."
24 Apr 2017 16:04
Ring O'Bells Country Pub and Restaurant, Thornton
Much like the White Horse a couple of hundred yards along the road, this place was nice enough, but just a bit too gastro / restaurant for me.
Having said that, both pubs are a much better option the nearby not so nice Rock & Heifer.
22 Mar 2017 12:47
Much like the Ring O bells a couple of hundred yards along the road, this place was nice enough, but just a bit too gastro / restaurant for me.
Having said that, both pubs are a much better option the nearby not so nice Rock & Heifer.
22 Mar 2017 12:45
The Rock & Heifer Inn, Thornton
Judging purely on the name alone, I had high hopes for this pub. Sounds like it Should be a delightful country pub.
Sadly, it's not.
It's a bit tired and run down looking.
Only one ale on.
Hideous Carling, Wrongbow and Coors Light also on offer.
There's a more up market clientele at the nearby White Horse or Ring 'O' Bells.
22 Mar 2017 11:31
The Famous Old Post Office, Newark
What kind of pathetic person takes time out of their empty life, to type the rubbish below every single day?
And why don't site moderators block their accounts?
2 Feb 2017 12:39
paul d102 is correct.
My comment below from 4.10.13 was intended for the Cross Inn, Strawberry Hill, Penally.
21 Dec 2016 16:03
This is an excellent little pub, in a lovely little village.
If the sun is out, it would be hard to find a more relaxing spot to sit outside and have a pint than here ... the pub is slightly elevated and looks out over part of the Links golf course, then the beach and sea and even part of Caldey Island.
Locals were some real characters and made us feel very welcome.
Doom Bar was excellent. Didn't try the Penally Old Codgers.
Taffy Apple cider in bottles was also very very nice.
Food was also very decent pub grub.
We had planned in staying in Tenby, but couldn't find any cottages to rent that would allow dogs. In the end we were glad we were forced further out to Penally, as we were a 2 minute walk from this pub. Tenby is only a 30 minute walk away straight along the beach.
Dog friendly also.
Hope to return some day.
21 Dec 2016 15:59
Why does nearly every pub in this area only serve Carling and Grolsch lagers??
Bland, forgettable pub, but did provide massive sandwiches.
The burger was rubbish.
21 Sep 2016 11:47
Well reviewed by SouthYorkshireman, but be warned, during out week long visit in September 2016, the pub was rarely opened.
Think it's only open at the weekend, then Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
21 Sep 2016 11:44
duster ...
How about the King's Arms in Greenwich?
A pretty obvious (but not very good) "K" pub
20 Apr 2016 13:03
Nice pint of Adnams Broadside here.
Lovely courtyard sun trap area out the back next to the river.
Thatcher's gold cider as well ... which was nice.
I wasn't very impressed with the burger, but my partner said her Thai green curry was excellent.
28 May 2015 17:22
£2.50 for a half pint of very ordinary cider?? ... away 'n' boil yer heid.
19 May 2015 14:44
Cracking beer garden that is a total suntrap and has the sun on it till sunset.
Not a great choice of beers, lagers and ciders. A bit old fashioned on that front, but it's still worth a visit as Birchington doesn't have very many pubs.
18 May 2015 10:59
Totally agree with the comments below. This used to be a great pub.
Youngs have also destroyed The Clockhouse by Peckham Rye Park.
2 Mar 2015 10:24
I don't think you can ignore the post, because it really is one of the worst pubs I've ever been to.
31 Jan 2014 09:27
Maybe I was expecting too much from the pizzas, after hearing nothing but rave reviews for the past 3 years.
I have to say, I wasn't all that impressed. The guy near our table had a pizza that was a bit burnt, but I like it like that, so that would have suited me. When ours arrived, 1 was burnt, but the other 2 were a bit undercooked ... must have been in different parts of the oven.
Not very nice cheese on them, which didn't look much like mozzerella. The peperoni was the large flat discs you find on cheap packet pizzas and not the little round flavour filled jobs.
For £9, I certainly wouldn't get another anytime soon.
My pint of Adnams Southwold was decent enough.
And once more the old problem of just Wrongbow cider on draught.
Having said all that, it's a nice cosy pub with a good atmosphere.
Maybe it was just a bad day in the pizza kitchen.
14 Nov 2013 10:51
Well spotted by "theinvestigator".
I hate fake reviews.
As you can see, rdriver has just added another one.
A shame, because it's a decent pub, but I'll have to lower my rating to counteract all these false posts.
13 Nov 2013 10:38
"HE LUCKY I GOOD MOOD BECAUSE HE SUCH LIAR I WOULD HAVE GOT MAD AND WET TOILET ROLL IN TOILET AND THROW AT THE HIGHEST CEILING SO IT NEVER GET OFF"
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That is just brilliant.
14 Oct 2013 13:24
This is an excellent little pub, in a lovely little village.
If the sun is out, it would be hard to find a more relaxing spot to sit outside and have a pint than here ... the pub is slightly elevated and looks out over part of the Links golf course, then the beach and sea and even part of Caldey Island.
Locals were some real characters and made us feel very welcome.
Doom Bar was excellent. Didn't try the Penally Old Codgers.
Taffy Apple cider in bottles was also very very nice.
Food was also very decent pub grub.
We had planned in staying in Tenby, but couldn't find any cottages to rent that would allow dogs. In the end we were glad we were forced further out to Penally, as we were a 2 minute walk from this pub. Tenby is only a 30 minute walk away straight along the beach.
Dog friendly also.
Hope to return some day.
4 Oct 2013 10:50
The White Horse Inn, Westleton
Think this is where the locals drink (as opposed to the Crown).
All very friendly, as were the staff.
Ale was in decent condition.
Simple, down to earth pub that I could have quite happily spent more time in.
Was dead on Thursday night, but more lively on the Friday.
30 Apr 2013 16:25
The Plume of Feathers, Greenwich
The Doom Bar is always excellent in this pub.
I had a really nice burger with homemade chips for just £7.
Always seems to be a very relaxed freindly atmosphere.
12 Mar 2013 11:52
There's a constantly rotating choice of four ales in this pub. Usually from smallish breweries, often ones I've never heard off.
The bar staff are very friendly and are more than happy to let you taste them before buying.
It can be difficult to get a table at the weekend, due to high percentage of "reserved" tables.
The posh spoilt brats are starting to get a little bit out of hand, but not on the same scale as say The Herne.
Still one of the best pubs in the area.
8 Mar 2013 13:43
The London Stone, Cannon Street
Is this where tha Albino guy from The Undateables went for his date on last night's episode?
23 Jan 2013 15:34
The Westleton Crown, Southwold
Forgot to mention that this is a great place to take dogs.
Dogs are welcome in the bar AND the hotel rooms. Also we discovered if you go past the garden area at the back, it leads onto a couple of fields where the dogs can run around. Or you can take them behind the church across the road.
The beach at Dunwich is only a 5 minute drive away.
20 Dec 2012 10:46
The Westleton Crown, Southwold
I stayed here for 2 nights last month.
First of all, unlike mctsuffolk, I didn't find it any more expensive than most pubs in the South of England these days.
The actual bar has a very relaxed / rustic / country pub feel, complete with open fires. Sadly however, the locals must find something else to do with their time, as it was pretty empty on a Friday night.
Has the usual Suffolk choice of Adnams or Aspalls, but hey, you expect that.
The rooms are very nice and cosy with good beds and showers.
The breakfast and service were amazing.
However, for our free main evening course, I chose the £23 steak, which was very very ordinary indeed.
19 Dec 2012 16:17
The Ale in this pub is always excellent.
Little wonder it has appeared in Camra's Good Beer Guide.
Usually a decent choice of cider also.
14 Dec 2012 14:09
The Happy Man, Englefield Green
Small cosy place that retains it's proper pub / friendly local feel to it.
Aspalls AND Thatchers Gold Ciders available in pints. A pub without Strongbow makes an instant good impression on me.
I didn't try any Ale, but judging by the hundreds of ale clips on the walls, I would guess that they change on a fairly regular basis.
I liked this pub and would seek it out again if I was in the area.
19 Nov 2012 10:40
I must say, I've totally changed my mind about this pub.
There's been a change of manager recently and maybe that is the reason for the massive improvement in the quality of their ales.
Yesterday they were serving Trelawny and Bucket of Blood. Both of which I'm sure are from the St Austell Brewery in Cornwall and both of which are quite unusual to find in Central London.
They were both lovely pints, worthy of me giving this pub another chance.
6 Nov 2012 12:06
I have to disagree with the previous (1st time post ... ahem) post from vodkalover.
I used to drink here quite often, as it was one of the few pubs in Greenwich to have a beer garden and place is notorious for slow slow service.
Attracts a lot of tourists whcih accounts for it usually being 3 deep at the bar with 2 people serving.
One of the poorest pubs in Greenwich.
6 Nov 2012 10:33
The Ramblers Rest, Chislehurst
For God sake, if you want tea, meet your friends in a cafe.
And as for bringing out your own bottle of water, that's just ignorant and thoughtless.
No wonder he wasn't worried about the repeat business.
5 Nov 2012 10:30
Absolutely priceless George. Is your "wife" anna123456 by any chance?
Oh, almost forgot to ask ... how are your shares in The Dickens Inn doing?
26 Oct 2012 14:05
Stunning view of Sennen Cove / Whitesand Bay from the wooden terrace area, up the steep steps past the Gents Toilet.
We were lucky enough to have plenty of sunshine on our visit on Friday 5th October, which makes it an even more relaxing spot to sit and drink.
As others have said, it does come at a cost. �3.90 for Cornish Rattler and I don't think Tribute was much cheaper.
But still a must visit for the view.
22 Oct 2012 11:55
And the award for the "most-obvious-first-time-post-in-defence-of-a-pizza-restaurant-that-everyone-else-is-criticising"
goes to ... anna123456
18 Oct 2012 13:40
�7 for a Sunday Roast is totally unheard of in these parts.
I had the beef which was really lovely.
Well worth a visit for the food alone.
28 Aug 2012 09:59
This pub is now called The Old School House.
Semi decent large chain type pub. It has a huge outside seating area out front, which is quite difficult to find in Glasgow.
Normally there would be no way I'd choose such an establishment, but we were meeting friends with kids and also dogs, so this place pretty much suited our needs as we could all sit outside.
Aspalls cider on draught, but no real ale available, which was a let down.
Slight lack of foresight on the part of the management. Plenty of outside TV screens to show Andy Murray against Federer in the sunshine. But, when showing a Scotsman in a Wimbledon final in a pub in Glasgow, it's probably wise to have more than 2 staff serving. I waited 30 minutes to get served at one point.
The Doublet, just yards away is a good pub.
25 Jul 2012 15:48
3 first time posters in a row. Draw your own conclusions.
Also noticed that marywar366 and alanflynn1976, both use very similar phrases:
"really good" "fantastic" "this place" "night here"
Very fishy.
16 Jul 2012 09:04
Very quaint and old looking inside, but very small and dark.
I was looking forward to sampling the 3 local ciders mentioned below by HenPen, but sadly, on my visit, they only had Stowford Press.
Food prices higher than London, which seems to be a constant for pubs in this area.
Once again, this has to go down as another mildly disappointing Cotswold pub.
20 Jun 2012 15:46
Yet another Donnington Brewery owned pub.
Have to disagree with the comment below of:
"A lovely situation looking out over the village green."
In reality, the pub overlooks the car park, then a patch of grass with no activity whatsover.
The pub keeps old fashioned hours and was about to close when we arrived at 3pm on a Saturday afternoon.
The landlady very kindly offered to serve us drinks, which we were allowed to finish in the beer garden after she left.
An ok pub, but not the picturesque country pub I was expecting from previous reviews.
20 Jun 2012 13:44
The Golden Ball Inn, Stow on the Wold
I loved this plain but cosy Donnington Brewery country pub.
Got totally soaked on a round trip walk from Stow, and spent about 2 hours and several pints of Donnington's SBA and Stowford Prees cider whilst drying off.
Sat out back the following Saturday enjoying the banter of 10 or so local men.
I offered to buy a loaf of bread from the man who supplies bread to the pubs in the area. He was kind enough to give it to me free of charge.
If he ever reads this, I'd just like to tell him, that it's the best bread I've ever had ... amazingly good.
Please contact me through this website and arrange to get a few couriered to london.
Well worth a few visits this pub. Would like to see what it's like in the evening.
20 Jun 2012 12:03
Great Western Arms, Moreton in Marsh
Again, like many Cotswolds Inns, this place felt a little too much like a restaurant.
There is a bar with a pool table on your left as you go up the stairs, but I can't imagine there ever being a decent atmosphere generated in there.
On the plus side, the Sunday roast I scoffed in the beer garden was amazingly only �7. Well over a tenner most places these days. It even came with it's own side dish of vegetables.
Blockley isn't as pretty as Chipping Campden, Snowshill or the Slaughters and I wouldn't go out of my way to visit again.
20 Jun 2012 11:33
I work near Soho ... maybe we could meet up for a drink and a "chat" about your new role?
20 Jun 2012 09:48
Only stopped for 1 pint in the lovely large beer garden out the back.
This pub is worth visiting, even if it's only to view the beautiful small village of Snowshill.
19 Jun 2012 16:27
The Queens Head, Stow on the Wold
This was by far my favourite pub in Stow. All the rest being dull as dishwater hotel bars.
Like most of the pubs in the area, it's a Donnington Brewery pub, so don't expect a vast range of ales ... only the usual 2 being Donnington's S.B.A and B.B.
Inside it has a nice old fashioned (no music) pub feel to it.
There's a nice seating area out the back by the outside toilets. It's only concrete ... not turfed or anything, but they have tried to spruce it up a bit with various plants and herb plants.
As with all the Donnington pubs I visited, Stowford Press cider on draught.
19 Jun 2012 15:59
The Queens Head Inn, Cheltenham
This was by far my favourite pub in Stow. All the rest being dull as dishwater hotel bars.
Like most of the pubs in the area, it's a Donnington Brewery pub, so don't expect a vast range of ales ... only the usual 2 being Donnington's S.B.A and B.B.
Inside it has a nice old fashioned (no music) pub feel to it.
There's a nice seating area out the back by the outside toilets. It's only concrete ... not turfed or anything, but they have tried to spruce it up a bit with various plants and herb plants.
As with all the Donnington pubs I visited, Stowford Press cider on draught.
19 Jun 2012 15:55
Seagrave Arms, Weston sub Edge
This place has obviously changed hands since bagwag's review of 2008.
We drove a few miles out of our way to sample the "traditional home cooked food" in the "amazing real country pub"
Warning bells sounded straight away, when I noticed all the food awards on the glass front door.
Inside was packed with diners and it is without doubt, more restaurant than pub ... in fact, it's not really a pub at all.
I'm not criticising what the establishment is ... it's just not what I was looking for.
19 Jun 2012 14:20
The Court, Tottenham Court Road
Sorry mate, but �2 for a half pint of Aspall's in Central London is NOT pricey.
Try �4.25 a pint, in SE15 and then I'll listen to your complaint.
28 May 2012 13:48
The Dulwich Woodhouse, Sydenham
I'd ignore the previous three reviews (all first time posters ... need I say more) if I were you.
What was once a great pub with a superb beer garden, is now nothing more than an expensive Young's restaurant.
I certainly wouldn't class it as a pub.
18 May 2012 10:20
The Dulwich Woodhouse, Sydenham
I'd ignore the previous two reviews (both first time posters) if I were you.
What was once a great pub with a superb beer garden, is now nothing more than an expensive Young's restaurant.
I certainly wouldn't class it as a pub.
15 May 2012 11:12
The Rye Pub, Dining Room and Garden, Peckham Rye
baggydave,
I heard a rumour that it's gonna be more restaurant than pub in the future. The huge gazebo area out the back is being replaced with a proper extension to the building.
Having said that, it has been closed for months now and there never seems to be much work going on, whenever I pass by.
Let's hope it's not turned into another Dulwich Woodhouse type of a place.
Aside from the quality of the pub, it probably has the best beer garden in the area.
4 May 2012 15:46
The Crystal Palace Tavern, East Dulwich
Ales all far too hoppy for my liking.
�4.20 for a pint of Symonds Cider, but then again, that's about the average price is this part of South East London these days.
The pub itself is done out in a quite modern / couches etc type fashion, to attract families and young proffesionals eating overpriced meals.
It's not really my bag but then again, you may well dig it.
30 Apr 2012 11:10
I have to agree with jud9e.
I keep giving the ale in this pub another chance. I really don't know why, as it is always rotten.
Aspalls cider now �4.25 a pint.
It's a shame because it's a beautiful pub inside, but it's not being run properly. Like most pubs in this area, they're only interested in shifting as much food as possible.
And as mentioned before, why do posh parents make the worst parents and just let their kids run riot in a PUB!!!
13 Apr 2012 11:13
As mentioned in a previous post, the low score for this pub must be based on a previous time / Landlord.
This is a beautiful old styled pub that looks mainly unchanged from hundreds of years ago.
Dogs are only permitted on the jetty out back, but the nice staff kindly bent the rules for us, as it was tipping down and the pub was quite empty at mid afternoon of Easter Monday.
The Scurvy Ale I tried was very tasty and they also sell Aspalls Cider as opposed to the usual Wrongbow.
I will be back in the Summer for sure.
11 Apr 2012 10:37
This was my local when I lived in Endymion Road in 2001.
There was a sixty something black man, who used to drink pints of red wine ... I kid you not.
Wonder if he's still there / alive?
10 Apr 2012 14:11
ABSOLUTE HELLHOLE.
I arrived at 5pm on a Friday. The music was blaring and they were queued 2 deep at the bar. Was supposed to be attending a friend of a friends leaving drinks, but couldn't bring myself to stay.
Had 2 pints at the quieter Three Compasses next door, then went home.
If you have a goal to become deaf and want to go to a club, before you go to a club, then this could be the place for you.
26 Mar 2012 11:39
There may be a good selection of ales, but trust me, they are all rotten.
I work next door, so occasionally have to suffer this excuse for a pub from time to time.
Never had a decent pint yet after 2 years.
I also work with Rangers Tel and Afcwomble ... please don't trust anything these 2 lager louts say, as they are Fosters Tops drinkers.
Try The Ship behind Holborn Tube Station just 2 minutes away, where the ale is fantastic. It's a proper pub.
23 Mar 2012 16:07
Previous reviews seem a bit harsh.
It does look and have a tiny bit of a wine bar feel to it, but it's spacious and airy. The pub itself can't control the invasion of masons from the enormous masonic hall across the road. Helps keep the profits up I suppose.
On the plus side, the Doom Bar, TT Landlord and the Aspall's cider are always spot on.
Plus the seated area out front is a very nice spot to sit and watch the ladies stroll past teasingly.
It's a much better pub than the awful Hercules Pillars 70 yards away.
23 Mar 2012 15:58
"I'd thoroughly recommend the establishment"
I bet you would ... that's because you work there.
1 Mar 2012 09:40
Can anyone please advise me?
Is it a nice walk from Cowden train station to this pub.
Takes 45 minutes from London Bridge and it's always better to have a nice walk and a nice pub.
Cheers.
20 Feb 2012 11:59
On my last visit, Pure Brewed Lager was �3.25 per pint. Now it's �3.95.
That's not just catching up with most London pubs, that's almost overtaking them.
Surely a big mistake by the people at Sam Smiths???
17 Feb 2012 16:15
Mate, it's a Yates's Wine Lodge.
I've had the horrendous misfortune to have been forced to drink in one of these dumps and it mentally scarred me for life.
Still each to their own ... if it keeps the knuckledraggers away from the nice pubs, then maybe the Yates chain is serving a purpose after all.
16 Dec 2011 14:49
'I don�t know anywhere else in Leicester square that I can get two meals and 4 drinks for under �20 quid'
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Yes, but you have to consume them in a Yates's Wine Lodge, so it's all relevant.
You should treat yourself and upgrade to a Wetherspoons. Oooooohhhh ... Wetherspoons.
16 Dec 2011 13:20
ken0505 has only ever raved about one pub (twice) on BITE.
I find that quite amaxong.
13 Dec 2011 14:16
"At least they have a good range of beer - last night they had pride, doombar, and tribute as well as 5 guest 'christmas ales' "
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You're quite right there. It's a Nicholson's pub, so there's always plenty of choice and usually pretty good qulaity s well.
Agree, it is the best choice in the Wharf area, unless you want to walk half a mile to The Grapes which is much better.
9 Dec 2011 09:36
�3.60 for a pint of Stella in a Wetherspoons??
The food prices have shot up as well.
As much as I like this Spoons, at those prices, I might as well go to a slightly nicer pub.
5 Dec 2011 13:52
BEWARE!!!!!!
The last 6 glowing reviews of this pub are all from people who only have 1 comment in their comments section.
Not even very well disguised.
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Please add Amanda1 to that ever growing list.
29 Nov 2011 09:40
I love this pub and can't rate it highly enough.
But,
I've been in the past 2 Saturday afternoons, and on both occasions, there's only been one person serving .
One person, pulling pints, dishing out food and collecting glasses.
I had to wait ages to get served this week.
Ian McKellen is a millionaire and can surely afford an extra barman.
21 Nov 2011 11:14
The Beehive, Welwyn Garden City
Jeeze Anne, you could at least try to disguise it a little bit.
10 Nov 2011 14:16
I don't understand the comment below this one.
I've often noticed in this pub, that the staff are super quick to serve everyone. No matter how packed it gets, I've never waited long to get served. And there always seems to be 4 or 5 staff working.
as for the rude little Scottish man, he's just misuderstood by some people. I'm also Scottish. I've came accross many characters like him (usually in London strangely enough) he gives of a harsh exterior, but he's basically a decent bloke with a dry Scottish sense of humour.
8 Nov 2011 16:16
I think this pub is really starting to take off.
It's attracting a very nice friendly clientele.
Most Sunday afternoons there's an excellent Irish singer with a guitar. But throughout November, on Sunday afternoons, there's gonna be jazz / Big Bands performing on stage.
Also the food is fantastic and brilliant value for money.
The pizzas are all made fresh with fresh dough that hasn't been pre frozen and are superb. For a mere 7 quid, they simply must be tried.
The rotating 2 ales on offer vary from Butcombe / Caledonian 80 shilling / Otter Ale / St Austell Tribute / Old Hooky.
Lovely cold pints of Addlestones cider also.
Hopefully there's also gonna be real fires in the Winter.
8 Nov 2011 12:00
The Sportsman 'Time Well Spent', Mogador
"An absolute treat to find with everything that we look for in a country pub/ restaurant"
Sounds like you visit country pubs on a regular basis. Although strangely, this is the first one you've ever reviewed.
2 Nov 2011 09:33
Have to agree with Baggydave.
The ale here is always warm and lifeless.
I thought it was just the Youngs beers, but I tried the Tribute (which I love) at the weekend and it was awful.
24 Oct 2011 11:46
I love this pub and I just hope it's not starting to go downhill.
I think the entire staff has changed since my last visit 3 weeks ago. Last night they ran out of Tribute, Doombar and London Pride ... which I'm guessing is their 3 biggest selling ales.
Overheard one of the staff telling another customer that they'd had a very busy Sunday, but that's not really a good enough excuse.
Hope it was just a bad day for them, as it's one of my favourite London pubs.
18 Oct 2011 16:42
Visited this pub after doing the Coastal path walk from Cape Cornwall car park. A fantastic walk, which is well worth doing.
Very happy and surprised to find Addlestones cider here. Also had a still cider which was nice ... can't recall the name now.
Seemed a nice enough pub and I would happily drink here again if I found myself in Botallack.
17 Oct 2011 16:05
Pretty decent as a pub.
On the B & B side of things it was mainly a success.
Friendly service at breakfast, with a good choice of full English items. The bed was very comfy and the wooden decked balcony was a nice touch and something you don't normally find in a B & B. The bungalow style room with wooden blacony, almost made it feel like a 1950's Californian apartment.
The only negetive part was the shower. I do like a decent shower in a B & B / Hotel and this one was a sad pathetic trickle.
Still, not bad value for �70.
17 Oct 2011 14:46
Brilliant pub. 2nd trip to St Just, the other being 4 years ago. Headed straight to The Star and was pleased to find that it hadn't changed and is still excellent.
St Austell's beers all in great condition. Very friendly bar staff and customers.
We only stayed Monday to Friday, but knew most of the locals to talk to by the end of the week.
Everyone had treats for our dog, especially the grey haired chap from Rotherham with the puffed jerky ... dog loved it.
Traditional Cornish folk music on the Monday night was superb.
Open mic night on Thursday was good, but not as good as Monday.
If you like pubs, you'll love this place.
Wish I was back there now, instead of stuck in work.
17 Oct 2011 11:32
This pub wins the unfriendliest welcome award from me.
Young girl behind the bar was the only person serving when we visited around 12:15 on Thursday 13th October 2011.
She had dark hair and was either in the early stages of pregnancy, or just a bit podgy.
No friendly welcome ... she just looked miserable. Then gave me a foul look because i was photographing a photo on the wall that just happened to look like a guy from my work.
No goodbye when we left. We guzzled our one drink as quick as we could and walked.
I also noticed that the floor was filthy and covered with salt and hairs.
Had a bad experience in this pub on our last trip to Cornwall as well. My meal came with about 5 chips. When I questioned this, I was told that was the normal amount. I had to debate with them, before I was finally given a few more chips.
Never again.
17 Oct 2011 10:53
The Forest Hill Tavern, Forest Hill
Agree with baggydave. This pub changes hands a lot, but is always a total failure.
Only London Pride on offer and Wrongbow as the cider.
Always full of blokes that don't look like the friendliest of chaps.
I'd recommend avoiding.
17 Oct 2011 10:29
This is a cracking little pub ... very cosy and intimate.
I can't believe I've worked just around the corner for over a year now, but haven't tried it until today.
It will certainly be my work "local" from now on.
A choice of 6 ales, including 2 of my favourites ... Tribute and Deuchars IPA. the others being Thwaites Wainwright, Wells Bombardier, Theakston Lightfoot and 1 other that I can't recall.
Music in the background included The Who's "I can't explain" ... superb.
1 Sep 2011 13:43
The Nell Gwynne, Covent Garden
Ok, fair enough Nell.
I really like your pub as it happens.
Would it be possible to get a decent cider like Addlestones or Aspalls rather than Wrongbow?
19 Aug 2011 14:12
The Nell Gwynne, Covent Garden
"Do you realise the potential such negative reviews have on my business in a time when pubs are struggling?"
===================================================================
Do you realise the effects your rants may have on your business?
I'm sorry Nell, but you've got this quite wrong. Your responses are overly defensive and bordering on aggressive.
A much better solution would have been a calm explanation in the form of a personal message to scoobyroo.
Now anyone wanting to read about your pub, will have to scroll down past this meaningless fall out, to find any positive reviews.
19 Aug 2011 13:46
Have to disagree with Willsden Seadog.
Of all the Nicholson's pubs I've tried in London, The Black Friar's Ale is by far the best.
The Irish Cellarman who works there, is very dedicated to the task.
Best pint of Tribute I've came across.
15 Aug 2011 13:43
BEWARE!!!!!!
The last 6 glowing reviews of this pub are all from people who only have 1 comment in their comments section.
Not even very well disguised.
10 Aug 2011 10:06
New Management team all very friendly.
Noticed that the pub is now open all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
My only problem (and it's the same in all Shoreham pubs) is the limited choice of Ales and Ciders.
Not much change on the decor front, The small snug bar is a bit cleaner and brighter.
1 Aug 2011 13:58
The New Cross House, New Cross
Ex Goldsmith's Tavern.
This really is the ultimate modern day pub for young professionals and students. Not sure if that's a good thing or not, but it's certainly the way pubs are heading these days.
Huge inside with a lot of those raised padded bench seat things mixed in with normal tables and chairs.
I spotted about 5 kitchen staff, so I take it they must do well on the food front.
Symonds and Sharp's Orchard Ciders on draught, so a decent choice there.
Four ale pumps were Sharp's Honey Gold (nice), Adnams, Hogs Back Tea and one other that I'd never seen before.
Large beer garden out back has slightly raised decking with tables and chairs and a few long wooden benches.
The most impressive part of the beer garden, is the large out building covered in hanging green vine. Looks very nice and you can climb it's stairs and sit at one of the two tables by the opened windows.
Not really my ideal type of pub, but a much better option than the rotten beer of the nereby Hobgoblin, which for some twisted reason I suffered for 2 years, just because it had a beer garden.
28 Jul 2011 09:32
The new people in charge seem like a decent bunch of blokes.
I tried the pizza which was very good and the burger which was one of the best I've ever had. Both were a lot cheaper than most pubs these days.
I really hope this pub becomes a success, but there's a lot of little unchangeable things going against it:
It's a lovely building inside, but it doesn't get a lot of light and it's the kind of place where it might be difficult to generate any kind of atmosphere.
It's competing against the nearby and already established Herne Tavern, Clockhouse and The Rye ... all of which have the added advantage of large outside seating areas. There are a couple benches at the front of the Ivy House, but there's not much to look at on Stuart Road.
It's early days and I hope it succeeds, but they're gonna have a tough job, pulling customers away from those other pubs.
I'll certainly be returning for more of those burgers.
25 Jul 2011 10:49
I only went to this pub to see the woman with a giant malteaser for a head (as seen in the photo above) ... and she wasn't even there!!
13 Jun 2011 16:22
I really liked this pub. Feels very laid back and relaxing, not unlike an Amsterdam coffee shop.
The home made chips were the best I've had for years.
Only London Pride and Summer Lightning available during my visit. The Summer Lightning was decent enough, but a tad strong at 5% (stop moaning Irene, I only had one pint.)
The rest of the menu is very very reasonably priced, considering it's 1 minute away from Leicester Square.
Well worth seeking out.
13 Jun 2011 13:41
The following reviewers ... or should I say reviewer (singular), as it's probably the same sad person with multiple accounts, has never commented on any other pubs apart from The Crown Inn, 154 Heaton Lane, Stockport:
NiceOnlt, leBoozer, boozysam, friendlyman, COUNTY.fan, fallowfield, passthesalt, gooddrinker, happytodrink, thepubb, wendywolf, eveb, evec, salb, mrhandsome, brenda11, femalebeerdrinker, thegurninghaddock, gullox
We can now add tightarse to the ever growing list ... pathetic.
10 Jun 2011 13:35
There was one 6% cider. Can't recall it's name.
I agree though, it was the saddest looking "festival" I've ever seen.
We stopped briefly on the Bank Holiday Monday. The 2 guys behind the decks, playing 80's wedding style music was total cringe material. Wouldn't have looked out of place on Pheonix Nights.
Is it just me, or is it impossible to get a decent pint of cider or ale in this village?
2 Jun 2011 08:50
Sausage sandwich for �2.
The Deuchars was spot on.
Can't fault it.
26 May 2011 11:03
Reminded me very much of a typical London pub, complete with the stand alone pillar things.
Good atmosphere and nice mix of people.
Deuchars was fine but not great.
Along with the Bon Accord, has to be one of the best pubs Glasgow has to offer.
Well worth seeking out.
25 May 2011 10:26
I meant Woodlands Road.
Also forgot to meant they offer a real cider (farmhouse I think at 6%)
24 May 2011 12:07
I really liked this place. Seemed like a proper pub complete with wooden floor, a nice group of regulars and warm and friendly service.
Young barman returning to the bar seen me standing unserved and asked me to sit down and he would bring the drink over ... nice touch.
Down the stairs at the rear has slightly more of a dining feel to it, so I would recommend sitting in the top bar area.
The ales were decent, but not quite as good as I'd expected. Actually the quality of the Deuchars IPA both here and at the State Bar weren't quite as good as The Dram on Woodlans Road.
Still one of the best pubs I've found after many years in Glasgow. Well worth a visit or 7.
24 May 2011 12:05
AVOID STAYING HERE.
We spent 2 nights here, but didn't actually have a drink here, as the bar seemed to lack atmosphere.
The room was very overpriced at �95 per night. We enjoyed a nicer room in a much nicer hotel in Cambridge for �80 per night.
Only enough hot water for one of us to have a shower in the evening. Experienced the same problem the following morning.
No white bread / toast for breakfast ... not just once, but both mornings, which is inexcusable really. No brown sauce either.
You expect more for �95.
12 May 2011 15:44
I instantly fell in love with this pub.
Addlestones and Stowford Press ciders on draught, an extremely friendly Landlady and a lovely little Spaniel called Jimmy ... what could be more perfect.
Decorated in a very simple fashion, but feels very lived in and comfy with lots of character.
Our first pub visited on our Winchester trip at 12:15 on a Saturday, so I'd love to return and sample the atmosphere when it's busier.
If there's a better pub in Winchester, can someone kindly tell me what it's called?
Superb.
5 May 2011 09:15
The Rye Pub, Dining Room and Garden, Peckham Rye
Closed down for 10 days recently as new owners were taking over.
No idea what took them so long. The only visible change I could see was that they have foolishly and rather greedily crammed double the amount of wooden benches into the beer garden out the back. Stick in some push chairs / kids / dogs etc and you won't be able to move out there.
The drinks selection is the exact same as before. Although sadly they've followed the expsensive drinks trend in this area and the Stowford Press Cider has taken a MASSIVE jump from �3.30 a pint, to �3.90.
For that reason alone, I WILL NOT BE BACK!!
3 May 2011 09:56
hhhmmmmmm, let's see here.
rebecca_grendal, katielong, rob_sole & deepee have never commented on any other pub except this one.
Is there skullduggery afoot? ... you decide.
27 Apr 2011 15:05
The Uplands Bar and Brasserie, East Dulwich
This pub is now called The Actress.
It's bright and airy inside and decorated in a modern bar fashion.
�3.90 for a pint of Symonds Cider, which tastes pretty much like Wrongbow.
This part of South East London is getting very expensive for Cider drinkers.
26 Apr 2011 12:20
Finally got around to visiting this pub.
I found it a bit bland and didn't like the choice of music.
Wouldn't rush back.
18 Apr 2011 15:55
I don't like to talk too much about food on this site, but the lunch here was fantastic.
All the sandwiches come with a minature frying basket of proper deep fried Maris Piper chips.
A word of warning though. Don't order the giant Yorkshire Pudding unless you are intending to share it with at least one other person. It's the size of a car tyre.
Stowford Press Cider on draught.
18 Apr 2011 14:48
7.3 for this place ... I think not.
Most of the beers and lagers weren't available during our lightning quick visit.
Tea towels covering most of the pumps.
Just didn't have a very nice feel to it.
One quick drink, then left.
The nearby Ingleton Falls is a must visit attraction however, if you are in this area and are a fan of Waterfalls.
15 Apr 2011 16:21
A bearded Scotsman from Edinburgh we met in The Orange Tree recommended this place for the food.
The pub has a pool table and smallish bar for mainly locals on the left hand side and a much larger dining area to the right, making it feel slightly more restaurant than pub.
Being Scottish myself, I accepted his advice and went off in search of the 2 courses for �10 option. This is a very small selective option and we couldn't find anything we fancied to eat.
Ended up ordering from the proper menu, which wasn't quite so cheap.
My steak pie and french fries was faultless, but then again, it's not the most difficult dish to perfect and �13.50 for a samllish portion is taking the piss slightly.
Having said that, my sister's rack of lamb was massive and very tasty.
Was very busy and we got the impression that the food had already established itself with the more affluent locals.
Stowford Press Cider on draught.
15 Apr 2011 16:11
For a semi posh Hotel, this place isn't too expensive for beers.
There's a fantastic wooden decked blacony overhanging the river. We sat there on Grand National day (Sat 9th April) with the sun blasting down on us ... lovely spot for a beer.
Thatcher's Gold Cider on draught.
15 Apr 2011 15:06
Must be the best pub location in Kendal as you can see from the photo.
Beer garden is next to the bridge, and right on top of the river.
Very quiet during our visit considering how hot it was (Sat 9th April).
Only us and a group of 7 or 8 local lads in the beer garden.
15 Apr 2011 15:00
First of all, what a fantastic location. The steady climb up The Helm begins quite literally across from the pub.
15 minutes takes you to some fantastic views over the hills and dales. Another 15 minutes and you've reached the highest point of The Helm, with a view over Morecombe Bay.
We were booked in for one night B & B. The room was a decent size located within a farmhouse style building behind the pub.
We chose to eat in the locals part of the pub rather than the sterile restaurant and were kept entertained by the lighthearted Cumbria / Yorkshire banter.
The breakfast choice was extensive and very well served.
Only Wrongbow Cider on draught (nothing unusual there), but the Moorhouse's Blonde Witch was very tasty.
There is absolutely nothing in Oxenholme, besides the train station and this pub, but if you enjoy a bit of not too energy sapping hill walking with great views, this is well worth a one night stopover.
15 Apr 2011 14:49
The Sun Hotel, Kirkby Lonsdale
This is a restaurant (not a pub) with a fancy menu and prices to match.
15 Apr 2011 12:18
The Red Dragon, Kirkby Lonsdale
I disagree with the below review of this pub. I quite liked the layout of the place and fancied a few items on the menu.
Popped in around 4pm on Monday 11th April. A nice lady aged around 50 spoke to us and we were impressed enough to return later that evening for dinner.
Seemed to have changed somewhat on our return. Only a few locals dotted around at the bar and the music was a bit loud and that modern R & B rubbish. Not the best atmosphere.
5 of us were given menus and took seats in the corner by the window.
I went to the bar to place the drinks order, but the young barmaid (mid 20's maybe) ignored me, whilst she continued her story to a local. Something about leaning out of a window and shouting at someone who was breaking into something. I don't really mind swearing in pubs, but when it's done by staff (even as part of a story), it doesn't create that great an impression.
Got fed up being ignored and took our five meals plus drinks order to the Orange Tree.
15 Apr 2011 12:13
The Orange Tree Inn, Kirkby Lonsdale
Probably the best pub in Kirkby Lonsdale, but I'm afraid that isn't really saying much.
Seemd by far the most popular with evening diners. Maybe because they have a different half price special every night.
They also have a range of Kirkby Lonsdale Ales on offer, which were pretty decent.
My family all had the half price fish and chips which did look lovely.
Sadly, the fajitas I received weren't even up to the standard of the packet job you can do at home.
Still it's cosy enough and has a nice mixed clientele, so you could do a lot worse.
15 Apr 2011 11:49
Whoop Hall Hotel, Kirkby Lonsdale
A bit souless and bland. No real atmosphere, but then I suppose it is a Hotel and not a pub.
I wouldn't rush back.
On the plus side, the beer garden has good views over the dales.
15 Apr 2011 11:40
This is one of the best Spoons I've ever been in.
It's clean, bright and nicely furnished. Service is always quick and efficient. Beers and Ciders are always spot on.
Tried Cheddar Valley Cider here today for the first time ... very nice.
Prairie Gold ale was also lovely.
�2.50 a pint as part of their Ale and Cider festival. You can't go wrong.
5.8 score for this pub is totally unjust.
28 Mar 2011 14:46
The Rye Pub, Dining Room and Garden, Peckham Rye
London Pride the one and only ale on offer.
Great beer garden and less kids than The Herne.
28 Mar 2011 10:26
Maybe I was just unlucky on my very first visit yesterday, but the ale I had (one of the Gold ones) was beyond poor.
Only Wrongbow on draught, so nothing really to draw me back to this pub. Especially with The Black Friar not too far away.
23 Mar 2011 16:13
Very warm welcome from the Barman (not sure if he was the Landlord).
Offered water for our dog straight away, and also saved us a fair bit of walking by his advice on easier access to Richmond Park.
Good to speak to bar staff who've not only heard of BITE, but are also aware of when and by whom the latest review was made.
We'd already had a pint at another pub, so only stayed for one, but could have quite happily sat a while longer.
Blackthorn Cider on draught at a decent price.
If I'm ever back in that area again, I'd be sure to drop in.
22 Mar 2011 11:10
No Cider offered on draught ... shocking.
The great view overlooking the Thames, is not actually from the pub, but from benches across the road.
I wouldn't return.
Lord knows where the 6.8 rating has come from.
22 Mar 2011 10:55
The following reviewers ... or should I say reviewer (singular), as it's probably the same sad person with multiple accounts, has never commented on any other pubs apart from The Crown Inn, 154 Heaton Lane, Stockport:
NiceOnlt, leBoozer, boozysam, friendlyman, COUNTY.fan, fallowfield, passthesalt, gooddrinker, happytodrink, thepubb, wendywolf, eveb, evec, salb, mrhandsome, brenda11, femalebeerdrinker, thegurninghaddock,
The list is never ending.
18 Mar 2011 12:28
Visited this place last night after reading all the great reviews.
Wish I hadn't bothered. My beer was flat and tasted like vinegar. When I complained to the barman, he barked:
"If thee dont'eth like thine beer, yee can booger off backt' tat that Loondon town "
I was taken a back for sure, but was determined not to let the neanderthal get the better of me.
I quickly switched to what I'm guessing and hoping was cider, before settling down to crunch my way through his finest microwaved Findus (overly) Crispy Pancake avec Fries de Curl.
Won't be rushing back.
17 Mar 2011 11:10
The Nicholson's chain is replacing Addlestones Cider with Aspinalls (I think in all of their pubs)
The barman had to pick me up off the floor and wipe my tear stained face with his beer rag.
On the plus side, it did force me back towards a career in ale drinking.
Best pint of Tribute I've ever had.
Closely followed by the lovely stuff that is Flying Dutchman and Trade Winds.
They certainly know what they are doing Ale wise.
As pointed out in other reviews, the toilets have been a disgrace for years. Tiny toilet as well, wouldn't take long to clean / paint.
16 Mar 2011 15:06
The last 4 reviews again are all from a multiple account loser.
What a sad little person you must be.
15 Mar 2011 10:40
Sorry, my mistake.
The comedy club has been moved to somewhere in Peckham.
The Ivy House IS CLOSED.
14 Mar 2011 09:25
eveb, evec ... how many more accounts do you have?
What a clown.
10 Mar 2011 14:03
BEWARE!!!!!
The last 10 or so glowing reviews of this pub are all highly suspicious.
Every single one of them has only ever commented on this pub, or The Railway ... even then that was only to slag The Railway off.
Wish BITE could do something about multiple accounts ... although I suppose it's almost impossible to control.
Some poor sod could waste their time treating this as a destination pub.
10 Mar 2011 13:45
The extensive review below mine must be fake surely.
First ever comment.
Oh, and the one below that.
9 Mar 2011 14:36
After 5 minutes in this place, I was thinking ... is this a Pub?, is this a Bistro?, is this a wine bar? or is this a coffee shop?
But somehow they manage to pull off all of the above very well indeed.
There is a fantasically relaxing atmosphere here coupled with a mixed and friendly clientelle.
The background music was varied but always always spot on. I could have sat there all day gussling the cider.
The staff are also super friendly and helpful.
They don't have a huge selection of drinks ... only Tea and Doom Bar ales. But luckily for me, the one draught Cider was Addlestones. Yum yum ... my favourite. �3.60 a pint, so not too bad.
I don't normally talk about food, or the condition of toilets in the pubs I visit, but I'm going to in this case. It's a talk about food and the condition of toilets in the pubs I visit of two halves really.
Firstly, the beef and guinness hotpot with mini loaf I had was lovely. Couldn't fault it at all. Also excellent value for �6. The whole menu looked good and was full of good old fashioned wholesome type home cooking meals. Wish I could also have sampled the chilli with wedges, which they described as very hot (never hot enough in 95% of pubs).
Think this is only the second time I've wriiten about toilets, the other time being to praise the clenliness. But sadly these toilets really let the place down. The actual pub is spotless and the tiny vases of fresh flowers on each table is a nice touch. And so it disturbed me that they couldn't spent 1 hour and a tenner's worth of paint to make the toilets presentable.
The toilet has one stall consisting of wooden door between two wooden panels. There is a lock but the joinery is such, that the door won't actually close. The wooden brown door was filthy and had a huge black paint streak down it. The exposed pipes etc looked as though they'd never been cleaned and there was a couple of chunks mssing from the toilet seat. How much is a new toilet seat anyway?? ... 10, 15 quid??
Come on staff at The Keep, get that toilet sorted out and then you'll have completed the job of creating a great pub. Oh, and if possible, get rid of the tacky quiz machine in the corner.
To summarize then, I'd highly recommend a visit to this pub ... but, if you need a pooh, hold it in until you get home.
7 Mar 2011 10:36
This a great pub and we found it very welcoming ... see my review of 5 Oct 2009.
I'm not a local as you can see from my comments history.
24 Feb 2011 09:45
dia_reah ...
I can only honestly report on what I find. The pouring your own pint and all that stuff is just another gimmick to make Tracy seem even more whacky.
If you take the time to read the recent reveiews, you will find that A_from_Oxford and Mario 2, seem to agree with me.
"cant be asked didn't realise this site was all about shooting other peoples views down !"
What does "cant be asked" mean exactly Tracy, um, sorry, I mean dia_reah?
21 Feb 2011 14:33
It's also got an award winning little restaurant upstairs, with another little wooden balcony.
Looks cosy and nice, but I've not eaten there yet.
Superb pub.
18 Feb 2011 15:55
Mmmhhh ... first ever comment by diamedes is a glowing report about the Tan Hill Inn.
Very similar to the first ever comment by rollypolly2010 on 8 June 2010.
It's certainly an experience going to this place and I did enjoy aspects of it. But, as mentioned in my previous comment of 10 May 2010, I also felt let down by agreements that were made in advance.
i.e the 2 free meals we were promised turned into 1 meal cooked by a guest.
No choice of breakfast was offered and came without tea or coffee.
18 Feb 2011 10:30
I don't think it's closed, but it's not operating as a pub.
Think it's been changed to a venue only type set up.
The Pull The Other One comedy night is scheduled for (I think) 25th of Feb.
16 Feb 2011 10:51
Very impressed by this pub and the College / Church in the village is very nice as well.
Got chatting to a couple of older bloke locals who were very friendly indeed.
Stowford Press Cider on draught.
I will be back for sure.
14 Feb 2011 11:35
Paid my second visit to this pub 4 weekends ago.
Couldn't believe that I didn't fully appreciate it just how stunning it is on my first visit.
Really is a fantastic country pub and a lovely old builing (see Trainman's review of 10.9.09 for more extensive details)
This place has rocketed straight into the best 10 pubs I've been to in the UK.
They've got Camra awards on the wall for 3 years in a row. Also noticed they had a Times top 50 places to eat in the countryside award (number 15).
The food is good honest normal pub food. I had the soup which was delicious, as was the roast beef sandwich.
To top if all of, they have a "No Children" policy, which I thought was superb.
I've given up daytime weekend drinking in some of my local pubs, because you can't move for kids and pushchairs and the lunch brigade.
Just to make things even better they have a choice of 2 draught Ciders ... neither of which being Wrongbow.
They have Weston's Stowford Press and one I'd never seen before called Hogans ... which tasted very similar to Weston's Organic.
A must visit pub.
Brilliant.
14 Feb 2011 11:22
Love this cosy little Nicholson's pub in the heart of Soho.
Great spot to sit and people watch out of the window. Don't look too closely at the men though, or you could end up with more than you bargained for.
As with Nicholson's excellent Black Friar, The Three Greyhounds has Addlestones Cider for the very respectable price of �3.30.
8 Feb 2011 16:32
The Whyteleafe Tavern, Whyteleafe
Thought I'd check this pub out, after reading all the positive reviews.
Looked in the window ... all I could see was men and TV screens everywhere.
Didn't even enter. Luckily there was a train due 6 minutes later.
On the train by 1:45 after just 1 pint on a walking day out ... unheard of.
7 Feb 2011 09:59
Hugely hugely dissappointed with this pub.
Treated it as a destination pub after getting off the train at Kenley and walking through the Common.
The decor and feel is very much like a poor man's Wetherspoons. How alan_From_SAWW managed to describe it as a "Country pub" is beyond me.
It must be a chain pub, as the menus where those ghastly Wetherspoonsesque things containing 2 meals for 13 pence etc.
Somehow the menu reminded me of Prize Bingo at Blackpool, but I'm not sure why.
This pub's ok if you desperately want a drink, but, I wouldn't go out of my way to visit it.
Had 1 pint anf hightailed it to the Whyteleafe Tavern ... which turned out to be even worse.
7 Feb 2011 09:26
The_Final_Arbiter wrote:
"I drink cider, but I appreciate a proper BEER in the evening or otherwise.
Cider does not qualify as beer."
=====================================================================
Oh, I see, I see, I got you. So because this site is called "beer" in the evening, you are interpreting that as meaning Real Ale. Hence and therefore we should all be discussing nothing but Real Ale.
Well I'm sorry, but I'm clean shaven and I also don't happen to own a jumper of the chunky variety.
What happens if a mate says to you:
"fancy meeting up for a beer tonight?"
If he orders a Lager or a Cider, do you scream "NOOOOOOOO!!!!" ... then grab the glass from his hand and smash it to the floor, before storming out whilst howling ... "you said beer, you said meet up for a BEER!!!"
28 Jan 2011 09:56
How this very ordinary brightly lit boozer got to number one or 7.7 is beyond me.
Wasn't even in my top 5 favourite Oxford pubs.
26 Jan 2011 13:30
Lovely pub with a nice atmosphere and very friendly staff and customers.
My only complaint is the less than exciting range of draught drinks:
Wrongbow
Carling
Carlsberg
San Miguel
Becks
Bombadier
London Pride
Harveys
Maybe it's a bit unfair to single out this pub for limited choice, as I've experienced the same problem in many London and Kent pubs.
I've only been to the rival pub (Rose and Crown) once, but I'm pretty sure it had similar options.
Unusual not to have Stella or Kronenberg.
And just why is Wrongbow so popular in British pubs ... WHY?? ... WHY!?!?
24 Jan 2011 10:27
The Marlborough Head, Marble Arch
How can you possibly call the Carpenters a dump? It's a lovely traditional London pub.
If it takes you 16 minutes to walk from the corner of North Row and North Audley Street to the bottom of Seymour Place, then I suggest you cut down on your pork life me ole China.
Come back to me when you can spell Edgware.
17 Jan 2011 13:49
The Marlborough Head, Marble Arch
The worst lager / ale in Britain.
I'm not joking. I used to work next door to this pub and had to suffer countless office Brithdays here.
Avoid at all costs.
The Carpenters Arms is only a 6 minute walk away.
17 Jan 2011 13:10
A huge modern pub.
Visited here after having a couple of Ciders round the corner at the Grape and Grain. Again, very impressed with the fact that they offer both Addlestones and Stowford Press Ciders on draught.
That makes a choice of 5 draught Ciders between the 2 pubs and not a Wrongbow in sight ... excellent.
17 Jan 2011 09:38
The Grape and Grain, Crystal Palace
Large modern styled pub.
Impressed with the range of ciders ... Aspalls, Westons and Westons Ice. I'd never seen Westons Ice, before. It's basically a cider Slush Puppy, but very nice indeed. Would be a great Summer drink.
The timer on the Bar Billiards lasts nearly double the time of a normal table, so be prepared for a long game lasting well over 15 minutes.
I'm sure the low rating for this pub will increase pretty quickly.
Very decent pub.
17 Jan 2011 09:31
L Star and sloworm have only ever made one comment apiece.
12 Jan 2011 09:21
I loved this pub. Spent a great night in the upstairs bar 2 years ago.
Like others have said it has a nice locals feel to it / relaxed clientelle of all ages.
We had lots of room for our group of around 12.
Even had Bauhaus on the jukebox.
One of my favourite Glasgow pubs.
10 Jan 2011 15:35
Bloke in The Swan told me this was the 2nd best pub in Dawlish.
I never actually got round to trying it.
So, if you don't want to walk as far as The Swan, you could try this place.
16 Dec 2010 14:05
The Nell Gwynne, Covent Garden
Lovely little pub just off The Strand.
Not sure if the red lighting is for Christmas only, but it creates a really warm and cosy atmosphere.
The lunchtime regulars seem to prefer standing around the bar, so, although the pub is quite small, I still had a choice of 2 tables.
Was a bit warey of the bar staff due to previous reviews, but they couldn't have been friendlier.
One of the barmaids was doing a funny and very acuarate impersonation of Stacey Solomon. The only downside being that she seemed so proud of it, that she didn't want to stop.
Being a Free House, I was kinda hoping for some Cider other than Wrongbow ... sadly, it wasn't to be. Still, even that wouldn't put me off a return visit.
For bearded types, there was Deuchars, Rosey Nosey and 2 others that I can't recall.
16 Dec 2010 13:41
As I predicted:
Beer / Lager / Cider choice almost identical to before.
Clientele identical to before.
Nothing worth rushing back to from my point of view.
14 Dec 2010 15:44
I was also there last night and thought the band were excellent. A kind of Rockabilly Stray Cats meets The Cramps.
Really nice clientelle / atmosphere in this pub.
Addlestones Cider being my favourite was a big bonus.
Would return for sure.
10 Dec 2010 10:05
The Coach and Horses, Whitstable
Ladhimself,
Do you make these up, or are you stealing them from somewhere?
They are quite clever I must admit.
Not quite as brilliant as this classic by Foghorn:
Well I made it here this afternoon, and I wish I hadn't (the blazing sun fair took the skin off my head over Parliament Hill) but I'd arranged to pick up some eggs from Chicken Jim at 3 o'clock and I didn't want him to get stuck with them.
So I arrived hot and sweaty, 10 minutes late, and the day got worse from thereon.
No sooner had the transaction for the eggs be made than, for no good reason I can see, he called me a "Poof" in front of everybody. I didn't think that was very nice, since I've always been courteous to him.
So I said "At least I don't shag Trolls, unlike some people I could mention" and with that he swung a punch at my jaw, and stormed off for the door. Not an easy task. See Jim has a problem: his right leg is most attractive and muscular, in a Fatima Whitbread way, whereas his left leg has a more than passing resemblance to a cheese straw. This unfortunate quirk of nature gives him a profound list to larboard, which makes it nigh impossible for him to effect a straight course from A to B ... what you usually get with Jim is a course from A back to A again, via a loop.
Anyhow, his Fatima leg set off for the exit, fair determined, while his left leg dragged way behind like a reluctant schoolboy on his way to the Headmaster, and after two laps of the bar he gave up and sat down at the table in the window to annoy Manchester Mark, the one who lives in a bin-liner with his Japanese wife, Ahtissu.
That being said, the beer was delicious. They had on Red Squirrel Brewery today and I'm very fond of their products. Not the least their Conservation Bitter, by which they have an understanding with the Wild World-life Fund, in as much as for every tub they sell they promise to trample ten grey squirrels to death by sundown. So you can drink as much as you like, safe in the knowledge that you're doing your bit for world-life and the environment.
8 Dec 2010 16:08
The Joiners Arms, Denmark Hill
This pub appears as though it can't make up it's mind, wether to go for a modern or old fashioned look.
Seems to be attempting to pull of both looks.
A 1940's radio situated next to a fruit machine.
An original tiled mosaic wall coupled with modern high tables and stools.
Seems to be targetted towards a younger crowd. However, on our visit (6pm on a Tuesday evening), there were only 3 older blokes in the front bar all sitting seperately and drinking on their own. 2 looked normal, but one was mumbling to himself.
There's an equally largish bar area at the rear with a pool table. To be fair, there were a few more younger customers back there, but the music was louder.
Music was a decent mix of 80's stuff from my era. Dire Straits and what have you.
I suspect this pub will attract a large crowd of young types on the weekend.
I was neither impressed or unimpressed.
Would nip in for a pint of Addlestones Cider if passing, but wouldn't go out of my way to return.
8 Dec 2010 15:27
The Plume of Feathers, Greenwich
Very nice atmosphere in this pub when we visited on Sunday afternoon.
Nice to see some working class characters standing round the bar. Real London older bloke types laughing and joking. One even had a few teeth missing, which was strangely endearing and adorable.
Makes a change from a pub being full of 20 / 30 somethings all having Sunday lunch and half a shandy, whilst their posh twat kids run around, getting in everyone's way and generally asking for a damn good open hander.
Like us, these guys were just there for the booze.
Difficult to get a seat, but then it is Greenwich at the weekend ... and it is just 50 yards from the park.
This pub is well worth a visit, even if the only cider on offer was yet again Wrongbow.
There's a large restaurant type area at the rear of the pub, if you are into that kind of thing.
6 Dec 2010 11:05
"Thankfully, this traditional pub has avoided the worst type of refurbishment from the Youngs makeover team"
======================================================================
Can't believe this comment from rpadam, as I was thinking the total opposite.
Hadn't been to this pub for around 8 years until yesterday.
It's totally ruined. From it's old threadbare carpets and lived in feel, to a poncy high table and stools modern rubbish.
Used to be a great pub but I hated what they've done with it.
Went to The Plume of Feathers instead, which thankfully remains a proper pub.
6 Dec 2010 09:17
The Goldsmith Pub and Dining Room, Borough
"Eaten here once - can't fault it really although the souffle was beyond piping hot "
================================================================
Souffle??? I've heard it all now.
Some bentjob mincing on about souffle on a BEER site.
24 Nov 2010 11:50
As one of the previous posts mentions, this pub now has a new Landlady.
Spoke to her a few weeks back and she seems really nice.
Glad to report that the cast from Lock Stock and 2 Smoking Barrels seem to have gone as well.
It's a beautiful building in one of the nicest locations in Shoreham ... facing the nice old church.
Let's hope she can turn it into the great pub that it could be.
The roaring real fire is nice in Winter.
19 Nov 2010 11:04
We chose to drink in this Spoons, as Paignton is such an absolute dump, that we were too scared to enter any of the other ghastly looking pubs.
It was clean and had good service and with Thatchers Gold Cider for �2.55 a pint, you could do a lot worse ... especially in this Seaside Town that they forgot to shut down.
Thank God we were only staying for one night.
18 Nov 2010 10:08
Very much a locals / male sports pub.
The pub was packed during our visit on a Saturday afternoon and showing Villa v Man Utd. Found it very funny / almost impressive that they even have a screen showing the game outside the rear of the pub at the smoking area.
Some of the blokes looked a bit rough and ready, but the atmosphere was actually very relaxed and the few locals we chatted to were decent guys.
Would like to give it another try when there's no sport being shown.
Stowford Press Cider on draught.
16 Nov 2010 16:48
A decent pub with friendly staff and customers.
Stowford Press Cider on draught.
Could be doing without the gaming machines which I always think look cheap and tacky in a pub.
Bar Billiards table is a nice touch.
I'd certainly go back again if I was in Horsham.
16 Nov 2010 16:40
Got to be one of the friendliest Landladies I've ever encountered.
16 Nov 2010 09:47
I liked this pub in a nice traditional old fashioned pub way.
It's quite basic in design and furnishings, but cosy and somehow pulls off a relaxing chilled out environment.
Good old rock tunes being played through the speakers ... ELO, Elvis etc.
The staff were are really friendly and helpful ... I like the barmen (who according to a previous review, have worked here for 15 to 20 years) dressed in shirt and ties ... again in an old fashioned / traditional manner.
I sampled the chilli con carne and chips, which was decent enough for a fiver. Portion was very generous and I struggled to finish it all.
The only down side is there isn't a massive selection of drinks on offer. Only 2 ales and sadly as is the norm for 93% of UK pubs these days, the only cider was Wrongbow.
It's better than many pubs in this area and since my office is 20 yards away, I wouldn't hesitate on lunching here in the future.
Nice to see pubs like this can still hold their own whilst competing with the pretentiousness of the nearby chain "bars", All Bar One and Slug and Lettuce.
11 Nov 2010 13:54
I wrote a good and positive review of this pub last year, but I'm far from happy, after my lunchtime visit of 20 minutes ago.
Ordered a pint of Addlestones Cider, which on arrival, looked like a pint of water with a tiny tiny amount of orange colouring added to it.
It tatsed more like real cider, than any Addlestones I've ever supped.
I pointed this out to the barmaid, who did the right thing and phoned the Landlord to come down from upstairs.
The Landlord claimed the pint was fine, that it always came out of the pump that way. I explained that Addlestones was my favourite cider and I'd never seen it so transparent / uncloudy in any other London pub.
He countered this, by stating that it comes out so clear because he cleans his lines so often.
I was almost tempted to say:
"Are you suggesting that the reason that the Addlestones "CLOUDY" Cider is only "CLOUDY" in every other pub, is because they don't clean their lines properly?"
He said that he was happy to change it, but was adamant that it was fine.
Much to his credit, he then asked if I was positive I didn't want to change it, as he'd rather change it and I go away happy rather than unchange it and leave the pub p1ssed off.
I grew weary of this exchange and decided just to finish the pint.
20 minutes later, and I'm looking around for an alternative to the Cider.
I see a guy ordering pints of Anchor Steam Beer from San Francisco, which looked really nice.
I ordered a pint of it, then almost fell off my stool, when the barmaid asked me for �4.70. If it was Leffe, then ok, �4.70 might be justified, but certainly not for some US beer that's never been heard of.
At least I got a chuckle when the other guy went back to the bar with his receipt to query the (what he thought was a) mistake.
It's a pity, because although I hate to talk about food on BITE, it did look really nice and was priced pretty cheaply for Central London.
But sadly I won't be returning to this pub. Not because of the minor dispute over the cider. But more because I can get and outstanding pint of proper Addlestones at the ever excellent Black Friar, for 40p less at �3.25
And, if a I fancy, I could even treat myself to a pint of Leffe.
5 Nov 2010 14:41
The Red Lion Inn, Shoreham by Sea
"My mother and I ordered quiche"
I wonder if Mike Tyson has ever uttered the above words?
3 Nov 2010 13:11
The Sportsman 'Time Well Spent', Mogador
Popped in last Saturday to see me ole mate Marc Jones.
Sadly, he didn't seem to be around, so I couldn't buy him a pint.
The pub was heavily packed with diners, but luckily the weather was mild enough to sit outside.
Enjoyed a couple of pints of Aspalls Cider out there relaxing in the country surroundings and watching the weather change from sunshine to showers, then back again.
One question for Marc. I'm not sure if you personally run the sister pub ... The Yew Tree, but was hugely dissappointed when I popped in there beforehand, to discover the only Cider on draught was Wrongbow.
Why no Aspalls at the Yew Tree?
2 Nov 2010 11:00
Bumped into Bearded Steve and Barbour Face in here last Friday.
They'd been shooting in the morning but hadn't bagged so much as a Sparrow.
They must have come straight from the shoot to the pub, judging by the whacky threads they were attired in ... looked like a couple of extras from All Creatures Great and Small.
They proceeded to sup around 15 pints apiece, getting progressively louder and sweatier as they rampaged through dusk towards late evening.
At one point Barbour Face erupted from his stool screaming ... "I can't see properly ... my eyes have gone all weird ... I'M SCARED" Nearly wet my pants laughing.
We managed to calm him slightly when the sobbing stopped. For a while he simply sat hunched over his small sweet Sherry, mumbling something about "mummy being too far away".
When Bearded Steve produced a set of Top Trumps, Superbikes edition from his inside pocket, I made my excuses and left.
Top night in a smashing little pub.
1 Nov 2010 16:08
The Plough and Harrow, Eynsford
Anyone who uses the phrase "clam Mariniere " on a website entitled "BEER in the Evening" deserves a stern lecture comprising mainly of ultra violence.
Get back to "Sandwich in the Afternoon" ya big lassie.
25 Oct 2010 13:36
After 5 minutes in The Cider Bar, it instantly leapt into my top 10 favourite pubs in the country.
It's like stepping back in time (in a really nice way) inside this place.
Old boys with cloth caps and one even had an ageing Greyhound ... I loved it.
The cheese on the cheese and onion sandwich was about 2 inches thick.
Huge choice of ciders of course.
I'd love to go back again.
22 Oct 2010 16:14
The Boathouse Tavern and Grill, Dawlish Warren
This is a ghastly place by any standards.
Built to purposely cater for large families of Pikies.
My burger (well, an insult to the word really) arrived about 50 seconds after I ordered it. I'm not joking, it actually was that fast ... no idea how they managed it.
Avoid it, if you have any taste whatsoever.
18 Oct 2010 15:39
First pub we visited in Dawlish and I really liked it. As pointed out by BITEm3, it does have a kind of country pub feel in the middle of a seaside resort.
Sadly, when we visited on a Tuesday evening, we were the only customers.
18 Oct 2010 15:22
Best Old School pub we found in Dawlish, by a long way.
It may be a 5 - 10 minute walk to the edge of the town, but it's worth it.
Staff and locals could not have been friendlier. Asking questions about where we were from and our Devon trip etc.
Thatcher's Gold and Dry ciders on draught. Unusually form me, I also sampled a few ales, which were excellent.
Food was a tiny bit pricey, but lovely.
If you like an old fashioned locals type pub, with plenty of dogs, then you must visit The Swan.
18 Oct 2010 13:47
THIS IS NOT A PUB.
Don't go there expecting it to be one, like I did.
The bar area is really just a waiting room until you get seated in the huge dining room.
We left without eating as we were so unimpressed with the lack of atmosphere and the army of pensioners, just there for the food.
18 Oct 2010 12:08
The huge advert in "The London Drinker" for this pub kept cathching my eye.
As a result and also because I'd never been to Godalming before, we travelled down from Brockley, South London to check it out.
Was hugely dissappointed on arrival, when we were told they don't allow dogs.
Fair enough, my own fault I suppose, as I normally always check in advance.
I then noticed they had a beer garden at the back and asked if it was ok to take the dog back there. The young bar man informed me that I couldn't go there either, as "we serve food there".
There was only 2 other people out there. Quite pathetic really. Would never go back.
18 Oct 2010 11:47
This is a decent little pub and the best I've experienced on my Eynsford visits.
Bar staff and locals all very friendly.
Aspalls Cider on draught.
4 Oct 2010 10:35
I've been in this lovely pub a couple of times (walking from Brockham Green)
Despite all the in house debating listed below, it must be better than a rating of 5.0 surely.
28 Sep 2010 11:58
"Dogs welcome, children not"
Sounds perfect. As we all know, far too many pubs are overrun by loudmouth kids these days. It really is getting out of hand.
28 Sep 2010 09:11
This could be a cracking pub.
Lovely old building inside. Muti rooms run all the way around the bar. Lots of beamed low ceilings.
Small beer garden at rear with a larger covered courtyard area on the other side.
I'd make the following changes:
Get rid of the friut machines and the tartan carpet.
Get rid of all the Jaigermeister stuff behind the bar. There's a Jaigermeister fridge and virtually every other surface has a Jaigermeister sticker plastered onto it ... looks very tacky.
on the plus side, the bar maid was very friendly and there no was no Wrongbow in sight. Stowford Press on draught.
27 Sep 2010 11:34
If you have long black hair (preferably dyed) and tattoos, enjoy Star Trek the New Generation / flat beer / throwing both hands in the air whilst exposing only your pinky and forefinger whilst saying the word "awesome" ... then you'll love this place.
Otherwise avoid it like the bad AIDS.
23 Sep 2010 10:27
The Southampton Arms, Gospel Oak
So so simple, yet so so superb.
This is my idea of how I'd run a pub ... well maybe with a few Belgian bottled beers thrown in.
Some cool jazz vinyl spinning on the turntable behind the bar on our arrival. This was followed by the excellent Muddy Waters.
Nice mix of people during our visit on a Saturday afternoon creating a very relaxed laid back feel.
My only minor complained is that they only have real cider. I love cider and like experimenting with real cider, but I don't think I could drink real cider for an entire evening. After 2 or 3 pints I think I would be craving a nice Addlestones or something with a little bit of fizz.
But otherwise, this is an excellent pub.
23 Sep 2010 09:27
A good pub with helpful, friendly and very pretty young barmaids.
At least 2 decent ciders on draught ... Thatchers and Stowford Press if I remember correctly.
I felt they'd gone a little bit over the top with the amount of quirky junk / stuffed animals on dispaly, but still well worth a visit.
An extra bonus is the pub lies at the end of a short but pretty river walk, that starts at the old mill bridge near the statue of King Alfred.
6 Sep 2010 13:37
I instantly fell in love with this pub.
Addlestones and Stowford Press ciders on draught, an extremely friendly Landlady and a lovely little Spaniel called Jimmy ... what could be more perfect.
Decorated in a very simple fashion, but feels very lived in and comfy with lots of character.
Our first pub visited on our Winchester trip at 12:15 on a Saturday, so I'd love to return and sample the atmosphere when it's busier.
If there's a better pub in Winchester, can someone kindly tell me what it's called?
6 Sep 2010 11:31
I only popped in here to use the toilet really.
My half pint of Staropramen was awful as was the music.
Noticed another customer screwing his face up in disgust after tasting his pint.
One to be avoided.
6 Sep 2010 11:23
Locals1,
I don't understand this. The guy who is in there just now, is simply a manager working for Punch Taverns.
If your contacts wanted to take on the lease, that guy would be removed pretty quickly and your people would take over.
I can therefore only assume that your contact is going to be yet another brewery manager.
That being the case, I can't really foresee any major changes taking place.
It's gonna be the same old faces in the same tired pub.
24 Aug 2010 13:45
Marquis of Cornwallis, Bloomsbury
A gastro pub that just about clings on to it's traditonal pub feel.
Spoiled slightly by the fact that some utter mug has decided to call the upstairs bar the "drawing room".
Aspalls and Old Rosie Ciders on draught.
A decent enough pub and I'm pretty sure it's the same chain as The Crown and Greyhound in Dulwich Village.
23 Aug 2010 16:33
Thatchers Gold Cider on draught was lovely.
Not sure if it's one of the best pubs in Hastings, but it has to be one of the best spots to sit outside and watch the world go by.
We had a couple of Friday lunchtime pints here and the pub and Hastings in general was very busy. Can imagine it might be rammed at the weekends.
23 Aug 2010 10:07
Well described by Roger B ... loved the huge old fireplaces in this pub.
Sadly as with nearly all Shepherd Neame pubs, they only have Wrongbow Cider and Oranjeboom Lager.
Worth a visit.
23 Aug 2010 09:48
A totally stunning building inside and out.
Could be quite an amazing pub if the decoration was slightly less tacky.
23 Aug 2010 09:45
Bereft of any character or soul.
A simply woeful fake feeling pub playing painfully dull music.
Quite a few better pubs in this area.
18 Aug 2010 14:00
I must apologise, my review was intended for the Pillars on Great Queen Street.
18 Aug 2010 13:58
Bereft of any character or soul.
A simply woeful fake feeling pub playing painfully dull music.
Quite a few better pubs in this area.
18 Aug 2010 13:56
The nicest/most traditional interior of any of the Sam Smith's London pubs I've been to.
Simply stunning inside with multi partitioned areas seating about 8 drinkers.
Decor is amazing ... a must visit pub in my opinion.
18 Aug 2010 13:39
Let's do the positives first.
Very nice inside, although they have gone a bit overboard with couches and lamps making it appear like someone's front room.
A massive plus is Addlestones Cider on draught and at �3.60 a pint it's just verging on not too pricey.
The courtyard out the back is peaceful and relaxing ... a nice spot to read the paper.
On the negetive side, it doesn't really feel like a pub, when the music being played in Classical Violin.
It could be a great pub, but for me, feels a bit too gastro/restauranty.
Having said that, the food was a sensible price, but I didn't eat.
16 Aug 2010 13:46
I found this pub to be a bit ordinary and uninspiring.
Other riverside pubs in this area such as The Captain Kidd or The Grapes, have kept their old worldy feel with lots of wooden beams and flagstones.
The Town of Ramsgate is a bit too modern for my tatse. It's very bright, with carpeting and sadly has one of those hideous pub quiz machines.
It does have a beer garden area backing out onto the Thames, but the view is restricted on both sides by other buildings.
Yet again, only cider on draught is Wrongbow.
I don't think I would return, but you may like it more than I did.
4 Aug 2010 09:47
The Dog and Fox, Wimbledon Village
Good point mate.
To my astonishment ... it's not even written by a woman.
This guy HAS to be a faggot.
2 Aug 2010 14:39
The best Sam Smiths pub in London.
As you can see from image 3, the beer garden is right on top of the Thames.
Nice mixture of people. There always seems to be fat blokes sitting at the left hand side of the bar discussing West Ham Football Club.
A fantastic spot if the sun is out. The beer garden I mean, not sitting next to the fat blokes.
2 Aug 2010 10:36
This is a simply outsanding little pub.
Nice old fashioned pub feel to it, with a wooden decking area out the back overlooking The Thames.
Staff are really friendly and have a lovely Alsation dog.
Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, they also have my favourite Addlestones Cider on draught.
I used to live 10 minutes walk away and now cannot believe that I only visited this pub once in 2 years.
Well worth seeking out on a Thames walk.
2 Aug 2010 10:06
dirtypj
You talk absolute rot.
This is one of the finest Wetherspoons available to humanity.
You want nachos to be "way cheaper" than a wetherspoons?????? .. are you a homeless??
The Stella in this Wetherspoons is outstanding sir.
29 Jul 2010 13:40
I really liked this smallish boozer.
Good atmosphere and a mixed and friendly clientelle.
Busy for a Tuesday evening, with yet more people standing outside.
Westons Scrumpy and Aspalls cider on draught.
Somewhat unusally for me, I then decided to don the wellington boots and chunky jumper and grow a beard really quickly, in order to sample the Kelham Island ale, which turned out to be quite tasty.
Well worth a visit this pub.
28 Jul 2010 10:11
It's called "The Greyhound". It's got a picture of a "greyhound" on it's pub sign ... but, you're not allowed to take your dog in??? ... outrageous.
What next?? ... no lambs or flags in the Lamb and Flag??
No red lions in the Red Lion.
Nobody with a regal-esque skull permitted to enter the King's Head??
Otherwise, it's a lovely country pub with a nice beer garden out the back.
Sadly, as is the case with 99.9% of Kent country pubs, they only have Wrongbow Cider on draught.
27 Jul 2010 13:38
At least 5 people serving when I visited on a Sunday night which was impressive.
The music was excellent and varied, if a little too loud for a 40 year old man like myself.
Quite impressed.
27 Jul 2010 11:04
I've never liked this pub, but it's handy as a meeting point at Camden Tube Station.
�4 for a pint of Dry Blackthorn Cider????????
Next time I'll just wait outside the tube station.
26 Jul 2010 11:45
Ruxton, The quality of the pubs/beer and the location etc don't really matter in this particular scenario.
My point is that as soon as a pub challenges for the top spot, (I've seen it now on several occasions) a group on BITE posters all vote said pub as zero, to push it back down the charts.
To do that without ever having entered the chart topping pub defeats the entire purpose of this website.
23 Jul 2010 15:01
Tried this pub again on Friday and I must admit, the Addlestones Cider was much better than my last visit.
13 Jul 2010 12:02
The George and Dragon, Ightham
Lovely old wordly pub inside.
Nice mixture of Stone and wooden floors with lowed beamed ceilings throughout.
Hot dark haired barmaid in her early twenties had a massive pair of Doombars.
Well worth a visit this pub.
7 Jul 2010 16:33
A simply stunning country pub in a lovely part of Kent.
Very quaint inside and full of character. Nice wooden decking area to sit ouside and massive beer garden accross the country lane.
The Landlord is a very strange bloke. My very first words to him, were to enquire about what ciders he had to offer. He pointed to a board and said "read the board" in a grumpy tone. He reminded me very much of the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld. If I hadn't been pre-warned, I would have been quite taken aback.
Having said that, by my 3rd or 4th visit to the bar he was joking with me and to be fair, he seemed very nice to the regulars as well.
This is a pub that it would be tantamount to criminal not to visit.
Instantly one of the best pubs I've ever visited.
Watch out for the 7.3% cider straight from the barrel. It's rocket juice.
5 Jul 2010 11:26
3.5 for The Halt???
That's mighty harsh.
Why no reviews from any of the 4 users?
25 Jun 2010 11:52
sorry nelly0164,
You are quite correct. Even though the Ind Est is nearby, there's a nice looking B&B and a small bridge over a stream across from the pub.
What I meant was, it wasn't the most pleasant walk from the Train Station, to get to the pub.
I can assure you, I still rated the pub very highly out of 10.
22 Jun 2010 16:04
I'm no expert, but my Addlestone's Cider is this pub seemed much more watery than normal.
Is it common for pubs to water down the drinks?
Lovely spot to sit and watch the world go by all the same.
22 Jun 2010 09:29
A nice enough place, but a tad too restauranty for me.
We were asked if we would be eating, almost before we made it through the front door.
Had one pint, then went back to The Bell around the corner.
21 Jun 2010 11:58
A great pub and the best pub we found in Southwold.
Has a beer garden at rear, but we preferred to sit on the benches out front and people watch in the sunshine.
21 Jun 2010 11:53
The interior of this pub is just amazing. Multi rooms like a Rabbit's warren.
Stone flooring actually bevelled and worn away in places.
A circular wooden booth situated smack in the middle of one of the largest rooms.
Aspall's Cider on draught just like every pub in this area.
Well worth a visit.
21 Jun 2010 11:51
A nice enough pub, but �4.30 for a pint of Aspall's Cider is an outrage.
Aspall is from Suffolk and is in every pub in the area. They can't be paying that much in transport costs to justify that price.
Would certainly put me off a return visit.
21 Jun 2010 11:22
A dull lifeless dump of a place.
Go to The Lord Nelson instead. The best and only decent pub in Southwold.
21 Jun 2010 11:06
Lovely pub with a country feel to it, even though it's not in the country.
Interesting multi roomed layout with a massive fireplace.
Friendly service and Stowford Press on draught.
I tried the burger with onions for the amazing price of �2.50, which was actually pretty tasty. Real chips as well.
It's just a pity about the location. We got off at Crowborough Train Station (which is actually nowhere near Crowborough, at a run down looking place called Jarvis Brook) and were directed to the pub, which turned out to be next to an Industrial Estate.
Still, a great pub and I'd certainly be a regular if I lived in that area.
21 Jun 2010 10:25
I always get suspicious of posters who have only ever created just the one review.
Isn't that correct Tracy, erm, I mean, um, Rollypolly2010.
8 Jun 2010 15:38
Four quid for a pint of Heineken????????
The thing I don't understand about this type of pub is this:
They must be making huge profits from the about of food they are doing. Instead of hammering the beer and cider, why don't they add 50p to main meals?
I have a theory that they don't actually want customers like me taking up valuable eating space and only having a couple of pints.
8 Jun 2010 12:20
The Ramblers Rest, Chislehurst
Nice pub, with very friendly and helpful staff.
My only complaint would be the �8 charge for a pint of Wrongbow and a bottle of Bulmers. That's a bit much and would put me off a return visit.
7 Jun 2010 09:55
The Rye Pub, Dining Room and Garden, Peckham Rye
Bloodmoose,
I was also there last night and totally agree with your comments.
I felt a tiny bit sorry for the staff, as the place was packed. But still, it was a mixture of chaos and farce.
Why they attempt to provide table service with only 3 or 4 staff memebers working is beyond me.
I stood at the bar for 15 minutes to get my first pint. It didn't help matters that the rude, obnoxious, posh, 20 somethings, kept jumping the queue to order their Veggie Burgers and Shandies with their Credit Cards ... with which they predictably wanted to start a tab with.
I thought I'd cracked it on my second visit to the bar. Only me, 1 other customer and 1 barmaid. Sadly the barmaid took around 7 minutes to sort out the other customer's bill. When she eventually finished, she proceeded to serve 2 guys who had just walked up to the bar 30 seconds previously.
Luckily they had the sense (that she was evidentally lacking) and suggested (quite politely) that I was before them. When I asked her if she hadn't seen me patiently waiting all that time, she informed me, that she couldn't keep an eye on serving and watching the customers at the same time. What a pathetic excuse.
I sang this pubs praises over The Herne and The Clockhouse (price wise). But, I won't tolerate many more visits like last nights.
3 Jun 2010 13:44
Because Babies and kids are starting to ruin most UK pubs every Saturday and Sunday lunchtime, for the average punter, who just wants a few pints in peace!
Whereas dogs are glorious animals who can behave themselves!
2 Jun 2010 13:46
I still don't really feel a relaxed vibe in this pub. Think it tries to do a bit of everything. The TV, the pool table, kind of dining area at one side of the bar, music decks presumably for a DJ.
My first vist, the atmosphere was spoiled by the annoying TV noise of Formula One. My second visit (last night) was a bit loud with a lot of noise coming from the pool table area.
There are certainly a lot worse pubs in the area, but this place just doesn't do it for me.
Also, as is all too common, Wrongbow is the only Cider offered on draught.
26 May 2010 11:23
Wetherspoons, Victoria Station
I usually drink the cider in this pub when I'm waiting for my train.
Tried the Stella last night and it was simply outstanding. One of the finest pints I've ever had.
The other good thing about this pub (as you can see from the picture) is it's got quite a unique people watching balcony overlooking the main concourse.
Staff have always been excellent on my visits.
3.3 rating is very harsh.
18 May 2010 11:59
Pretty ordinary / a little old fashioned looking pub.
why do pubs have carpets? ... it puts me off straight away.
On the plus side, it does Have Kingstone Press Cider on draught and the Landlord seems very friendly.
On our 2 previous visits, he has kindly opened the side door, so that we can take our dog to the beer garden at the rear. Dogs are not allowed in the actual pub itself.
Not a great pub, but a better option than the somewhat pretentious Plough nearby.
17 May 2010 10:18
Really liked this little free house apart from the decor.
I'd strip it back ... get rid of the carpets and the strange Indian themed items that are dotted around.
Aspalls Cider on draught and friendly service. Lovely cheese and (proper) ham sandwich for around �3.
This pub is a much better option than the more popular (mainly for diners) Hotel just around the corner.
17 May 2010 10:05
The Fighting Cocks, Horton Kirby
This place is surely better than a score of 4.9??
Just about gets away with seeming far too much like a restaurant.
Saved by the 4 old blokes playing dominoes made it a feel a tiny bit like a local pub.
I'm not very keen on the staff all wearing "Fighting Cocks" uniforms.
Huge beer garden backing onto the river was a nice spot for a pint.
17 May 2010 09:59
Charming and pleasant free house with a huge beer garden.
Nice atmosphere.
Kingstone Press Cider on draught, which was very nice.
Can't fault the place at all really. Well worth a visit.
17 May 2010 09:53
The Angel in the Fields, Bond Street
I also love this place.
Feels like a lived in local in Central London.
Lovely stain glass windows. Nice to sit outside and perv, sorry I mean people watch.
Young friendly Irish barman seems to know what he's doing.
I'm boycotting The Golden Hind, after they refused to sell me a bag of chips to take away. �5 minimum take away order ... IN A FLUCKING CHIP SHOP!!!!!!!
14 May 2010 15:23
A bit suspicious looking at the previous 6 or 7 glowing reviews of this pub.
None of the 7 reviewers have ever commented on any other pub except this one.
Nevertheless I will give it a try next week.
12 May 2010 16:54
A bit dull and lifeless really.
I expected so much more from the reviews / nice photo.
Also my map listed Hawes as "picturesque village". My map is a filthy liar.
10 May 2010 16:46
Best pub we visited in this part of North Yorkshire by a long way.
Not much I can add really to what Roger B has already said. I totally agree with him that this is one of the best pubs I've ever visited and is almost totally perfect.
I would add that if you are looking for overnight accommodation, then look no further than The Green Dragon Inn.
We were told the price (�80 Per double room) before we seen the room. When the guy opened the door to the room, my girlfriend and I both said in unison ... "Wow"
The room was massive and decorated to a very high standard. The massive en suite bathroom was bigger than the BEDROOM we had at the Tan Hill Inn ... I'm not joking.
It contained one of those fancy massive deep stand alone baths and a simply huge corner shower. The Landlord told me, that he had 2 rooms decorated to this standard and planned on building another 8. The 2 bathrooms alone cost him �13,000.
You can't beat it for value.
We went down for breakfast in the morning and our table was set up next to a roaring fire ... brilliant.
10 May 2010 12:21
Lovely pub and lovely scenery in splendid isolation.
Sadly, I felt that the landlady played on her whacky / crazy reputation just a bit too much ... sorry Tracey. It just all seemed to be a bit of an act. I'm quite sure she's actually a really nice person.
We visited at a bad time, the first day after Tan Hill had staged an all weekend bands and music event. Tracey told every customer that entered the pub that she'd only had 5 hours sleep all weekend and if customers wanted a pint, they'd have to pour it themselves. It was quite amusing at first, watching the bewildered looks on peoples' faces. But after a while we just wished we were in a normal place with proper service.
To top it all off, Tracey then offered one customer (on his first ever visit to the pub) a free room for the night, if he would do all the cooking that night, so that she could go home.
To my astonishment, the guy actually accepted and went on to cook 11 dishes.
I received a steak and ale pie that came without pastry as he couldn't find any.
Our room was small and very basic for �80.
Fawlty Towers meets Wuthering Heights.
10 May 2010 11:32
What was it like 20 years ago?
You didn't tell me your real name?
30 Apr 2010 16:43
Wetherspoons in general is cheap, tacky and full of tramps and losers.
BUT, asides from The nearby Carpenter's Arms, this is the finest pint of Stella I've been served in a long long time.
I'd also like to defend / congratulate Wetherspoons, as they have a much much larger range of Ciders, than 95% of other UK pubs.
I've had so many trips to lovely Kent and Sussex country pubs ruined, by the fact that they only offer Wrongbow.
29 Apr 2010 13:30
I'm sorry, I know this is my 2nd review in a row of this pub, I swear I don't work for them.
But I just love this place more and more with each visit. As Jonw999 said below, it is like a country pub in Beckenham.
We travel from East Dulwich to visit, walking the dog through Beckenham Golf Course en route past Ravensbourne Station.
Yesterday we paid just �3 each, for freshly cut roast beef sandwiches, that contained more beef than some Sunday Roasts I've paid �12 for ... amazing value AND quality.
Only minor complaint, is that this is the 2nd time they've ran out of bottled Addlestone's Cider, during one of our visits.
Come on now ... get a massive stock pile!
26 Apr 2010 13:52
This was the first pub we tried on our short trip in December 09. We weren't disappointed in this pub, or the other great Cambridge pubs we discovered.
My other favourites being: The Champion of the Thames, The St Radegund, The Free Press, The Live and Let Live and finally ... The Cambridge Blue.
Just like nmckenn 4 April 2010, New Model Army was also blasting out during my visit. Made me feel old, as I hadn't heard it since I was about 19 in 1989.
Agree with all the comments abot how relaxed and friendly it is ... especially the bar staff.
When the barmaid recommended a wheat beer for me, she offered to buy it off me if I didn't like it, because she liked it so much. How often do you encounter service like that.
Lovely little back street boozer.
I'm planning another Summer Cambridge weekend and this pub will certainly get revisited.
Try it.
23 Apr 2010 14:17
I recently read a review on BITE which I thought was just brilliant. It read something like:
"This pub was akin to being inside Liberace's head, whilst he was having a nightmare."
Well, that's exactly how I felt about The Mansion. I think they've tried just a bit too hard. I mean, lampshades over chandeliers ... come on!
The redeeming feature was the Symonds Cider on draught. But, the barman informed us it was off and may not be returning.
I didn't like it, but if you want nice food and are a gastro pub fan, you may well love it.
23 Apr 2010 09:45
Much like The Herne just along the road, a pint of Addlestones cider in either of these pubs will set you back to the tune of �4.
As a result, I won't be going back to either pub.
21 Apr 2010 11:17
The Rye Pub, Dining Room and Garden, Peckham Rye
I'm quite impressed with the prices here.
Whilst the nearby Herne and The Clockhouse are both touching �4 for Addlestones, you can still get Stowford Press at The Rye for I think �3.20.
I used to spread my custom almost equally amongst the 3 pubs, but with those prices I stick to The Rye these days.
Well done Scott The Landlord. Please don't follow those other 2 rip off shops.
20 Apr 2010 16:54
The Telegraph at The Earl of Derby, New Cross
This is a very nice pub indeed.
The actual wooden bar (pretty sure it's original) is one of the smartest I've ever seen in my drinking life.
The pub has wooden floors and is furnished with what looks like church pews / benches, which I think looks fantastic.
It's pretty big inside as the seating area stretches beyond the bar to the rear of the building.
They have Aspall's cider on draught, but for Lager drinkers, they only have 1 Czech Lager, which I'd never heard of.
They have a very decent jukebox, and amazingly it's free. Just punch in whatever tunes you fancy.
The only problem I have with this pub is it's location. I live about half a mile away and never even knew it existed until I cycled past it by chance.
It's just off New Cross Road, but kind of tucked away in a residential area.
As a result, it's always been kind of empty during my 5 or 6 visits, which of course doesn't help atmosphere wise. Although it does seem to attract a mixed and relaxed clientelle.
All in all it's most certainly worth a visit, if you live anywhere near it.
20 Apr 2010 15:41
This is a fantastic dark wood pannelled little pub. Wooden floors and a mixture of wooden tables and chairs with a couple of old armchairs and sofas thrown in. Low wooden beamed ceiling. Real fire.
I didn't actually sample the Veggie Burgers, but I must say, they looked and smelled amazing.
I liked the unusual touch of decorating the walls of the pub in places with Smiths and The Wonderstuff (among others) 12" record album sleeves.
Thatchers Gold and Thatchers Heritage Ciders on draught.
It's a little way out of the city centre, but on the plus side, the other Gardner's Arms and the brilliant Rose and Crown are just around the corner on North Parade.
The only thing I can't understand, is the simply awful photo that has been used for this pub on BITE.
Well worth a visit.
15 Apr 2010 16:02
Loved this pub even though it's a bit of a tourist trap near the main drag.
Similar to the Bear in style/decor (and size, but not shape).
Very quaint, long narrow, single roomed, wood panelled pub. Wooden floors throughout. Low wooden beamed ceilings.
Very cool little raised snug area up a few stairs at the rear of the pub, which could seat about 10.
Very cosy feel to it.
Addlestones Cider at (I think) �3.50 a pint ... not too pricey.
In my opinion, a must visit in Oxford.
8 Apr 2010 14:10
I loved the layout and decor/style of the pub. But, sadly, they only had Strongbow Cider.
7 Apr 2010 16:52
I found this pub a bit bland, lacking character and atmosphere.
I must admit, it was early Saturday afternoon, but I just instantly disliked it.
Having said that, it seems to get glowing reports if you are a real ale fan.
7 Apr 2010 16:42
Very small but cosy 2 roomed wooden panelled pub, with low ceilings and wooden floors.
A real fire in each room, which is a nice touch.
Very atmospheric and the type of pub I expected to find more of in Oxford.
Symonds cider was very nice, if a tiny bit pricey at �3.65. Very friendly Landlord, who on our 3rd visit, held the pint glass under the Cider tap, before I had even asked for it.
One of, if not the best pubs we visited.
7 Apr 2010 16:05
I still like this pub a lot, if visiting during a quieter period.
But during my last 2 daytime weekend visits, nearly every single table (not just in the dining room area) has been reserved for "Diners".
But the final straw for me was a massive 40p jump in price for Addlestones Cider, from �3.50 to �3.90 a pint. I think they just lost me as a semi-regular at those prices.
7 Apr 2010 14:01
Far From the Madding Crowd, Oxford
I picked up a copy of The Oxford Drinker and noticed that this pub won Oxford CAMRA's City Pub of the Year award.
So I suppose it's got to be worth a visit for Ale drinkers.
However, have to agree with Mister X in that the pub is more like a Wetherspoons than a quaint Oxford pub.
I'm more of a cider man and due to the lack of atmosphere in this pub during our crawl, I didn't even bother to have a drink here.
7 Apr 2010 13:51
AVOID STAYING HERE.
We spent 2 nights here, but didn't actually have a drink here, as the bar seemed to lack atmosphere.
The room was very overpriced at �95 per night. We enjoyed a nicer room in a much nicer hotel in Cambridge for �80 per night.
Only enough hot water for one of us to have a shower in the evening. Experienced the same problem the following morning.
No white bread / toast for breakfast ... not just once, but both mornings, which is inexcusable really. No brown sauce either.
You expect more for �95.
7 Apr 2010 11:36
I didn't have any drinks before arriving at your pub. I was expecting wooden flooring as described by Slerpy just 2 weeks before my visit.
Instead I was disappointed to find carpeting that ruins the feel of the pub and cheap laminate flooring in the dining room section.
I must say mate, you have a strange idea about how to advertise your pub. i.e have a go at the customers on BITE.
Think I'll change the high rating I had awarded to The Stand Up, before your little outburst.
31 Mar 2010 09:49
Hard to believe this pub only gets a 4.6 rating (before I've entered my rating).
I didn't get a chance to have a proper look around inside, because my dog chose that moment to start acting up.
However, i did like what I saw. Wooden flooring, an old piano and the place has a real beaten up / lived in feel to it, which I liked.
Friendly barman took time out to give us directions / advice for our walk to Lindfield.
On a negative note, my Stella was pretty lifeless, which was a pity. Only stayed for one pint, so I wouldn't be against a return visit.
29 Mar 2010 12:01
Very traditional single room London corner pub, tucked away just off Holborn, between Chancery Lane and New Fetter Lane.
Wooden floors and dark wood throughout. Lovely huge pained windows.
�3.50 for a pint of Addlestones Cider, which is around the average price.
I liked this pub a lot on first impressions. You could certainly do a lot lot worse in this part of the city.
The only problem I can find with this pub, is it's smallness. The seating consists of one high table, with 4 wooden stools. Then there's 4 stools facing a window (a tad too much like McDonalds / Starbucks.) There's also 3 slightly (and quite nicely) partitioned "stools facing windows" sections, opposite the bar.
Still, it wasn't too busy during my visit on early Thursday evening. Nice level of music and a decent atmosphere.
I certainly wouldn't mind a return visit. Especially since it's part of a very small group of London pubs that sell Addlestones Cider. For any Addlestones fans, the others are The Black Friar (at the amazingly low price of �3.10), The Green Man on Riding House Street and The Hat and Tun. Well, that's the only ones that I have discovered. Please let me know if there are others.
29 Mar 2010 11:10
Nice to find a pub with a large choice of Ciders. Black Rat and Thatchers were both very nice. They also serve Belgian bottled beers, so I was simply forced to test a couple of bottles of Zot ... lovely stuff.
Our dog received a lot of attention from the friendly Bar Staff and locals.
The only dissappointment, was that since "Slepry's" comments on 6 March 2010, the bare wooden floorboards have been totally covered by wall to wall carpeting. Which is a bit of a pub crime really.
Still well worth a visit.
29 Mar 2010 10:09
I instantly loved this pub. Very basic cosy lived in feel to it. Staff and locals all very polite and friendly when we visited around 2pm on a Sunday afternoon.
Chilled Addlestones in 500ml bottles went down very nicely. �3.85, but that's not too bad these days, when you could easily be charged the same or more for horrible Bulmers or Magners. I also sampled a pint of Kronenbourg which was very well served.
Busy enough to create a really lively atmosphere, but we still managed to get a table.
It's very quaint and even has outside toilets, which I felt, just added even more character to the pub.
If you live anywhere near this pub, then you simply MUST try it.
29 Mar 2010 09:38
"I took my family to hardys on st patricks day knowing that is was probably the best public house in south east London to celebrate st patrick day!!!"
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For me, that'sjust one more reason to avoid it!
25 Mar 2010 13:31
Just noticed on my last visit, besides the fantastic Addlestones at a great price, this pub also serves Peroni, Erdinger, Staropramen, Stella and Kronenbourg.
Great choice for the lager drinkers.
Has to be one of the best pubs in London.
Staff always quick and friendly.
18 Mar 2010 11:01
Stunning interior as you can see from the photos.
However, I'd have to agree with beer123 and advise you not to visit this pub after 5:30 on a Friday.
The staff don't seem to care/notice that people are queueing 3 deep at the bar.
After waiting 10 minutes and still not touching the bar, I also gave up and left.
Beautiful bar though, worth a visit if you avoid Fridays.
15 Mar 2010 14:23
Lovely country pub.
I won't go into detail as Trainman has written a six page document on it, 2 comments below mine.
I must say though that our visit was a bit soured by the unfreindly/cold approach of the 2 barmaids. The short plump one was verging on just plain old rude.
Got the impression that it's very much a locals pub, as I noticed the barmaid was much more talkative/smiley with the regulars as we were leaving.
Maybe she was having a bad day, and it wouldn't put me off a return visit.
9 Mar 2010 12:05
Whilst I agree with the previous comments, that the pub is lacking a bit in character/atmosphere, I would add that I've been in far worse pubs with a far higher rating.
It's a much better pub than a 4.7
I'm gonna give it a 7/10 to help boost the rating a little.
9 Mar 2010 11:47
Very nice country pub.
Stopped here for a quick one, before starting a Kemsing Station to Kemsing Village via North Downs Way walk.
Another dog was creating a bit of fuss with non stop high pitched whimpering towards our dog. Sadly this went on for the duration of most of our pint. As a result, never really got a chance to take in the decor/atmosphere of the place.
Enjoyed what little I did see, and would gladly go back for a more relaxed visit.
I didn't see it myself, but my girlfriend told me that the dining room, on the right side of the building looked very very nice.
9 Mar 2010 11:42
The Fox and Hounds, Romney Street
A nice, if somewhat steep and challenging (for a fat bloke) walk from Shoreham train station, to arrive at this lovely country pub.
Nice lived in cosey feel with a roaring fire. More of a dining room feel to it, the further away you get from the fire and the bar, towards the rear of the building.
Very friendly staff. I was a bit flustered on arrival trying to strip off layers of clothes and get the dog settled at the same time. In such a rush, that I left my wallet (containing �90) on top of the bar. I didn't even notice, until the barmaid brought it to our table 10 minutes later. Amazingly decent of her, as she could have just as easily pocketed it.
So a huge thanks from me to her. Girls working there, were alos very keen on our dog.
If you like walking , then this is an excellent pub in which to reward yourself at the end of the walk.
Highly recommended.
9 Mar 2010 11:21
This is my favourite pub in Beech or is it Beck?
Love this pub. Me and my mate ... Bearded Steve, make a point of visiting this pub every year on what some might call a Pilgramage. Others might call it a train.
Every March without fail, it's on with the chunky jumper and wellies, and slap that Travel Scrabble into the rucksack.
On our last visit, the ales were on top form as usual. My two favourites being Portly Jules and Barbour Face.
This pub is also famous for being the pub where they filmed the Lake District pub scenes in the movie Withnail & I.
The barmaid was very friendly, although when I asked her if the Sea Urchin Ceviche was one of the food specials, she simply stared hard at an invisible spot on the floor, as though it somehow contained the answer to a question she had never fully resolved.
A final word about the silly childish rumours that Ivana Trump sometimes drinks in this pub. Anyone with any sense whatsoever, knows that story is total garbage, as Ivana prefers The Rose Tavern on North Brink.
4 Mar 2010 09:18
A pub of 2 halves really.
On entering through an old oak door (very nice), you arrive in a low ceiling bar with wooden floors, which is very cosy and has a great feel to it. In one corner there is a massive fireplace, which sadly wasn't in use.
The other part of the pub consists of a carpeted area, which is a bit souless really and a kind of modern extension/dinning area out back.
If you can get a seat in the wooden floor area, then I would highly recommend a visit to this pub.
Very firendly and polite staff as well.
1 Mar 2010 11:12
Great pub and a lovely building. Think I'll return in the summer when the Beer garden will be a great spot for a few pints.
Very friendly staff who enjoyed playing with our dogs. One of the locals even bought some Pork Scratchings for the dogs.
One tiny drawback, is that for the cider drinker (me) there's only Strongbow or Magners. Although sadly, that seems to be the norm in the vast majority of pubs throughout the land.
22 Feb 2010 11:35
The Sportsman 'Time Well Spent', Mogador
Marc Jones,
Firstly, allow me to praise you for going to the trouble of writing such a lenghty reply. It's obvious from this, that you are very passionate / take great pride in what you are trying to achieve at The Sportsman.
Perhaps I was a tad harsh / rash in my review.
I fully understand that is essential really, if modern pubs are to be successful, that they must offer a high standard of food.
However, I also feel that the most successful pubs have the ability to strike the perfect balance between drinking and dining.
As mentioned in my review, the fact that the same staff member asked us twice, in quick succession, if we wanted to eat, almost made us feel as though we were taking up valuable space by NOT eating.
We made quite an effort to purposefully seek out The Sportsman that day, after reading about it on this website. Travelling by train from Brockley (South London), changing at East Croydon, then trekking through the muck up the steep-faced Reigate Hill. On our arrival, all we wanted was to relax and enjoy a few pints before exercising the dog in the adjacent field.
Having said all that, I would have no hesitation on recommending The Sportsman to friends or indeed returning myself in the Summer, when it must be a beautiful spot to sit outside in the sunshine.
So, no hard feelings and I wish you every success with The Sportsman in the future.
Pat Bateman.
19 Feb 2010 10:55
The Slug and Lettuce, Harpenden
"On other occasions the coffee has been watery and tasteless."
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For crying out loud ... this is BEER In The Evening.
It's bad enough already with 40% of comments bleating on about food all the time.
17 Feb 2010 14:13
Hard to believe that this pub has a higher rating than the superb Blue Peter a few hundred yards away.
16 Feb 2010 09:25
This pub now has an 8.8 rating by 25 users. You need at least 25 ratings to enter the charts.
Hence, it should be straight in at number one on the BITE charts. But it's not there. I've noticed this problem with a few other pubs.
I contacted BITE with this query, but received no reply. Come on now BITE, get it sorted.
15 Feb 2010 10:41
Dissappointed with this pub after reading the glowing reports below.
Visited during the Chelsea v Arsenal match, which admittedly is maybe not the best time to judge a pub.
Just seemed very ordinary to me. Clientele mainly men of various ages watching football and rugby on another screen.
Nothing at all that would make me want to return.
8 Feb 2010 10:36
The Sportsman 'Time Well Spent', Mogador
Lovely pub set in a lovely area in the countryside.
Aspall's cider and Doombar on draught.
Sadly, that's where the positives end.
As is the modern trend (which is quite sad to witness) this pub is set out as 80% restaurant.
There's about 3 sets of tables and chairs near the bar area for proper drinkers. Bench style seats and larger dinning type tables are crammed into what space remains.
Kind of ruins the pub atmosphere, and we were asked twice (by the same member of staff) if we wanted to order food.
If you're part of the nice lunch / nurse one pint for 2 hours brigade, then you'll love this place.
8 Feb 2010 10:18
Stopped in here at the weekend, after narrowly missing my train to London.
I had picked this pub out intentionally, after reading some decent reviews below.
I must say, I was very dissappointed. Very average pub ... loud rugby being screened. No decent cider.
Mr Grumpy says "Amazing, a decent pub in Reigate" ... I would hate to see the rest of the pubs.
8 Feb 2010 09:42
Forgot to mention ... why is this pub listed as New Cross, when it's only about 300 yards away from Nunhead train station??
5 Feb 2010 15:24
Excellent free house, serving Staropramen and hoegaarden on draft. No decent ciders though.
A very high standard of live music most Saturday nights.
Thai restaurant in the beer garden out back serves lovely dishes at a very reasonable price. Worth a visit for the food alone. Sunday roasts don't look very nice though.
Got to be one of the best pubs in the Nunhead/New Cross area.
5 Feb 2010 15:23
"A pie should have shortcrust pastry on top and bottom, not be a casserole with a puff pastry lid. "
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Why should it?
5 Feb 2010 09:40
Hate to be negetive, but think it's only fair to warn you. I will be avoiding this pub at all costs in future.
Only went there out of desperation because we were a bit early for our train.
The place was full of South London "characters" and you get the impression that they have settled in for the duration. The only other customers were 2 nervous/scared looking walkers who looked as if they had wandered into the Blind Beggar by mistake.
Worlds apart from the freindly relaxed atmosphere at The Crown at the other end of the village.
1 Feb 2010 10:03
Excellent, cosy, friendly pub, with a huge beautiful real fire. Best pub in Shoreham by a distance.
Well summed up by this comment by Bromley5:
"Lovely pub, always has a nice atmosphere with a good mix of regulars and walkers."
The old boy behind the bar with the traditional shirt and tie, is an absolute gent and very friendly.
Top marks from me.
1 Feb 2010 09:52
Can't believe the children are crying about not being allowed to use their mobile phones. Grow up for Cliff's sake.
They have this rule in a few Cambridge pubs also and I totally agree with it.
29 Jan 2010 16:10
Can't believe the children are crying about not being allowed to use their mobile phones. Grow up for Cliff's sake.
They have this rule in a few Cambridge pubs also and I totally agree with it.
29 Jan 2010 16:09
Best pub in St Just by a mile and one of my favourite pubs I've ever visited.
We drank there every day of our week long stay and were made to feel like locals by the locals.
Live music (Monday was it ) night was superb ... very busy.
29 Jan 2010 10:14
If you like cider, then this pub is a must visit. Addlestones, Aspalls and Stowford Press on draught as well as several others.
Like Strongers in the previous post, I had no problem with the bar staff and got served pretty quickly, even when the pub was packed.
I'd go back for sure, but maybe not on a Friday evening as by 6:30pm the pub was totally full.
25 Jan 2010 11:42
Have to agree with some of the comments below. I've visited this pub a few times in the past and it was ok.
But at the weekend just past when I visited, there were 2 pretty dodgy looking guys sat at the bar indulging in a fair bit of swearing and staring.
I felt a bit uncomfortable and left after one drink.
Shame, because it's a lovely building in a lovely location.
25 Jan 2010 11:35
The Ship and Shovell, Charing Cross
Brilliant pub.
As the previous post states, you never have much trouble getting served, no matter how busy it gets.
Added bonus of being 1 minute walk to Gordon's Wine Bar, which is equally excellent.
21 Jan 2010 12:13
Fantastic pub. Reminds me very much of the best pubs in Cambridge ... off the beaten track / coal fire / range of Belgian beers / very friendly staff.
Why can't all pubs be like this? I really wish this was my local. Stowford Press on draught as well.
The lady who owns it couldn't have been more friendly. Had a good chat with her and she made us feel so welcome on our first visit.
I don't normally bother that much about cleanliness in pubs, but I must say, everything including the toilets are totally spotless.
Brilliant place.
18 Jan 2010 10:59
"There is another pub across the green called the Man of Kent which does not feature on this site - that one I would steer well clear of as it seems to be home the SE London pikey element."
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You are quite correct.
Mostly Irish-wannabe-Celtic supporting pikeys to boot.
11 Jan 2010 11:33
Addlestones cider on draught which is very rare in Central London. Even better, it's only �3.10 a pint.
7 Jan 2010 15:08
The Greenwich Union, Greenwich
I visited this pub on New Years day, for the first time in 5 years.
Was alarmed to be charged �4.20 for a pint of Aspall's Cider.
When I asked the barmaid why it was so expensive, she informed me that it was the average price for cider in this area of London.
I told her that I'd drank in many places in South East London and the most expensive I'd found was �3.65 for a pint of Addlestones in The Clockhouse on Barry Road.
The strangest thing is that the rest of the drinks in the little drinks menu/book thing are a pretty reasonable price. Can't understand why Aspalls has been singled out to be extortionate.
4 Jan 2010 16:05
Excellent little pub. Makes good use of limited space and a good choice of ciders.
4 Jan 2010 15:55
The Champion of the Thames, Cambridge
This was my favourite pub during my 2 day trip to Cambridge.
Very friendly staff and locals. Stowford Press on draught.
2 coal fires ... brilliant.
It was December 23rd and some of the locals were singing Christmas carols, which made our evening that little bit more enjoyable.
Great pub.
4 Jan 2010 15:53
Gordon's Wine Bar, Charing Cross
Superb if you like wine.
Downstairs is all bare brickwork arches and candlelit tables.
Ideal, if you're looking for somwhere to take a lady friend.
Rioja is about �16 a bottle, which is about the going rate in most London pubs I've been to.
Love this place.
14 Dec 2009 11:34
Excellent pub. Very tastefully decorated.
Went to the folk night (turned out to be more Blues) on Friday 27.11.09 and the guitar man was first class.
Wish I lived a bit closer, as this is a much nicer pub than my local.
Have to say though, it's not really in the best location, but still.
30 Nov 2009 15:50
A surreal, yet fantastic experience.
We visited on a Sunday and the place was packed. Entertainment provided by a blind man playing the keyboards created a nice atmosphere.
This pub has a fantastic layout / decor. A strange mixture of nautical bits and pieces mixed with stuffed animals.
A large selection of Sam Smiths Ales, lagers and ciders available in bottles.
We didn't eat, but the food seemed very popular and looked very nice. �6.50 for a Sunday roast (dessert included) is a quite amazing price these days.
The bar service was a bit slow, but I didn't really mind because the staff are so friendly.
A hidden gem ... I will be back for sure.
Don't be put off by the exterior, as it looks like a total dump.
30 Nov 2009 10:44
Sam Smiths pub.
Best pub on the seafront by a mile, although that's not saying much as the others are shocking.
Usual cheap beer prices for Sam Smith's pub.
I'd avoid the nasty microwaved food though.
Good views of the sea/harbour from the seats by the window.
26 Nov 2009 16:04
locals1
I have to disagree with you on a few points.
Firstly I would have to agree with Mario and say that a lot of the locals have given up on it. Many of them left to start drinking in The Ivyhouse and have not returned. On my last 3 visits to The Waverley, I have been the only customer in the pub.
Also I don't see what's wrong with taking down a dart board in a pub, if you are attempting to take the pub in a different direction. I think he was attempting to tap into the East Dulwich overspill crowd who have moved into Ivydale road. I don't blame him for trying this, as they probably all have cash to burn. Sadly for him, they'd still probably rather drink at the kids club in The Herne or The Rye or somewhere.
You say:
"People like darts, pool, to watch a match"
Just because you enjoy these things, does not mean that everyone does.
Lastly, I think Punch Taverns should realise they DO need someone to change it. After all, the original lease owner (Alan was it?) gave the pub up for a reason. That could only be that the pub wasn't making any money.
Hope this doesn't sound like me having a personal go at you. Good to see the Waverley is still capable of generating a good debate.
ps
Do you still drink there? What's your real name?
13 Nov 2009 11:42
Very friendly locals in this Sam Smith's pub.
We almost felt like locals after visiting every day during our week long stay.
Best pub that Haxby has to offer.
11 Nov 2009 12:23
Loved this place. Very small and cosy ... nice atmosphere.
The food was nice and huge portions.
The homecooked chips were the best I've had in years.
Couple of proper ciders on tap.
Well worth a visit.
11 Nov 2009 12:20
The Blacksmiths Arms, Lastingham
Loved this place. Located in a tiny beautiful village.
Front bar is very small and cosy with a real fire. Nice low beamed ceiling.
Very tasty / large food portions.
If you get a chance check out the historic church directly accross from the pub. Has an ancient crypt downstairs.
27 Oct 2009 12:13
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
Quite simply the finest pint of Stella I've ever been served. Returned a few times just to make sure it wasn't a one off ... and it wasn't. First Class Stella.
I couldn't comment on the Real Ale, as I don't have a beard.
26 Oct 2009 14:05
Firstly, ZOLTAN, where's my e-mail? It's me, Jim from the Waverley
I'm hurt man, I'm hurt. Here's my address again:
[email protected]
Now for the review:
Really liked this pub. Cosy, great selection of beers and a friendly laidback mixed clientele.
The other pubs we walked past in the area looked really rough, so this HAS to be the place to go.
22 Oct 2009 13:33
Much like the Fisherman's Arms in East Looe, this is my idea of a proper pub.
Flagstone floors and wooden beamed low ceilings make for a really nice atmosphere.
This is by far the best of the few pubs in WEST Looe.
I'd strongly recommend popping along on a Thursday (double check that) evening for the Sea Shanty / folk song evening.
Each singer performs a song in the back part of the pub, then it moves onto the next singer.
We had a top night and really loved the Cornish songs, especially after a few ales and Jack Daniels.
5 Oct 2009 16:36
I quite liked this pub and have visited during a few lunchtimes when at work.
I popped round today (5.10.09) and it was locked up.
I asked the barman in the Carpenter's Arms and he informed me that it had closed because they didn't renew the lease.
it's a real pity, especially since it was much cheaper than the Carpenters.
5 Oct 2009 16:11
This is a beautiful pub/building in the most beautiful village I've ever visited.
Very quaint and most of the houses have thatched roofs.
The only thing that lets it down for me, is the lack of choice on the alcohol front.
Lagers were only Kronenbourg or Fosters.
Ciders were only Strongbow on draught or some other sugary bottled job.
Could do with a bit more choice.
28 Sep 2009 10:27
Fantastic views from the beer garden / wooden decking area out back.
Worth visiting this pub for the views alone.
We only stopped for one drink, so don't want to pass comment on the pub as a whole, based on one pint.
28 Sep 2009 10:22
The Fishermans Arms, East Looe
BEST PUB IN LOOE.
A real pub ... wooden beams and flagstone floor.
We went on a Sunday which is the best day to go. Tosh is quite a character and plays requests on his guitar.
At one stage, I'm sure we were the only non-locals in the pub, but were made to feel very welcome.
Doom Bar and Addlestones on draft.
Great little pub ... DO NOT miss it.
14 Aug 2009 15:38
I had very high hopes for this pub and was bitterly dissappointed.
On entering the buidling, a waitress bumped into my girlfriend. My girlfriend apologised (even though it wasn't her fault). The sulky waitress simply shrugged gave us a dirty look and slouched off.
I then ordered drinks and asked for a food menu. The barmaid informed me that they were no longer serving food, even though it was only 1:51pm and several different people in the bar had platefuls of food which they had obviously just received.
Hated the stinking place.
Do yourself a favour and go to the Hay Waggon, which is a much nicer pub about 50 yards away and serves Doombar.
14 Aug 2009 10:47
Things have change so fast and drastically since I wrote my previous review on 3 July 2009.
Sadly the staff I listed below have now given up the lease and left, due to the fact that the pub just wasn't making enough money.
About 2 weeks later, the pub was re-opened by the people who own The Rye. Quite unbelievably, they gave up the pub after just THREE DAYS, due to some disputes with Punch Taverns.
So, even more sadly, at the moment the pub is closed and has been now for about 10 days. Hopefully it will re-open soon. :-(
31 Jul 2009 16:38
Rainbow warrior (see comments below) can't be a real person surely??
Must be a Tim-nice-but-dim p*ss take?
Using words like "Marvellous" and "jog" and "Josh" and "aerobics" and "to die for" and "zoning out"
Funniest review I've ever read.
31 Jul 2009 15:50
My first visit and already one of my favourite pubs ever.
Interior design - FANTASTIC.
Beer Garden - FANTASTIC
Country setting - FANTASTIC
Helpfulness of the young barman - FANTASTIC
Couldn't praise this pub highly enough and for that reason I am awarding a very rare 10 out of 10.
Can't believe other comments claiming it's expensive. It's on a par with most London/Kent/Surrey pubs these days.
I will definitely go back again if I'm in that area.
27 Jul 2009 13:51
Three words ... AVOID AVOID AVOID.
I'm a 39 year old Scotsman and being Scottish, I can't remember ever failing to finish a drink in my life ... until I visited this pub.
My Harveys was so dark and cloudy that you couldn't even see through it. Couldn't be bothered taking it back to complain. My friend's Stella was flat and lifeless and served in a chipped glass.
The beer garden is spoiled by the heavy volume of cars/traffic, but i don't suppose that is any fault of the pub.
If you are driving, then try The Barley Mow in nearby Tandridge, which is fantastic.
27 Jul 2009 13:45
The Little Brown Jug, Chiddingstone Causeway
I really don't understand why people say London is so expensive. The Little Brown Jug is charging �3.70 for a pint of Kronenberg. Don't think I've ever been charged that much in London.
I don't like Kronenberg that much, so thought I'd switch to a bottle of Budvar. Wish I hadn't as this was �3.40 for a 330 ml bottle.
The pub itself is ok, but it did seem to be based more around food. I didn't eat, as I couldn't afford to after the expensive beers.
13 Jul 2009 09:53
The Skimmington Castle, Reigate Heath
I stopped off here after completing the Brockham Green to Reigate Heath walk.
Thought it was a great little pub and very nice/quaint inside. NIce beer garden outside is very peaceful. Addlestones on draught which is always nice to find.
The barman was especially friendly and I followed his advice to the letter:
"Oh well, you've finished your walk, you might as well get p*ssed now"
Also have to toally disagree with the previous comment (by degodier) about the lunches, as I didn't find them pricey at all.
3 Jul 2009 11:32
Under new Management and this pub has definitley changed for the better ... it's even been totally cleaned and painted inside.
Good and varied music.
Huge range of booze. Not many South London pubs have Becks, Staropramen, Stella, Hogarden and Leffe on draught. Oh, and Addlestones cider.
All the staff (Ben, Zoltan and Becky) are very friendly and accomodating.
I live locally and am certainly spending a lot more time in this pub than I did previously.
Highly recommend it ... well worth a few visits.
3 Jul 2009 11:22
Liked the look of this place from the outside.
Located in a very cool part of town.
Sadly, the Harveys was warm and lifeless. Was equally dissappointed when I switched to Addlestones.
On the plus side, very friendly staff.
12 May 2009 14:04
Fantastic pub ... has instantly become one of my favourite places to drink in London.
Tanglefoot on draught, and the HB lager is also very nice.
Good music and nice atmos. Was a huge crowd outside last Friday, but I still got served quickly and there was even tables available inside.
Friendly bar staff especially Sally the manager who is a diamond.
Can't praise it highly enough.
If you like this place, try it's sister pub at Charing Cross ... The Ship and Shovel.
30 Apr 2009 11:26
THIS PUB IS NOW CLOSED!
Took a walk down at lunchtime to double check what the other reviews had said.
Sadly, it was all boarded up.
What a tragidy ... it was a lovely little pub.
26 Mar 2009 13:28
Cool pub. We go most Sunday afternoons. One half of pub has live music ... some weeks keyboard jazz, other weeks a fiddler and guitarist combo. Very chilled out, with a lot of families dining.
At the other end of the pub are people relaxing and reading Sunday papers or watching the football on SKY.
Only pub I've ever been to, that manages to successfully mix live music/live football/Sunday lunches. Strange, but it does work.
Aspall's cider available in 500ml bottles is also very nice. �4, but worth the little bit extra.
9 Dec 2008 10:54
Fantastic pub, couldn't praise it highly enough.
Friendly staff, nice atmosphere, cool music.
We did a Bath pub crawl (just one drink in about 7 pubs) and this was the best.
Although others were brilliant too.
17 Sep 2008 16:13
The Marlborough Head, Marble Arch
The beer is pretty average in this pub, but the food is ok.
I often visit this pub whilst shopping with my daughter on Oxford Street.
There always seems to be the same faces ... too many builders and in particular a plump, ginger skin headed, loud mouthed cockney type.
Avoid him at all costs ... he always stands at the left hand side of the pub right next to the bar.
15 May 2007 16:14
This pub has huge potential and a lovely beer garden. However, the overall experience, is ruined by the following factors:
1. total lack of organisation and communication between the rather unfriendly bar staff. I've been kept waiting to get served at the bar for ages virtually every time I visit this pub.
2. The beer garden is totally overrun by scores of hyper very noisy kids at the weekend and also during the week.
3. the food is over priced. �3 for a bowl of chips, which were served in what could only be described as a small ashtray.
30 Apr 2007 16:40
I live 300 yards from this pub, and have drank there for the past 3 years. It's a bit cliquey at first, but the locals are really friendly after a few visits.
Cosey winter pub with a decent pool table and a friendly staffordshire bull terrier.
Pub quiz on a Tuesday is a good laugh.
This pub has no pretentions ... what you see is what you get.
The free roast potatoes and sausages are delicious on a Sunday afternoon ... even if they are served up by a grumpy Scottish barman.
29 Jan 2007 16:14
The Castle, Sandown
Vastly over rated in my opinion.
I only stayed for about 15 minutes, as the staff made no effort to keep the 2 pub dogs away from my dog.
Two dogs pestering a dog on it's lead ... could have gotten nasty.
12 Oct 2018 09:36