BITE user comments - manx_888
Comments by manx_888
Very, very, very, very (very) busy pub! Good Wetherspoons conversion of old buildings with standard fayre and ever changing mix of relatively well kept ales. Disappointment is that most of the fresh faced bar staff do not have the knowledge of real ales to help or advise customers, or even pull the correct pint! Very full lunchtimes, evenings and all weekends, you will struggle to get a table. Long queues at bar at these times. Detracts from the enjoyment of the place considerably.
12 Jan 2016 21:15
Great selection of superbly kept real ales at this backstreet boozer located conveniently close to the centre of Dunstable. At least 8 real ales on offer, real cider and perry too. Deceptively large once you get inside, only drawback is that it can get a bit cold when there's not many people in there, so take a coat! Eclectic mix of eccentric locals and beer drinking dogs. Regular watering hole of local CAMRA organisers, well worth a visit.
12 Jan 2016 21:09
The Strathmore Arms, St Pauls Walden
Good quality beer at this pub, also conveniently located by a bus stop so with a little planning you can get the bus from St Albans or Hitchin. However otherwise it is quite remote. Four real ales on pump when we visited, basically furnished with white walls and photos of the local area, upholstered pews and chairs. Large collection of pump clips on the ceiling. Worth a visit for the real ale alone.
16 Dec 2015 13:19
Good real ale pub on a street corner in the heart of Hatfield's picturesque Old Town, very close to the station. Eclectic mix of locals, several alcoves and small rooms lead off the bar. Three real ales on tap when we visited, good craic with the locals, darts league ongoing in another room. Only disappointment was that the toilets were fairly unsanitary, lock on the gents cubicle didn't work, fire extinguisher left inside to prop the door shut!
16 Dec 2015 13:14
Traditional Victorian basic town pub close to Railway Station, several rooms sparsely furnished and with very old looking chairs / stools. Always at least four real ales on handpump and are all kept in superb condition. Very much a drinkers pub, I don't think food is served although nuts and crisps compliment the beer. Ideal to start a crawl as open all day, well recommended.
16 Dec 2015 13:08
Comfortable, friendly and welcoming pub a short wall from Bedford High Street. Convenient for the auction rooms opposite. Three Young's beers and a guest on when we visited. Polite bar staff and good outside area for summer drinking. In response to previous reviews the Three Cups nearby looked rather cliquey, The Castle is a much better bet.
31 Oct 2015 12:34
Good local pub with friendly clientele and staff. Good value food served all day, tasty and good portions. Greene King ales on handpump and good selection of other beverages. One of the better pubs in this area nowadays, comfortable and welcoming for locals and families alike.
25 Oct 2015 18:00
Standard Hungry Horse, big plates, big portions, families in restaurant, some dubious characters in public bar. Close to Thorpe Park so busy around park closing time. Food reasonable, staff friendly, large car park, close to M25 if your looking for a food stop on a long journey. No real ales served so good for a food stop with the family but not of your looking for an evening supping unusual (or any!) real brews.
24 Oct 2015 10:30
Nautical themed pub on Shanklin Esplanade. Several Ringwood beers on tap when I visited which were well kept. Various seating areas, nooks and crannies all furnished with practically any type of sailing / seaside memorabilia you can imagine as well as low beams. Large outside seating area, extensive menu, daily seafood specials and huge portions of good quality food. Staff friendly and quick service (although it was not busy when we visited). Great to take the family to, well worth a visit.
23 Oct 2015 00:17
The Crab and Lobster Tap, Ventnor
Back street pub furnished with an eclectic mix of seating. Well kept beer, Goddards Scrum (a local IOW brew), Timothy Taylor Landlord and Ringwood on when I visited. Food served but menu is fairly short. Several kids were running riot in there when I was there but locals didn't bat an eyelid so this may be a regular practice? Worth a try though.
23 Oct 2015 00:08
Pretty country pub focused on food but also serving a good selection of real ales. Three bars allow access to the bar from three separate rooms. Small river runs through the garden, very picturesque, worth a try.
18 Oct 2015 22:50
Friendly and welcoming pub with a good selection of real ales and tasty food menu. Convenient for ferry and bus station. If you plan to eat there in the evening it's best to book a table, as it can get very busy.
18 Oct 2015 22:38
Large pub located on Newport Quay - a good selection of real ale and well kept. Good variety of food but dark wood interior and subdued lighting means it's virtually impossible to read the menu! Family friendly and waterside seating area, worth a go but avoid the dingy interior!
18 Oct 2015 22:33
Got here early but by 12:30pm all tables inside full, has a pint of Goddards and sat outside in the sun trap garden area - traditional benches are painted green and have faux fur rugs on for comfort. Beer well kept but very much a food pub inside now - the heat was stifling! Quite glad I had to sit outside now!
18 Oct 2015 19:39
Conveniently located Wetherspoons, bus stop outside to deliver all the dole queue scroungers / drunks / smelly old men for their 8am pint of Guinness. Good selection of real ales which are well kept, good food, sadly the usual dubious selection of clientele but overall I would be happy to take the family here unlike a couple of other establishments in the locality.
18 Oct 2015 19:33
Very good range of real ale, however the beer was disappointingly warm on my visit. Scruffy inside with similar dubious looking clientele. Live music consisted of a few guys who sounded very drunk singing in the style of 'a club singer'. Not the sort of place to take the family, surprising it survives right on the front where tourist choice usually defines if a pub survives or not. Maybe they were having a bad day with the beer, maybe not?
18 Oct 2015 18:40
This pub offers good beer which attracts both locals and visitors alike - very convenient for the Hythe Pier Tramway if you come over on the ferry from Southampton. Located in what looks like a former Victorian factory unfortunately it seems to be a victim of it's own success - on our last visit the place was very full with no tables available to sit down and eat and it was too cold to sit outside so sadly they lost our custom on that occasion. However well worth a try if you can get in the door and find a table!
29 Sep 2015 00:13
Well sited Wetherspoons on the quayside with two storey eating and drinking accommodation. Now known as The Quay, standard Wetherspoons interior and food offering. As suggested by previous reviewers there are only four or five real ales on here which is low for a Wetherspoons. Bar staff are friendly and clientele appear to be generally more presentable than the usual dole queue scroungers / drunks / smelly old men etc drinking Guinness at 8am as can be found in many of this chain's establishments.
Well located for a couple of pints to slake one's thirst after a day walking round the particularly dry Brownsea Island - the ferry docks opposite the pub!
29 Sep 2015 00:00
Very well kept beer here at this unprepossessing country pub, I had a few pints of Brains Reverend James which was very well kept and a joy to behold! Superb food, good menu, friendly staff, piping hot food and big portions, but good value. Popular with locals and visitors alike - well established campground to the rear, well worth a visit for both beer and food, superb!
21 Sep 2015 01:27
The Pavilion End, Mansion House
Popped in here for a pint late one Saturday afternoon the first day of the football season. Usual Fullers beers in this sports orientated bar. Seems to pick up some passing trade and popular on week nights with the after work crowd. But better places are in the area.
12 Aug 2015 23:21
Unusual interior, good atmosphere, friendly bar staff who really push the real ale to tourists and locals alike. Good menu and convenient for Blackfriars Station just across the road. Only disappointment was the gents toilet was tiny and had water over the floor. Well worth a visit.
12 Aug 2015 23:11
The Victoria and Albert, Marylebone Station
Used to use this place regularly when commuting through Marylebone back in the day. Was a great place to have a few beers and relax at the end of the day along with other likeminded workers. That was a few years ago but this pub is still a pleasant place to while away some time before a train or to miss the busiest part of the rush hour with a few beers - prices are akin to other London pubs nearby.
13 Jul 2015 15:59
By default this pub has had to be judged along with the greatest of railway station bars and pubs and it has come out pretty well. Good beer range and decent food all served in lofty surroundings. Arrive by train and depart by train - don't drink and drive!
13 Jul 2015 15:54
Unwelcoming exterior hides a friendly welcome at this Greene King estate pub. Standard GK beers on offer, food served, varied clientele focused mainly around pool table. Comfortable interior, regular events and theme nights, bingo and quizzes. Regular watering hole of the Wroughton Silver Band - be careful you don't fall over a tipsy tuba player!
6 Jul 2015 13:42
The Kingsbridge Inn, Bourton on the Water
Marstons pub in pleasant setting next to the River Windrush, good food which was also reasonably priced. Good selection of beers in as well. The foreign barman did however have problems understanding me (I am English, without an accent!) and having to repeat my order several times was tiresome. Given the number of tourists in this small village, perhaps there are benefits in having bi-lingual bar staff?!
1 Jul 2015 08:30
Smaller Wetherspoons located conveniently next to bus stops for the standard Wetherspoons clientele of smelly old men / drunks / dole queue scroungers to access the pub easily to keep up their alcohol intake. Having said that this is quite a friendly pub, not too full of the aforementioned undesirables although maybe I was just there at the right time?! Foot and beer are of reasonable quality, worth an inspection. Contrary to what the websites say, this place closes at 11pm most of the week with a late licence only on Friday and Saturday nights.
26 Jun 2015 08:13
Standard Wetherspoons pub right next to the Bus Station so that the usual smelly old men / unemployed / drunks can fall off the bus and get straight in for their pints at opening time (8am!). Usual Wetherspoons fayre, reasonably cooked and beer well kept. As always though there are many better pubs in the locality!
19 Jun 2015 16:18
Slightly better than it's other Wetherspoons counterpart in town The Pilgrims Progress, probably because that is nearer the bus station and the smelly old men / unemployed / drunks don't like to walk far when they get off the bus. There are still a few characters in here but less so than many Wetherspoons I have been in. The food is standard Wetherspoons fayre and beer quality is good but as with many of these pubs the staffing let the place down - I have stood at the bar for many minutes whilst members of staff mess around / gossip / play on their phones at the other end of the bar oblivious to the fact that customers are waiting. Even a loud cough or clinking glasses together doesn't rouse them from their posting of ironic statuses on Facebook and the like. I have also sat near the kitchen on more than one occasion and heard blazing rows between two or more staff members! So choose your seat carefully! Generally this pub is comfortably busy but you can usually always find a seat. As is often the case though, there are many better pubs in the locality.
19 Jun 2015 16:16
Now closed for the last 18 months, Charlie Wells has removed all signs of ownership. On an awkward roundabout corner, how long before this gets demolished to improve the road?!
19 Jun 2015 16:04
Now closed and demolished, more flats on the way no doubt!!
19 Jun 2015 16:02
Multi level restaurant / pub with a lovely view over Neptune Quay. Different levels connected by stairs - not ideal if you have any mobility problems! Food OK but expensive and beer served in plastic glasses for no obvious reason! Expensive pint in cheap plastic glass, a most odd combination! Beer of reasonable quality but there are many better pubs within a short distance.
19 Jun 2015 15:43
The Balcony Restaurant and Bar, Luton
It's a bit weird walking through a gym to reach this bar! The surroundings are pleasant but the night we were there it was nearly empty but it took pretty much 45 minutes from when we ordered until our food arrived. On speaking to the Manager she pointed out everything was made fresh but despite this the wait was still far too long.
12 Jun 2015 23:16
Recently refurbished with lively clientele in the bar area and a variety of families etc in the restaurant area. If you want food it's an ideal stop off.
12 Jun 2015 23:08
Cheap and cheerful carvery which has become something of a Luton institution over the 50-odd years it has been open. The food is ok most of the time and they now offer breakfast which is reasonable. Sadly the service at the bar can be extremely slow and the place's pleasant surroundings is spoilt by the variety of dodgy characters that drink at the place and smoke / shout in the garden / moat area. If you need a family friendly carvery then it's not bad but don't expect the Ritz!
12 Jun 2015 23:04
Beefeater very pitched toward the food market. Staff generally ok and the bar area still has an area for drinkers - standard beers and half the bar staff don't know how to pour them!
12 Jun 2015 22:54
This pub has now pitched itself towards the food clientele offering a daily carvery. Still some area for drinkers and pub garden in the Summer. Food was ok but the waitress told us we had to go and meet the carvery chef who wanted to say hello?! Whilst this was a nice touch to try and make us feel at home, I found this level of familiarity rather uncomfortable.
12 Jun 2015 22:48
Superb pub catering for locals and visitors alike. Well known locally for it's selection of pies, there are usually at least 4 to choose from and often more. Good choice of well kept real ale, friendly staff and also has a sideline in selling wholesale fruit, veg, meat, cheese and eggs all at very competitive prices. Well worth a visit but don't be disappointed if it's full by the time you get there!
12 Jun 2015 22:40
I was surprised to see that my previous review of this place was 4 years ago! In the interim I have used The Waterend Barn on a number of occasions including my stag do! Overall the place has improved, they seem to have got rid of the smelliest and most repulsive old men and dole queue scroungers and overall the presence of this type of person is now less noticeable. Food quality generally seems good but is not so good at busy times - Saturday afternoons are still a bun fight with tables getting dirty and queueing at the bar. Beer is still of reasonable quality and well priced. My tip to avoid the crowds is to go in the Blenheim Room (right at the far end of the bar) where there are a few Chesterfield chairs and tables for two if you want a more intimate atmosphere. The toilets also seem to have had a makeover which adds to the improvements made here.
10 Jun 2015 18:48
Standard Wetherspoons joint in Corporation Street - always busy, often uncomfortably full, food quality is poor, service is slow. There are never enough bar staff and a wait at the bar is a regular experience. Pavement outside full of smokers, there were a few people smoking 'more than tobacco' when we were there but door staff & the Manager turn a blind eye. Beer quality was ok, but this place could be so much better if they turfed out the druggies and alcoholics and improved the place. But I guess as long as the £££'s keep rolling in the powers that be aren't bothered. So much like every other Wetherspoons then...?!
8 Jun 2015 18:44
This pub has come a long way since the previous reviews in the respect of it's food - the meals we ate there were well cooked, well presented and delicious. Friendly staff who were happy to help, from a beer point of view only Sharps Doombar on handpump thought. This pub is in a rural location and as stated is a great stop off on a country walk or bike ride. The patio is a real sun trap at the side of the building and is a pleasent place to be on a summer's afternoon. Worth a try, also convenient for the Shuttleworth Collection, Swiss Garden and Old Warden Park.
21 May 2015 10:53
The Old Mill, Newton Blossomville
Pleasant back road pub in idyllic village near Turvey, nearby are views over the River Great Ouse and extensive walks. Parking is on the road which I imagine can get busy at times. One main bar area with several real ales on handpump, smaller room up a short flight of steps contains a skittle alley which was in use when we visited by a group of locals. The pub looks like it has been refurbished fairly recently in light and airy colours with one room for drinking and another for food. The menu has a variety of dishes with prices ranging from £8 - £12 for main dishes and some higher than this. Having said that, portion size is very good and the range of ingredients used is extensive. Bar staff were friendly and welcoming. Locals seemed to be genuine and there was a good atmosphere even on a week night. Certainly worth a try.
18 Feb 2015 08:09
The Nags Head, Bishop's Stortford
The exterior and interior of this pub are very much in the Art Deco style throughout - the exterior styling is matched by the interior which is all big curves and brown upholstery (sounds like my ideal woman!). Staff are friendly and the food has a good choice at very reasonable prices. The beer is standard McMullens offerings but these are well kept. It's worth a visit for the interior alone. Can get busy at peak times, so it's advisable to book a table if you definitely want to eat.
23 Jan 2015 17:10
Cavernous former cinema in Art Deco style located on a windy corner near the bus station. Always at least 6-8 real ales on and well kept too. Standard Wetherspoons food menu offering good value, wholesome food. Pub wise Braintree hasn't got a lot to offer so by default this is worth a try. As per normal the low drink prices attract certain members of society but if you can see past this, it's worth a go.
21 Jan 2015 18:20
Street corner pub in the old town, around 6 real ales on and courteous service from the bar staff. The renaming seems to have been done in an attempt to make it trendy and the interior, whilst comfortable seems to be particularly sterile and not very welcoming. 10/10 for beer selection but the interior leaves much to be desired.
20 Jan 2015 20:26
The relatively plain exterior of this former theatre belies the amazing interior which comprises of tables on the stage and stalls area with the circle given over to a recreation of the theatre's audience in its late Victorian heyday. There are plenty of nooks and crannies as well as a fair few quiet snugs which means you can have a meal in peace even when the place is busier. Good value, wholesome food as with most Wetherspoons - over 10 real ales on and in reasonable condition. As with many Wetherspoons although the interior is spectacular it is also a little worn, and as always some of the clientele leave a little to be desired, however the place is big enough to find a seat to avoid any undesirables. Close to the town centre and a good stop off if you want good value food and beer.
19 Jan 2015 14:01
The Moon and Starfish, Clacton On Sea
Well sited Wetherspoons immediately opposite the pier, can get extremely busy in Summer. Always at least one group of pissed locals inside talking about football (doesn't every Wetherspoons have this?!) Standard Wetherspoons fayre, good value and good sized portions. At least 6-8 real ales on and in good condition too. The lighting could be described as 'subdued', others may say 'dinghy'. Slightly tatty interior, good terrace outside facing sea. This pub doesn't have much competition on Clacton front so by default it is recommended! Could be a lot better, could be a lot worse!
18 Jan 2015 17:34
The Ferry Tap, South Queensferry
The unprepossessing pub has a good selection of local beers and variety of whiskies. Locals and tourists mix and enjoy the variety of tasty, homecooked food dishes. Slightly dark interior but this is made up with the warmth of the welcome. Easily accessible by bus from Edinburgh and well worth a visit if you are in the area.
21 Oct 2014 09:02
This pub is a great place for locals and tourists alike but from the outside looks like an unprepossessing end of terrace pub. Off the beaten track but yet easily accessable by local bus services, the pub offers a good range of mainly local ales as well as a daily carvery at bargain prices which appears to be popular with locals. Food is also well priced and tasty with good portions. Pleasant riverside beer garden to rear including small animals for children to pet. Well worth a visit.
21 Oct 2014 08:54
The Lamb Inn, Stoke Goldington
Pre-booked a table to eat here one Friday night with some friends - plenty of parking outside, good selection of unusual real ales and although the menu is not huge, what there is on there is appetising and well cooked whilst still being very reasonably priced. The lounge décor is distinctly un-pubby being decorated in pale blues and cream which takes some getting used to but ultimately is a refreshing change. So many pubs round this area have succumbed to catering soley for day trippers from the new city of Milton Keynes which is not so many miles away. The Lamb is well recommended and I would definitely return here again.
17 Jul 2014 17:42
The Rose & Crown, Bexhill On Sea
Hungry Horse chain outlet, originally a 1930's estate pub. Huge portions, good range of drinks (not so good on real ale) family friendly, always pretty busy, just let down by small car park. If you have mouths to feed on a budget then head for here!
7 May 2014 14:58
Now the initial hype has settled down after the opening of this pub it's perhaps time to look at the real pro's and con's of this pub. It has been built in a relatively industrial area with several big name companies nearby and more developing so no doubt the weekday lunchtime trade is something that has been at the forefront of those responsible for it's building on this site. There is a couple of other pubs relatively close but neither I would say tick all the boxes sought after by the 'out of office' lunchtime eater.
Getting into the car park is a little confusing as it's on a one-way system but once in there it is easy to access the pub with a fair number of disabled parking bays out the front (the 'grey' customer is another customer type this pub has been built for). The interior is an uncomfortable mix of styles and looks like it has been furnished with the leftovers of several other pub builds with a vast collection of different chairs, carpets, flooring, partitions and light fittings. Although some may say it is 'contemporary' I would suggest it is more 'confused'. I could not fault the bar staff on their enthusiasm and helpfulness and the beer quality was very good - I hope this is something that does not fall over time. The menu has some different dishes on it, some that work and some that don't. The carvery is the main focus and although it was enjoyable and reasonably priced overall I have eaten better carveries in the local area.
I have no doubt that this pub will be successful - with the Woodside Industrial Estate so close by, and new developments in the area it will make it's money through office and family eaters. However if you are looking for a proper 'pub' then this is not it.
7 May 2014 13:00
The picturesque village of Uffington is a pleasant stopping off point after visiting local attractions or walking in this area. This pub seems to have carved a niche into the village with both locals and visitors rubbing shoulders in what appeared to be relative harmony. There is now some B&B available with several 'log cabin' style units having been built on part of the car park. Well kept ales (including the pub's own real ale) and tasty food which was good value for money. The chef appears to like doing theme nights, indian, chinese etc which again appeared good value for money. The staff were friendly but also professional - too many times have I seen bar staff larking around with locals and then in the next breath trying to present a professional image to their guests / visitors. The staff here seemed to have cracked both so good luck to them.
7 May 2014 12:42
The Harvester (Ancient Briton), St Albans
A group of 10 of us tried to go in for drinks at 21:55 on a Wednesday night. Was told the bar had already shut and turned us away, although advertised times are until 23:00. Not the first time this has happened. Bar was purely shut for staff convenience as they wanted to go home early. Don't bother with this place.
16 Jan 2014 11:56
The Hartwood Hall Hotel, Chorley
Reasonably smart pub serving food until 10pm, good selection of drinks and food for all the family. Big enough to book part of it for a function if you want one, but still allow regular users in. Friendly and efficient staff, would definitely return when in the area again.
23 Dec 2013 11:16
Malthouse Farm, Whittle-Le-Woods
Entered this pub for a meal after arriving at adjacent Premier Inn one Friday night. We were rudely told that the Chef had said he would not serve any more meals that night, even though it was still within their food serving times. Considering it appeared to be a food based pub I found this disappointing. Also they had a disco on that nobody appeared to be listening to. There are plenty better establishments nearby, if I returned to the Premier Inn I would eat elsewhere.
23 Dec 2013 11:09
The Bell Hotel and Inn, Woburn
Had a Christmas meal here recently. Disappointing standard GK beers on offer and generally unhelpful staff, food cold when it was brought out, supposedly 'mini veg' (mini parsnip, mini carrots etc) were poor quality and badly cooked. Service slow. Bar area complete with local toffs talking about the state of the economy etc. Car park small and awkward to manouvoure in when busy. Best bet is to go and park in the Bell Hotel car park opposite. Probably wouldn't bother coming back here.
23 Dec 2013 11:01
Mr Thomas' Chop House, Manchester
Well kept beer but at a premium price and it's unlikely you will be able to sit down unless you are having a meal, also very expensive. Certainly an interesting building and interior with a history but don't expect to have any change when you come out!
23 Dec 2013 10:49
Suburban Wetherspoons in uninspiring building populated by the usual Wetherspoons types. Clearly opened to tap into the local student market from University of Manchester. Good value food as is usual with these places. Generally clean and tidy and a good range of beers on. Convenient for breakfast if your staying in the hotel nearby, and cheaper!
23 Dec 2013 10:37
Food orientated establishment but beer of a reasonable quality. Had a couple of decent pints of Tribute here along with an Xmas meal. Generally good but some seating areas can be a little draughty if you are near the old mill equipment. Some areas have low ceilings.
23 Dec 2013 10:10
This place has been opened and closed a couple of times during 2013 and has had several landlords in quick succession - although it was completely redecorated it seems to have struggled with poor food quality and staff apathy. On my last visit since the latest new landlord the food took around 45 minutes to be served (although the pub was not busy). I had the fish and chips which were dry and gave me stomach pains. One of my friends had a burger which although had taken 45 minutes to arrive was still raw inside! The staff didn't seem bothered by this though. Soft drinks had a funny taste to them - I only realised when I went to the bar that the staff were using a mixing bowl as an ice bucket! So this seems to be where the odd taste came from! Still seems fairly busy though, but I would probably not return here againnow - it was better when it was run down and a proper 'local' rather than trying to keep up with the 'Oxford set'...
20 Nov 2013 08:13
Presumptive reviews on this site make me laugh, especially when months later they are shown to be untrue...it's Feb 2013 and The Cock at Broom is still open...
The White Horse is now predominantly a food pub, and what's so wrong with that when the food is as good as what is on offer there? Piping hot, locally produced, home-made food and service with a smile is the name of the day here now. The menu isn't huge but the Landlord is aiming to have a small selection of well produced meals rather than a menu that tries to cater for everyone's tastes. This place is aiming for the middle class food trade from nearby towns such as Biggleswade and Bedford and it has certainly made a head start at this. I would certainly recommend this pub as a great place for both couples and groups to head if they want good food in pleasant surroundings. Worth going out of your way for.
13 Feb 2013 11:24
This pub is in the old part of Lincoln near the cathedral. Uninspiring beer choice (Abbott, Black Sheep etc) but relatively pleasant and down to earth surroundings to spend time at in this predominantly tourist area. Visited later in the evening on a weekday so was fairly empty and food had finished, so could not comment on this aspect.
31 Jan 2013 17:59
You can easily pass by this pub as the front looks like another shop, and the sign is quite high up. Once inside it is furnished in a slightly clinical style which gives it an odd atmosphere. Upstairs lounge is pleasant but steep stairs make carrying drinks a mission! One thing that always makes me laugh in Sam Smiths pubs (this is not a criticism of this pub alone) is the 70's style taps and pumps on the bars. This gives the whole bar area a dated feel in my opinion. However beer quality ok and a pleasant fire in the winter months.
31 Jan 2013 16:57
Used to go here with my Nan for limp Sunday roast in the company of many other old people and their Grandchildren. I think this rural pub on the B-road midway between Beccles and Bungay struggled to attract custom outside of the peak season and closed some time ago. Now converted to a tea room and apparently doing a roaring trade!
10 Jan 2013 17:53
The Chimney Corner, Kempston Hardwick
Just reopened after several years of closure, appears to have had partial refurb and advertising food / real ale. On busy B-road from Ampthill to Bedford and close to new BCA Car Auctions site so perhaps new licencees feel this is a potential market? Unfortunately rest of the surroundings are pretty grim but hopefully this will not detract people from giving it a try.
24 Dec 2012 10:39
Formerly The Clarence but renamed 'Eurobar' in order to try and attract trade from the Bedford College nextdoor. Traditional looking decor which would appear to be left over from it's previous incarnation and not in keeping with it's current name. Always appears empty but must attract some clientele as it's still open at a time when many failing pubs are quickly closing.
24 Dec 2012 10:34
Passed this place last night and was surprised to see a riotous party spilling out onto the street at 19:45 at night! Guess the drinkers had started early! Have visited a couple of times over the last year and always found the place to be pretty much deserted even at supposedly 'busy' times of the day / week.
24 Dec 2012 09:49
High prices, dubious decor, focus is on food and cold lagers and not real ale (ok, I appreciate not everyone is into real ale!). Plenty of better establishments within the City. Toilets regularly flooded (both ladies and gents). Waiting staff appear to become forgetful when there's more than a handful of people in there, require constant prompting for things like cutlery, salt etc. Handy central location though.
24 Dec 2012 09:38
Reasonable real ale pub near Police Station in Dunstable, single bar, football shown. Beer quality reasonable. Can get very busy on Friday and Saturday nights, full of locals, which can be a bit awkward when trying to get a table.
24 Dec 2012 09:30
The Strathmore Arms, St Pauls Walden
Semi-open plan rural wayside pub in this small village between Kimpton and Hitchin. Welcoming, laid back staff, beer is well kept and top quality, like nectar! Ever changing real ale selection exhibits all the hallmarks of excellent cellarmanship. Highly recommended for it's beer quality and unfussy atmosphere. Large collection of pump clips on the ceiling and beer memorabilia. Well done to the Landlord and staff here for creating an excellent public house and long may it continue - CAMRA North Herts Pub of the Year on several occasions.
Can only be accessed by car / taxi or infrequent bus service - why not get some friends along, the cab fare is cheaper if you share! However the extra effort will be well worth it to visit this top class establishment.
24 Dec 2012 09:19
Plain locals pub set back behind a brick wall, looks quite drab and unwelcoming from the exterior, no sign outside making it look closed! Friendly enough landlord, staff and locals but some can be a bit rowdy at times. Beer is reasonably kept Sam Smith's offerings at bargain prices. No food served. Children not welcome. Pleasant enough interior with real fire, no music so conversation is king! Check it out if you are passing by.
26 Nov 2012 14:23
Fairly standard Crown Carveries offering with a limited but competitively priced menu based around the carvery meal and associated 'as much as you can eat' veg. Service is basic but reasonable although the food can be a little lukewarm / dried at certain times of the day when patronage is low. Wide range of clientele but mainly based around families and older couples. However good value food for all comers.
26 Nov 2012 12:14
Recently reopened after a supposed 'extensive' refurbishment although I could not see a great deal of difference when I went in. Food choice was average even though it was a 'new menu'. Beer quality indifferent. Staff poor, our waitress forgot to bring us the water and sauces that we requested but instead spent her time chatting to the barman and steadfastly ignoring customers around her needing service.
Overall - couldn't really notice any difference following the refurbishment, slow and poor service does not do this pub any favours as well as an uncomfortable atmosphere.
26 Nov 2012 11:20
The Blacksmiths Arms, Wakefield
Fairly full on our visit on a Friday evening. Marston's Pedigree beer was acceptable and a good selection of specials on the Menu. However service was poor, we had to ask for cutlery and napkins as our food arrived and then the waitress disappeared! Unsure how we were meant to eat!
Fairly standard food based pub suitable for families.
26 Nov 2012 09:06
Standard modern JDW house built to cater almost soley for the student community around Brayford Wharf. Visited on a Sunday evening and the place was messy and unkempt - glasses and plates left on tables - slow service at the bar by staff who looked tired and jaded. Food (burgers) were flaccid and unappetising, the limited helping of salad looked like it had seen better days!
The place was quite full with student drinkers but I would suggest for food you try one of the other eateries in the area unless you are on a tight budget.
26 Nov 2012 08:26
Spent a Saturday night here a few weeks ago. Beer quality and range good, friendly barman, just unfortunate this pub seems a victim of it's own success - the place was heaving with people and we struggled to get to the bar or round to the toilets without pushing past people - I think you need to get in early to guarantee a table!
18 Jun 2012 19:40
On the ale front this offers a couple of real ales which seem to be kept fairly well. However the place is aiming for the food market and is furnished as such. Serves food until 10pm (most other pubs in the locality finish at 8pm) and is advertised as such outside, however my partner received brusque service from the barman when we ordered main course food at 9:15pm ("...you CAN'T have desserts, because the kitchen will be CLOSED by then...") as it was we weren't planning on desserts but he didn't know that, so why the arrogance? Sadly this guy's attitude spoilt the place for me so it's getting a bad review. The food we had was ok though.
18 Jun 2012 19:11
This is a hotel bar offering overpriced bar meals (connected to a hotel restaurant offering overpriced food). Only one ale on when I went in and it tasted old and like it had gone off. Even the fizz didn't taste great! I would suggest heading across the road to the Red Lion.
18 Jun 2012 19:03
Reasonable pub, formerly known as the Bunch of Cherries. Normally pretty full whatever time of the day or day of the week you go in there. Beer is ok but nothing to write home about. Comfortable interior though. Other reviews on here mention the pub quiz, but for us non-quizzers my main point is that the speakers' volume is often up too loud which is off-putting and makes it difficult for those not participating in the quiz to continue their conversations. This is the case in many pubs with quiz nights, but I particularly noted it here.
9 Dec 2011 15:40
@fetchman - the poster above you 'trolley' has answered your question regarding the unpleasent smells at the King Harry, in the years I was going there (2005 - 09) the toilets blocked up at least twice a year by my memory, and for long periods of time. One of my drinking friends who runs a professional plumbing business offered to sort it out but was ignored, lo and behold we went the following week and the toilets were still out of order! So to 'fetchman' and 'trolley' - it's not like the management didn't know about the plumbing issues before your visits!
9 Dec 2011 15:30
Glad to see this place has changed back to being the White Swan from it's previous incarnation which was frankly p*sspoor. Good luck to all concerned. Will try it out next time I'm passing!
9 Dec 2011 15:13
Beautiful old building in the heart of St Albans - convenient for shopping, Council offices, Law Courts, the Alban Arena (theatre) etc. Sadly though, bog standard Lloyds / Wetherspoons pub otherwise, beer quality ok, standard food, opens early so occasional undesirable customers / unemployed / smelly old men drinking Guinness at 10am. I was approached by a weirdo in there asking to take a photograph of my beard (I kid you not!). Ok if you want a cheap meal or you have kids with you, but otherwise plenty of better pubs within easy walking distance in this real ale city (the birthplace of CAMRA).
9 Dec 2011 15:09
The Pilgrims Progress, Bedford
Good selection of reasonably well kept beers available here, plus of course Wetherspoons food which fills a hole for a reasonable price, but don't expect a-la-carte though! Pub is huge, lacks atmosphere and is often understaffed (or is staffed by persons not capable of doing their job well) opens at 9am and does a steady trade consisting of the unemployed and smelly old men drinking Guinness for breakfast. Dining area is slightly better and popular with young mothers for coffee and pensioners for the cheap food. Close to bus and rail stations. Sadly it's in the a*se-end of town and seems to attract a fair bit of it's clientele from here. If your passing, it's ok, but there are better pubs not too far away.
9 Dec 2011 14:41
Interesting selection of well kept ales and friendly enough place where you can normally get a seat even on Fri / Sat evenings. Quite a number of bikers in last time we were there. However rather disappointingly while us and a number of other tables nearby were enjoying conversations the music was turned up to a level whereby it was difficult to continue our talking and eventually lead us to leave. I would hope to think this is not a regular occurrence!
9 Dec 2011 14:30
Although this is a Greene King house (normally I wouldn't be seen dead in a GK pub!) the beer is well kept and so is relatively palatable compared to GK I have drunk elsewhere. Beer is served straight from the barrel in the cellar and if you want some privacy the pub's selection of small partitioned rooms (some with only two tables in) allows good conversation to be had. Features one of the few skittles alleys still remaining in the area. Only negative point was that when we were there the locals were getting pretty rowdy which detracted somewhat from our enjoyment of the place, but other than that, it's ok.
9 Dec 2011 14:20
The Cock and Woolpack, City Of London
Small but clean Shepherd Neame pub hidden away in the heart of the City. Bar staff friendly and beer in good condition plus reasonably priced for London prices. Food only available at lunchtimes. Relatively busy early evenings but tails off later on. Convenient for the Underground so why not pop in for a few pints to avoid the rush hour?
9 Dec 2011 14:10
Passed here while on business in the area and found this pleasant village pub for a good lunch. Weekday lunch menu was interesting but not overpriced, good selection of food, real ale very well kept on several handpumps and two barrels behind the bar, landlord smartly dressed and helpful. Small but comfortable looking children's area to one side. Only a few miles from the A10 / A505 and Royston - take a detour and try this one, it's worth it.
9 Dec 2011 13:59
The Liberty Bounds, Tower Hill
Good selection of real ales but lager is expensive here. There is a bar upstairs but be warned, it does not offer the full range of beers that the downstairs bar does, eg Kronenbourg is not available upstairs. Seems quite busy at all times, food was disappointing though, our order came out cold and had to be sent back although the serving staff were decent enough about the whole thing. When the food came back it was still not that warm, and the chips tasted like they had been hanging around for ages. A pity really, as normally I like Wetherspoons pubs.
16 Jun 2011 10:51
Down to earth pub offering well kept beer and good quality and well priced home cooked food. It does appear a little run down in places but this is countered by the good beer and food. Useful and cheap to hire function room upstairs which hosts a variety of local clubs etc. Seems to have a varied clientele but is not so overly locals / students that you would feel out of place. A couple of screens in the bar area but volume was not so high that you could not have a conversation. Not a bad place and good beer and food give it a higher score in my book.
25 Apr 2011 11:23
Have drunk here regularly with a group of friends for a while now. A good selection of real ales and real cider / perry which has been welcomed by some of my colleagues. Always busy and the food looks good although I've never tried it. Can be a bit noisy when the darts team are playing at home. It is certainly one of the better pubs in St Michaels village. Having read previous posts though I agree that one of the barstaff can be a little brusque on occasions although this does not detract from the overall appeal of the pub.
11 Apr 2011 13:23
Fairly standard Fullers tied house which is often fairly quiet, I have occasionally taken a book here and read for a couple of hours. Boasts a pub car park which many in this area cannot. Beer quality is good but expensive. Have not tried the food so cannot comment on this aspect of the place.
11 Apr 2011 13:17
I used to drink here regularly with a group of friends who are all professional people who enjoy good conversation and good beer. It was convenient for the directions we were coming from and for a while seemed fairly welcoming. It's selection of continental beers was unrivalled in the local area and we enjoyed the variety.
Latterly the bar staff became unwelcoming and frankly downright rude towards us. We started guessing what insults we would get when we went in there. Prices went sky high and the menu became pretentious and overblown for the type of pub it is. The tables became dirty and empty glasses were not cleared away (except at closing time when you were marched outside to finish your drink as soon as your time was up). Beer quality went downhill and some were often not available. The supposed 'guest' real ale was the same for about 2 months. I didn't dare try it as it had no doubt been standing for so long. Finally we have abandoned this place and put our money towards a real local pub not one that has ideas above it's station.
I would not recommend this place unless you enjoy getting abuse from the scruffy and unkempt barstaff.
11 Apr 2011 13:12
This place used to be terrible but has improved a lot over the past few years. Still a few locals in there who can occasionally be a bit obnoxious but for the most part it is generally friendly. There is generally at least one real ale on but quality can be variable, a friend has had to leave his beer on more than one occasion and even the lemonade was found to be undrinkable one evening! Bar staff are generally friendly but a brusque manner can occasionally be found especially later in the evening. Was in one Friday when a live band was on, it was too loud for normal conversation and in looking round the pub, virtually nobody appeared to be listening! If you are in the area looking for a drink then it is worth a visit, but I wouldn't travel too far to go there.
11 Apr 2011 12:52
Popular pub that is always full on football nights, sometimes too full as you can't get to the bar or if you can, the bar staff are chatting with locals and it can be difficult to attract their attention, especially if you are in the seperate lounge bar which is linked to the public bar by several steps. Beer quality is generally good though for what it is (I am no fan of Wells beers though) and I am told the food is pleasent although I haven't tried it myself. They used to have car parking opposite but this has now been sold for housing. There is a quiz night Tuesdays which is well patronised although the bar staff sometimes struggle with understanding or pronouncing the questions which can make things difficult when you are trying to work out the answer!
11 Apr 2011 12:45
Unpreposessing pub convenient for railway station and town centre. Doesn't look much from the outside and interior is painted a rather odd green colour but the beer is what you are there for! Normally three or four real ales on offer with an ever changing list of what's coming up. The landlord prides himself on the quality of his beer and normally only orders one barrel of each so once it's gone, it's gone! Has been South Beds CAMRA pub of the year a number of times and deservedly so. The licencees work hard to keep their beer well and a decent class of customer. Louts / loudmouths are generally made unwelcome. This is one of the few pubs in the area where although there is a core of locals who use the place regularly, I have never felt that there is any sort of cliquey atmosphere, even when I have been in there alone I have always felt welcome and have ended up having a chat with someone. Beer garden is good for the summer and this is one of the few town centre pubs that can offer this facility. Also has a late licence on certain days so you can enjoy your real ale long into the night!
11 Apr 2011 12:29
Happened upon this pub whilst out for a drive, was not impressed! Was not able to get into the carpark due to a group of men who were standing in the entrance drinking and who would not move out of the way. Couldn't park outside due to it being blocked up with white Transits. Entered the pub and was confronted by a number of dubious characters, the interior is very run down and unpleasent. Beer (Tring Brewery) was acceptable. Benches outside are in a pleasent peaceful location but this was spoilt by young men messing around on trial bikes along the lane outside and other drinkers staggering out of the pub trying to light cigarettes, shouting, talking loudly on 'phones etc.
Overall this place was unwelcoming and not very nice. I know a landlord can't really choose his clientele but judging by the other comments here it would seem to have been like this for some time. Don't think I'll bother making the journey to go there again.
10 Apr 2011 20:48
The Skinners Arms, Kings Cross
Street corner boozer close to Kings Cross and St Pancras stations, popular with commuters in the early evenings and tourists at all times of the day. Reasonable food and a good selection of real ales, better than most in this area.
6 Apr 2016 17:48