The Grapes, Limehouse

Had a lovely friday evening drink in the sunshine here last night after a day at Canary Wharf. What a refreshing alternative to the dross on offer at that location! It's a great little pub... unspoiled yet tidy, with a very friendly and slightly eccentric crowd of locals gathered and happy to chat. Tim Taylor Landlord and Adnams Bitter were both in pretty decent shape, and a quick drink turned into a long session on the balcony watching the sun go down and the tide go out. Splendid and highly recommended.

6 Apr 2007 08:00

The Bricklayers Arms, Putney

I used to drink here ten years or so ago and back then it was a pretty ordinary local pub. After various makeovers and closures, it's brilliant to see how it has come back. They've given it a really high quality refurbishment without losing its character or that "real pub" feel.

And the beers... I've heard Yorkshiremen tell me that Taylors beers don't travel well, and have had some pretty average pints down south before now, but the range here is extensive, good value, and immaculate. There are some interesting lagers and guest ales on too.

Best of all is the service, and the sheer enthusiasm of the management and the staff. It's obvious how much pride and effort has gone into this place and it makes it a real pleasure to drink in. It's getting increasingly rammed on Fulham matchdays as word spreads.

15 Mar 2007 10:06

Bar t'at, Ilkley

Faultless. I called in on a weekday evening, had a lovely pie and chips with fresh veg on the table within about ten minutes of ordering (�7.50 for a huge portion of really good quality food). An immaculate and wide range of real ales... numerous interesting belgian beers and all sorts of other stuff. Most of the pints were only just over �2. I wish I was local to this place.

25 Nov 2005 17:11