BITE user comments - parkhillian
Comments by parkhillian
The location next to the beach and near to the caravan park/camp site means that to chase the dollar they have decided on a quantity over quality business plan.
As a result, while it serves it's purpose, it has lost any character that it may once have had. While there is nothing shocking about it, there are few, if any, high points.
If you are looking for a proper pub in West Bay, head for The West Bay about 75 yards down the road.
5 Aug 2008 09:14
Not one for the well-heeled clientele. A basic boozer that will appeal to some, not to others. Not to me, I'm afraid. Sorry.
5 Aug 2008 09:09
The girl serving has to be the most proficient bar-person I have ever seen, at one point she was serving four people at once.
Well done her!
11 Jul 2008 11:03
Bigger than you think it's going to be, with a series of small nooks and crannies 'out the back' .
Seems to be caught between two stools somewhat. While it is situated on the green and tries to have a village pub feel, it is also just behind the High Street and tries to cater for the business drinker. Ends up feeling slightly barren and soulless.
Generally it's OK, but I left feeling slightly short-changed, in more ways than one.
11 Jul 2008 11:01
The inside is very well decked out, a pleasant atmosphere for a quiet drink. Well done.
Could do with spending a bit of money "landscaping" the front though. Even just a bit of gravel might make it stop feeling as though you are drinking in the car-park.
23 May 2008 09:43
I'm guessing the drinking area is on the left as you walk in the front door? If so, it seems to be about 40 % of the pub, not the tiny area I was expecting following HHGTTG's review. I agree with the general point that pubs should be mostly for drinkers, but sadly that's not where the money is...
Refurbishments can go either way. In The Derby Arms' instance, it's been done quite well. Tables haven't been shoe-horned in like you get in some places, and as runninghampster aludes, it appears to have successfully removed the unsightly clientele.
Much better than the characterless shell that the Rubbing House has become.
16 May 2008 13:30
Ye Olde Windsor Castle, Bookham
Ye Olde Windsor Castle sums up where the pub trade is taking us. There is nothing necessarily wrong with it. It was quite busy on a Thursday night and all the diners looked happy with their meals.
But that's the problem. Call me old fashioned but I thought restaurants were for people who want a meal, and pubs were for drinkers. As a pub, Ye Olde Windsor Castle misses the mark spectacularly. There is no 'pub' atmosphere at all. All the tables are uniformly arranged for differing sizes of dining parties, there are no stools around the bar for the regulars (which suggests there are no 'regulars' in the traditional sense of the word).
I'm sure many people like this kind of thing. Indeed, I like a pub meal with the best of them. But does the whole place have to be given over to the steak and ale pie brigade? From the outside it looks like a charming country pub. Inside it's a Berni Inn.
Maybe it is better in the summer, when you can sit outside and forget about all the bangers'n'mash being consumed by the old folk within. But the jury's out at the moment.
2 May 2008 10:35
I believe this pub had a "reputation" a few years back. No sign of that on my visit last night. What I found was a decent friendly local.
Neither an uber trendy wine bar, nor an old fashioned roaring-fire and snug-bar public house, it may be a bit bland for some tastes. A middle-of-the road, know what you're getting kind of place. The Bryan Adams of the pub world, if you like.
For a quiet Sunday-night pint or two, it's just what you need.
28 Apr 2008 17:27
Quite impressed with the Foresters, definitely your best bet in Hampton Wick. Barstaff very friendly, the general atmosphere is excellent. Food looked good, may return there for a bite to eat at some point.
28 Apr 2008 17:22
The Park Tavern, Kingston Upon Thames
Situated down a very small backstreet, which makes it quite difficult to find.
Worth searching for, though, as it is the perfect antidote to the High Street 'super-pub' so loved by the unwashed.
A pub that I imagine hasn't changed in thirty years (except for the telly, I guess). Not everyone's cup of tea, but the Real Alers will love it.
Slightly strange marble shelf above the urinals, but you can forgive such small misdemeanours.
14 Dec 2007 10:26
While I imagine the atmosphere on a weekend could be on the fruity side, you can only judge on what you find. And on a quiet November Thursday night, it is a perfectly pleasant pub.
I thought the barstaff were excellent, and they had an impressive big dining table on a raised level, which remained empty all night. On reflection, I wish we'd sat there!
The toilets seemed a very long way away though. Someone could get lost down there and not be discovered for weeks!
27 Nov 2007 18:22
The Yew Tree 'Time well spent', Reigate Hill
The heavy oak-panelling used in the refurb makes the place feel quite small and slightly claustrophobic. However, you can't complain at the intentions of the owners, and by and large they have done a good job. And at last a pub that hasn't forgotten to tart up the loos as well as the bar!
I don't know Reigate at all, but I would imagine there are a lot worse pubs in the area. Worth looking in on.
26 Oct 2007 13:44
For years I've driven past this pub but never ventured in. It always looked a bit shabby from the outside and, quite frankly, that put me off.
Visited last night for the first time, not expecting much. But I was pleasantly surprised. A neat little boozer with friendly staff and customers. Not at all the down-at-heel flea-pit I was expecting. Even the presence of two dart-boards and a pool table - usually things that attract "that crowd" - did not affect the good-natured atmosphere.
Given the state of some of the pubs in Surbiton and Tolworth, The Maypole is well worth searching out.
19 Oct 2007 14:08
Undoubtedly a fantastic location. Watching the sun set over one of the world's most famous racecourses probably can't be topped as a summer drinking experience.
However, as the nights draw in and the vista disappears, the bar area becomes a tardy, tired, cold-feeling wasteland.
The recent(ish) refurb has concentrated on the restaurant (thats where the money is, after all), but the drink-only clientele have been short-changed. Definitely one for the longer-lighted months only.
12 Oct 2007 13:43
Not as nice as the nearby Little Windsor, but it's OK.
Not to be confused with the New Town down the road -which looks particularly frightening- the New Inn does have that back-street local feel; but new customers are tolerated perfectly well, none of that staring-at-you-as-you-walk-in nonsense seen in some less charitable establishments.
Fine for a quiet drink, I wouldn't necessarily book a private function.
8 Oct 2007 08:13
One of, if not the best pub in Carshalton. Clean, modern, and not full of fighting, swearing men. However, to enjoy these privileged environs, you need to take out a second mortgage before you arrive.
28 Sep 2007 12:57
I know what the previous reviewers mean about this place. While it is perfectly reasonable, it could be better. Not quite what a village green pub should be like (but does such a place exist anymore?). A bit too manufactured. And the tables are quite sticky! The garden is nice though, particularly the front, unusually.
7 Sep 2007 09:13
The Inn on the Green, Tadworth
The tables in the restaurant are a little close togerther, but that's a small complaint (especially as they under-charged us! ssh, keep it under your hat)
The reliance on food means the 'pub' area is a little small. If you just want a drink, I would recommend a summer visit as the spaces outside look very pleasant.
In all, not bad. There are certainly several less satisfactory places nearby.
24 Aug 2007 15:45
The Coach and Horses, Sutton Scotney
Popped in for a drink and a bite to eat. Landlord was honest enough to tell us there was a long wait for food, which I admired, so we left after a brief stay. Looked a friendly, well run pub in the short time I was there.
21 Aug 2007 14:49
If you like intelligent conversation in a clean and friendly environment, this is the place for you.
If, however, you are partial to a puke and a punch-up, The Adelaide is not your cup of tea.
Described below as "a really decent pub". This is a correct assessment.
27 Jul 2007 19:46
High Street pubs, particularly those near stations, can have a bit of a "reputation", so I entered with a slight sense of trepidation. I needn't have worried.
Much more spacious than you think when you walk in, a vibrant yet unthreatening atmosphere that a pub aimed at the thirty-somethings upwards should have. Had it's busy periods when you wished an extra bar-person or two was around, but I guess the good pubs all suffer from this.
I'm not a regular Surbiton drinker, so can't comment on the Victoria's place in the Surbiton pub pecking-order, but it's definitely worth visiting if in the area.
13 Jul 2007 11:34
Nice location, pleasant enough, but ruined when a quiz night started which appeared to be just for regulars only (we weren't even asked, maybe we looked too clever!).
Could do worse, but can do much better if you root out Marneys down the road.
19 Jun 2007 17:54
The Cricketers on the Green, Weston Green
This is now Tryst On The Green and is very much a restaurant.
19 Jun 2007 17:51
Marneys Village Inn, Weston Green
I never usually go overboard with praise on this site, but with Marneys I have to make an exception.
This is a wonderful pub. Quiet, unassuming, yet classy. The clientele was varied, from groups of women to a post-training football team, which shows that everyone feels welcome. It's clearly aimed at the 30+ drinker, so there was no hint of trouble. The service was friendly and knowledgable. When the smoking ban comes in it will be almost perfect.
The tables inside are a little too big making it slightly cramped, and the towel dispensers in the toilets are a bit temperamental, but these are very minor gripes. Well Done.
8 Jun 2007 13:14
Rumours Wine Bar, Worcester Park
It's not a pub in the true sense of the word, it look's more like a coffee shop that sells ale instead of coffee. A Beer Shop, if you like. It doesn't have a lot of character, and the staff, while in no way rude, looked like they wanted to be almost anywhere else.
Having said that, it's not unpleasant. And I'm led to believe that in Worcester Park High Street, that is quite a recommendation.
Oddly, the Gents look like they've been taken from a portaloo.
1 Jun 2007 08:44
Certainly nothing wrong with this pub. Well looked after, the front bar area is particularly pleasant. Definitely has no prentions, but it's not the ramshackle affair that you often get with 'traditional' taverns.
Well worth a visit if in the area.
21 May 2007 13:48
This pub is in Cheam village, so while it is a bit more "spit and sawdust" than some other pubs nearby, the reports of marauding swearing, fighting mobs are well wide of the mark. It's all relative.
This is a pub proud of the traditions of the licensing trade, and should be celebrated as such. No, it's not for the gastro-pub lovers, but I think you realise that from the outside.
And as for the comment about not taking children in, well that defies belief. Despite the fact that it really is quite a nice old-fashioned place, I was under the impression that pubs are, broadly speaking, for adults.
11 May 2007 10:50
It isn't cheap, but I can't believe anyone would think it would be, in Cobham, in this day and age.
There is no doubt that they concentrate on food, but not, in my opinion, to the detriment of the drinking clientele. In all, a reasonable pub, and I agree that it would be my local, too, if I lived in the area.
4 May 2007 14:33
I agree that this place has a quirky appeal. People who work in Marketing might call it "olde-worlde", I prefer "traditional".
Sometimes pubs like these can have a tired, scruffy, even shabby look. The Bell isn't quite at this stage but it's one of those places that when you visit in the evening after a busy afternoon service, it has a grubby feel that, while OK for a drink, would put you off eating there. It most certainly doesn't want to be transformed into a trendy gastro pub, but a bit of money and TLC could turn it into a charming old boozer.
All in all, not bad, and not far away from being very good.
27 Apr 2007 13:14
I agree with joeysnail. It's not the best pub in the world, but not the worst either.
Very studenty, but that's not neccessarily a bad thing. And the service is excellent. A little grubby around the edges, but pleasant enough.
20 Apr 2007 11:46
The Park Lodge Hotel, Teddington
Perhaps I'm flying in the face of public opinion here, but I like it. The bar area is a little small for the large seating area, and the service was a little sluggish, but it wasn't worth complaining about.
The decor and atmosphere are pleasant. Yes, it's not a typical "local's pub" but it's not trying to be. I have tried the restaurant and found it quite good. Would definitely return.
Lighten up, I say. It's not that bad, The Park, not that bad at all.
26 Feb 2007 13:16
Visited wholely on the basis of the last review. While generally I can see why people recommend it (the barman was friendly, and in the summer I imagine it's quite idyllic to sit outside) I thought it was fairly run-of-the-mill.
Nice enough, but a little scruffy and basic for my taste. I wouldn't say it was a bad pub at all, just not really what I was expecting, or hoping for. Sorry.
14 Feb 2007 20:06
Agreed that they need to sort out the food seating to drink seating ratio, but all-in-all it's friendly enough. Infinitely better than the Nags Head.
14 Feb 2007 20:01
Nags Head On The Thames, Abingdon
I recently stayed in the hotel opposite. It looked OK from over the river, so popped in early Saturday night for a pre-dinner appetizer.
My wife failed to finish her drink and I couldn't neck mine quickly enough, such was the desire to escape. Chavs to the left of me, chavs by the door, stuck in the Nags Head. Not a pretty sight.
A great disappointment.
14 Feb 2007 19:59
The Lord Palmerston, Carshalton
Affected, ostentatious, showy. The Lord Palmerston is none of these.
An honest, old fashioned public house, with honest, old fashioned regulars to boot. One for the meat raffle brigade rather than the disco dancers.
12 Jan 2007 11:56
The big sofas look comfortable and fit in with the "character", but you can never fit more than 4 people on them, which leaves the rest of us sitting on normal chairs peering down on the settee-ed folk!
However, this is a minor bug-bear. In all, The Telegraph is a real find. Cosy, yet smart, the drink (and food, it appears) are a little hard on the wallet, but generally speaking, you get what you pay for, and I'd rather spend an evening here than at a spit'n'sawdust boozer any day of the week. And it's non-smoking, so your clothes don't stink at the end of the night. A lot of pubs could learn from The Telegraph. Well Done!
(however, the gents could do with a bit of a refurb, I guess the money ran out before they were done?...)
5 Jan 2007 13:44
The Wheatsheaf on the Green, Esher
I imagine in the summer, after a day's racing at Sandown, this pub get's very, very busy. However, a Thursday night in December is a much more tranquil experience.
A quiet, old-fashioned pub that is far enough away from the High Street not to bother competing with the "trendy" establishments. Therefore attracts a mix of customer, from the gnarled regulars at the bar to the jumper-over-the-shoulder brigade. Okay for a drink and a chat, but the roaring fire made an already mild evening quite uncomfortably hot!
15 Dec 2006 10:18
Seems to attract the art-school element, but they're no trouble. This pub has much changed from when I remembered it from my youth, but it remains a pleasant place to have a drink in.
Considering what has happened to Epsom High Street and it's related public houses in the past few years, the Marquis remains an oasis of calm, grown-up drinking. Long may it continue.
A pub to keep quiet about, in case the young idiots from the other end of the High Street spoil it.
24 Nov 2006 16:55
I agree with morchuboo, it is a nice enough place, nothing special.
However, this is a glowing recommendation when you compare it to most of Sutton High Street's other pubs (I use the world 'pubs' here in the loosest possible sense).
If you really are unfortunate enough to find yourself in Sutton on a Friday or Saturday night, then head here. It might just save you from getting robbed/stabbed/the clap.
And as bionicdog alludes, the stairs to the toilet are very steep, and get steeper as the night progresses.
17 Nov 2006 16:24
The pubs in Chessington always used to have a "bit of a reputation", so to speak.
While I'm sure this is still true of some of them (have you been to the Monkey Puzzle recently? A real disappointment), the North Star seems to be bucking the trend. Yes, it does have that identikit feel (a la Ewell's Spring, Ashtead's Woodman, Cheam's Harrow etc), but the staff have a more welcoming attitude that makes it feel more like a local than it looks. I was very impressed with the service.
Beer was fine, food looked OK and the toilets were clean. If unlucky enough to find yourself in Chessington, this is your best bet.
3 Nov 2006 08:46
Friendly service, food wasn't exceptional but serves it's purpose. Clean and tidy, even on a wet October afternoon after what I imagine was a busy half-term lunchtime.
There are definitely worse pubs about. Worth a try after a morning at Monkey World!
1 Nov 2006 15:33
Friendly, if crowded, local boozer on the road between Wadebridge and Padstow. Beer OK, and I have to say the cranberry gravy on the sausage & mash is inspired!
30 Oct 2006 14:01
one for the locals rather than the holiday trade. though friendly enough (no-one seemed to mind when my wife and I enjoyed a vey poor quality game of darts).
not a place for the Islington set, though, they should continue onto Rock.
30 Oct 2006 13:58
returned here last week during a short return trip to Cornwall. The welcome and service continues to be exceptional. Well done all concerned. Definitely worth the effort to find while holidaying in the Padstow area.
30 Oct 2006 13:54
Bright, brash and loud.
Not your real ale-swilling locals kind of place but worth trying considering the alternative over the square is the appalling Yates's.
Could do worse. Can do better.
6 Oct 2006 14:12
If you like a traditional pub atmosphere, or even just a bog-standard local hostelry, then a trip to Yates's will be a truly depressing experience.
However, if you've just taken your electronic tag off and finished serving your latest ASBO, then this will be right up your alley.
One to be avoided unless you are being chased by a angry swarm of wasps and its the only place to hide. And even then I'd think twice.
6 Oct 2006 14:04
Looks classy, if a little dark, and has the potential to be easily the best of Epsom's High Street pubs (although granted it isn't exactly up against stiff competition). Service was quick, and friendly, food looked OK, good range of drinks.
So why spoil it by having a DJ? Why, why, why?
6 Oct 2006 13:59
This website is BEERintheEVENING.com, and I would suggest that this is a nice place to have a quiet drink. I returned last night and saw nothing to change my opinion from my previous review in January.
It's clean and tidy, the staff are friendly, and the no children policy is a real treat. (Why should everybody have to pander to the "family market" anyway? Pubs are for adults, that's why they sell things kids aren't allowed to have) But pea-green painted toilets? Hmmm.
Overall, definitely worth a try.
29 Sep 2006 09:32
The Anchor continues to be an excellent village pub. Well done to all concerned.
22 Sep 2006 09:05
The Coach and Horses, Carshalton
Very unremarkable.
However, the barstaff were very welcoming, salt-of-the-earth types. They deserve a better boozer than this. The big screen showing football was extraordinarily big and seemed a little out of place.
15 Sep 2006 17:34
The Fox and Hounds, Carshalton
Not a great deal of atmosphere, though you get the feeling it could be quite threatening when busy with football on the big screens.
A man's pub, when men talking men's things.
Not great.
15 Sep 2006 17:31
The Gazebo, Kingston Upon Thames
Yes, the beer's cheap, but does price alone make a pub?
Has that spartan, slightly tatty look that gives it the air of a Student Union bar, which in my opinion doesn't do the location justice. However, there are a lot of bars and pubs in the area, and I suppose you need different things for different people. It's just not really my cup of tea.
4 Aug 2006 10:16
It is a real pity that this charming little pub will soon become just another bog-standard Youngs boozer.
Agreed, it probably isn't everyone's cup of tea, and while the choice of beers is something to be admired, it would be nice to have at least one lager than doesn't blow your brains out after the third pint. And the service was deathly slow.
However, variety is the spice of life, and if the Rising Sun submits to the indentikit-pub brigade, it would be a very sad day indeed. Youngs, what are you thinking?
28 Jul 2006 12:03
The Weir Hotel, Walton on Thames
I've said it before and I'll say it again, you can't go far wrong sitting outside a pub by the river with a pint on a summer's evening.
However, The Weir seems to attract an interesting mix of customer. Either the quite posh (coming for the view and the food, which I'm told is quite nice), or the, er, how can I put it, not-so-posh (shirtless oafs chucking themselves in the river). This gives an atmosphere that is strange to say the least, and walking along the dark towpath back to your car feels slightly threatening.
Could do better.
21 Jul 2006 14:28
There is something about sitting by the river on a summer evening enjoying a pint or two that makes it impossible not to have a good time.
Well done to all at The Albany. They've obviously spent money on it and it works. I appreciate the "traditional" pub lovers (ie the dark and dingy back bar brigade) won't like it but I think locations like this deserve a bit of quality. The service was fast and friendly, and they had an interesting array of beers on draught; not a Fosters in sight!
Possibly could be a little empty & soulless on a wet winter evening. But heartily reccomended for the lighter months.
14 Jul 2006 10:17
Agreed, The Mitre isn't cheap, but if you decide to go there, you are hardly expecting a �1-a-pint Working Men's Club, are you? And it's not uber-expensive, either.
In my experience, you generally get what you pay for. There can't be many better locations around London for a balmy summer-evening drink than the riverside decking/patio.
Service was good, staff were friendly and the place was clean and tidy even at the back end of what I guess was a very busy day (a mid-summer Thursday with the Hampton Court Flower Show in full swing over the road).
Yes, the inside looks a bit Hotel-lobby, but that's hardly surprising, is it? And in the winter, when the outside is off-limits, I imagine it does lack atmosphere. But on last night's evidence, I couldn't fault it. Well done.
7 Jul 2006 09:44
The Boaters Inn, Kingston Upon Thames
I realise I am flying in the face of previous contributors but I thought The Boaters was a massive disappointment.
Effectively in the grounds of a public park, it has the air of a zoo-cafeteria. Scruffy, dirty, uncared for, with disinterested staff to match. The loos (particularly the ladies, I am reliably informed) were reminiscent of recreation ground toilets.
The riverside location is great but even that is wasted. Too many outside tables are underneath big trees with no view, as not enough are actually on the river's edge, which I would think is the whole point.
I accept that without a fence, the outside tables and patio area are at the mercy of the local oiks, but there must be something that could be done. Shabbiness is not a sign of character, it is a sign of a lack of care. Won't be back.
30 Jun 2006 08:40
Bishop Out Of Residence, Kingston Upon Thames
I was there on a Friday night. Almost exactly what you would expect of a town centre pub at that time.
Very noisy inside (I don't know why, as surley people who wanted that kind of thing would be in the "club" next door. Note to owners - If you are going for the pub feel as opposed to a bar, please try not to fall into these traps. Be brave and let people talk, they might like it), but the location is great and the outside is nice in good weather. And there are worse places nearby, make no mistake.
Hopefully at other times in the week it does itself justice. The staff were very good and deserve better.
28 Jun 2006 10:23
The Chequers, Walton On The Hill
I had slight misgivings going here because a few years back it had a bit of a reputation. However, the passage of time has been kind.
A series of smaller rooms make it quite cosy for such a large pub. It has a gentle atmosphere that you'd expect of the Stockbroker belt. One to revisit.
However, I have to disagree with the previous comment regarding the staff. The barman, although perfectly amiable, was useless. Sorry.
9 Jun 2006 13:41
Surprisingly dark inside. If ever a pub needed big glass frontage and even a pathside terrace then this is it, as it looks over arguably the best view in London.
The view alone is worth a visit. Recommended.
2 Jun 2006 13:52
I think some of the previous contributors are being a little unkind.
Pubs aren't going to stay the same forever. I visited The Cricketers for the first time recently and thought it was a wonderful quaint little pub. Yes, it wasn't cheap but, in my experience, you generally get what you pay for. Maybe a little twee, but it's clearly a pub that is very well looked after.
It was dark when I was there, but hopefully the green outside does play host to cricket matches, as the pub's name would suggest. If so, then I couldn't think of anywhere better to spend a lazy summer afternoon.
A great antidote to the onward march of the pub-chain.
2 Jun 2006 13:46
The Skimmington Castle, Reigate Heath
Quite difficult to find, particularly if you don't have a map.
Once there, it's pretty nice. A collection of little rooms inside makes it feel much smaller than you'd think on arrival. But if the weather's nice it would probably be a lovely little spot to while away an afternoon over a drink or three.
Even the large amount of canine customers appear to be well behaved.
26 May 2006 09:53
Horton Park Country Club, Ewell
Bar open to the public as part of the Golf Club. Had a really "pubby" feel and good atmosphere a few years back. Has unfortunatunately declined to such a state where on most evenings the local cemetary has more life.
Still OK to sit outside in the summer watching hapless golfers hack up the 18th.
19 May 2006 09:26
You expect a pub in Claygate to be a bit pretentious, even slightly snobby, a la Oxshott. Thankfully this isn't. What you get is a traditional two-bar side-street local, clearly held in some affection by the regulars, even the mean-looking dog is very well behaved. And the girl behind the bar was excellent (serving 3 at a time at one stage, well done!)
One note though. A previous, anonymous, contributor describes the "unspoilt surroundings", which of course actually means "in need of redocoration". I'm all for pubs having character, and, let's face it, we don't all want an Ember Inn on every corner. But surely a lick of paint wouldn't do any harm.
A decent, honest, English pub.
19 May 2006 09:09
The Fox and Grapes, Wimbledon Common
There is nothing necessarily wrong with this pub, but somehow I left disappointed. Mainly because, not being a local, when you see the location on the map, you think it's going to be one of those rambling, open, country-type pubs with a lovely view accross the common. But as far as I could see, there wasn't even a beer garden.
The pub itself is nice enough, and although I didn't eat there, the food did look and smell delicious. The staff were friendly, it was clean and tidy, the atmosphere was nice enough. It just wasn't what I'd expected.
12 May 2006 10:24
Pleasant, if tiny, side-street local, with a cosy little garden area out the back.
Clearly well looked after, it has a gentle charm that the customers seem to respond to, a trait noticeable by it's absence in other Sutton pubs I could mention.
Worth a try.
5 May 2006 09:13
Looks massive from the outside, but as you walk through the front door you almost collide straight into the bar.
A tired looking, shabby round the edges local with tired looking, shabby round the edges regulars sparsely populating both the bar and the larger back room.
Almost completely devoid of atmosphere, which at least means in doesn't have the threatening feel of some of Epsom's town-centre establishments. I wouldn't bother returning unless I found myself directly outside with an unquenching thirst on. You can do better.
28 Apr 2006 14:31
This was my first visit, so cannot comment on the "transformation".
While it is undoubtedly a nice place (tastefully decorated, pleasant service, quite spectacular toilets - hand cream in the Gents, I ask you!), it has clearly been pitched at the Margo Leadbetters of society, all sipping wine and comparing tuition fees.
I don't have a problem with pubs like these, they are infinitely better than the dodging-flying-glasses-and-stepping-over-puking-teenagers-on-the-way-out establishments. And I will go back to try the food, as it looked quite nice. But just a part of me thinks that village pubs should be somewhat quainter affairs.
21 Apr 2006 09:24
Better than it looks from the outside (never trust a pub with a carpark at the front, it suggests you may need to make a quick getaway).
It is very smoky, I didn't notice if it did food but I can't believe you'd want to eat in that environment.
It's not the worst pub in Ewell (congrats to the King William on that score) but it ain't the best either.
23 Jan 2006 13:02
Small one-bar local's pub that has no unique characteristics worth reporting. Appears to be in the early stages of a re-furb, so maybe it should be given another chance in the summer.
23 Jan 2006 12:57
Unpretentious, if a little shabby around the edges. A shame it's not on the other side of the road, next to the river.
Far enough from Kingston and Surbiton to give it a "local" atmosphere. One for the "quiet drink" brigade, i would fancy.
13 Jan 2006 11:28
It's OK this.
Yes, it's in Reigate and therefore it is just what you'd expect from a mid-Surrey pub geared up for the dining market (ie not one for the mods and rockers amongst us). But if catching up with friends for a quiet pint or two is your bag, then this will be right up your alley.
One note of caution: the big array of sofas in the middle of the bar look comfy enough, but they are very, very low. The bigger-boned members of society might never be able to get up.
6 Jan 2006 10:34
An imposing building on the outside gives way to a small old-fashioned one-bar local within.
And it's just what you'd expect a suburban back-street boozer to be like. Quiet, yet friendly, but very red. Its not horrendous, but it's nothing special, the kind of pub that you wouldn't go to for a cracking night out, but you wouldn't mind as your local.
16 Dec 2005 10:27
A pub of two halves, a traditional feel at the front, a more modern bar 'out the back'. I was in the rear, so to speak, and it was quite pricey.
Very busy when I visited, but it was a late-night shopping night two weeks before Christmas, so I only have myself to blame.
May go back one day to try the food, if only to see if it really is as bad as previous contributors say.
12 Dec 2005 16:00
Hogsmill Tavern, Worcester Park
This is a truly poor pub. I don't quite know why, because they location is OK, it's not like it's a town-centre chav palace. But it's awful, and has been left to slowly spiral downhill for years. Whoever has allowed this to happen should be ashamed of themselves.
25 Nov 2005 17:22
The Green Man has now reopened after a sympathetic refit. I wouldn't call it a massive overhaul but it has been given a gentler, calmer feel that hopefully will attract the older, less boisterous crowd. Then, with a bit of luck, the Green Man will regain its rightful place as Ewell best pub.
One note to the owners, though. You might want to put a bit of WD40 on the door, it sticks alarmingly often.
But I implore everyone who thinks The Spring is bland and The King William chav-infested, to give this pub a try. You might like it.
25 Nov 2005 11:07
Yes, there is a fair number of young 'uns in this one, but no undercurrent of binge-drinking and imminent violence that often accompanies the youthful element. But this is Cobham, after all.
Not a bad offering, a fairly bog-standard small backstreet local. Service was a little bit slow but that's a minor gripe. Worth a try if passing.
21 Nov 2005 17:19
Strangely fond memories of this place when it was called The Magpie. But I was young then and didn't have particularly high standards...
Anyway, this place is OK these days. I just feel it's lacking a little in atmosphere. Decent enough but you wouldn't plan a cracking night out there.
11 Nov 2005 20:07
I think people are being a little mean-spirited about this place.
Yes, the colour scheme somehow makes it a little cold character-wise, and the toilets (particularly the stairs leading down to them) have that lack-of-care look that makes you think the money ran out before they could be done. But it's not the worst place to have a drink.
30 Oct 2005 09:06
Another identikit pub from Ember Inns. As soon as you come through the door, you could as well be in The Spring in Ewell or The Harrow in Cheam.
This is all very well if you just want to go down the pub, have a few drinks and catch up with a few old friends.
But if you're one of those people who go out for a drive to look for a charming old country pub for a spot of lunch, then this most certainly isn't for you.
21 Oct 2005 13:31
The Old Kings Head, Hampton Wick
This place doesn't look that inviting from the outside, but you'll be pleasantly surprised. The interior has been very tastefully refurbished.
There is a pool table at the back but unusually this doesn't make the place feel threatening at all. Drinks are a tad expensive but I guess they have to pay for the smart decor somehow. Very clean and tidy, even the toilets are well kept.
Definitely worth trying if nearby.
14 Oct 2005 17:19
Not bad this. A touch on the small side this gives a bustling yet unthreatening atmosphere that is sadly lacking in most of Sutton's other offerings.
Conveniently far enough away from the town centre to be off the radar of the scum that patrol the High Street establishments.
You could do a lot worse than this if you find yourself in the area.
23 Sep 2005 12:04
Not bad this. Definitely better than the Farmers Arms down the road, which felt vaguely threatening.
20 Sep 2005 14:55
It was very busy when we went, though the quality of the food explained it's popularity.
Well run little pub, a little off the beaten track but worth looking for.
20 Sep 2005 14:52
Good food, friendly staff, and if it's warm enough to sit outside you are rewarded with an excellent view across the Cornish countryside.
The interior is a bit on the red side, though. And the pool table gets in the way a bit.
20 Sep 2005 14:49
The Old Custom House Hotel, Padstow
Feels like a chain pub and therefore has a lot less character than others in the town. A good location though.
Its OK, but if in Padstow, you can do better than this.
20 Sep 2005 14:47
If you try to ignore the Chelsea memorabilia behind the bar you'll find an unspoilt, quiet, if very small, local boozer.
Unpretentious, unthreatening, not unpleasant. But not much to it.
Not bad. Not brilliant either.
5 Aug 2005 12:33
Bar Ha Ha, Kingston Upon Thames
I agree with 'weekendboozer', I think people are being a little hard on this place.
Went for the first time last Saturday lunchtime after a particularly arduous shopping spree wallet-wise. The service was pretty good and I can't say the prices struck me as that high.
And lets face it, the location will always make up for most things.
Obviously I can't comment on the "evening crowd", but on this occasion I wasn't diasppointed.
3 Aug 2005 17:14
Nothing wrong with this offering.
Courtyard garden out the back, slightly claustrophobic but nice enough for a town pub.
Interior is very "Youngs", with the usual emphasis on wood. But it's not a bad pub, perfect for a pint after a walk in the park (I would imagine).
29 Jul 2005 09:40
The Wych Elm, Kingston Upon Thames
A pub that's comfortable in it's own skin, this one. An old-fashioned two-bar backstreet local that doesn't try to be anything else.
Like most pubs of this type, it is friendly enough, newcomers eyed with an air of surprise rather than suspicion. Could do with a lick of paint, and the toilets had a bit of a whiff.
While you can't really criticise it, you feel it is a typical real local's pub, and they'd like it kept just how it is.
1 Jul 2005 08:41
ooh, get you stephenb and your sarky comments...
I can only apologise if I'm in a minority that doesn't like a pub so quiet that people on other tables join in your conversation.
But then again, you like the Princess Of Wales in Merton. For heavens sake....
30 Jun 2005 15:15
If you expect Bookham to be a typical Surrey-type village, and therefore expect The Anchor to be a typical village pub, then you won't be disappointed.
A good choice for a summer's evening, and no oiks to boot. Very pleasant.
29 Jun 2005 17:01
The Waggon and Horses, Surbiton
The last comment on this pub was almost a year ago, but is still valid.
A traditonal old-style pub, bigger than you initially think. A large non-smoking section is always a plus, although the toilets are in desperate need of redecoration.
If you are wandering around Surbiton looking for an old-fashioned pub with a friendly atmosphere, this could be your answer.
12 Jun 2005 08:32
Popular High Street local, with a wonderfuuly old-fashioned Saloon Bar-Public Bar system.
Clean, tidy and friendly, just what you'd expect a pub like this to be.
I was in the Saloon, and didn't see any chavs, another bonus. Were they all in the Public bar? And if so, is this what pubs were like in the Fifties?
5 Jun 2005 09:35
The King William IV, Mickleham
A traditional country pub with a large garden. Fantastic views, only slightly spoilt when the sun-umbrellas are up.
Slightly off the beaten track, it's an uphill walk to get there, and then even more steps to get to the Gents!
However, a good example of what a country pub should be like. I imagine it gets quite busy on hot Bank Holiday afternoons.
27 May 2005 13:44
Very small back-street local.
A pub that knows it's place. It's never going to become a chain pub, so sticks to the things it knows best, serving the hardcore of locals decent beer and honest food.
It's never going to win a style award, and the smell of fried food is a little overpowering, but it's pleasant enough if old-fashioned pubs are your bag.
20 May 2005 13:37
A reasonable offering.
Has a traditional feel, a welcoming atmosphere and a good range of beers. The concentration on food makes the front bar area a bit cramped.
A plethora of locals on stools around the bar made it quite difficult to get served initially. They weren't threatening or unfriendly to the newcomer (like you get in some pubs I could mention), it was just a space issue.
Not unpleasant, worth a visit if passing.
6 May 2005 09:47
They concentrate on the foody lunchtime market, and they do it very well. I've never been let down here, one to take an elderly relative to.
29 Apr 2005 16:18
Isn't it amazing what a bit of TLC and a few pounds can do. When I last visited this pub in October 2003 is was a right ropey old dive.
Re-visited last night, and what a difference! This is what a village pub in Surrey should be like. Well done to whoever's responsible.
One piece of advice though, pubs don't have to be pitch black to create a homely atmosphere. A touch more light please! Only a small gripe, though. Recommended.
29 Apr 2005 10:39
Smallish pub on the main Epsom to Ashtead road by Epsom Hospital.
Has some space-management issues that need to be addressed by the management, as the current layout is only good for lonely drinkers and loved-up couples.
Friendly atmosphere though, worth a try.
22 Apr 2005 12:04
Unthreatening, standard Ember Inn. One of Ewell's better pubs, although these days it isn't up against much competition.
Safe and unspectacular, a good bet if you want to catch up with old mates.
11 Apr 2005 20:09
Imposing building that probably attracts a fair passing trade. What they must think of Ewell Village after visiting the Green Man doesn't bear thinking about.
If new to Ewell, try The Star, or The Spring, or The Wheatsheaf. Give yourself a treat by avoiding the Green Man. You deserve better.
29 Mar 2005 17:19
One of those pubs that goes through good periods and bad periods. I went there last week and it seems to be currently on an upwards curve.
Slightly out of the town centre, but this can only add to it's attributes. A positive delight when compared to most of Epsom's other establishments.
Tends to get crowded of a warm summer's evening, but then again the good ones always do.
29 Mar 2005 17:07
The beer garden is nice to sit in on a summer's evening.
However, I agree with "Nick" that it is outrageously over-priced. This is OK for the average Sweater-Tied-Round-The-Neck-Over-A-Checked-Shirt wearing Kingswood resident, but for us mere mortals it is a little galling. A pint of lager here is much the same as one at the Blue Anchor down the road, which is where I'd recommend you go instead.
7 Mar 2005 17:48
This is a poor pub. But it is in a reasonable area, and therefore it defies belief that it should be left to ruin as the chav-palace it undoubtedly is.
It has the potential to be a quaint, friendly quiet local servicing the collection of surrounding suburban roads. But it isn't, and doesn't even try to be.
Sadly, one to be avoided.
21 Feb 2005 19:28
Once upon a time this pub had a magnificent atmosphere, the Thursday Quiz Nights were stuff of local legend. It was a truly great pub. However, all good things and all that... A change of landord, and an influx of "the younger crowd" now leave this once fine establishment as a pale imitation of its former self. One of British Public House History's great shames.
28 Jan 2005 14:33
It may be a chain pub but it has a sort of rustic charm that makes quite a pleasant ambience, it feels warm and friendly. I liked it.
The food looked nice enough, traditional fayre, although I didn't order any as I wasn't hungry...
Not a binge-drinker in sight, which is always a plus. One for the "pint of bitter and glass of white wine for the wife" crowd.
All in all, OK. Worth a return visit.
21 Jan 2005 12:07
Better now than when it was a food-chain pub a few years back (was it a Big Steak? I think so).
It is pleasant enough and the staff were friendly, but the new paint-job leaves it looking a bit cold and a touch lifeless.
It is a great location on the Downs however, and a return visit on a long summer evening is needed for a true review, I fancy.
14 Jan 2005 13:20
This place must have been the best pub ever once, as I thought it was OK when I when I went there last night, and yet previous contributors go on about how its gone downhill.
Its a steady if unspectacular old style boozer. Clean tidy, relatively busy (for a Thursday night in January, anyway) and the staff were perfectly polite and friendly.
I wouldn't necessarily rush back to The Albion, but would quite happily pop in if passing.
7 Jan 2005 11:37
The Worcester Park, Worcester Park
I visited this pub last week for the first time in 15 years. What a transformation. I cannot over-emphasise what a nasty, grotty, frightening place this was in 1989. After witnessing a particularly vicious pub-fight I vowed never to go back, and so it was with a certain amount of trepidation that I made my return.
Now this busy, friendly pub has a range of ages (except the 18-year old brigade, another plus), it is clean, tidy, the staff are friendly, the service prompt, even on a busy pre-Christmas Thursday. Well done to everybody concerned in The Worcester's re-birth.
Must return to try the food, despite TJ's warning below!
28 Dec 2004 11:11
Gordon Bennnett bar + kitchen, Surbiton
One for the thirty-somethings, this. Not bad. Not bad at all. Agreed, more like a wine bar than a pub, which therefore attracts a certain type (they would have been called yuppies in the 80s ; cocktails on a Thursday night in Surbiton. I ask you.) Ignore them and the place is alright.
The layout is quite standard though, how about a few different sized tables, possibly the odd sofa? And though the bar is decorated quite tastefully, the dingy toilets are a mess.
Definitely worth a visit, although possibly not if you're looking for a cloudy pint of Old Peculiar in the Snug.
10 Dec 2004 11:32
Ye Olde Swan Inn, Thames Ditton
Once enjoyed the largest ice-cream ever known to man at this pub. I don't know if that's a good or a bad thing.
An old favourite this, haven't been back recently but would recommend it on past glories. Fantastic location, nice atmosphere. The car park's a bit of a nightmare, though. Best to park down the road and walk.
7 Dec 2004 17:05
This pub has great sentimental value for me from many years ago. A lovely location on the harbour, it had a great friendly atmosphere, many happy memories.
I returned this year and it has become a characterless shadow of it's former self. Its still nice enough, but somehow it's managed to lose almost all of it's individuality. A real pity.
3 Dec 2004 09:44
Surprisingly big for a pub in the middle of nowhere. Nice though, friendly staff, clean and tidy, Coors on tap (my head hurts).
Could do with some piped music however. It was very quiet when we arrived and it felt as if we had to speak in whispers!
Not bad though, must go back one day to try the food.
3 Dec 2004 09:37
The West Bay, West Bay
Easily the best pub in West Bay. Friendly service, clearly well cared for, with a smattering of locals which the other pubs don't have (always look for the pub locals go to when visiting seaside towns, as they usually know best!).
I'm slightly concerned about giving too much praise, in case the great unwashed discover the place. A little gem that needs to be kept as secret as possible for us to enjoy!!
5 Aug 2008 09:17