BITE user comments - pick_e_tippler
Comments by pick_e_tippler
A very nice pub - excellent beer quality (Lord Marples -top notch)
Food minimal and pricey......but time of year perhaps and not the end of the world.
Staff very pleasant and knowledgeable.
Decor and furnishings modern but comfortable
A great starting point for a seven pub beer walk......hope to return again one day.
29 Dec 2012 11:02
Small but cosy pub.
Shepherd Neame not my favourite beer (Little too hoppy) but a good pint nonetheless
29 Dec 2012 10:54
The Horse and Groom, Belgravia
Perfect little pub, tucked away.
Warm welcome and good beer.
29 Dec 2012 10:49
Welcoming, good beer and pleasant atmosphere
One to return to.
29 Dec 2012 10:45
A disappointing visit - only 1 beer (London Pride which was good however)
Seemingly uninterested staff but maybe just fed up having to be negative on the available selection
Fish and chips ordered and paid for never arrived - got money back and left.
This was one of seven pubs visited on an afternoons beer walk with 9 others and sorry to say it was the most unreceptive of the lot.
Pub in general was interesting and tucked away in a lovely setting
I wouldn't write it off a circuit completely.
29 Dec 2012 10:42
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
Continued quality of beer
Great pub atmosphere
Tasty pork pie nibbles.
An oasis in the area
15 Dec 2012 09:54
This pub just goes from strength to strength.
The versatility of the catering coupled with the quality of the beer makes this the best pub in the village.
Regular local live music sessions always popular.
This is both a community pub as well as a welcoming hostelry to newcomers and passing strangers alike.
Aston Clinton is very lucky to have such a pub in its midst.
15 Dec 2012 09:50
Oakfest "the big one" being advertised
August bank holiday weekend Sat & Sun 25th / 26th
Numerous beers and ciders lined up plus live music
All previous Oakfest events have been great, family friendly, both in the enormous pub garden as well as a marquee and the pub itself.
15 Aug 2012 18:30
Attended the 2012 Oakfest June 4th
Numerous ciders (12-15)
Fullers Hope and Glory and Summer Ale (plus all usiual ales)
Hog roast, BBQ, chilli
All supported by an afternoon of live music.
What a great pub..........
Family friendly.
5 Jun 2012 18:43
The Layer Fox, Layer de la Haye
Enjoyed a number of pints of Red Fox (Coggeshal) Bitter and Fools Gold. - pretty good........ if possibly a little cold (but that's mainly personal taste)
Evening meal OK - typical pub grub
A definite locals pub, community oriented with friendly atmosphere
Small deli counter and cash machine !
Very good B&B faciities, with very acceptable full english breakfast (no toileteries in bathroom - not a proble for us, we had our own).
Worth a visit if passing or needing a B&B in the area.
16 Apr 2012 17:04
The Russell Arms, Butlers Cross
Good luck to the new owners (the residents of Butlers Cross). I hope all goes well.
I would also expect to see a vast improvement, making it worth calling in again.
10 Apr 2012 18:36
With summer on the way, lots of sunshine...this pub takes on a whole new dimension with its great garden.
Beer remains top notch
Food superb quality and value
2 Apr 2012 08:10
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
A return visit and very pleased I did.
Very nice pub
Good atmosphere
Trumans Runner....well kept.....very nice
Selection of about 6 ales
If in the area, well worth a visit.
No food.....that I could see, so don't expect to eat.
14 Mar 2012 04:17
The Carpenters Arms, Marble Arch
Tried for the first time, very quick beer - nice watering hole. Half a dozen ales.
Need to go back to try properly.
13 Feb 2012 22:05
Called in to see how it is going.
Pub a little quiet, but beer was coming out well.
Barman was showing an interest in the beer and quiet friendly.
Selection good.....to many to list, but prices have been increased.
Vale best was �2.75......very good.
New micro brewery and shop out the back........a very nice addition.
Interesting selection of bottled beers.
Maybe time to put back on the radar......
7 Jan 2012 22:01
As previously said a little cramped.
Beers (youngs) was top notch.
Assumed as locals we friendly with general smiles etc on entering.
Overall quite a pleasant pub and worth visiting if in the area.
31 Dec 2011 10:41
Pleasant enough pub - beer ok
Not too impressed with the bar snacks - strange after taste
Decor relatively modern - lots of tables for eating.
31 Dec 2011 10:38
Pleasant enough pub, nice welcome.
Deuchars in good condition.
Snacks ok
31 Dec 2011 10:33
The Clifton Hotel, St John's Wood
Visited for the first time. Sambrooks went down well.
Food overpriced and really not too good.
Service seemed to be given very reluctantly.
Highly unlikely to return in a hurry.
31 Dec 2011 10:29
Runners Up in the Fullers Griffin awards for best improved pub - and well deserved.
Congratulations Joolz and team.
29 Nov 2011 21:33
The Marlborough Head, Marble Arch
Nice few pints of Youngs Gold.......makes a visit worthwhile
29 Nov 2011 21:26
There have been improvements but still got a lot of ground to make up to it's diminishing locals. Majority of beers ok but the buzz that used to exist here is still missing (in my opinion)
17 Nov 2011 15:42
Whilst congratulations to the success of the pub it is worthy to note that Wendover is not actually a village - it is a town. Wendover has had a Royal charter to hold a weekly market since 1464 meaning that officially it is a town rather than a village, although today many residents of Wendover like to refer to it as the latter. It is part of a civil parish, and the parish uses the term "Parish Council" rather than "Town Council", as it would be entitled to.
13 Nov 2011 20:48
One year on into the new management......all going well.
London Pride, Seafarers and Bengal Lancer....still all top notch.
Still #1 village pub.
5 Nov 2011 17:17
This establishment is being purchased by Fullers (01.11.11).........good news I would suggest as we should see it returned to its former high standing in the area.
25 Oct 2011 09:43
The George and Dragon, Wendover
If its beer you want go round the corner to the pack horse - a proper wet sales only pub
7 Sep 2011 20:53
Enjoyed a very nice pint and good atmosphere here - well worth a visit if passing.
3 Sep 2011 21:13
Front cover picture of 2012 Good Beer Guide...CONGRATULATIONS.
Well deserved recognition.
The best pub in Berkhamsted for either Beer or Cider - both always well kept and varied.
Great venue on a sunny day (or rainy, or snowy).
3 Sep 2011 07:14
A good weekend (despite the adverse weather conditions).
Cider - Excellent - despite running out after the first day
Beers - Excellent - well selected, good variety and good condition.
Food - Excellent - plenty of it, good choices
Music - Very good - bit loud maybe
However, well done to "the management"..............bring on the next one.
1 Sep 2011 20:13
A sneak preview of the excellent beers (and ciders) to come at the �Oakstock� Beer Festival 27th, 28th & 29th August
BEERS
Batemans Dark Mild (3.00%)
Brains IPA (3.40%)
Sharps Doom Bar (4.00%)
Titanic Lifeboat (4.00%)
Oakham Inferno (4.00%)
York Terrier (4.20%)
Hook Norton Old Hooky (4.60%)
Castle Rock Elsie Mo (4.70%)
Roosters Iron Man (5.00%)
Thornbridge Jaipur IPA (5.90%)
Black Sheep Riggwelter (5.90%)
Rudgate Ruby Mild (4.40%)
Copper Dragon Golden Pippin (3.90%)
Moorhouses Pride Of Pendle (4.10%)
Timothy Taylors Landlord (4.30%)
CIDERS/PERRY
Broadoak Moonshine (7.50%)
Broadoak Perry (7.50%)
Westons Old Rosie (7.30%)
Westons First Quality (5.00%)
Gwynt Y Ddraig Haymaker (6.50%)
There will also be a BBQ, Hogroast and live music over the week-end.
The first beer festival under the new management���
21 Aug 2011 20:48
A very nice watering hole with good weather, not so sure how it will be when it's too cold to sit outside - beer well kept, prices OK.
Very pleasant staff and consistent efforts to keep the place clear of empty glasses and cigarette butts.
Looking forward to the Cider Tap directly opposite...not long now.
3 Aug 2011 21:03
Last Friday (22nd) saw one of the best evenings this pub has had - live music evening (open mike) and a touring blues band (Hitman Blues Band) from US were dining....and how could the refuse the offer to join in. What a great night !
Oh and beer remains tip top quality !!!
28 Jul 2011 08:20
Fullers pub
Beer OK
Seemed a quite location, but it was a weekday evening visit.
Large car park and nice outside seating area.
Also has 2 x bedroom b&b "wing"
Food - basic, not too impressive, but maybe not seeing at its best.
28 Jul 2011 08:14
I think ThePilgrim may have have seen right through me, I do like this pub !
If passing try the Crispy Duck "Oak Style" (great starter for two) washed down with London Pride OR one of the regularly changing guest beers.
Just about to come on........
Castle Rock - Elsie Mo 4.7% ABV
Tasting Notes (Castle Rock Brewery, Nottingham)
Sense It : Full golden body, topped with creamy white head
Smell It : Caramel, biscuit & nutty, toasted malts, earthy hop, heady liqueur
Taste It : Rounded, sweet & salty, moderate bitterness
Feel It : Warming, full and smooth with a light dry finish
Footnote:
Elsie Mo�s name is derived from the low colour Maris Otter Malt from which she�s exclusively brewed, and which gives her that tantalising golden hue. A blend of hops � Challenger predominating � tempts you with its aroma and leaves a pleasantly crisp aftertaste.
AND ROLL ON AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND....BEER (AND CIDER) FESTIVAL
9 Jul 2011 14:19
Website says
"As Vale Brewery's Flagship Pub, we believe in top quality beer in a clean and friendly environment "
Simple question.....When will the pub be returned to its former status.
9 Jul 2011 13:52
Visited on a Thurday evening (music night), music loud but fun and varied.
Darts match also going on, so place was quite busy
Fullers pub and the London Pride was OK - �3.20 a pint
Butcombe bitter also on but didn't try it.
Overall a bit rough and ready, but if you can cope with that it's ok.
If not cross the road to the Bricklayers or walk a 100-200m to the Broad Leys
2 Jul 2011 12:08
I agree with madaboutmarsworth it is an absolute disgrace to let this pub decline in the way the Brewery have allowed.
The place has so much potential its hard to believe what the Brewery are doing (unless they have plans to sell/develop the site).
In its good days it was a very respectable place to have a pint and indeed eat.
Great location and a very popular place.
26 Jun 2011 16:00
Am very pleased to read the last two entries - hope it is a sign for an improved future for this pub. I for one shall keep an eye on BITE for some further updated positive comments before venturing back however.
Vale have a lot of ground to make up for the once loyal drinkers.
Prices and beer selections need to be re-established to the level and quality once enjoyed here.
As a once high profile CAMRA pub I would be disappointed to see this pub dropped from the GBG, but at the moment it doesn't appear to deserve its entry.
26 Jun 2011 13:05
A recent visit confirms previous reviews - its a credit to real ale, cider and Berkhamsted.
Couple of pints of "Tight Arse" 7.5 cider confirmed it all.
Sitting beside the canal on a summers evening......all good stuff
17 Jun 2011 13:26
Unfortunately I am hearing similar damning views from others who have visited here recently - not good news. This was a favourite Sat/Sun lunchtime watering hole...but now no longer
The once 10 beer good selection is now down to 7 approx - of dubious quality.
I shall need to hear of some quite substantial improvements before venturing back.
I understand the micro-brewery in the back will soon be producing - hope there are some customers left to drink the produce.
Vale Brewery - get a grip.
22 May 2011 08:26
The famous Oak Scotch Egg is back - just how good is that with a pint I ask
20 May 2011 11:33
A buzzing vibrant local pub, good beer, friendly atmosphere...this place can't go wrong. Food supports the beer and atmosphere compliments it all. Families, walkers, locals, young and old.
29 Apr 2011 18:21
Stopped by after a long while.......Biddenden Dry Cider 8% very nice. A common complaint here is not the beer is the state of the toilets (gents),,,,,,no improvement over the months they smell and require far more regular cleaning than they seem to get. Perhaps a little inadequate for the considerable number of users at peak times.....not always easy for the management, but a little more effort please.
9 Apr 2011 10:39
There can�t be good living where there is not good drinking.
� Benjamin Franklin
There is good living to be had at The Oak..........
2 Apr 2011 13:19
Definately agreed with DAVVAC
The Oak beer is 100% and when it falters the barrel is changed - no compromise
The landlord(s) are right there behind customer service and quality beer.
Just wish the mini cheddars were bigger packets or cheaper prices....:-)
26 Mar 2011 09:39
A sign of good beer and housekeeping.....
The Oak has been awarded the Cask Marque....congratulations.
18 Mar 2011 20:49
The Anglesea Arms, Hammersmith
Another lunchtime visit - and no complaints
Very nice Sharps Doom Bar
Food usual high standard.
A hidden gem off Goldhawk Rd
5 Mar 2011 16:29
The Oak is transformed.........
Curry night �10.00 per head all you can eat...superb (as one particular local would say) and live (good pub) music
The beer was flowing and spot on - London Pride, Seafarers, Bengal Lancer and Castle Rock - Preservation Ale
The atmosphere was warm, welcoming and all a good local should be for regulars and passers-by.
Many new faces in with the old and satisfaction was abundant.
New bar staff bringing a new dimension - a very good change
This pub is well worth the visit (not on a Monday if you want to eat, at the moment anyway).
Casual walkers passing through to formal gastro-diners alike - all made welcome.
5 Mar 2011 16:25
Go no further than here........... the beer quality is well worth it.
Bengal Lancer is back - for the time being.........not for the faint hearted session beer
Castle Rock Preservation Fine Ale 4.4% - coming soon
"Brewed to the traditional East Midlands style. Mid-brown / reddish easy drinking full flavoured best bitter is well rounded with some residual sweetness which is balanced with a resinous hop character. A hugely popular beer that deserves to be savoured!"
- Front Row
- Seafarers
- London Pride
Couldn't be better - great local
26 Feb 2011 10:33
Usual beers..all good - London Pride, Jack Frost, Front Row
Guest beer - Hooky Bitter.....very nice change
3 x course Plat du jour on a Tuesday �10.00 per head :- VERY good reports
17 Feb 2011 19:15
Interesting small bar area - found some sofa seating - very comfortable
6 pints of Wychwoods Dirty Tackle (must say something for the beer) - very nice indeed. (Didn't fancy the Brakspears)
Good condition and temperature - most enjoyable
Seemed a student type place (no problem with that)
Occasionally, a little smokey - drifting in from outside area
Overall a very pleasant, nothing fancy, small back street pub - food menu (untried) looked good pub grub.
For what it is - very good and worth trying
12 Feb 2011 11:00
The Anglesea Arms, Hammersmith
Have visited a few times in recent months.
Timothy Taylor Landlord and Old Rosie (not in same visit) both very good.
Food of high gastropub quality.
NO sweetener for coffee on last visit - slight tarnish to lunch.
I will be going back.
5 Feb 2011 13:14
Great news that the pub stays a pub (at least for the present I guess)
Whilst not on my personal list of preferred village drinking establishments, its demise would be a sad loss to the community.
5 Feb 2011 12:33
Paid a visit with some friends and their young baby in a pushchair.
Atmosphere pleasant.
Even though I'm not to keen on Sam Smiths, beer was acceptable.
Food passable but small portions, although not expensive.
Outlook on to the Thames very nice, with good outdoor seating area (nice for the summer).
Indoor seating varied and plentyful.
Staff quite pleasant and helpful - provided hot water to warm baby's bottle with no problem.
I would go again.
24 Jan 2011 20:28
The successes continue.
Beers remain nectar......London Pride leads the way, with guest beer Mauldons Mole Trap (�2.80). ESB returning
Tuesday evenings "plat du jour" �10.00 for three courses
Curry nights (�10.00 buffet) every two week or so.
Fish & Chips take aways �5.00 Fridays (pretty good for the locals)
16 Jan 2011 13:17
The Russell Arms, Butlers Cross
Visited for dinner.....excellent choice.
Quality very good, prices not over the top.
Service friendly, (perhaps a little slow) but thats perhaps the price to pay for everything cooked to order and the place was very busy - no great issue however we were in no rush.
Was drinking wine, but beers looked good :- Spitfire, London Pride & Greene King IPA plus usual array of lagers.
Caters for the informal walk-in trade as well as "dolled-up diners".
Visitors comments book (open to all) was overflowing with compliments
16 Jan 2011 13:09
So the new year has commenced after a very enjoyable evening New Years eve.
Rev James has bitten the dust and Jack Frost is on .....BUT last for the season...what next who knows.
London Pride and Seafarers both continue in top form.
2 Jan 2011 21:22
My last comment of 2010 for the Oak !
Good times continue to be had here.
Guest beer - Rev James......very nice
All beer qualities remain excellent...with attention and proactive response given to customers opinions (if there is ever a doubt).
This pub (under new management for couple of months now) is a definate candidate for 2012 GBG
Any complaints - non worthy of BITE
31 Dec 2010 13:52
Beer remains top notch
Jack Frost
London Pride
Seafarers
Bottled Golden Pride.......a nice way to finish a session.
(Stella, Becks and Fosters.....hmmm)
Lunchtime menu....excellent value and quality.
Great place to be snowed in.
19 Dec 2010 13:01
Correction to beer prices (davvac)
Seafarers 3.00
London Pride 3.20
Bengal Lancer 3.40
ESB gone - not selling
(Golden Pride and ESB carried in Bottles)
Curry Night on Friday very good - �10.00 buffet - excellent value and quality (not every Friday but definately worth looking out for)
21 Nov 2010 17:55
Has re-opened .....back as the Bell
Beers
London Pride 2.95
Old Speckled Hen 3.20
Bombadier 2.75
Focussing on the food
20 Nov 2010 11:18
How good is it to have a vibrant local back again.
Excellent beer quality all round and great atmosphere.
Tenants who care and want to go the extra mile......
OK there may be some improvements needed on the food side (as per BlueChip), however the new incumbents have only been there a week and their new bar staff are only just arriving and finding their feet - I think they've had a whirlwind start.
I feel certain given a short time any shortcomings will disappear.
The feeling I get is that the new owners want a gastropub - not a restaurant with bar....which in my opinion is want the village needs and locals want.
14 Nov 2010 12:09
Opening night (5th) was a good start.
Great atmosphere - busiest its been since for many many months.
New tenants a very welcome change and much more suited than their predecessors.....
Beer unfortunately up in price - but quality spot on.
Seafarers �3.00
London Pride �3.20
ESB - ??
Bengal Lancer �3.40
Plus Becks, Fosters and Stella.
6 Nov 2010 15:44
Closed for refurbishment - reopening November 5th.............
20 Oct 2010 19:51
Due to be closed for refurbishment at the end of Oct....and new management to follow ( so I am led to believe)...lets hope the new tenants can provide what the village needs.
9 Oct 2010 20:09
2nd recent visit and am really very taken aback by the pleasant atmosphere, helpful staff, good nibbles/sharing platters and excellent beers (and price).
Seating around the bar area gives it a more "publike" feeling.........
Well done The Bell oops sorry The Duck in....keep it up !
1 Oct 2010 16:44
Same beers as previously noted (Old Hooky, Spitfire & Black Sheep).....but NO local Chiltern Brewery beer and its only a mile away.
Whats happened to the original promise to vary the beers every few weeks ??
Anyway,
Beer ok but not great (not bad however)
Price �3.20 a pint............somewhat surprised by this price level I have to say.
Doubtful its worth making the journey
BUT an absolute full pint served - full marks for that.
Seemed very bouyant........big difference from MoG days
1 Oct 2010 16:37
Having had a disagreement over the quality of the beer I tried the Duck 0.5 miles away, and have to say the beer was very good (quite a pleasant surpise I have to say)
So I would currently recommend the Duck In (0.5 miles away) for the beer.
Old Hooky 2.85 /pint
Wadsworth 6X 2.85 /pint
London Pride �2.95 / pint - cheaper than the Oak !!!!! take note Fullers.
28 Sep 2010 19:57
Having had a disagreement over the quality of the beer in the Oak (Fullers) I and as a result being asked not to return (the price of complaining ???) revisited the Duck In (still the Bell to me).
Old Hooky - �2.85 a pint and very good - had three pints and really can't complain.
Fullers London Pride �2.95 a pint - cheaper than the Oak 0.5 miles away (�3.00 / pint)
3rd beer on @ �2.85/pint ( Wadsworth 6X untried)
Can't comment on the food quality or service, but a daily special Ham Egg & Chips price �5.95 looks very good. How can you ruin that ?
Atmosphere a little sterile but it was early (ish) in the evening.
Will return.
28 Sep 2010 19:53
Beer sales turnover not enough to ensure consistent good qualty - have had cause to complain twice in the last 7 days regarding the quality of the Seafarers, which has not been received well by the current incumbents.
Sad to say I shall not be returning to a pub not prepared to maintain quality or listen to customers which after a long time defending and promoting this pub positively, I am very disappointed to lose a local until Fullers sort things out.
26 Sep 2010 17:05
The Anglers Retreat, Marsworth
Has apparently been removed from the 2011 Good Beer Guide.
Beer quality remains inconsistent - when its good its good, but you have to catch it right or disappointment reigns....pity.
5 Sep 2010 19:26
Ignore the website promotions........they are not honoured it appears.
The 10% discount for online booking is apparently for parties of 10 or more (website doesn't say this).
The bottle of wine per 2 meals on a Friday (up to 3rd Sept) was suddenly per party of diners - 4 x people dining together were only allowed ONE bottle of a cheap red wine (no choice and they wanted white) - they should have ordered as two couples perhaps.
The new tenants have a lot to learn about building customer loyalty and trust.
Beer still remains good, as is the food....pity the same can't be said for principles and moral obligations.
5 Sep 2010 15:11
Has re-opened as "The Village Gate"
Good reports received, Old Hooky, Spitfire, Black Sheep
Only problem is that its been so busy !!!
21 Aug 2010 05:59
Enjoyed a short stop for a couple of pints of cider - still a great selection and atmosphere of a good drinkers pub. If you're thinking about trying this pub........ STOP thinking and do it.
5 Aug 2010 19:55
Prices increased London Pride now �3.10 a pint .
Back to the most expensive pint of Pride in the area....not good and not needed when trying to build the business up again.
Thai food remains excellent.
Some contraversial decisions and allegations made regarding the bar staff (locals not very impressed) - "lost" their Cellarman - hope the beer quality doesn't also go !!
As for Scridians comments about unfriendly locals I don't know what you are talking about - come more often and get to know them (and before you ask, I am one of those locals and not ashamed to admit it).
17 Jul 2010 13:22
The Oak is back on the radar.
Beer quality good - Seafarers and Pride both very good.
Thai food very good - not overpriced
3 Jul 2010 20:14
Spent another very pleasant evening here - very nice 80/- beer.
Great atmosphere, welcoming and friendly.
Highly recommended.
(no food though, so don't go hungry)
26 Jun 2010 19:51
Reopening under more new owners...lets hope they last longer than the last lot.
Thai Food .....hmmmm
26 Jun 2010 19:47
Well the owner (R Kindell) has applied to demolish this pub and build 3 x four bedroom houses on the site. (See Bucks Herlad 23.06.10)
Great community spirit - apparently it is not considered the pub is marketable, of course the profits would not be so attractive. But as far as I am aware no effort has been made in this direction (ref the Planning Application, Design & Access Statement)
With the current demise of the Oak down the road, Aston Clinton looks destined to loose two community focal points and be left with the Rothchilds Arms...........what a disaster.
Personally I hope the community objects to this proposal and a willing investor in the Partridge as a pub can be found if Mr Kindell no longer wants it.
23 Jun 2010 17:39
A failure appears to come about - it seems to be closed again.
A very sad happening - where is Fullers support....what is going on ?
Would this have happened if it was a managed house I wonder ??
18 Jun 2010 15:37
What a great pub, tucked away in the back streets of Berkhamsted on a canal lock.
Small, well considered and varied selection of "out of the ordinary" beers - all looked good and those with me said were in great condition.
I opted for a Cider evening.........how good was that !
High customer focus on taste buds and satisfaction
This is a Beer and Cider appreciaters delight.........Beer & Cider festival looming
No food, but hell whats a real pub for ?
18 Jun 2010 14:53
Couple of pints in a passing with some friends.
Quality very good, nice atmosphere.
17 Jun 2010 11:27
Saturday night a complete turn round - good attendance, good bbq and very good band....all accompanied by the excellent good beer and ciders.....a good night.
Two more days days to go...........
Unfortunately ciders proving very popular and virtually sold out.
Biddenden Medium (8%)....superb
Moles Black Rat (6%) very drinkable
Thatcher's Heritage (4.9%) - a little outclassed but very good nonetheless.
Back to the beer....
30 May 2010 13:00
I agree, - turn out was disappointing, not helped by the chilly evening. But at least the the pub is trying.
Not very impressed by the food - great shame, but bbq and hog roast to come over the weekend.
Live music was good, but marquee was cold (no heating...brrr)
Beers tasted ( out of selection of 20 )
- Kelham Island Riders On The Storm - very good
- Exmoor Gold - Excellent
- Riverside Dixons Old Diabolical - yuck
- Rudgate Ruby Mild - not a great mild lover
- Hook Norton Old Hooky - can't go wrong
All beers Fullers controlled....boring
3 x Ciders to try next (1 not delivered...well done Fullers !)
29 May 2010 17:14
A lively place in the evening.
Not for the beer drinker looking for a quiet pint., doormen wandering around should say something about here.
2 May 2010 10:02
Beer quality is proving very good since re-opening.
HSB (not ESB), London Pride and Seafarers
New landlord very keen to make a success
Food to start today 24th March (all going well)
Is definately worth trying and supporting.
24 Mar 2010 16:22
Re-opening for beer this week (9th March) I have been reliably informed.
New owners in place - who understand a well kept and served pint.
New menu and food to follow.
9 Mar 2010 12:14
A very pleasant place to enjoy a good quality well kept pint.
9 Mar 2010 12:12
Despite the locals fued which appears to have quietened down recently, myself and some friends decided it was time to give the King & Queen a visit, and we are pleased we did.
Enjoyed a lunch here, beer spot on and not over priced.
A very pleasant surprise for myself and colleagues.
Looking upon this pub as an oasis in the area to which we shall return.
21 Feb 2010 18:35
I have to agree with Mally (unfortunately) - I have continued to remain positive about the Oak, but the time for a change cannot come too soon now to put this place back on the map.
It is floundering and in desperate need of picking up, shaking down and being brought back into life again.
When they have beer it is normally very good.
7 Feb 2010 15:05
Gave it a go under its new ownership etc.
I have to say beer in very good condition - Tring - Side Pocket and Hobgoblin.
Atmosphere buzzing and friendly
Food looked good.
Bar area a tight squeeze, but no great problem there.
Log fire blazing
Certainly one to go back to
4 Feb 2010 17:24
Craig - thank you for putting your head above the parapet, so many pubs, landlords, owners etc don't seem to want recognise the customer and their comments when they are critical of something.
I'll be back - Euston is my gateway in/out of London, when I come into town and you are nicely situated for a pre-journey pint (along with the Doric Arch or Head Of Steam, as I and many others still know it as).
Ref Food and my not saying something on the day - yes you are right.......but hunger and shortage of time got the better of me.
You keep a good pint and selection, support Camra members (who of course in turn support you) plus the Students and Nurses - all very much appreciated (in my opinion).
I shall make myself known to you next time I'm in.
One comment - you need to resolve your staffs opinion of customers with Brompton Bikes (and I do not mean by kicking them out either). All will be made clear if/when we meet. For the record I am not a Brompton owner !!
31 Jan 2010 09:51
Oh my god....what is going on here..........
Could you all take your bickering to facebook or whatever children use nowadays to taunt and tease.
This website facility Beer In The Evening (there's a clue in the name) is for beer drinkers comments (good or bad) about the berr and pubs, not personal local fueds. It makes Wendover look like something out of Deliverance.
If you think you are doing any good for this pub or any others in the locality you are very much mistaken.
31 Jan 2010 09:04
Visited just after christmas in a group.
Beer (Tribute) OK ...nothing special.
BUT very pricey at �3.40 a pint
Food looked good on other tables.
Despite price ,if nowhere else would go there again
3 Jan 2010 16:54
Davvac......the situation you came across was not the norm.....stock was there but the young girl behind the bar did not know how to put it on - feeble excuse really but that was the fact, I asked her !
Generally the beer is very good (and available).
All very frustrating I know, BUT - the pub is just about to change hands...early Jan. Don't give up on it just yet.
31 Dec 2009 19:11
Westerham beer ok, enjoyed a couple whilst on beer walk.
Not very busy at the time, but not a problem.
Nothing too special but would visit again if in the area.
31 Dec 2009 19:03
Interesting small pub, steeped in history.
Beer OK TT Landlord although there was a Scottish "burnt malt" beer - not to my taste, but enjoyed by others.
Toilets in basement reeked - very unpleasant really......needs something sorting out.
Will probably give it a miss next time.
31 Dec 2009 18:59
Met up earlier this week (Tuesday 29th) with several others, before having a "beer walk".
Got there early to eat......wish I hadn't
Mine - Burnt pie top, luke warm chips. (�5 special which seemed like a good idea to start with)
Other - solid fried eggs, dried out ham, luke warm chips
Third eater - �5 special - OK
No complaint made as we were hungry, we did eat it and did not have time to wait for anything else .......pity about this, has been ok in the past.
Bar service attentive, beer very good (one of us commented too warm, but OK for me.
Camra member discount on beer welcomed.
Will still go there for the beer, but maybe not the food.
31 Dec 2009 18:54
Cannot dispute the quality of the beer.,,,excellent
Beer festival coming up........hope the standards can be maintained ?
Food deals look good value for money.
However, on a recent visit for many months the bar seemed very sterile and really quite empty compared with how it used to be.....have others voted with their feet I wonder ???
12 Nov 2009 20:26
Surly indifferent staff.
Food and beer not too exciting either.
There are far better real pubs in the area.
Would walk past this one to The Oak any day. Real beer, real food and welcoming staff.
1 Nov 2009 15:19
Had a few Friday lunchtime pints - very good "witches cauldron" from the gravity beer section
Great Chilli and Chips (starter portion) and pretty poor Texmex burger (more chilli and chips next time)
Camra 50p/pint discount much appreciated.
The place is still in need of a good clean, but that won't stop me (or many others) going back
1 Nov 2009 15:14
I am sorry to say that on a recent visit I was sorely disappointed with the quaity of the beer, flat and out of condition. I would not recommend this pub for the beer - location very nice. It has just got back into the good beer guide but if they stay as they are it'll be out next year (in my opinion.
17 Oct 2009 21:19
The Carpenters Arms, Limpsfield Chart
Nice pint of Black Sheep bitter.
I think the previous comments are a little unfair, if they arrived late they were late ! The chef could easily have left the kitchen on time - is that so unreasonable ?
5 Sep 2009 19:54
Stopped by with a friend for a couple of lunchtime pints - several beers on offer incl Everards Tiger, Vale VPA.
Generally the place was quiet and beer was in very good condition - no complaints on either count.
Definately worth a visit
30 Aug 2009 16:29
Has reopened and on friends recommendation stopped by for a pint.
Old Hooky and Old Speckled Hen tried.
Both good - Very creamy pints - Co2 or creamflow system used - but very pleasant reminded my of a Northern / Yorkshire pint.
Will try again at some point.
Food menu looked to be OK and good value
Average rating (5) given for now, but could be raised in due course
22 Aug 2009 14:28
For me the verdict is still out on the new incumbants following Stuart and Monia.
An influx of travelling beer drinkers and brewery trippers seemed to bring on high degress of stress with the "Landlady". Bar food and meals suspended due to brewery trippers buffet ...eh 16 people !! - makes the more regular visitors wanting food very welcomed.....not.
Young barman (Stuarts "mini-me" in appearance) appears very competent.
Beer still excellent however which is ultimately the reason for going there, but it would be nice to feel more welcome as a customer.
12 Jul 2009 13:14
Interesting - this place has just be suggested in Bucks Herald and Bucks Advertiser (3rd July) as one of the top 12 restaurants in the area......who are they kidding eh ?
I would love to know who did the ratings and how they arrived at this suggestion !
4 Jul 2009 18:49
Has now introduced a "fishy fridays" menu for take-aways...couple of pints and dinner - all very handy.
Watch our for monthly curry nights as well - very good
Various other entertainment nights as well (Elvis very popular)
19 Jun 2009 17:13
Met up with some friends last week - very nice pint s) of Ringwood bitter.
pub small, no food but hospitable atmosphere.
Good meeting place !
19 Jun 2009 17:09
The Anglesea Arms, Hammersmith
Enjoyed a very pleasant lunch, Beer quality very good - enjoyed Ringwood 49'er
Had Timothy Taylors, Landlord, Fullers London Pride and 1 other which I cannot recall.
Kitchen open to view all preparation, warm fresh bread and attentive service.
Adventurous menu and what we had was very good.
I have been there in the past and it's been very busy and crowded, but today much quieter. Will definately return.
6 May 2009 17:18
Had a quick Saturday lunch. Ploughmans and Sausage baguettes OK.
Main menu and specials board looked good
Beer well kept and atmosphere good.
Seemed very popular, nice riverside garden, parking OK.
Will revisit.
22 Feb 2009 20:06
Try the Oak in Aston Clinton - a good Fullers pub.
Well kept beer, good bar snacks and larger menu.
Good garden for the summer.
Family friendly and non-hostile locals
10 Feb 2009 09:43
They've got their act together...........
Fullers London Pride - very good, clear, well kept, good temperature can't find it better anywhere else - at �3.00 a pint still a bit pricey.
"Grumpy hour "every Tuesday and Thursday 18:00 - 19:00
Good atmosphere.
Home scotch eggs bar snack a real must.....Traditional, Indian (Madras), Mexican (Chilli) and French (Garlic) with home made chutney - what a great accompaniment to a good pint.
Food in general very good (and popular).
Now winter is upon us they need to sort out the smokey log fire - but it is real !
12 Nov 2008 17:31
The Walnut Tree Inn, Aldington
Welcoming local pub.
Small and intimate bar areas.
Shepherd Neame Spitfire pretty good.
Food served - good selection, nicely cooked.
Excellent pizzas.
19 Oct 2008 05:13
This has to one of the best pubs for beer in the area.
A continually evolving selection of well kept beers never fail to satisfy.
Still dogged by its former "bad set" reputation of those that remember former times, but this is a beer appreciaters heaven, totally transformed and worthy of its Vale Brewery flagship reputation.
Friendly, welcoming and should not be passed by, by the discerning beer drinker.
26 Aug 2008 20:39
The Anglers Retreat, Marsworth
Going downhill unfortunately. Strange atmosphere from bar staff (maybe a bad day), but beer not brilliant either and selection falling off. Pub suffers from poor ventilation and overpowering smell of frying.
25 Aug 2008 22:24
Keeps a good pint of Fullers London Pride.
Food very good, bar snacks (incl chip butties...hmmmm)very good value.
25 Aug 2008 22:16
Back to pick_e_tippler's profile
The Oak, Aston Clinton
This is without doubt the best pub in Aston Clinton.
It serves spot on beer with a varying guest beer.
Very good value and quality food.
Has a great garden, with copious numbers of tables now.
Certainly for the ambience, welcome and general feel, it is head and shoulders above any others in the village.
Price wise it is not the cheapest pint, but it is the best.
20 Jun 2014 16:13