The Fox and Hounds, Toys Hill

There is nothing sadder in life than a shattered memory. This was once one of the truly great pubs in the area. good atmosphere, good beer and a bar full of friendly locals. It was a joy to spend time there. My, how it has fallen from grace. Don't get me wrong, things move on and nothing can stay the same, but to destroy such a well liked venue so thoroughly is quite an achievement.

I shall not go into specifics, but on first entrance i thought the changes were sympathetic to the old pub and the original layout. fair enough, the dining area makes good commercial sense, and so actually was a change for the better as food was not really avaialble in the old days. A freindly barmaid took our drinks order and asked if we would like to see the menu. tick the box there then.

sat down, and watched the staff go about their business, and was asked if we would like another drink. tick a second box. The menu seemd a bit pricy, but the vibes were good, so it could have been worth the money.

It then went all down hill when the owning family including rude son appeared on the scene. I don't think i have ever come across three people who could be more ill suited to dealing with their potential customers, the public. Or be less appreciative of their staff's efforts. Was horrific. am pretty thick skinned and been to many parts of the world to encounter and deal with all sorts, but the tone and language of the owners even made me feel uncomfortable. Needless to say, we drank up very quickly and left for the White Hart down the road, which at least tries to do a good job.

What a shame about the fox and Hounds near Toys Hill. never going back there until i hear that the place has changed hands for the better

10 Nov 2009 19:35

The Fox and Hounds, Westerham

There is nothing sadder in life than a shattered memory. This was once one of the truly great pubs in the area. good atmosphere, good beer and a bar full of friendly locals. It was a joy to spend time there. My, how it has fallen from grace. Don't get me wrong, things move on and nothing can stay the same, but to destroy such a well liked venue so thoroughly is quite an achievement.

I shall not go into specifics, but on first entrance i thought the changes were sympathetic to the old pub and the original layout. fair enough, the dining area makes good commercial sense, and so actually was a change for the better as food was not really avaialble in the old days. A freindly barmaid took our drinks order and asked if we would like to see the menu. tick the box there then.

sat down, and watched the staff go about their business, and was asked if we would like another drink. tick a second box. The menu seemd a bit pricy, but the vibes were good, so it could have been worth the money.

It then went all down hill when the owning family including rude son appeared on the scene. I don't think i have ever come across three people who could be more ill suited to dealing with their potential customers, the public. Or be less appreciative of their staff's efforts. Was horrific. am pretty thick skinned and been to many parts of the world to encounter and deal with all sorts, but the tone and language of the owners even made me feel uncomfortable. Needless to say, we drank up very quickly and left for the White Hart down the road, which at least tries to do a good job.

What a shame about the fox and Hounds near Toys Hill. never going back there until i hear that the place has changed hands for the better.

10 Nov 2009 19:32

The Lamb and Flag, Covent Garden

This is my favourite Pub In Central London.
Lots of character, best to visit during the week to avoid too many tourists and students drinking halves of "lager"

Always a good pint of beer to be had, and the new smoking ban means the atmos it a lot better as it can be pretty cramped downstairs

Would reccomend it to anyone who remembers the art of jolly conversation.

3 Mar 2008 13:45