The Travellers Friend, Woodford Green

I use 'The Travellers Friend' on a fairly regular basis and have thoroughly enjoyed reading the reviews and the subsequent banter.
The fact that the beer is kept very well and is the best in the area,I think, is beyond doubt.
As far as the comparisons with The Slaughtered Lamb('He made me miss'-Brian Glover-American Werewolf in London)I feel the Locals are being unfairly represented. The fact that they turn towards the door when it opens is purely to see if the new entrant is also a regular whom will almost certainly be in need of a speedy libation. If you found it difficult to open the latch door the stare could be somewhat prolonged but whose problem is that? In all the Locals are a fairly good representation of the area with Tradesman,Bankers and even the odd classical pianist extricating themselves from lifes mortal coil.
And now the prickly subject of the staff, I can offer no defence. On a good day they're rude is the best I can muster. You will find many an ex regular begrudgingly in the Rose and Crown no longer able to endure the Landlady's incivility and no cab journey is complete without the driver waxing lyrical about the Welsh Dragon.

28 Apr 2008 14:40