The Grape and Grain, Crystal Palace

Agree with previous reviewer who said the low rating must count the marks given when it was still Jack Beards (which was grim).

The new landlord has worked wonders on the place. Here is what he has done:

Fully refurbished
Discounts for CAMRA members
Guest Ales every month
FREE Live Jazz performances every Sunday
Good food
A Book Group which meets up once a month
Friendly staff
Comfy sofas
Nice beer garden

8 out of 10

14 Jul 2010 13:54

The Prince Albert, Brixton

I lived in Brixton for 11 years and used to go here regularly, when Pat was still alive. It was always a warm, lively place full of people. I moved away from the area 4 years ago and don't go to Brixton very often now.

We went there last night for the first time in a couple of years and what a massive difference for the worse.

The place is now dark (and I mean no natural daylight as the window is covered by a blackout curtain and the lights were switched off), dingy and run down and in dire need of redecorating and a clean. The beer garden was a grim place to spend any time, particularly as we were surrounded by the smell of the joints several people were smoking. There were only 3 people inside the bar and about 8 people in the garden.

Absolutely grim. Never going back. The only saving feature was the painting of Pat which still hangs by the front door. She was a friendly but formidable landlady who must surely be spinning in her grave.

14 Jul 2010 13:46