The Rake, London Bridge

Interesting pub for those who like their unusual beers. Expensive, especially if you chose certain bottles, but worth it; paying a few quid for a Kriek you've never seen anywhere else is a lot easier to swallow than paying the same price for the boring old bottled beers you can find in the supermarket for 99p.

Staff are very knowledgeable about their beer and keen to help navigate through the extensive range of brews behind the bar.

The downside is it's a victim of its own success to a degree and can get very crowded at popular times, and like anywhere in the market it's not unknown for the loud and boorish to drop by. Still very much worth a visit, though.

27 Jul 2010 17:35

The Ship Inn, Langton Matravers

A real gem - very much a locals' pub but in a good way; even outsiders are made to feel welcome and there's a real sense of community. Ales are varied and well-kept, making it easy to pop in for a swift pint and end up wobbling up the street far later than you'd intended to.

27 Jul 2010 17:23

The Grapes, Limehouse

Great pub. Loads more character than the faceless chain places a little further down on the wharf. Does a good Sunday roast although you've got to turn up early to get your order in before the food runs out!

Decent selection of beer, kept in reasonable condition.

27 Jul 2010 17:19