The Lord Kitchener, Barnet

Though not technically the nearest pub to where I live in New Barnet, The Lord Kitchener is my local. Unremarkable in some ways, (as a real local should be) you can feel how precious it is, as other pubs like it close down or get "themed". It's a bit pricey, being a McMullans, but it's worth the extra. Decor is run-down 1930's front living room with swirly carpet and tobacco stained walls - but clean. You can smell the mix of furniture polish and beer if you start early. Military pictures and cartoons adorn the walls - in theme with the pub's name - and a big poster of the pointing moustached Kitchener himself - stares at you at one end of the pub. But in no way could the Kitchener be mistaken for a theme pub! Truly authentic. Friendly landlady and her partner. Older crowd, but unpredictable in numbers. Some saturday nights there's only a handful in. Generally quite buzzy though.

24 Sep 2005 15:50