The Prince of Wales, Paddington

A hidden gem. Overlook the quality of the beer and know what to expect and you will enjoy it:

Weekdays : Really good Thai food, 'average' beers on tap, and lots of advertising kids braying like recalcitrant donkeys.

Weekends: The Mongolian Social Centre of London - authentic home-made Mongolian food and drink (tea). The Mongolians are well-behaved, keep to themselves and interesting to talk to if you open them up. The food is great, albeit mongolian, meaning it isn't for vegetarians.

This is actually one of my favourite pubs in London, but I don't come here for the beer.

17 Jul 2013 16:14

The Bacon Arms, Newbury

Spent two weeks with a colleague staying here and we both agreed it's the nicest pub-hotel we've ever stayed at. Both aspects were being done to a high standard.

The pub is on the ground floor as one might expect. Friendly staff and plenty of equally friendly regulars. Ringwood ales and the usual lager/cider suspects as well as a well stocked spirit selection - for instance they had two single malts behind the counter. Decorated with victorian antiques and posters. There was a games room but it was never in use when we were there.

On the Inn side there are around ten rooms across the two floors above the pub. All were laid out differently due to it being an old building. Decorated to a high standard - certainly superior to all but the most overpriced of chains. There were duvets instead of dodgy blankets, and more pillows than my colleague or I knew what to do with. They were aware that being next to a main road might be too noisy for some, so earbuds were provided. Surprisingly good cooked breakfasts included in the rate, all of which were eaten with relish.

The rest: Plenty of parking, a popular quiz night on Tuesdays. Free wireless internet requires a free cloud login: was fast once logged in.

If you don't fancy eating here, there are some great restaurants nearby (Gurkha Chef, Art of Siam).

Wish there was a place like this in all towns I have to overnight in.

3 Aug 2009 17:52

The Greyhound, Carshalton

Brilliant position. Cape dutch gables. Decor is good. But having been in a few times I can safely say JD Wetherspoons has a better batting average.

19 Jan 2009 00:59