The Bricklayers Arms, Beckenham

The comment about the bar staff sometimes favouring locals is valid but overall I find this a thoroughly decent boozer. Had an enjoyable evening in there recently - friendly locals and the Tribute and Harvey's Sussex were well kept. The current 2.6/10 rating is ridiculous and must reflect reviewers' ratings from yesteryear and before the change of ownership. Anyone having a problem with the Bricklayer's should pop 'next door' - they'll soon be back.

10 Dec 2013 11:01

The Compton Arms, Islington

Soon after opening time yesterday some 20 Sunderland fans, mostly London-based, were on their first pints. Others arrived only to be told by the landlord that he wouldn�t be serving them because there were already too many away fans in the pub and that �this was an Arsenal pub�. There was no sign outside to this effect, nor were there staff on the door to prevent away fans entering. The landlord then suggested that we would not be served again and petulantly muttered that we were getting in his way and should all sit down as there were plenty of chairs! Unbelievable.

So, having drunk trouble-free in the Compton for years (including midweek and other non-football occasions), and having always enjoyed friendly banter with the Arsenal fans, I was not only being told to drink up and leave but also that before I did so I should sit down. Needless to say, I will not be going back.

We took our custom to the Hope & Anchor where we were gratefully welcomed by a landlord only too happy to accept what we estimate was some �1,500 of business by the end of the day. Perhaps the Compton�s landlord should have listened to his predecessor�s assertion that his most lucrative days had always been when Sunderland were in town.

Anyway, away fans take note � the landlord of the Compton does not want your business. Oh, and if he does let you in, you�ll be told to sit down.

6 Mar 2011 15:52