The Dog and Bull, Croydon

Not impressed. Went there because of the great garden (best in Croydon by a long way) but completely ruined by loud music blasting out all over the outdoor area (and inside too). The music is relayed from the jukebox which leaves no control over the selections - last night it was heavy metal. It was virtually impossible to have a conversation and any requests to turn it down were met with a token flick of the switch and poor humour.
It's expensive - not worth it when you are given such a poor deal. There seemed to be no empathy at all with the plight of a group who were spending good money and wanting to have a convivial evening.

29 Jul 2010 09:41

The Green Dragon, Croydon

A community pub which can be noisy as colonelflay notes, but choose your time and you can also relax in peace.
The splendid beer selection and reasonable prices have attracted a good few of the Dog & Bull's former customers, who gather here in peace and quiet on Saturday lunchtimes.
Weekday evenings see a whole variety of lively music gigs. Noisy sometimes, but horrendously so? Perhaps, but this ex-bank's acoustic is very bright, and taste is individual...

14 Jun 2010 14:06

The Albert Tavern, South Norwood

A very pleasant place to eat and drink, and watch the game. Rugby vies with soccer as the sport of choice on the several wide-screens on the walls here.

It is a modern pub which for a mad moment or two some years ago was bizarrely re-named "The Pickled Newt" breaking with 150 years of history. The locals didn't put up with it though and it soon reverted to "The Albert".

Incidentally - Binnie Walsh - now of The Harp Covent Garden - was the licensee from 1968 to 1989 and the Albert was a star in the SE25 firmament under her management. Jenny, the current manager is living up to the standards set years ago, and long may she prosper if GK allow her to do so.

The real ale here is often of outstanding quality (for GK beers) and is always very well-kept. If you have drunk GK beer in other places and been less than impressed, come here and be amazed at what this often-criticized beer can be like when at its peak.

A little oasis in a quiet neighbourhood. Recommended!

19 Feb 2008 19:19