The Caernarvon Castle, Camden

Cruised along here last saturday night to do a recce (my band BENIHANA are headlining here on Friday 2nd September '05 - come enjoy some groovy stoner rock!). Looked like it'll be a cool place to play a gig, and the bar staff were real friendly. Shame the headlining act for that night had cancelled, but that's not the pub's fault.
Solid pub, although disappointed that there weren't any ales on when I was there.

22 Aug 2005 16:21

The Marlborough Arms, Tottenham Court Road

IN response to earlier comments, you can't expect to avoid students in this pub (practically next door to ULU and UCL) since they provide a large chunk of its intake.
For the most part the summary below is fair (if a little acerbic in places). The food is acceptable (and designed) for a student budget - I myself have enjoyed many-a-two meals for 6 pounds offer. At least it comes quickly.
By an ale-drinker's standard the beer isn't kept all that well, but I've had a lot worse.
I have no problem with the music.
I have no problem with the decor. If you don't like it, bugger off to some poncy wine bar where you'll pay through the nose for something just as bad, but slightly shinier.

8 Feb 2005 15:06

The Carpenters Arms, Tottenham Court Road

This pub used to be fantastic. It was moderate but cheap beer and excellent friendly staff. An overabundance of UCL students in the area, but since I just finished being on of 'em I can hardly complain.

Anyway, like I said was a decent place to go, especially on quieter evenings of the week, but since the refurb last year it's gone downhill. It looks a bit shinier than it did, but the prices went up and the quality went down (slightly).

Disappointed. If you're in the area, I'd recommend the Fitzroy on Charlotte Street as a must-visit, or perhaps the Marlborough arms on Tollington for a fair selection of ale and cheapish/good food.

8 Feb 2005 14:56