The Bell, East Molesey

Great history, excellent beer. The approach to the catering lets things down a little. Cheap doesn't have to appear nasty - but the menus do give off that vibe. Could also do with a bit of a tidy up inside. The carpet is pretty knackered and the decor a bit dingy in places. However, if all you want is a simple quiet pint in a traditional pub you could do a lot worse in Molesey.

26 Jun 2009 10:32

The Kings Arms, Hampton Court

This public house could be so much better. We used to visit it regularly a few years ago but our visits have tailed off over time after repeated disappointments. Because of its position it will always attract 'tourists' from the palace and 'passing visitors' to the area from Bushy park. Neither of these groups are 'regulars' and they both require specialised customer service skills.Time and again I have sat at the bar and observed the embarrassing silences, the misunderstandings and general mixed messages between the bar staff and customers. Yes believe it or not visiting tourists will want to ask about the different beers and non regulars won't automatically know that you don't sell the usual range of marketed beers (Badger ales and Hoffbrau lager only) - It doesn't mean they have to be regarded with disdain or a grunted reply - just offer the CUSTOMER some SERVICE!!

All in all, the environment is rustic, stylish and historic, the actual product (beer) is nice, the food isn't a disaster (but could be better) - it is just such a shame that the atmosphere, which is linked in to the quality of service, is so lacking. This review is meant to serve as constructive criticism because in essence I do like the place - with just a little tweaking and leadership from the front this pub could be far better.

26 Jun 2009 10:24

The Poyntz Arms, East Molesey

This place has vastly improved under the new management in the past year or so. Good non routine beers (Shepherd Neame bitters, Oranjeboom and Holsten draught lagers), tasteful, stylish and yet traditional rustic decor, open fire in the winter, bright and airy and hanging baskets a plenty in the summer. The only downer is that at times the audiovisuals can be a bit overpowering - not infrequently the jukebox has been known to be blaring at the same time as a loud sporting event on the multitude of tv screens. This is the only thing preventing this pub being our first choice for a relaxing saturday afternoon pint. If a little volume and quality control was exercised over both mediums the environment would be a lot more welcoming.

Well done to the Poyntz!

26 Jun 2009 10:08