The Compasses, Tunbridge Wells

Having run many pubs myself over a period of 30 years I was eagerly awaiting my first visit to The Compasses. A pub that was recommended to me by an old business partner who has lived in Tunbridge Wells all her life. I walked through the door and was very impressed by the general atmosphere of 'The Oldest Pub In Tunbridge Wells'. There was a good selection of wine, beers and spirits on offer, and the food menu looked very appetising. I was standing at what I presume was the main bar with only a handful of customers to my left. I waited patiently to purchase my beverage having made eye contact with a member of staff, a further 5 minutes elapsed and still I waited. At last I was served by someone who I can only assume had gotten out of the wrong side of the bed and had the most sour faced look about her I have ever encountered, the old adage 'chewing a wasp' could never have been so apt. Imagine my shock and surprise when I discovered that she was in fact the landlord of this establishment. In my professional experience one golden rule is to always greet customers with a smile and always always be polite. My second beer was served by a younger member of staff and this was a much more pleasurable experience. In fairness to The Compasses the food looked delicious, although I did not purchase any myself. The overall atmosphere was also very congenial.

7 Sep 2008 18:01