The Royal Oak, Wineham

First, I will say this is a beautiful pub, and if you have overseas visitors with you, it would be difficult to find a better example of an old English country pub. But...

I was driving, and had a straight tonic water, and it was the smallest tonic water I've ever had in a pub. Their largest glass of wine was tiny as well, and the landlord was obviously angling for you to purchase a "double" rather than have what all other pubs I've been too offer as large glass.

I've had the beer in he past, and I remember it being ok, being a real ale drinker myself. And as I say, great atmosphere, and really glad its still there. But I don't know, the stingy meanness of those non ale drinks we paid for (six quid) left me feeling not so well inclined to the place, and will make me reluctant to return. And all for few not pouring a few pennies worth of tonic water into a half pint glass.

28 May 2012 08:49

Bar 61, Streatham

No ales on tap here, just bottled beers. They have Czech budvar, so I drink that. They have a pretty decent range of spirits, so also have those on occasion. Not ever eaten here, so couldn't say on that, but I've never felt inspired to try. It's family run, and they are quite an eccentric bunch from 80 odd year old dad, mother scratching the table tops in the corner, to the ebullient Mel. They are always friendly and chatty and you get the feeling that making money isn't the most important thing to them. Plus its often open late. I like the place.

26 May 2012 16:27

The Ancient Mariner, Hove

Its an ok pub since the makeover (it wasn't that great before it), and the ales were well kept. Have had a burger here both times I visited, and both times the very thick home made patties were raw inside, apparently on purpose we were informed, so wont be having those again. It has a nice veranda seating area outside, and it s quiet street - so that's nice.

26 May 2012 16:18