This is a real treasure and possibly a rather well guarded secret.
If you like your pubs traditional and friendly, then search no more. I am not a beer drinker, but those that are tell me the ale is amongst the finest in the area.
And if you need a little more than well kept and served beer, then there is a feast for your eyes. Some may call it cluttered, but I really like it. The walls and ceiling are covered in all manner of interesting things – like an enormous collection of fishing rods, signs from yesteryear and all manner of other (manly) knick knacks. Apparently, all the bar staff are regularly called in to take everything down for cleaning – so don’t worry about cobwebs and the like.
The tabletops show newsclippings from a number of historical dates in the past, which are helpful if you arrive early and need something to amuse yourself with after you are read through all the beer mats. They are also good at promoting conversation if you are in a quiz like mood.
On a winter’s night there is a cheerful fire to warm yourself against. If you can find space around it. There is a clearly a number of regulars – some of which are somewhat on the elderly side. But you also get (older) couples and groups of friends. Terry the bar man is a treasure and the only female member of staff I have seen there was quite charming. Newcomers are welcome so no need to be shy.
They do serve food – pasta, burgers, fish and such like (written up on the blackboards), but I haven’t sampled it yet. Amongst my friends who go there regularly the breakfast is the main point of interest, and attracts many compliments.
The small walled garden has recently been overhauled and is really lovely. There is a central wooden folly thing providing cover for those poor souls who are forced to now enjoy their nicotine habit in the cold (there are a few wall mounted heaters which you can request to be turned on). But there are a number of tables and picnic benches squeezed in around the sides which provide a good point from which to appreciate the lovingly tended and interesting plants and foliage out there. I seem to remember a water feature hidden towards the back as well.
The serious drinkers amongst you will be pleased to know that the place is within staggering distance of a couple of very fine Indian restaurants and that there are also a couple of rooms here should you need an overnight stay. And a committed beer drinker and highly experienced pub visitor friend from Cornwall always stays here when he has to spend time in London.
