Simon D.
New Malden
38 reviews
A refurb isn't always a wise move...
24 Apr 08, 08:58
Below expectations
This used to be my local. A group of us would head down The Duke (of old) for an evening, then come 9pm we would secretly eye the twitching of the red velvet curtain that was the gateway to "the back room" that would then serve drinks till the early hours.
The back room was dark, filthy and brilliant! It had a cheap pound shop glitter ball hanging from the ceiling, crusty old flickering candles on all of the few tables it housed and they used to play some great music... It also had limited space, so it had a pang of exclusivity if you were lucky enough to gain entry!
Since the refurb, the whole place is open till the early hours and it has definetly lost its charm. It's all modernised and souless...
The only thing it has going for it is a great beer garden, but that's not enough to lure me back...
Groups: Scotties Bloggers
Great garden - shame about the refurb
21 Apr 08, 22:03
Below expectations
The main reason for a visit is the Garden - it's vast and is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon.
The pub has recently been refurbished and has sadly lost some of its charm. The menu is more gastro and looks good but I'll miss the old fayre and the old atmosphere.
At least the Garden's still there..
Groups: Trading and ops
