I met some friends for a pub crawl around Waterloo last week.  The running joke was that we should meet at 6.15 (think about it). The itinerary had been planned and I wasn’t really that inspired by the choice but I have learnt to not always judge a venue by the website.  The first few pubs we visited were all very much like clones of each other.  Busy and noisy with punters celebrating the end of the week.  A not unpleasant atmosphere and because the beer was good and well kept in all three establishments it was a good experience.  We also managed to get a table despite the crowds.

Here is a summary of these pubs:
First pub: Windmill Tavern, The Cut, Waterloo. Beers on offer included Fuller’s London Pride and Sharp’s Doom Bar. Website: http://thewindmilllondon.co.uk/
Second pub: The Anchor in Hope, The Cut, Waterloo. I had a pint of Young’s Original but I can’t find this beer anywhere on the Internet. Website: http://www.anchorandhopepub.co.uk/
Third pub: The Ring, Blackfriars Road, Waterloo. Served a nice pint of Sambrook’s Junction Website: http://theringbarlondon.co.uk/

After trying these pubs we decided to change the schedule and go to an old favourite- The Kings Arms in Roupell Street, Waterloo.  Website: http://thekingsarmslondon.co.uk/

This is a traditional looking pub within an impressive row of quaint nineteenth century houses.  The beer selection as always was very good.  I had a pint from the Late Knight’s Brewery and an Indian Pale Ale from The Beerd Brewery.  The latter was probably my downfall because I didn’t notice that it was so strong (5.9%).  As always I highly recommend this pub.

It is interesting to note that The Windmill tavern, The Ring and The King’s Arms are all owned by The Windmill Tavern Group.

I drink in this pub about four or five times a year.  It was the first pub in Eltham to offer good beer when it was taken over and renovated in 2006.  The good things about the pub include the lovely old Truman frontage and the excellent cosy decor inside.  The bar staff are friendly and there is always a large range of beers on offer.  My only problem with the pub is that I often find beers that are excellent elsewhere taste less than good here.  On occasions I have had to return a beer because it was undrinkable.  If the problem that causes this  could be sorted out then it would be a wonderful establishment.

The website is:  http://www.parktaverneltham.co.uk/home/4563964955