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.