The Open Guide to London: the free London guide

A small free house about five minutes' walk from Richmond Station. Probably the best traditional local in the area. Cozy atmosphere and traditional (albeit extremely red) decor (especially the celing). There were four real ales on tap when we visited, all priced very reasonably at about �2, and all excellently kept. Circumstantial evidence suggests that this is the local pub of the London Welsh RFC.

Food is served - a reasonably wide selection at lunchtime but only rolls and bar snacks in the evening (and possibly a bowl of chips if you ask the landlord nicely), all displayed on a blackboard. all main meals are �4.95, sandwiches �2-3. Specials are listed on a separate board.

Lots of old men but the cheerful-in-small-groups kind rather than the moping-in-a-corner-nursing-a-half-of-bitter kind. Generally very friendly atmosphere. Half-decent music (not too loud), which is quite suprising. Unintrusive TVs, and occasional jazz nights. Function room available.

Toilets are cramped but pleasant, with pot plants. Ladies' has a shallow step up, two cubicles, proper taps, and is very nice indeed.