The Open Guide to London: the free London guide

Now that the Rose of Denmark is but a memory and the [Red Lion, SW13 9RU]? has been ruined by ham-fisted refurbishment, this is possibly the last traditional local in Barnes. Located halfway down Barnes High Street, you duck down a little alley and turn right into the "private bar". The interior is cozy, and extremely traditional, with plenty of brown wood-stain and fading cushioned benches round the walls. Toilets are on the other side of the alley from the bar. There is a large and excellent beer garden at the end of the alley, with barbecues in the summer. Staff are friendly and service is slick. The ambience is good, with a number of locals propping up the bar and chatting in the corners. No music, no fruit machines!

The beer is mostly Youngs - Bitter, Special and a seasonal, plus Pilsner and Export lagers on tap. A full range of Youngs bottled beers is also available - there's a very tempting "take any four bottles home for �5" option. There is an extensive wine list, too.

Not to be confused with the Bull's Head, another Youngs pub 100m away.

TBC - food?