The Captain Flinders (JD Wetherspoon), NW1

The brand newest Spoons in the estate, opening in early January 2024. As others have mentioned, it is really rather small for the brand and is more toping shed than drinking barn, the tables are rammed-in to the extent a battery hen would go on strike. Décor is JDW middle ground, with some teak effect panelling and the usual pub carpet. Of genuine interest is the wall to the left which displays polychromatic (had to look that up) tiles with paintings depicting an odd mix of Renaissance and travel scenes. I assume that the Watford Wizard thought that most punters in here would be quick turnover train travellers; well if so he got that wrong as at least 50% looked like they were settled in for the afternoon, with the classic codger collective having already made themselves comfortable (with one fast asleep), joined by a smattering of students and some bunking workers (me). I could only ID three people who were definitely travelling. Perhaps due to the small size there were just four ales featuring a solitary guest, an excellent drop of Wimbledon Norma (NBSS 3.5) at prices that were close to par with their airport outlets, pleased that I could give my Timbo Token over. I was initially disappointed by this one and was expecting something much bigger and grander. But the quality of the cask and the pubby atmosphere made me feel a bit more disposed to it after a while.

Not much to add to the comprehensive summaries of this new JDW venue. Rammed on my arrival just now at 7pm and nothing but the three “staples” as not even the TW NL (or anything remotely good) was on offer. Selected the Ruddles (nothing wrong with it) and supped up quite quickly as the noise was insufferable in a pub with a lower ceiling than any property I have ever owned. Most noise emanating by a party of what looked like estate agents celebrating the sale of their first maisonette of the year with what ever fizzy wine stuff JDW sells these days. Unlikely to return as many better offerings, as most know, nearby.