The Engine, Baldock

Bucking Fastard left this review about The Engine

A Greene King house,opposite the exit from the station.It looks like it has endured a refurb,essentially open plan with a section to the right of the front door having a curved bench seat under a window and a darts board,another area has a drop down screen but no sport was showing while the bar runs along an internal wall while opposite there are a rank of seating booths but a large void area,maybe used when live music is playing.Veranda doors give way to a small conservatory and pool table then a very large beer garden with what looks like a former bowling green now covered in artificial grass.I'm sure GK have worked out how many modern housing unit can fit onto this space ,but the pub looks part of the street scene and maybe the local planners need a drink or two to authorise change of use.
Two handpumps,one working with just GK IPA (NBSS 2.5,£2.10) served by a friendly, flirty barmaid .The kegs did have two from Beavertown which might have been an option. A few laddish customers but the interior is too sparse to feel comfortable ,the ale range will always be dull under GK ownership,so I have satisfied my curiosity but probably won't return in it's current guise.It could be a lot better

On 29^th March 2024 - rating: 5
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