The Bell, Kings Langley

Upon approach, this reminded me of The Three Tuns in Apsley / Hemel, however, I can confirm that nothing has changed since MM's visit below nigh on 5 years ago: if anything, they've got worse. The Arsenal memorabilia has been replaced by a strong smell of dog and a large, rough-looking Blue and Yellow Macaw inhabits the right corner by the bar. Predictably no real ale, the presence of Caffreys on keg was something I've not seen for many a year. The whole place needs a steam-clean, and the prudish should take a sanitizer bottle with them - the rest should make a point of washing their clothes when they get home. Number 1 contender for my Worst Pub of the Year, ahead of Chalvey's Garibaldi.

A not unattractive exterior, if in need of a lick of paint, the interior is a single room, mainly carpeted except for the boarded lower area in the front which houses the pool table. The room extends to a narrow area at the back where the TV and fireplace are. The fire was lit but really not needed on a very warm October afternoon. Despite being close to Watford, Arsenal allegiances are prominent here with photos, programmes etc displayed. The music was unnecessarily loud as were the boisterous clientele, the overall ambience not exactly enhanced by the barman sitting on the bar counter while joshing with the regulars. Two handpumps but no real ale on, one unclipped, the other reversed (couldn't see what it was).