The Lock Tavern, Chalk Farm, NW1

Visited previously on 16/06/21 in previous ownership. Thought I would pay a return visit here also given the recent’ish acquisition by McMullen. Also have always regarded this one as one of the most pleasant Camden old school venues to sit in and have a pint of whatever (more of that below). It is bare boards, old style bar with what looks like a brass (?) topped bar counter. Seating is via high tables dotted round the perimeter of the bar, with windows at the front and side opposite the bar giving a look onto the manic traffic outside. There is a beer garden out the back and a roof terrace again but I was happy most are out in these on a pleasant evening leaving the inside of the pub very civilised. Back to those beer options. I assumed McMullen would have their own cask beers installed here but no sight of any pumps. Instead it is 100% keg offering. I have to admit I did rather enjoy my pint of Erdinger Weissbier here. Other options were lagers (Camden Hells, Estrella, San Miguel and something called Loose Headz from People’s Captain - a new one for me), Jubel Peach, Small Beer Hazy, Guinness, Aspall cider, Stone Wood Pacific Ale and Camden Pale. Have to admit it was a real disappointment in terms of the beer offering here. OK some decent keg options but I had expected a bit more than that. It is a really nice Central London pub but won’t bother with a return visit until cask is confirmed here. Did ask the chap behind the bar what was the expectation and his off the cuff response was at least 18 months until the new owners do a refurb. Quiz starting as I left to move on - just as the punters started to flood the inside from the roof and garden. This place would be much better than average with a decent cask beer range.

Official site of The Lock Tavern - www.lock-tavern.com

Official site of The Lock Tavern - www.lock-tavern.com