The Eight Bells, Fulham, SW6

A very nice traditional pub that has the advantage of being the closest pub to Putney Bridge station and therefore a good place to catch a pint if alighting or waiting for someone. The traditional style carpeted interior with a horseshoe bar has been well described by previous reviewers and am glad to report that both the inside space and the several external tables on the pavement out the front were being well utilised for my mid week evening visit. Have never eaten here, but the reviews for food on trip advisor are pretty encouraging especially from people who utilise it when staying in the nearby Premier Inn. But unfortunately my experience for the beer hasn’t always been so encouraging as it was again the other evening. As below only two of the three pumps in operation dispensing the standard Pride and Doombar and these were average at best. Something that was compounded by noticing that the reversed clip was Skinners Betty Stogs which would have been far preferable to the other two. Its proximity to the Fulham and Chelsea football grounds makes it a popular pub when there is a game on and the pub is away supporter friendly as mentioned previously. However, although the outside area makes this a good place to catch an alfresco pint when the sun is out, not on match days when the local council regulations do not allow any outside drinking before, during or after the match.

Quite a traditional and comfortable pub, with a 'U'-shaped bar and some interesting decor. Just two beers available on handpump, Doom Bar and Pride (£3.35). Overall, however, I didn't really find it to have a particularly welcoming atmosphere (although I may have caught it on a bad day). (NB - Review dates from August 2011.)