The Oarsman, Marlow

A 1930s mock Tudoresque pub which has been knocked around somewhat but still has some original bits inside - distinct drinking areas, two-third length wood panelling and some burgundy paintwork. Decent rear area with pool, darts and cricket on the telly. Two ales on; a decent Tribute as well as a Bombardier and both reasonably priced (in the context of this being Ma£low). Given the horrors of the Hand & Flowers earlier, this honest locals boozer was the perfect antidote. Not quite as good as the Ship but enjoyable nonetheless. 6.5

The Cross Keys is a traditional décor pub situated on Spittal Street just before you turn to go down the High Street to the Thames. Obviously originally a multi room pub, it is now one internal space which stretches from the lounge feel area at the front back past the bar to the more public section with dart board and pool table at the back. Has a back garden which can be entered from the cash and flash car park behind the pub and then the side alley way to Spittal Stret has some benches and shelves mainly for the smokers. It was being well utilised by the after work crowd for my visit and there was a good clientele mix from builders to suits in for an after work pint. And in that respect there was the usual fiz tap offerings and two real ale pumps on the go dispensing very passable pints of Caledonian Flying Scotsman and St Austell Tribute. Wouldn’t replace The Ship as my favourite pub in Marlow, but I wouldn’t have a problem catching a pint in here again.

The Cross Keys is a fairly decent pub just off the main shopping area it was quite comfortable inside and there were three real ales on the bar we had a drink of Courage Best and this was'nt a bad drink there was also Courage Directors and Bombadier on.