The Park Tavern, Eltham, SE9

The Park is a popular and busy traditional pub, with all seats taken inside and its barely 5 o'clock. There is, though, plenty of space outside (the rear is in shade, while the sun hits the front). Back inside, the 6 hand pumps were behind bar blockers on my arrival, but a couple of them were happy to shift aside to let me peruse the options - principally various traditional Bests, as well as a Wantsum American hopped ale. The keg fount carried little of interest, except for a German wheat beer and the modern incarnation of Hofmeister, which was being poured regularly. A fine pint of Wantsum Imperium (not the APA) was a more than fair £5. A good place, though I would have preferred to visit at a quieter time.

Very attractve Truman's exterior,beautifully painted and by far the best building this close to the main shopping area.Lots of original features,some good etched glass ,the L shaped interior is quite modest with the handpumps in the front section,while the long side has a lot of very traditional furniture and a side door to courtyard and beer garden seating.It popular with a loyal band of regulars,mostly mature no doubt attracted by the authentic pub vibe. Six handpumps on the go ,on my trip Fullers London Pride,Timothy Taylor Golden Best,Dartmoor Jail Ale,Rebellion IPA ,Mad Squirrel London Porter and Lacon's Brewer's Series Goody Pale,NBSS 3.5. Friendly bar maids always help and good to see punters enjoying their beer in a convivial surrounding.I would use it again if local.

I thought this was a real find of a pub - as I made my way from Penge to Woolwich on foot. I saw so many derelict pubs on route that this survivor kind of took my breath away. Super handsome exterior with original Truman's tiled signage. Nice patio area to the front to see if I was brave enough to sample eel from the cafe opposite. A covered side patio. The interior looks like a modern take on a classic 20th century pub counter. Beer wise - six cask - and plenty of options, including the lesser spotted Landlord Dark Mild. I went for an Adnams Broadside which was in wonderful condition. A very enjoyable visit and a lovely pub. Catch it whilst you can.

This is indeed a very photogenic pub from the outside and the yellow paint job complementing the original yellow and green Truman’s tiling is very pleasing to the eye and invites you inside. Unfortunately the interior does not match the exterior. The bar counter was more 1960’s décor than Ikea for me but the rest of the décor and seating is perfectly pleasant enough. And as the six handpumps were all in operation for my visit I did warm to this one. Alongside Adnams Mosaic and Southwold Bitter were Harveys Sussex Best, Woodforde Nog Dark Ale, Tring Piggeries Amber ale and Ilkley Brewery Blonde. So, a good mix of styles and the couple I tried were in excellent nick. There is a small courtyard garden outback, but on a fine day it is the preserve of smokers so wasn’t that comfortable a space for a non-smoker like me. But all in all, still a very solid pub.