The Hill, Greenwich, SE10

Formerly the Barley Mow pub, this place underwent a major refurbishment in 2005 and came out the other side as the Hill, a gastropub where the emphasis is certainly more on the gastro than the pub. The centre and rear sections (about ¾ of the floorspace) are given over to diners albeit there was just one table occupied during my visit. A small section at the front of the pub with a few pine poseur tables is all that is designated for drinkers although there are tapas menus on each table so you can’t get away from the food aspect. The décor is quite plain with bare floors and the now commonplace grey paintwork and modern artwork. The only ale is Adnams which was reasonably priced (for the area) at £3.20 and quality was very good. Interestingly a 2005 review elsewhere mentions the Adnams overpriced at £3 so they have certainly held their prices to a more realistic level. The service was friendly and I was even brought a complimentary bowl of olives after I sat down which was a nice touch (apart from the fact I don’t like olives). The food menu can be found on the website link and there is also a pizza menu along with the aforementioned tapas if you aren’t looking for the full restaurant experience. To the rear is apparently a large beer garden but I didn’t get a chance to have a look. It was pleasant enough place, if a little dead, but as a place to drink a visit is probably only worthwhile out of curiosity or as a quick pint on a crawl. Whether it serves its main purpose as a restaurant, I’ll leave others to judge.

Official site of the Hill, contains menu and wine list - www.thehillgreenwich.com

Official site of the Hill, contains menu and wine list - www.thehillgreenwich.com