The Jolly Sailor, South Norwood, SE25

When I called the place was getting busy due to the evening match at Selhurst. Only Twickenham Naked Ladies on and this was only just about drinkable and served in a plastic glass. Couldn't be bothered to take it back so moved on!

The recent update from PSM perfectly describes the venue and its current configuration. Here a bit after 7.30pm and pretty deserted. Has a nice corner aspect with plenty of natural light and makeover adding to that. Interesting fluffy ceiling lights! There are two hand pumps, one functional on my visit dispensing Old Speckled Hen. Other than that fairly middle of the road keg choices so nothing to pack you on the fast train to Norwood a junction out of London Bridge. For my sins I had a pint of a Guinness. I really liked the airy feel of this place. With the beer choices a moribund 5 but this could easily be better with another cask offering and a few craft beers added to the otherwise boring choices on the shiny taps.

Official site of The Jolly Sailor - www.thejollysailorsouthnorwood.co.uk

Official site of The Jolly Sailor - www.thejollysailorsouthnorwood.co.uk

Facebook page of The Jolly Sailor - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Jolly Sailor - www.facebook.com

A plaque on the wall outside proclaims that this is on the site of the Jolly Sailor, built in 1810, which was the oldest pub in South Norwood. So, this pub must be a rebuild then. Anyway, this is one of those places that looks like a half decent pub from the outside, but flatters to deceive. There are a few tables and chairs, a sofa, and that's about it. There's a pool table on the right, a TV on the back wall, and with an island bar in the centre of the room. The barman helpfully advised me on walking up to the bar that they don't sell bitter (I must have the look of a bitter drinker - but the absence of real does make me feel that way!), and the only drinks on draught were Fosters, Kronenbourg and Guinness. They've obviously tried to make it look a bit upmarket since Pubsignman's visit (they don't open until the fashionable time of 4.00 PM during the week). I don't think I'll be bothering to make a return visit.