Charlie Chaplin, Walworth, SE1

Randomness Guide to London - Charlie Chaplin entry

Randomness Guide to London - Charlie Chaplin entry

To the initiated, Elephant & Castle is one of the Capitals biggest monstrosities, a prime example of the ugliest architecture that is fit for little more than a demolition ball. Needless to say the pubs around here are some of the worst imaginable and the Charlie Chaplin is probably the grottiest of them all. What one of Britain's finest export comedians and satirists would make of having such a place named in his honour I don't know but even he would struggle to find anything amusing here. This depressing place inhabits a dank corner of a shopping centre block and looks as welcoming as a noose to a condemned prisoner. Chaplin's association with the area is written on the entrance door and a more comprehensive biography is attached to a pillar inside. The general interior is dull and gloomy with questionable taste in décor and lighting. Only the brick fireplace and the jelly bean machines are worthy of any attention. The beers are awful – no Real Ales so it was draught Websters Green Label, probably the worst pub pint I have ever tasted, even at £1.50. John Smiths smooth was a luxury afterwards although the extra quid still didn't buy a smile from the barmaid. The pool table at the rear was occupied by people whose collective IQ's would struggle to match the number of balls on the table and for good measure there were several depressive looking Placebo fans in here ahead of a gig at the Coronet next door. 2/10 ‘cos I am in a generous mood.