The Jolly Gardeners, Mortlake, SW14

This pub dates from 1794, rebuilt in 1922 for Young & Co.; some of their lovely faience tiling remains, but the exterior is looking rather tired, though positively fresh compared to what awaits the drinker inside. Aside from the scruffy mountain bike occupying the darts throw, I doubt much has been done to this pub since it was built, let alone reviewed nearly 13 years ago. The woodwork looks original but it’s all very utilitarian, part carpeted, part tiled with some burgundy velour studded banquette booth-style seating, tired and scruffy. There’s a games machine and noisy sports commentary; what few customers were in at the time of my 9.45 Thursday visit were local yoofs. Although no longer a Young’s pub, the one cask choice was London Original (£3.00 a half), served by a friendly barmaid and in surprisingly good nick, considering I doubt the pump gets much use. This pub could be ok with some cash spent; it’s certainly better than the Tapestry bang opposite. I’ll say it again: if stuck in SW14, stick to the Hare & Hounds.

Official site of The Jolly Gardeners - www.jollygardenersmortlake.co.uk

Official site of The Jolly Gardeners - www.jollygardenersmortlake.co.uk

The Jolly Gardeners is a little gem. Good trad Youngs pub, now the only decent pub left in the area, with eers looked after. They put on quality live music. I heard that the 60's RnB band The Others is playing 5th October. I'll be there.

A timewarp pub to me, two rooms side by side, the main bar area with seating directly opposite at banquettes and stools, partly carpeted with a checked pattern but with a tiled bar splashback. The room returns slightly to the right where there is a dartboard as well as a hoover and various other domestic items. The side room is served by the end of the bar counter, there is a pool table in here plus a few framed football shirts from Brentford, Aston Villa and the pub's own team. Beyond is a walled garden with a few picnic benches and a large jumberrella with radient heaters. Youngs beers, four pumps but just Ordinary and Special Bitter on. No signs of food on Saturday afternoon despite the sign outside. This struck me as an old fashioned basic boozer that is rare to find nowadays, no frills, and nothing wrong with that if it's what you want.