The Red Lion & Pineapple (JD Wetherspoon), Acton, W3

Doesn't feel like a traditional Spoons on entering. A large circular bar in the centre. Was rammed on a Saturday afternoon visit. Doesn't look like it has much competition as the pub over the road has closed down. Booths aplenty, this was an Ok Spoons to visit.

This pub probably dates back to the late 19th century, the name arising from the fact that until 1906, it was two pubs: the Pineapple and Red Lion, a large statue of a red lion straddling the parapet of the corner sweep is clearly visible. Nothing obvious from the original interior seems to remain, with a typical ‘spoons interior and fairly bright lighting. The bar is central, with the usual pan-national drain pour pumps off to the right, meaning that the good stuff is presented to the drinker if entering from the central door. Where this pub does differ from its brethren is that the tables were clean and cleared, no staggering all-day drinkers, though customers were mixed. Aside from the usual suspects, there were six pups drawing Hobgoblin, Oakham Citra, Elgood’s Gold, Purity UBU, Brewster’s Aromantica and Titanic Plum Porter at just £1.29 a half and superb, served by a friendly barman. I’m not a great fan of ‘spoons, but some do have a very good ale selection, e.g., the Barrel Vault, and this place is probably the best I’ve visited, but the lack of a traditional pub experience is a shame.