The Maid Of Muswell, Muswell Hill, N10

The Maid appears to have changed her clothes since my last visit there in Jan 04. Then it was a straight forward, no nonsense, 5 pints of lager, footie on screen boozer. 18 months on and the ugly duckling is not so ugly anymore and is now a bit more fitting for such a “well to do” area. The patio outside now looks very smart with a wicker fence and potted plants. Inside has been transformed with a more up-market customer base in mind. It still retains some of the original stripped back features and bare floorboards but these now blend in with a mix of seating styles, potted plants and subtle lighting. The bar staff were very welcoming and the well kept beers include London Pride and Marstons Pedigree. Unfortunately, it would appear that the change has come at a price - £2.90 for a pint of Addlestones Cider compares badly to the £2.70 a pint I pay in Central London but, if this is your local, then you can probably afford it. The Maid won't be everyone's cup of tea but there is little competition in the area. Handy for Alexandra Palace, 5 minutes walk up the hill.