The Dukes Head, Hampton

I was the only customer on my recent afternoon visit, they open at 3pm on weekdays, but the barman was pleased to see me. We chatted about the pub trade, and he confided that things are quiet lately, but said they get busier in the summer. There is a lido next door and Bushy Park is nearby. Consequently only two of the four pumps were on, Pride and Youngs Ordinary. The Pride came out with a slight haze, I'd have tried it but he was having none, insisting he won't serve beer that isn't up to scratch. The Youngs was very good. Top marks for his approach though, especially in the current climate. I like the traditional exterior, inside there is one space around a central island bar, but the pool room to one side is seperated when not in use by a folding screen. The bar is in light wood, so unlikely to be original, part carpeted, part wood floors. A real fire burns with a nice smell of woodsmoke. Some unusual artifacts, several Tintin figures stand around, and there are further posters, plus a large world map and an aerial photo of Bushy Park on the walls. Tables have film related postcards under glass. At the end of the bar a large cage houses an opinionated and vociferous parrot. Small perimeter tables with banquettes, standard chairs and small stools. The big screen tv in the corner had Sky Sports News on muted (not that the volume would be audible over the resident parrot) and there is a fruit machine. I thoroughly enjoyed my short stay and chat with the barman/guv and would like to return in the summer when all four pumps are on and the pub is more lively.

Looked good from the outside, at lunhtime time on a Monday. Unfortunately (for me anyway) it doesn't open until 3.00PM Monday to Thursday so didn't get to see the inside. Will try again sometime.