The Cross Lances, Hounslow

Fuller's pub with a double sided bar. Small front area with a larger section at the back.

Going by the pub sign, it looks as if this pub commemorates the 12th Lancers, and in particular their battle honours in the Peninsular War and at Waterloo. A good pub name, and looks to be unique. The lances on the sign do look a bit angry it has to be said. This is a smallish corner pub, although it does stretch back a bit to the right of the bar counter. This area at the back contains a pool tables and leads to a beer garden as well as having a TV on showling the Olympics. The front bar area has a dartboard, being used by a young kid when I was in. There are a few tall tables/stools, but more than enough normal tables and chairs to keep me happy. This is a Fuller’s pub so no surprises on the ale front, and although they advertised Wild River at £3.20 a pint it was unfortunately off during my visit. The Pride was also £3.20 a pint. There was no sign of any food during my Monday afternoon visit. As this pub is a skip and a jump away from the heart of the town centre it seems to be a bit quieter than those in the centre. This seemed like a real pub with local regulars, and I quite liked it.

This place has six ale pumps, four of which are Pride and the other two are ESB. There is also standard lager available and although I had to wait for him to appear behind the bar I found the barman/governor to be nice enough. The front bar is very small, but the back bar is a lot bigger and houses a pool table and plasma screen. There is also a small paved beer garden at the rear of the pub. Even though the drinks selection is unimaginative, this place goes to show that looks can be deceiving and I would go back here for a drink if passing.