The George (JD Wetherspoon), Staines Town, Staines Upon Thames

If you are the sort that gives formulaic Wetherspoons a wide berth then you’re best steering well clear of the George as here you virtually get 2 ‘Spoons for the price of 1. Despite the name, the original George pub closed around 150 years ago and the current namesake is merely a typical ‘Spoons conversion of what were probably a couple of old disused shops. The main bar on the ground floor is slightly larger than its upstairs companion and does a larger selection of ales (10 or 12 handpumps if I recall but just a couple of Hammerpot beers that were of interest over the usual stuff). An open staircase leads to the upstairs section with its own bar (3 hand pumps – 2 usuals and a guest). The décor throughout is typical ‘Spoonsnessabounds with all the plastic trimmings that go with the territory. Even by Saturday night standards the place was pretty packed but I didn’t get the impression that there were too many undesirables among the masses as you may sometimes expect in such places. In a town that isn’t noted for great pubs, the George does at least feel like the International Rescue of beer selection and if only for that, it’s worth popping in.

Gone right down the dumper - popped in today, beer choice uninspiring and quality of all three of my pints were average to poor. Service with a scowl behind the bar, perpetuating the Eastern European bar staff stereotype. The inside remains scruffy and unkempt - graffiti all over the toilet doors, for example. A shame. Can't recommend at present. 1 March 2007 Beer quality and range has notably improved under new duty manager, and he has no quibble about refusing to serve the obviously inebriated either. The inside is in desperate need of an overhaul, the tables are shot to pieces and the décor is getting pretty shabby. Roll on refurb...if it ever happens! 22 August 2005 Boycotted the place last year when they made a song and dance about giving me a clean glass to replace the dirty one they had given me with my pitcher. Also meals usually had one ingredient missing when it turned up. Burnt. Some JDW's are great, others are poor, depending on the management. This one was poor.

Fairly typical Wetherspoons but seems quite well run. Large and busy ground floor bar, with smaller quieter upstairs area.

Official page of The George - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk

Official page of The George - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk

Usual Whetherspoons pub. Large and cheap prices. Wide range of real ales for sale.