The George (JD Wetherspoon), Croydon

A standard 'Spoons in terms of fittings, decor, size etc. but this does differ from the norm in that the ceilings are lower than most, which seems to give a much better atmosphere, especially in the back half of the pub. This is enhanced by the friendly, helpful and attractive barmaids as well as amiable banter at the bar from the locals. Not at all what I expected in a 'Spoons in Croydon and very welcome consequently. The bar at the front had Fullers Chiswick, Ruddles Best, Surrey Hills Ranmore, Abbot and Thornbridge Jaipur and Kipling on while the back bar had 3 from Dark Star: American Pale Ale, which was excellent, Hophead and Seville. A very fine selection and seemingly well kept. I don't know Croydon but on this experience, The George would be the first place I'd head.

I was impressed. Had plans to have a wander around Croydon but the rain sent me in here and I made this my only stop. Beers were Acorn Challenger,Dark Star Festival,Sambrooks Junction,Hogs Back RIP,Jaipur IPA,but the best was Orkney Raven ale 3.8% but excellent and £2.05 a pt. Better than usual range of cooking ales,with no doubled up pumps,"coming soons" or scrumpy ciders tying up an ale pump. And Dark Star Hophead was later discovered in the the top bar. Efficient staff and an approachable manager,and well behaved inmates. Clean tables and fresh toilets. A template establishment that McSpoons could apply to so many of its other outlets that aspire big things without bothering to get the basics right. Well done.

The George has been reborn under the new young Manager,Jaipur is on constantly,oakham's JHB is to be found frequently. the condition of the ales is second to none in the area.The staff turnover is now minimal and the service has improved immeasurably.The back bar is now dominated by a diverse selection of ciders.A recent Pub of the Season winner for Croydon and Sutton CAMRA branch.In three weeks time the George has a trip to Dorking Brewery with a stop at the Surrey Oaks for a special laid on buffet ( special because the Soaks has agreed to stay open for the whole day,thanks Ken). The pub also has a real ale related chalkboard.The ales yesterday were eleven plus three ciders.Thornbridge Kipling and Jaipur, Summerskills Ninja, Greene King xx mild,O'Hanlons Stormstay, Deuchars Caledonian,Goff's White Knight and RCH Old Slug.Not a bad gravity range from 3.0% to 8.4%!!!! highly recommended.

Randomness Guide to London - George entry

Randomness Guide to London - George entry

Split level pub with bars on both levels. A fair number of festivals ales were available including one I hadn't tried, the Wooden Hand Cornish Mutiny. The clientele, especially in the upper bar, seemed of a more elderly persuasion, plenty of couples dining or people popping in for a quick drink during a shopping trip. Decent place for a beer.