The George & Dragon, Thames Ditton

A nice traditional pub , basically two opened out adjoined rooms , the internal walls are Red and Cream above some dark wood paneling,carpet on the floor, a mix of leather clad banquets, small stools and tables and some taller bar stools. Four hand pumps in this shepherd Neame pub so the choice was fairly predictable, usual suspect Sheps brews. Nice pub but can't get to enthusiastic about the beer.

Remains unspoilt as a good traditional and well-run pub (thank you Sheps!). Beers currently Spitfire, Master Brew and Bishop's Finger. Don't be put off by the few spaces in front - there is a larger car park behind.

George & Dragon pages at the Shepherd Neame site - www.shepherdneame.co.uk

It may be in the heart of well-heeled suburbia, but this Shepherd Neame pub feels like a proper village pub. Comfortable 'U'-shaped bar, with the sports TV on one side and dining area on the other. Patio seating to front and one side. Three real ales on handpump - Master Brew, Spitfire and a top pint of Early Bird. Friendly staff and a nice atmosphere, so well worth seeking out.

George & Dragon pages at the Shepherd Neame site - www.shepherdneame.co.uk

A pleasant early evening here yesterday, the Spitfire and Early Bird going down well. The yard-cum-garden to the left is nice enough, partially covered by one of those trellises with climbing plants interwoven that I can never remember the name for. This place always feels to me like it's not quite one thing or another: a steady but not busy locals' pub; a lightly sporty aspect; food but not overly foodie. Maybe that's why it always feels comfortable whatever your reason for going. I'm told the jazz nights on Tuesdays are rather good, but haven't managed to go to one yet.

This is a fairly quiet locals’ pub by the look of it – at least it was during my mid-week mid-afternoon visit, although I suppose it might be very different at other times. It’s set back from Thames Ditton High St a hundred yards or so down a drive cum car park, but they’ve sensibly sited the pub sign on the main road. There was no music playing, the TV showing Sky Sports was muted, and the only sound was that of friendly conversation. It’s carpeted throughout, mainly furnished with standard issue tables and chairs, but with a couple of sofas at the back on the left. There is some sporting memorabilia on the walls, including iconic England World Cup triumphs; Rugby and the never knighted Bobby Moore holding the Jules Rimet trophy aloft, and a framed replica of the red England football shirt. It’s a Shepherd Neame house so there’s no surprises with the ales on offer. I had the Late Red (very late indeed) which was a hefty £3.40 a pint. An excellent ale, but it always seems to be very expensive for some reason. Apparently it’s also a dog friendly pub, with one very contented and well-behaved mutt getting some serious petting from a young lady. Lucky boy. I didn’t eat here (or see the menu) but lots of others clearly had so I suppose that food is an important component of this pub’s makeup. This pub is considerably more comfortable than your average backstreet boozer, but it does exude a local’s homely feel. I would be very happy to visit again.