Tom Cribb, SW1

Official site of Tom Cribb - www.tomcribblondon.co.uk

This was originally built in 1707 as the Union Arms, to celebrate the Act of Union, rebuilt in 1878 and given the current name in 1962, in memory of the early 19th century boxer Tom Cribb and publican here from 1820 to 1838, whose English Heritage blue plaque can be seen to the Panton Street façade at second floor level. Situated opposite the… …Harold… …Pinter… …Theatre, this is a very small affair, very traditional with perhaps a more recent bar back, adorned with memorabilia from submariners. Unsurprisingly, the walls are adorned with boxing related prints, ugly Singha bunting and one pointless Perspex barrier remains. The pub was rammed on my Saturday visit, with many men with shaved heads, perhaps former boxers making a pilgrimage; they certainly looked like they knew their way round a ring. I managed to perch at the bar, hemmed in by vertical drinkers, many taking their drinks outside in obligatory plastic glasses. Some customers were a group of young and very rowdy Portuguese, singing away and doing shots. The landlord looked as fed up as me, but rather than deal with it, he let it continue. The lavs must be the smallest I’ve ever seen, with what in effect is a tiny cupboard, with two urinals and basin; there was barely enough room for one urinal alone; I don’t know what would have happened if another customer had come in? This is a Shepherd Neame joint, so there are no surprises in the ale department, but just Whitstable Bay (clips reversed) then Bishop’s Finger at £5.35 a pint and ok but I’ve had better. This is a fine, atmospheric pub, but the claustrophobic and loud conditions weren’t conducive to a good experience, so best time your visit wisely.

Official site of Tom Cribb - www.tomcribblondon.co.uk