Hermits Cave, Camberwell, SE5

A stone plaque on the side of the pub declares it to have been built in 1902 – thus probably Edwardian. The interior is very basic, having been largely opened up over the years. Flooring is the well worn floorboards seen in traditional pubs, rather than the modern varnished flooring seen in gastropubs. Furnishings are well worn banquettes, and standard issue tables and chairs. A gas coal effect fire was on the go in the fireplace to the left of the room – not really needed on a mild February day, but it looked good. Other items of note were the second fireplace on the right of the room (which would originally have been the Saloon Bar) with a marble surround and carved wooden toppiece, the large stuffed animal head on the wall, and the array of models, jugs, bottles and suchlike on top of the bar gantry. There was also the inevitable large TV screen on the wall, plus a pull down screen attached to the ceiling, no doubt deployed for major sporting events. The two ales on were Deuchars IPA and Gravesend Shrimpers Ale (£3.40 a pint or thereabouts), plus three ciders also on draught. A wine list was displayed on a chalkboard on one of the walls, but I’m afraid that I neglected to note the available wines or prices. There were no menus in evidence when I was in at around 5.0 PM during the week, but I could smell something cooking somewhere. But it could have been from a local kebab shop I suppose. This is not a destination pub by any means, but is a decent enough little no-nonsense boozer. It’s OK for a swift one.

Randomness Guide to London - Hermit's Cave entry

Randomness Guide to London - Hermit's Cave entry