Park Tavern, N4

I don't think this pub has changed much since the previous reviewer's visit, but there was one handpump now in the back bar, clipped for Doom Bar. But I went for the Guinness, at £2 a half. There was no sign of any food at Wednesday lunchtime. This is still very much a locals' pub, just off the beaten track. There are essentially two separate rooms, but now joined by an archway behind the servery. Apparently the screening, or wall, between the two rooms, was removed about ten tears ago. According to the landlord, the pub dates back to the 1850s, but there's nothing remaining from that period. In the back room the bar back contains illuminated adverts for Bass and Worthington E, which look to be 1950s enhancements. The windows throughout have delightful stained glass panels coupled with opaque glass in the upper parts; apparently at some point Bass/Charrington decided to remove the glazing in the lower parts to be replaced by clear glass so that those passing by could see into the pub to admire the interior. Both rooms are carpeted, are furnished with standard tables and chairs, and both still have dartboards in them. The landlord said that he is going to remove the carpet in the front bar, which should reveal the splash area that is currently concealed under the tatty carpet. This is clearly an unpretentious and much appreciated locals' pub. The beer selection isn't great, but I appreciated the simplicity of the place.

I thought that this place was closed as I approached on Saturday afternoon, but thankfully the lighting was just a little dim. The pub is split in two with the front bar housing a dartboard, small TV that was showing muted horse racing and a projector screen that was showing six nations rugby. The busier back bar houses another dartboard and another plasma screen which was showing premiership football. There is also a paved yard out the back with some covered and uncovered seating. I found the staff to be friendly, but I got a feeling that this is more of a local’s pub, not that I was made to feel unwelcome in any way though. The doors to both bars have ‘no children allowed’ signs on them, but inside there are signs saying ‘all children to leave the premises by 7pm’. There were a couple of children present during my visit so maybe the management would prefer kids not to be present, but allow the regulars to bring them in. Being an Irish pub there is live Irish music on Saturday nights and there are no hand pumps, but my Guinness was very good. I wouldn’t go out of my way to drink here again.