Coy Carp, Uxbridge

This chain pub has a lovely location surrounded by water. But the positives stop there. The welcome was a far cry from that of the Oaks just up the road. The barmaid asked us to register for track and trace which I'd just completed using the NHS app outside the door. She didn't believe that I'd done it and demanded proof, which I duly provided, much to her surprise and disappointment, as I sense she wanted some kind of confrontation. 3 ales were on - London Pride, Doom Bar & Ghost Ship. I opted for Aspall's cider, which was awful. £7 for a pint and a half was also poor value. Not one I'd rush back to.

Great location. Good food, lovely waitresses, awful senior staff, to stand in a que for over 10 minutes for a drink is crazy. Yes another que to order food.After that a smile would have been nice or an apology for long wait. Least interested- I guess due to location they are very busy and do not really need to worry about customers. Great shame

This large extended Vintage Inns pub is situated in a pleasing spot between the Grand Union Canal and The River Colne running behind. Clearly designed to make the most of its location, the pub is food-centric, has a large car park, a bridge over the river leading to the entrance, extensive gardens, and it is possible to make a table booking on-line. The bar area has a stone flagged floor, reclaimed timber beams, and a brick through fireplace. To the left up some steps is an area exclusively for dining with the stairs going up again to another level. The area to the right of the bar is less formal and has good views of the water and gardens from the windows. There is mixed seating away from the formal dining area but I felt the seats in the bar area felt more suited to drinkers. Decor includes pictures and carved wooden fish and also a couple of pieces of stone with fossilised fish preserved within. A decent beer selection though, London Pride, Harviestown Bitter and Twisted and St Austell Proper Job. I had the Proper Job which I've encountered three times now in a week in different places and it was in excellent condition (£2.85). The pub is a long way from being traditional and most visitors seem to come for the food but it was a welcome spot for me during a walk along the canal.

Called in for Sunday lunch recently after a stroll along the canal and the food was good. Very busy pub with tables at a premium, even though it's a big place and has multiple levels plus outside seating. Although a booklet on the bar promised some interesting beers the actual offering was a bit uninspiring on my visit, Pride and Landlord if I remember correctly. Great location and the gardens at the back have nice views and are no doubt popular on Summer days. Currently has a rather tacky pink colour scheme.

Official pages of the Coy Carp, contains menus and cask ale details - www.vintageinn.co.uk

Official pages of the Coy Carp, contains menus and cask ale details - www.vintageinn.co.uk