The Woodman, Carshalton

Apparently converted from a butchers shop many years ago, and still emblazoned with a wine bar sign which is clearly isn't. Still very heavy on the wooden beams, but at least they are in a light oak colour so not too oppressive. I couldn't quite work out why they were not using the main entrance, but instead squeezing people through the fire exit. A couple of handpumps offered a rather tired Adnams Bitter and Doom Bar and frankly I could understand why I was the only customer. A lot of potential but the awkward location at the end of the shops on a busy road probably rules out the much needed investment.

Undoubtedly on old building that should be oozing character and ambiance, but as Quinno explains below it has been poorly modernised and any real pub personality has been thoroughly ironed out. Crap music in the the background was irritating as was the ignorant (as to who had been waiting longest) bar service, the three beers available were Adnams Southwold Bitter, TT Landlord and Caledonian XPA. A wasted opportunity.

A super location opposite the ponds and a pretty historic-looking building too. Advertised as a wine bar externally but in reality it is an upmarket boozer -the selling of sausage rolls and pies do rather attest. Internally it has been quite badly stripped-out and blandized in the lower bar but a couple of touches from what feels like a late 60’s/early 70’s brewery-sponsored refurb remain - fakeo wood beam ceiling, leaded windows. To the left up some steps is a more traditional seating area that is clearly another 70s refit hangover. Three ales at the bar; Adnams Bitter (ok), Bombardier and Deuchars IPA, so guessing this must be an ex S&N pub. Nothing to really write home about, overall. Could be much better (and probably was, 20 years ago).