New Inn, Richmond

There were three or four mainstream ales on, including Young’s Bitter, London Pride, and Courage Directors. The Young’s Bitter was £1.65 a half, so something like £3.30 a pint, and while not cheap has regrettably become the going rate for a session ale in London. On my midweek lunchtime visit the lunchtime specials were listed on a chalkboard above the fireplace, ranging from £9.25 for a veggie stuffed pepper dish to £16.95 for a sirloin steak plus trimmings. The printed menus on the tables were similarly priced, and included a range of sandwiches from £5 to £6. Homemade desserts were advertised at £4.95. The pub itself is OK, in a prominent position sited on a bend in the road right by Ham Common. Inside it’s traditionally furnished – carpeted, with some banquette seating round the sides, but otherwise essentially dark varnished normal tables and chairs. Wall decor is nothing special, seemingly old hunting prints and black and white photographs, but with shelves high on the walls bearing numerous copper jugs, pots and the like. I particularly liked the brick built fireplace on the left with the chimney breast sporting more copper implements – but no horse brasses. There are a handful of picnic tables at the front. There were no children in there during my visit, but it must be child friendly as there is a disabled/baby changing toilet. I got a nice welcome from the chatty barmaid (about the weather of course). This is a clean, comfortable, well- maintained pub in one of the nicer parts of SW London, with a reasonable, if not exciting, ale selection. I would be happy to visit again.

As you approach the New Inn your first impression is highly favourable. Situated facing Ham Common in a semi rural location and it look like an old fashioned traditional English inn. Once inside we were not disappointed. Oak beams, a open log fire and low key decoration. the seating is comfortable and we found the staff to be friendly and efficient although they did not look smart. Rough casual best described their dress sense. The drinks included some cask ales are properly presented albeit slightly more expensive than other local hostelries. Their is a printed menu and a special board. The food is only average and only real gripe was the price of the food was inflated and poor value for money. A small neat beer garden at the rear. Certainly recommended for a visit especially if you enjoy a reasonably quiet drink no loud music or television here.