Carters, South Norwood, SE25

Passing through South Norwood on a Crystal Palace match day, I noticed a large crowd of pavement drinkers outside what I had assumed was a shop, but is apparently now a modern, shop converted bar, so I popped back a few weeks later, on a quieter evening, to see what all the fuss was about. It's a very basic, but somehow quite comfortable bar with modern laminate flooring, leather effect wallpaper, and a dark painted ceiling which helps create a dark space with muted lighting, that has a bit of a nightclub VIP area feel to it. Banquettes and low stools run down the right-hand side and there's just about enough room for a couple of drinking ledges to the left. The bar is to the right rear and has a modern counter and plain mirrored bar back, whilst the wall opposite has several massive mirrors on it, perhaps to create the illusion of a larger room or perhaps for the staff to keep an eye on their dubious clientele. The bar's name is spelt out in neon lights on the back wall and there are lots of plants hung from the ceiling, with colour also provided by various pop culture portraits on the walls alongside a large Crystal Palace logo. I spotted a TV screen above the entrance, although it remained off over the course of this visit, in favour of an 80's reggae and two tone soundtrack. No chance of finding any cask ale in here, but they did at least have Brixton Low Voltage at £5.50 a pint, with Heineken, Birra Moretti and an Old Mout cider the only other draught options. The barmaid was very friendly, but was a little distracted, taking time to down a shot bought by another customer before serving me! This is a very simple bar serving a rough and ready clientele in a bit of a contrived environment that's trying to look upmarket on a budget. If lager, sweary punters, football chat and ska are your thing, you might just feel right at home, but for me the place held limited appeal and there are better boozers a short walk away. Date of visit - 24th April 2024