The Garden Shed, SW19

Tris C left this review about The Garden Shed

As the Horse & Groom, this place dates from at least the late 19th century, the current structure likely a replacement from the 20s’ or 30s’ and with two Charrington’s lanterns remaining, the current name dates from December 2013, probably to differentiate it from the other Horse & Groom at the end of the road, which in turn was known as the Dark House, probably to...errmm…differentiate it from this place.
Refurbished in January 2018, there’s a big opened out rather plain interior, bare boarded with a white theme, punctuated with galvanized suspended ceiling framework from which weeds dangle; also on display are some tactically placed rather pretentious knickknacks; the only obvious sign of heritage is an etched mirror above a fireplace bearing the pub’s original name. The bar back is a modern plank and mirror affair, the front covered with dark shiny ceramic tiles, likewise the furniture to the frontal area which is really little more than glorified tall trestle tables; some booth-style seating was available to the rear. Several TVs were showing the white-knuckle spectacle that is live golf, in unwatched silence, the ambience dominated by a fairly decent live guitarist, enjoyed by a mixed local crowd, mostly in good spirits during my Saturday night visit.
There’s no cask now, just three decorative pump handles fashioned from garden implements, so it was Neck Oil, £3.40 a half, served by a functional barmaid.
This place isn’t a disaster; the live music was entertaining enough, but the lack of cask is a disincentive, likewise the close proximity to the Sultan.

On 20^th May 2024 - rating: 4
[User has posted 2017 recommendations about 1983 pubs]