The Mute Swan, Hampton Court, East Molesey

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Blackthorn _ left this review about The Mute Swan

A substantial and attractive looking pub directly opposite Hampton Court Palace and within yards of the Thames, it’s obviously a very popular spot and it was full to capacity on our recent Sunday afternoon visit, with pretty much all the tables being occupied by diners. Although we did manage to grab a small table as somebody left, what with waiters constantly whizzing past and everyone else eating, we felt slightly uncomfortable and didn’t linger.

It’s quite contemporary in terms of décor, and a black, cast iron spiral staircase in the centre of the pub leading up to a mezzanine level floor is a prominent feature. The flooring was wood strip, whilst the lower part of the walls were clad with dark wood panelling and there was cream plasterwork up above. The large windows made the most of the outlook and the walls were filled with old black and white photos. The large bar had a mirrored backdrop and an extensive spirit selection.

There was a surprisingly good selection of beers on tap for a venue such as this that must be a bit of a tourist trap and on our visit the selection was Wantsum Hengist, Old Pie Factory’s American Pie, Bingham’s Twyford Tipple, Sambrooks Powerhouse, Bunnings & Price Original Bitter, Ravensbeer and a further pump which appeared to have run out. From an initial glance the solitary cider appeared to be Aspall’s Suffolk, but when I expressed my displeasure at this, the friendly barman said that they had some Hallett’s PX “out the back”. This was a new one on me and very pleasant, if a little on the sweet side perhaps. Whilst this isn’t normally the style of pub that I’d go for, at a quieter time I could see that it would be quite appealing.

On 11^th April 2018 - rating: 7
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