The Foresters Arms, East Wickham, Welling

Please Note: This review is over a year old.

Rex Rattus left this review about The Foresters Arms

Another unreviewed pub in the Plumstead area, and another one I liked. As is sometimes the case, this one had some useful information set in stone on the exterior, telling us that it was built in 1890, and the initials M & B cut into the stone parapet (no, not Mitchell and Butler) revealing it as an old Mitchell and Beasley brewery pub. Unfortunately a fire inside some fifteen years or so ago means that everything of heritage value in there was destroyed and what we see now is pretty modern, perhaps with the exception of the brown painted metal/tiled fireplace on the right and some of the panelling.

It's carpetted, furnished with normal tables and chairs, has some potted plants around the place, as well as a dartboard around on the right. There's also a smallish garden at the back, a jukebox, a TV on the wall (switched off during our midweek lumchtime visit), and a small Millwall themed mirror on one of the walls. I also saw quiz nights and karaoke advertised.

Once again, the real ales were Doom Bar and London Pride, with the Pride being in excellent condition at £3.60 a pint. The food in here is basic, but excellent value and excellent quality if you like simple pub grub. No sign of any jus, wagu burgers or alioli in here. Rolls were from £1.80; chips are £1.50 with the portion being more than enough for two people; and the ham, egg & chips was £5.50. A cheese and pickle roll (cheese not grated and tasty mature cheddar), pack of salt and vineagr crisps and a large portion of chips came to £3.80. I also spotted a jar of pickled eggs behind the servery.

It was almost like going back in time to visit such a welcoming and friendly pub, doing honest food a very reasonable prices. The only downside is that it's located a bit off the beaten track between Plumstead and Welling, and perhaps that's why it hasn't been reviewed before my visit. This pub is one of a dying breed, and a pleasure to visit.

On 22^nd November 2019 - rating: 7
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