Cornerstone, Kingston Town, Kingston Upon Thames

Pub SignMan left this review about Cornerstone

A large, multi-room pub near Kingston station that combines smart dining with sports bar sensibilities. The front room is an airy, stylish space with tall windows, standard tables and chairs, and several booths divided by partitioning panels. Décor includes low tongue-and-groove panelling below plain and William Morris-style wallpapered uppers, with early film prints and local photos on the walls. The bar is on the back wall, with a plain counter, mirrored metal-frame bar back, and eye-catching bubble-style pendant lights above. Beyond the bar is a rear games area with high tables, drinking ledges, dartboard, pool table, photo booth, and slot machines. Between the front and back sits a quieter lounge-like space, decorated much the same.
Although two GK IPA pumps were clipped, both were inexplicably off and no effort was made to turn the clips so as to avoid such confusion. I settled for a pint of Greene King Level Head on keg at £6.80 - expensive, but about as good as Greene King beer gets these days. The barmaid was very friendly and apologetic about the lack of cask. TVs throughout showed live football with the sound on, creating a fairly loud, bustling atmosphere during my visit. Despite the noise, the space behind the bar offered a quieter retreat and I was frustrated to not be able to get a seat back there.
As sports bars go, I thought this was a decent enough set-up, with some smart, comfortable furniture, plenty of screens, pub games aplenty and friendly service. In general pub terms, the lack of cask ale (or the prospect of just Greene King IPA), the excessive noise and loud football commentary mean that it's not exactly the place to stop off for a quiet pint and you would certainly fair better in the 'Spoons over the road if good beer is your priority.

Date of visit: 30th January 2025

On 8^th May 2025 - rating: 5
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