The Peahen, St Albans Central, St. Albans

I didn't like the look of this pub at all,more focused on dining than anything else. I too do not like Mc Mullens beers ,so I didn't stop for one.

In a prominent position ,this Mc Mullens tied house is focussed on food and has a largely open plan interior in a modern,rather souless style.The bar runs around one side of the interior ,while dining type tables in pine predominate.There is a small exterior beer terrace ,but I didn't detect much pub atmosphere.Two handpumps were drawing MuMullens Country and a seasonal "guest" badged as from The Whole Hop Brewery which is just another name for Macs brewhouse. I wont be rushing back.

Nice modern pub with extensive garden at rear.2 McMullen beers County and Stout Herts which I found bland.Dont like McMullens beer much

Large modernised McMullens bar, irregular in shape, with various different seating areas. Substantial patio beer garden in courtyard to rear. Slightly anonymous atmosphere not really helped by the background jazz music. Two handpumps offering Country and the seasonal (£3.25).

The Peahen has a late license until midnight on Thursdays and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays which is why there is a bouncer working the door on these days. It was filling up very quickly during my early Saturday evening visit and when I walked past at about 21:30 a queue had formed outside and a ‘one in one out’ system was in operation. The management here must be raking in the money for Mcmullens as it is a very big pub to fill. In amongst the sea of standard draught taps I did spot two hand pumps that were drawing Mcmullen Cask Ale and Royal Wedding Ale. I plumped for the Guinness which was well served in a timely manor considering the queue at the bar. Food is available from around the £9 mark, but I didn’t eat or see anyone else doing so. There is a courtyard out the back that I think is mainly used by smokers. I suppose that I would have no problem returning here if passing, but there are better pubs in the local area.