The Hop Poles, Hammersmith, W6

I had the misfortune of ending up standing next to an old Irish bloke at the bar that was so slaughtered that he couldn't speak except for shouting indistinguishable ramblings at the poor barmaid. He seemed to be a regular and thankfully she informed him that he wouldn't be served any more drink although this was probably about five pints to late. The Pride was good, but the other ale offering of Landlord was off as the barrel had just been changed and it needed time to set, whatever that is supposed to mean. There is also an unused ale pump along with a mixture of standard and premium lagers. On the whole it wasn't that bad an experience as the staff were friendly and the place has been tarted up a bit. Even with the drunk old soaks, I think that this place has improved vastly since my last visit ten or so years ago.