The Plough, Sutton

The three handpumps on the counter were all unclipped, so I went for a half of Guinness (£1.95). I didn't see any menus, but a bloke at the bar was eating a baguette - but then he disappeared behind the servery so perhaps he was a staff member enjoying a late lunch. This is a magnificent inter-war pub designed by Sidney Clark, who did a lot of work for Charrington's Brewery. The pub is carpeted, has tatty old banquettes and normal tables and chairs, a pool table to the left in a sort of ante-room - possibly the hitherto public bar - fake black beams on the ceilings, plus pine-clad bar counter and gantry. All very 70s. The best feature is the large fireplace at the back, supported by a couple of Clark’s trademark spiral brickwork columns. Unfortunately it’s now obscured by large speakers and lighting equipment. I was just about to write that it was a nice quiet pub to enjoy a pint if only they did a decent ale, when some loud rock music was put on – but to be fair it didn’t last long and was replaced by something a bit quieter. This is a locals’ pub with no apparent airs or graces. A decent ale would make it a much better prospect.

This pub has quite a striking appearance having a green pantiled roof, green ceramic covered columns and tall stepped gables. Close to West Sutton station and convenient for Sutton Utd FC. Inside is now one knocked through fairly basic single room although the original layout can be reasonably guessed. The fireplace has some unusual twisted brick columns and the arched leaded windows which add interest but despite this the overall feel is of a rather mundane and tatty pub in need of a bit of TLC. Mostly carpeted, mixed seating, there is a projector and fold down screen presumably for sport; beside the fireplace is a mixing deck and a pair of speakers. Décor is limited to a few of the typical framed photos. The return area nearest the front has pool and darts. Some outdoor seating to the rear and the front. Three handpumps but no ale, one unclipped and two reversed, Young's Bitter and Doom Bar. I didn't see any signs of food. The place seems to be one for the locals except probably when there is a match on over the road, certainly not one for a special trip.