The Brunel, Rotherhithe, SE16

Known as the Adam & Eve until 2015, this pub is situated at the corner of Brunel Road, the pub dating from 1803, with this incarnation dating from 1913 and sporting some rare external Wenlock brewery regalia. The interior is carpeted and overall, there’s a pubby feel to the place. Flanked by rainbow flags, there’s also a very fine bar back, with etched, gilded and painted mirrors, sadly the woodwork painted pale grey. Furniture is conventional, with some Chesterfields. Lighting was low and unfortunately there were several TVs on, showing multiple sporting events with the sound up, so that we could hear not just commentary, but also adverts; it didn’t make for a good environment, especially given that they vied for attention with a brightly flashing games machine. Customers were local and very mixed, and although our visit was made on a Tuesday, the pub and garden were full to capacity. Despite the website’s boast of Cask Marque accreditation, there was just one unused pump, me opting for a half of Neck Oil at £3.30, served by a friendly barman. This isn’t a bad pub at all, but it would be massively improved with real ale on and real TVs off, because as things stand, if you want a better locals’ pub with real ale – of sorts – the Ship is a better bet. But then of course there’s the Mayflower…

Official site of The Brunel - www.brunel-rotherhithe.co.uk

Official site of The Brunel - www.brunel-rotherhithe.co.uk

A standard locals pub with little in the way of any real character,Doom Bar and Landlord were the ales on, but with everybody in the pub on lager the sixth sense kicked in and I opted for half a Stella on a very hot afternoon.I'm sure its fine for the locals but it was nothing special here for me.

Called in Wednesday afternoon, no customers and 2 empty handpulls.

Old corner pub, retaining its original Wenlock Brewery signage on both façades, but opened out a some stage to leave a 'L'-shaped bar. Quite dark decor slightly at odds with the furniture which is mostly semi-modern in style. Also has a small patio beer garden to one side. Wandle and Dark Star Hophead (£3.40) available from two of four handpumps.