The Broad Green Tavern, Broad Green, Croydon

Not many London Road pubs survive these days and the list of closed pubs must now be longer than that of those still trading. Nevertheless this place is still going, serving a small band of locals and the occasional passing customer although it's hard to see what appeal this has over any number of those now boarded up or demolished. The pub is a large open plan affair with a wood panelled front section full of seating and a carpeted rear area which has a couple of tables before opening out further onto a dance floor at the rear which also houses a pool table, large projector screen, jukebox and some games machines. A number of TVs throughout the pub were tuned to muted racing channels or Sky Sports News whilst some rather melancholy music played over the occasional chatter of the few locals. Blackboards showcased a range of long since disappeared ales and choice nowadays is between Guinness and John Smiths, with a couple of lagers thrown in for good measure. I had a half decent pint of Guinness Extra Cold ("we don't do regular Guinness any more as it doesn't sell enough") for £2.60. The barman was personable enough although there was something of an air of resignation about him and his establishment that makes you wonder if it will be the next closure victim.