Jolly Judge, Torquay

Funny place. We popped in on a late Thursday evening to find half the pub in darkness, only one other customer who looked like Chris Hughton’s brother and no barman, who had to be summoned from somewhere beyond Mordor. Paperclip shaped inside, almost a bit Lloyds No.1-like in décor with duck egg panelling and grey silver wallpaper, plus a mix of furniture. Four pumps, just Dartmoor Jail on and it was pretty lifeless - whether it was end of barrel or just over-vented I couldn’t say (two others were labelled as ‘coming soon’ perhaps if they has actually been on earlier they may have had more customers?). I see below that this appears to be a common theme. Not sure I’d chance it in here again but there’s a fair bit of potential.

I visited the Jolly Judge on a recent very quiet Wednesday evening when the three hand pumps were out of action until the planned delivery the following morning. A standard draught range was available and cheap food is served during lunch and early evening periods. Sky Sports is shown and there is a projector screen in the front seating area to the left of the entrance. There is dartboard and raised seating area to the right. Karaoke is advertised for every Saturday from 20:00. Out the front facing the main road are some covered picnic tables that run the width of the pub. I think that this place could generate a decent atmosphere if there were a few more people so I would pop back in and give it another go during a busier period.