Hamilton Hall (JD Wetherspoon), EC2

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Quinno _ left this review about Hamilton Hall (JD Wetherspoon)

A swift revisit found this grand Spoons in the throes of a large interior restoration, so we were surrounded by scaffolding which I suppose made it feel like you were drinking in a craft beer bar with cheap prices, a novelty. My Lia Fail by Inveralmond Brewery was in really good nick (NBSS 4) as was whatever my companion had, they were flying through the ale at the bar and we noted a duty manager instructing the staff on how to do a quality check on the cask – the only other time I’ve seen proactive checking was Greg Davies in Dudley Spoons. I’m more inclined to pop back once the work is completed, things are looking good.

February 2014
Impressive JDW literally just outside the exit of Liverpool St Station (from the listed address I expected it to be somewhere inside before the escalators). Formerly the ballroom of the Great Eastern Hotel, it’s done up Regency style inside with incredibly high ceilings, plenty of ornate plaster mouldings, friezes, huge wall mirrors and gilt decoration. Two levels, ground floor filled with vertical drinkers, with a mezzanine containing its own bar (not open) that was a little calmer than the pulsating sea of bodies below. Plasma screen showing live departure boards are a useful bonus. Less impressed at the bar – beers were running out left right and centre, not good for a Saturday. My initial choice went back as it was flat and murky, exchanged without fuss for a so-so Marstons Sweet Chariot. Worth popping in when quiet to admire the stunning interior, but I doubt I’d make much effort to revisit beyond convenience value, it just didn't radiate any real warmth. Rated 6

On 21^st November 2023 - rating: 7
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