Willoughby Arms — Restaurant in London

This pub is a real understated gem. Took me 4 years of being in the area to finally discover it on account of the pub history book I'd bought, and you wonder why you'd never been before.

My first visit was on a sunny afternoon a little while ago, able to dabble in the SEVEN real ales they had on tap and wash down arguably the best pub snack going in the form of mini poppadoms in a bag with tiny mango chutney. But on the bar, was Heineken 0.0. A permanent offering, and a mental note was made.

Roll on Dry January, and a dreary day lead me back here in the hope of a pint of it to scratch that itch. Fresh on the bar after just selling it out the night before, another weird little bag of it was plonked on the machine, and my delicious pint of AF macro lager was ready.

The pub itself dates back 1885 where it's listed as being under the ownership of Hodgsons, and in the 1960's, an addition to the eclectic Kingston music scene, Eric Clapton and the Yardbirds are said to have rehearsed in the upstairs function room. After 125 years, it finally achieved independent status, and now regularly features in the GBG.

Pool table, two dart boards, big garden, live sport, and the biggest but friendliest pub dog I've ever seen (it's a Newfoundland - I'll dig out a photo for the stories), as well as some chatty locals and friendly staff, make this place an absolute must visit for anyone looking for a pub to tick or pint to have.

If for whatever reason I have to move away from the area, I'll be gutted I didn't spend...

Like walking back into the 1970s. But in a good way.

Had a couple of pints here with mates last night. The beer selection was a bit bizarre, with lots of porters and stout, but I was quite happy with a pale from Exeter Brewery.

The team are super friendly and having left a bag behind, I was amazed when someone not only picked up the phone at 1045, but said they'd found it.

The decor is like something from Minder in the early 80s. Terrible lighting in parts but there are areas that are more dimly illuminated. Probably a good thing! There's also a pool table and a couple of darts boards which is awesome.

The audio system also sounds like it's on its last legs but I'm sure it's had a good innings!

Anyway, who needs music. They had Morris dancers performing in the garden to last night.

Definitely pay this...

I don't always drink here, but when I do, I can always bump in to old friends and acquaintances from my own bar tending days. Great selection and the annual Beer Fest is a must. Beer garden is a great asset but parking is not so good due to on street conditions, but is within easy reach of the town centre and local bus routes. Facilities for pool and other bar games, smoking area and water for your pooch. Bar snacks are a varied sekection and bar food is served but limited. Great place to meet for all those old...