The Railway, Merstham

Quite possibly one of the seediest, but friendliest pubs in England. On the A22 (fairly busy road) in the picturesque village of Merstham, the Railway is for locals and visitors alike. Pretty courtyard garden, restaurant attached, good value bar meals, quiz nights, dart board and slot machines, it is small, with alcoves and fairly clean loos. Dave, the bar manager/owner/tender, has been there forever. The pub is surrounded by antique stores and a petrol station - but backs onto some fine Surrey countryside walks, and is very close to the local pretty village cricket ground. Rivaled by the Feathers (opposite) those who wish to experience "Real" Merstham village will always pick the Railway. Used to have a really good Seafood van in the driveway at weekends, but believe that has now gone. Shame - divine lobster tails for the barbie! Many will remember Rob from Aus in the bar - regularly spent his salary in the slot machine.

28 Feb 2005 03:28

The Fox and Hounds, Westerham

Very characterful, and notable for the fact my (ex) husband revealed his infidelity to me in a corner alcove. Luckily, the beer was to good to cry into, and the big bowl of hot chips the landlady brought over (seeing my distress) were wonderfully thick and crunchy - homemade tomato sauce too. Unfortunately, I have never returned, as I divorced ex-husband, took him for a fortune, remarried and emigrated to Australia. Next time I am in the UK, I will return with new husband to same alcove, and grill him. Hopefully, there will be no need for the wonderful chips.

28 Feb 2005 02:55