The Swan, Hammersmith

When you're a Nicholson's pub you don't have to try very hard to get into the GBG. Just serve reasonable beer and make sure anyone who might be a local CAMRA member isn't kept waiting; you'll be fine.

The Swan's not that much different from the rest of the chain. You get a good range of beers (albeit at a price), service was fine and they seem geared up for busy spells. Particular thanks go to the waiter who let me stay in the dining area after I inadvertently strayed there while looking for somewhere to sit - one of the advantages of getting old. I suppose that if Spoons are the Travelodge of the pub industry, Nicholson's are Premier Inn .

17 Apr 2013 00:20

The Plough and Harrow, Hammersmith

Deceptively large 'Spoons. Quick service, decent beer, have a drink then move somewhere else. Like virtually every other JDW it knows its clientele and caters for them.

17 Apr 2013 00:11

The Andover Arms, Hammersmith

Anywhere else in the country this would be an ordinary local. In London it's got stripped kitchen tables everywhere and pretentions to being a gastro-pub. Unlike other reviewers I saw no guests on, but asked for Brit Hop. This was on the turn, and at £4.10 a pint I had a lucky escape. Chiswick was cheaper, unremarkable and I don't think I'll be returning.

17 Apr 2013 00:09