Arkwright's Wheel, Croydon  

"Traditional by day; Party by night" said the tee shirt on the bored-looking girl desperately trying to avoid eye contact and thus having to bestir herself to serve us. With only one other punter at the bar we knew she'd crack in the end and pour a strangely flat pint of Tetley - everything else being off. OK, so that's the daily tradition in these parts is it? Doesn't bode too well for the evening party.

It's a crying shame. As architecture this is a fine traditional boozer. There's a big, pillared, panelled and carved island bar and etched-glass and wood partitions offsetting the exposed brickwork of the main area, provide potentially appealing quiet alcoves. Add some charm and some atmosphere and you could have a winner. But don't hold your breath.