Five Bells, East Finchley  

Now in the hands of the John Barras chain, this suburban pub had a fairly mixed clientele when we last looked in, probably as it's the only pub in the (immediate) area. It can get pretty busy on sunny days, with staff battling (with good grace) against a tide of thirsty drinkers. With pints in hand, plenty of punters then head for the beer garden. Alas, on our visit the freshly laid turf would have given Alan Titchmarsh nightmares and also one of the benches had been put next to the entry to the garden (so when people sat at it you had to clamber over the low wooden fence to get in). The interior is in keeping with the Barras house style: all Laura Ashley-esque curtains and clashing carpets. The beer was decent enough but alas, the overall feel of the place was akin to an above average Harvester. Quiz nights on Monday and Thursday attempt to draw added custom.

reviewed:
30/03/2005

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

Sky TV

beer garden

play area

quiz night Monday

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