I'm not often in Catford, and chances are, you aren't either. But should you be, there is but one…read moreplace thus far that I know of to drink. The town itself seems to be fairly dry by way of watering holes, since the main pub I've seen used to be on the bridge. Yesterday, as we went in search of a pint before my train, we noticed said pub had shutters up and a for sale sign - no more pub on the bridge.
Fortunately we spotted the note, which directed us here, and after walking a few minutes past take aways and various other drab-looking shops, we found an alleyway. It was pretty much unlit, and led to a door, which gave little away as to what may be found inside. In fact, it was a little creepy. Fearing what we might discover inside, but committed at this point, we pushed in to find what looks like the entrance to an old hotel. A stair case ahead, another door to our left, and a room full of bric a brac, covered in sheets, to our right. Something out of Silent Hill, almost.
We opened the second door to reveal a delightful hub of people, hidden away in their secret bar. You can't get more of a prohibition vibe than this, given the lack of drinking spots near by, and the hidden nature of the bar. Other places in London, and throughout the country, may try to affect the feel of being true hidden bars - but this place feels like the real deal.
The room is huge, tall, and perhaps was once the dining area for the aforementioned hotel. (I could be way off, before its current incarnation it was a Conservative Club, but before that? My bet's on a hotel.) The wall by the bar is lined with Private Eye prints, the walls are half stripped of their faux wood wallpaper, the windows have bars, and the ceiling reveals a wooden floor above. It's unfinished, and it's perfect. The chandelier is something else.
And it's not just the ancient décor that gives it its charm. The selection of ales is fantastic, with details as to what to expect the following week, the lagers are inspired, and the staff (the one lovely bar maid we encountered) are fantastic. (Krusovice and Kernel were noted, amongst others.) It may be the only place to drink in Catford, but it's not doing anything by halves. The seating is a mish mash of old lounge seats, mix and match tables, and there is a selection of books along the back wall. Each table even had fresh flowers atop them. Had I not been heading home, I could have easily stayed here for hours, talking, drinking, and definitely playing cards or chess. The price for a pint and a half was around a fiver.
It's a charming place and, even better, they've a kitchen coming soon. I'd recommend it more than a stop off if you happen to be around. I'd go further and suggest you make the effort to find it.
