Acouple of days ago, on the social media pages of our two most popular titles – this one and its east London sister Leytonstoner – we asked readers which watering hole they would be making a beeline for this coming ‘Super Saturday’.
The majority of answers, interestingly enough, were pretty similar in each area, with most people divided 50/50 about whether or not they would take the risk (read more about Leytonstoner responses here).
Many stated that they would wholeheartedly be swerving their favourite locals at the weekend.
‘Too soon,’ echoed several folk on Kentishtowner’s Facebook Page. ‘A lot of people are still too scared to leave the house anyway,’ was another. ‘It’s clearly not safe yet.’
Others more moderate: ‘Pubs were struggling before lockdown, let’s find a way to support them responsibly, or not, each to their own.’
Wags responded with the likes of ‘The Covid Arms’, the ‘Cough & Crowd’, or best, the ‘Cough & Splutter.’ Of course they did.
Despite the caution, the good news for breweries and London’s hospitality industry alike is that there are definitely enough thirsty residents.
Three venues most tipped by readers? Why, the charming Rose & Crown, tucked away on Torriano Avenue, who’ve been running a successful takeaway bar for a while now, as well as central KT favourites Tapping The Admiral and The Pineapple.
Over on the Belsize borders, The Stag was also name-checked, as were other rated KT institutions The Grafton and Lady Hamilton.
All are taking unprecedented steps to stick to the guidelines, some with timed slots and table service only, most with reservations for two-to-six people maximum, and drop-ins available only outside, and so on. All are also operating on a reduced capacity.
Use it or lose it, right? But if you’re still unsure, swing by your preferred local for a takeaway pint or growler and sit in the hygiene-controlled privacy of your garden (or socially distanced on the Heath). At least then you can relax in the knowledge that you’ve done your bit to lend some much-needed support to the area’s awesome neighbourhood boozers.
After all, the last thing we want is any more historic landmarks turning into flats, right?
Check the individual social media pages of each pub before going as the post-Covid rules about social distancing and bookings may differ in each venue. Photo: Rose & Crown.
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In October 2020, Kentishtowner will celebrate its 10th birthday (unbelievable, right?). But with the demise of our free independent monthly print titles due to advertising revenues in freefall, we need your support more than ever to continue delivering cultural stories that celebrate our neighbourhoods. Every reader contribution, however big or small, is invaluable in helping the costs of running the website and the time invested in the research and writing of the articles published. Support Kentishtowner here for less than the price of a coffee – and it only takes a minute. Thank you.
