This Greenwich pub’s homage to Nelson’s mate offers up good, simple British cuisine and a buzzing atmosphere.

The Venue
A short walk from the university grounds and the Cutty Sark, the Admiral Hardy is a pub intricately linked with its central Greenwich surroundings – instead of a beer garden, the venue’s back door leads out into the covered Greenwich market and adjourning shops. Devoted to the eponymous admiral, the venue displays information on Hardy’s life and, past the stately white exterior, countless portraits and prints line the walls of the main room. There’s even a small bust behind the black wooden bar, which runs along the far wall and is backed by a blackboard displaying offers as well as classy wooden partitions for spirits.

The room itself is charmingly laid out, with dainty, flower-laden tables surrounded by leather stools and armchairs, creating a very homely feel despite the relatively sparse decoration and rough wooden floorboards. The venue holds two additional function rooms, including the dimly-lit, soporific lounge area which is ideal for relaxing conversation and contains two distinctive metal bookcases. The only real let-down are the toilets, which are simply not up to scratch and should be avoided if at all possible.

The Atmosphere
A favourite of younger local students (due to its NUS concessions) and residents, the Admiral Hardy has a great atmosphere most evenings and is a recommended stopping-off point for weekend day-trippers as well. The open-plan seating leads to a soothing hubbub of disparate voices, mingling with good music both live and recorded – folk and jazz bands feature prominently in the upstairs room towards the end of the week, and there is an excellent acoustic open mic every Sunday.

The Food
Simple and satisfying, the food menu at the Admiral Hardy takes in sandwiches, salads and jacket potatoes (£4-£7) during the day and several more advanced main courses in the evening – fish and chips is the somewhat predictable calling card (tasty, if a little dear at £10.95 a portion), while roast chicken and chips (£9) and pie ‘n mash (£10) provide rustic yet wholesome alternatives. Sunday roasts are a weekly highlight, but overall the menu ticks all right boxes for traditional, albeit route-one, pub grub.

The Drink
As well as Palm, Heineken and Strongbow on draught (at around £3.50 a pint), the bar stocks a healthy selection of spirits, cocktails and wines, although the ale selection is mildly disappointing considering the local competition in the area. That said, there is certainly enough variety of beverages to keep the regulars coming back for more.

The Last Word
Although not much to look at, the Admiral Hardy does its namesake proud with a vibrant atmosphere and an excellent location.

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