Converted from a 19th Century hotel, Drayton Court is one of the oldest pubs in Ealing. This huge traditional Fuller’s pub fosters a relaxed sense of community with helpful staff, a wide range of ales and uncomplicated pub food. A fantastically large beer garden and toasty fires inside during the winter make this a good drinking spot whatever the season.

The Venue
A stone’s throw from West Ealing overground and nearby Uxbridge Road, this is one of the most striking buildings in the area. With its turrets, chimneys and distinctive butter-yellow stonework it’s impossible to miss once you turn onto the Avenue after crossing the bridge from the station. The Victorian exterior belies its history as a hotel before it became a pub in the 1940s.

Moving inside, you’re greeted by a choice of whether to turn left into the sitting room or right into the main bar. Turning left, you’re greeted by a host of wooden chairs and leather seating, perfect for those looking for a quieter spot to eat and drink. Shelves with books to read, archetypal Victorian high ceilings and low-key lighting give an air of refinement compared to the hustle and bustle next door.

Entering the huge main bar area you’ll see lots of wooden tables and chairs, including raised areas and high stools to get a perfect view of the large screens showing sport. A long bar dominates the right-hand side of the room whilst a cosy corner section includes slightly battered squishy sofas with a pleasant view of the garden downstairs. Gold-framed sepia-tinted photographs hark back to the former hotel’s glory days while arched French windows lead onto a generous sheltered terrace.

Despite the interior, it’s Drayton Court's leafy, grassy outdoor area that raises this local pub to the next level. As possibly the largest beer garden in London, it boasts plenty of benches and tables and many seats are shielded by huge canvas umbrellas. With some nice trees, a kids’ playground and ample seating, it’s a fantastic place for families or for anyone looking to enjoy the sunshine. In addition, unusually for the area, this pub also boasts a small theatre downstairs. With a function room and other more discreet seating areas through the building, this venue has pretty much all the pub staples covered – and space isn’t at a premium.

The Atmosphere
Simultaneously a local pub and a low-key entertainment venue, this pub has a friendly atmosphere devoid of the airs and graces of many of West London’s bars. Attracting everyone from older locals to young professionals and families, there’s a sense of community here for those that want it, yet enough space for those who want to keep themselves to themselves and enjoy a quiet pint. Late opening hours have lead to a steady nighttime trade.

While big screens ensure sport is a clear pull here, the Drayton Court events schedule also caters for those looking to participate in something a bit different. Activities vary from learning to swing dance with the Ealing Hoppers to folk workshops, jam night, Columbian-style salsa and big band jazz. The bimonthly comedy night is a particular highlight. Started by Harry Hill, it attracts a range of renowned comedians to perform on Friday evenings. Generally, the Drayton’s staff are friendly although sometimes harassed at busier times, which can lead to confusion over food orders. Efficiency could be enhanced with a couple more pairs of hands at peak times but as long as you’re not in a hurry, there shouldn’t be any major gripes here.

The Food
The focus at Drayton Court is on generous portions of fairly straightforward pub grub. While the menu’s not exactly ground-breaking there’s plenty to choose from. Classic staples like London Pride beer-battered fish and pork and apple sausages with mashed potato will set you back around £7.50, with more adventurous dishes such as grilled monkfish, salmon and pancetta skewers costing a pound of two more. Burgers start at around £6.50 with the halloumi, leek and sweet potato burger ensuring vegetarians aren’t forgotten.

On Sundays there’s the obligatory roast with a selection of cuts chosen on a weekly basis. All are served with vegetables and a Yorkshire pud if you want it so there’s no need to miss out if you don’t fancy beef. For a more varied meal, they also serve a selection of tapas including chorizo, sweet potato wedges and aioli.

The Drink
As a Fuller's pub, Drayton Court Tavern always has four real ales on tap with regulars London Pride (£2.90 a pint), ESB (£3.10 a pint) and Chiswick (£2.65 a pint) proving popular. Lagers on tap include Staropramen and Carling starting at around £3 a pint, whilst bottled beers such as Peroni and Budweiser are in ample supply for a similar price along with the usual motley crew of bottled ciders.

For wine drinkers, there’s a choice of around twelve available by the glass. A 175ml measure varies from £3-£4.50 with 250ml servings between £4.30-£6.50. The choice of bottles is restricted but reasonably selective; you’ll fine Vermentino Viognier sitting alongside Conway Hills Pinot Noir. Laurent Perrier and Veuve Clicquot are on hand if there’s something to celebrate (£45 and £50) with a range of cheaper sparkling wines and Champagnes also available.

The Last Word
The relaxed atmosphere, interesting architecture, ample space and the area’s biggest beer garden make this an enduring choice for a West London pint.

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