Who needs Kent? For a real countryside pub you have to go no further than Putney Heath. Green Man is a wonderful, ancient establishment with a distinct old-time character. Highly recommended for the history drinkers.

The Venue
A pit-stop on your way back from the Richmond Park or Wimbledon, the Green Man has been on site since the 1700. Located nearby a dueling field, the winner would celebrate his victory after killing his contestant.

This pub hasn’t changed much: the small and cosy cottage on the way to Rohampton is a countryside pub in all aspects: furnished with wooden panels, barrels transformed into tables, heavy curtains, a working fireplace, and boat race memorabilia. Perfect for a warm winter session, it is just as great for the summer time, with a very large back garden with wooden furniture. A staple for all seasons.

The Atmosphere
A countryside pub in atmosphere as well, Green Man looks like a family run business and is very popular with chatty locals of all ages: the average age is 40-50 and most patrons are men, but anyone is very welcome to have a cheerful pint in good company.

The purpose of everyone’s visit is definitely to have a few drinks (unless you drop in on Wednesdays for poker) and the place can get loud and packed even on weekday evenings, proving how loved this place is. For a quieter atmosphere, come by in the afternoon or arrive early to choose a good table and enjoy a full meal. The service is friendly and reliable, adding to the list of positive points.

The Food
Green Man offers comfort food all around, from starters (£4-£7.25) and sandwiches (£4-£5.50) to mains (£6-£10) and desserts. You can expect tasty pub grub at very reasonable prices and the vegetarian options are particularly good. The Cumberland sausage and onion sandwich, the cod fillet in Young’s beer batter, and the Wiltshire ham with free range eggs are especially mouth watering. That said, the food seems not to be too popular with the regulars as this is essentially a drinking pub.

The Drink
Youngs dominate the beer offerings with a selection of their brews: Youngs Winter Warmer, Special and Wells Bombardier are part of the seasonal selection of ales (£2.50-£3.30), while you can get Ram Rod, Special London Ale or Light Ale (£2.60-£3) bottled. The rare Banan Bread Beer guest brew is also offered now and then, completing the list.

The advice-infused wine list is composed or eight whites and seven reds plus the additional rose and Champagne. As with any other drink here, glasses and bottles - representing a wide variety of quality and value - are fairly priced at £2.90-£5 for small glasses, £3.90-£7.25 for large ones and £11.50-£21.50 for a bottle.

The Last Word
The great country feel is the real quality of Green Man, hence do not expect fine dining or a mile long drink list. Just enjoy the old-school environment and cheerful clientele: you won’t be disappointed.

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