The Royal Oak isn’t going to win any awards; it’s a basic, traditional working man’s pub with no frills. However, a decent selection of beer on tap and a friendly, down-to-earth staff do keep it from being chalked down as just another old pub.

The Venue
A traditional pub in the vicinity of Vauxhall tube and rail station, this establishment is a no frills watering hole – it just does what it says on the tin. Rebuilt in 1891 it’s debatable whether it has actually been redecorated since then, being traditional to the point of being old fashioned. The TV has popular music playing most of the time and there are also one or two interesting object d’art, including stuffed reptilian animals. Random.

The Atmosphere
This is a working class pub with a very friendly staff. Most of the regular punters are slightly more mature but there are also regular office workers who pop in for a quick pint.

The Drink
Bass, Green King, Carling, John Smith, Fosters, Kronenbourg, Guinness and Strongbow are all on draught, with bottles of Becks, Budweiser, Corona and Leffe available. The average price of a pint is £3.00, with Kronenbourg coming in at £3.50 a pint. House red and white wine averages at £10.50 a bottle. All the usual spirits are on sale, with some premiums thrown in, which is a pleasant surprise.

The Last Word
A down to earth pub, with friendly staff and reasonable prices make The Royal Oak worthy of the regulars who frequent it. However, if you’re after anything more than the basics it may not be for you.

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