Quite possibly the prettiest pub in London. Enough said.

The Venue
The Woodman is a beautiful pub. It helps that it’s located in one of the prettier areas of London. More countryside inn than city watering hole, the first thing that attracts you is the sprawling white building in which the pub resides. Foliage, thatching, different levels - it’s a rarity in the capital. There’s also a huge garden that can seat somewhere between 250 and 300 people and comes complete with a barbecue. Then you step inside: an unpretentious space, they have managed to create an almost gentleman’s club appeal with none of the accompanying flounce. Simple dark wooden floors contrast with flashes of foliage, statement lighting, deep reds and a gleaming bar that acts as the centrepiece to the action. Just don’t expect to spend too much time leaning against it.

The Atmosphere
The Woodman is table service only. That’s table service if you just want a pint or table service if you fancy a meal. Gone are the days of waiting patiently at a busy bar, instead you’re able to languish at the table and the beers come to you. Genius or travesty depending on what you enjoy about pubs and a policy that's sure to divide opinion. Luckily, the service is quick and friendly so soon you’ll lose any interest in going to the bar and wonder why more pubs don’t offer the same service. A nice touch is their Sunday film night, a free event that showcases a selection of movies on a big screen. Bonus.

The Food
The food at The Woodman is well priced with a selection of sandwiches for around £5, light bites, antipasti to share (less than £8) and main meals (£8-£10). From the toad in the hole and beer battered fish and chips to honey roast ham with free range eggs and homemade chips, the food is British and traditional with an upmarket skew, without the ‘gastro’ price tag to match. Refreshing.

The Drink
Alongside a rather basic list of draught beer and cider (Fosters, Strongbow and Guinness), The Woodman also offers four real ales - Deuchars IPA, Old Speckled Hen, Highgate Bitter and Charles Wells Bombardier. In addition, they have 12 malt whiskies and seasonal drinks, which are always popular additions to the menu, including hot toddies and mulled wine in the winter or pitchers of Pimms and lemonade when the weather is warmer.

The Last Word
The Woodman is a charming example of a pub getting it right. Beautifully done.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (2)