O2 Centre ,
255 Finchley Road,
South Hampstead,
London,
NW3 6LU
0871 971 4207
The ViewLondon Review
As far as brand pubs go, this one ain’t half bad!The VenueWalkabouts are probably the least offensive of all the chain pubs. In this case, the venue is large enough to accommodate large groups with plenty of seating and ample floor space to allow for a good dance. The decor is outback-themed, with rustic walls decorated with aboriginal designs, resembling an old warehouse or large tin shed.
The furniture range is actually quite eclectic with plush leather sofas waiting to engulf you on lazy afternoons, dining tables and chairs, and high tables and stools - great for catching the sport on one of the many big screens. The music is a happy mix of classic tunes from modern pop and rock acts and, of course, the night wouldn’t be complete with at least one airing of ‘Down Under’.
The AtmosphereLaid back and easygoing with mellow days and buzzing nights, the vibe that Walkabout generates seems to resonate through the clientele; be it the sporting fans catching the latest fixtures, weary travellers looking for a familiar place, or large groups looking for a great night out. Everyone here is out for a good time and the loutish behaviour associated with other chain brands doesn’t seem to be present.
The FoodWalkabout stands alone with its dedication to the use of traditional Kiwi, Aussie and South African ingredients, so alongside your regular pub grub of burgers and bangers ‘n’ mash you’ll find exotic ingredients like Kangaroo, Crocodile and Spingbok. For the not so daring, there is plenty on the menu to satisfy: a favourite is the juicy burger selection, taking the stack to the extreme these need an oversized cocktail stick to keep them all together and can in no way be eaten in one piece!
The DrinkIn keeping with the theme along with the regular pub fare such as Stella, Strongbow and Guinness, you’ll find a selection from the Southern Hemisphere such as Victoria Bitter and Tooheys. Prices are very reasonable, and with the continuous offers you won’t break the bank on a night out either.
The Final WordWhile it’s not the same as throwing another shrimp on the barbie and is probably as close to resembling Australia as an O’Neils is to Ireland, it’s not as offensive as some of the other brand pubs around. Pretty decent.
Walkabout Inn has been reviewed by 1 users