Named after the quaint, country-style lane on which it is located, the Crooked Billet is a Young’s pub that attempts to mix its traditional surroundings with a fresher, more contemporary setting.

The Venue
The Crooked Billet consists of a spacious bar area with a selection of cosy leather armchairs and sofas as seating and a large, dimly-lit dining room at the back. It is a well-groomed venue, and the locally produced artwork proudly displayed on the walls is an attractive touch. There is no beer garden, but customers are encouraged to make use of the green in front of the pub during the summer, for which there are even picnic rugs available on request.

The Atmosphere
Despite not attracting quite as many customers as its neighbouring fellow Young’s pub the Hand in Hand, the Crooked Billet’s pretty surroundings guarantee it popularity, and weekends see the place filled with the busy chatter of large groups of friends and families. Bar staff are mostly on the younger side, and make up for in enthusiasm what they may lack in old hand knowledge.

The Food
The menu consists of traditional pub fare at gastro pub prices. However, regardless whether the fish and chips (£10.75), classic bangers (£9.95) and pie and mash (£11.95) really justify their price tags, ingredients are undoubtedly of a high standard and the Sunday roasts are particularly popular here – with a choice of beef, pork belly, lamb or root vegetable pie available for £13.25-£13.95.

The Drink
A fair number of real ales are available on draught, with Bombardier (£3.60) and Young’s Special Bitter (£3.55) among them, as well as a couple of guest ales. A carefully chosen selection of wines is available, with prices starting from £15.95 a bottle.

The Last Word
The Crooked Billet is a safe bet for a decent drink and bite to eat in the Wimbledon Common area, but it is a shame that more isn’t made of its rather unique, namesake location - where it has been afforded the chance to bring a true taste of the countryside to the London suburbs.

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