The Woodman Pub

Vibrant Pub Scene with Friendly Staff

Ah, The Woodman—a venue apparently entangled in a bit of an existential quandary. Part pub, part hotel, it seems to embrace its dual identities with varying degrees of success. Let's start with the positives, which are enough to make even the most glum reviewer crack a smile. The bartenders, it appears, would give Tom Cruise in "Cocktail" a run for his mojitos—or so Molly’s fans enthusiastically claim. Whether you're winding down after an AFC Wimbledon match or getting into the swing of one of their themed evenings, you're guaranteed some sixties serenity or whatever theme takes their fancy that night. The beer? Sublime, and if you like your Guinness as much as you enjoy it when fellow patrons shout your name upon entrance, then you've hit the jackpot.

However, culinary excellence seems to have taken a share-the-load ethos with several personnel, fostering unpredictability worthy of a naval voyage. House hunters gleefully trotting in for hearty pub fare might trip over the culinary gap between “absolutely exceptional” and the depressing “frozen potatoes,” served instantilly-fresh from someone's freezer. Though Ana and Paul’s warmth could defrost Scrooge's soul—or so enthusiastic reviewers say—the kitchen could learn a pinch or two more about seasoning. It is worth popping by for the welcoming ambassadors behind the bar, be it Amy or the venerable old guard when they're not pulled from Doris Day anthems to pour pints, just don’t venture too far into the Paper Mache section of the menu unless partial to potential food déjà-vu. A mixed bag, yes—but one bursting with character and occasional culinary epiphanies if not simply for the engaging company. — Penelope Savory