The Prince of Wales, Kingston Upon Thames

Our rating: FAP Rating 2 - Click for an explanation of our ratings User rating: Not rated yet! - Click for an explanation of our ratings (1 review)
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FancyaPint?'s review...
FAP Rating 2 - Click for an explanation of our ratings
On paper, this pub has little going for it. Located in a nondescript corner of Kingston-upon-Thames, the exterior is one of the scruffiest we've ever seen in a mostly affluent London Borough. Its beer garden (despite being advertised) no longer exists, the remaining outside seating is a solitary pub table feet from a busy "A" road, and on our visit they had no ale other than John Smiths (and that was pricey at three pounds a go). Yet in an era when many pubs are being stripped of any character they once had, this is your classic spit-and-sawdust: stained wooden floor, fraying seating and a plush leather settee out back for any VIPs. Our favourite feature is the small pool room which, unusually, is reached by steps off the main bar area and looks never to have been re-carpeted, though the baize is spotless (50p a game). There's a dartboard and jukebox too, and the worn interior fabric adds a strange charm, windowsill cacti providing the sole exotic touch. The Irish landlord gives preference to racing over football, even on a Saturday afternoon, and lets pints of bitter settle before topping up: unusual that, in the South. There are increasingly fewer places like this left, which makes visiting something of an unexpected treat if (in the nicest possible way) scruffy pubs are your bag.
Reviewed by 15 Feb 2009    Helpful? yes/no
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279 Kingston Road, Kingston Upon Thames, London, KT3 3SN

020 8949 8199

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How to find the The Prince of Wales pub

Although Berrylands station is nearer as the crow flies, the pub is more easily approached from Norbiton station. From the station, follow Norbiton Avenue to the junction with Gloucester Road. Turn right, then first left onto Cambridge Road (A2043). The pub is on the left-hand side of the road after a few minutes' walk.

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History
27 May 11 Updated by piranha