The Newman Arms, Fitzrovia, W1

My 10 year anniversary revisit happens again! Last time here in 2016, it was very shabby. I seem to remember a picture of Orwell above the bar and a bike - possibly attached to the wall. Its now been completely refitted in a quite garish red. A TV screen has a rotating powerpoint presentation with some old photos and some details to his history as a candle shop, brothel etc. Orwell is mentioned. Peeping Tom isnt. Couple of ironic things.... this was my first cask marque accredited pub of the evening. They had no cask. The handpulls had broken. And for the Proles Pub in 1984, there's a certain amount of irony to be had charging £7.80 pints of lager. You know what, I am unsure if I will be back in 2036 :-)

Quite a let down this one, the promising exterior leads to a poorly modernised small interior more akin to a Cocktail bar, the two adjoined alcove rooms downstairs are more cosy but I generally prefer to sit in view of the bar. Four handpumps but no cask available on my Saturday visit! there was a turned Redemption clip and one other so presumably cask is available on occasion.My Big Penny Pale Ale on keg was somewhat nondescript.I'd say it's not likely I'll return here.

A very thorough PSM review needs little adding.This pub is a brewery tap for Truman's with three on offer on my trip Lazarus,Scratcheroo (season cricket theme) and Scorcher (another seasonal but lacking character).Another handpump was unused and several Truman keg beers were also available. The food menu shows lots of sharing platters while I enjoyed a good salt beef bagel for £6.50.Upstairs is really a dining area with a waitress while it is strange that there is a Basement Lounge because this is also the location of the loos,detracting a little from the atmosphere. It is small and maybe is best appreciated when quiet.I have felt for a while that Truman's are a second division brewer ,which would put me off a revisit for anything other than the interesting food.