Rose of York, Richmond

Jumbo roadside Sam’s - their first in London - opposite the Thames Water meadows, which also hosts a hotel (are all the toiletries Sam Smith produced and branded??). Plush-but-faded early 80’s refit (Harvester-style, remember them?) over an L shaped room; oak-brown wood panelling, red carpet and a nice cosy seating area by the fire, where we alighted. The large and incongruous empty food stand gives it away as a ‘sunny days and Sundays’ pub and indeed we were the only customers on a late midweek afternoon until a peculiar husband and wife combo turned up. The mature barmaid was good for a chat and a bit of Humph related banter. No cask OBB here, so I went for the classic Sam’s standby of Extra Stout – not the best one I’ve ever had but still perfectly acceptable. Fine for what it is.

Lots of brown panelling,stuffed animals and Sam Smiths beer.No.

Being something of a rarity, this is a Samuel Smith's hotel (or "country pub with rooms" as the exterior signage would have it). Sat at the foot of Richmond Hill, it has fine views across the Thames Water meadows (especially at sunset), although nothing like those that much be obtained from the upmarket Petersham Hotel towering above. Inside, there are a variety of seating / dining areas within the 'L'-shaped bar, all decked-out in mid-brown wood panelling and featuring very traditional furniture and decor. Patio tables can also be found out in the courtyard and on a side terrace. With no 'real' OBB on offer, and the keg version not appealing, I went for a Nut Brown from the fridge (with my worst expectations confirmed at an eye-watering £5.85). So, an attractive bar, but if only it offered a few decent cask ales (or even just OBB on handpump)...