Sovereign of the Seas, Petts Wood

Wetherspoon pub

Opening in March 1995, this large and popular JD Wetherspoon pub attracts a wide range of customers across all ages. No piped music but always the loud buzz of conversation in a busy atmosphere. With Petts Wood station a few minutes walk away, this is also popular with commuters and afterwork drinkers.

The long narrow layout complements the long L-shaped bar with a cream and red décor and maroon patterned carpet. The large front area is brightly lit with TV screens set to silent. Pump clips adorn the top of the wooden bar itself. Various alcoves make for a cosy atmosphere with the area at the rear geared up for dining. Framed photographs on the wall show the development of Petts Wood as a suburb. Themed panels refer to the ship after which the pub is named, and also the daylight saving time campaigner William Willett, who was a local resident. The pub name is unique within Great Britain.

There is a large enclosed area out front with benches to cater for drinking outside as well as a small patio garden to the rear of the pub, complete with wall tubs. The latter has plenty of tables and multicoloured chairs, with areas for both smoking and non-smoking, and overlooked by neighbouring trees.