Wilton Arms, London

Until 2020 a Shepherd Neame house and, sometime before that, a Whitbread pub, the lease of the Wilton Arms is now held by Inda Pubs who reopened it in September 2021. Inda, a small operator running a number of pubs around London, has a good record in upgrading local pubs.

The pub, dating from 1826 and Grade II listed, underwent a significant makeover prior to reopening, opening up the ground floor room to more natural light from the large windows at the front and from the conservatory down a few steps to the rear. The bar counter front, of heavily carved wood, contrasts with a modern open chrome metal shelving back-bar. The room retains its wooden panelling, fireplace and polished wooden floor and is now furnished with rugs and an eclectic mixture of dining tables and chairs.

Upstairs is a delightful function room in which the refurbishment has exposed some very old wallpaper, original sash window shutters and another fireplace. The ambience of the room has been enhanced by the hanging of some wonderful paintings on the walls.

The two handpumps may offer a choice of Allsopp's ales (this is a new "brand" owned by a descendant of the Allsopp family who has revived the beers) and sometimes Fuller's London Pride. The kitchen provides an up-market menu of classic British food including a roast dish on Sundays.

This venue is card-only, no cash.