February 2026. Charlton.
Two South London pubs relatively close together, but with no great public transport option that I understood, so an athletic walk west from Plumstead to Charlton through some “unprepossessing” suburbia, where unprepossessing is a posh word for “a bit daggy”.
You’re on the edge of the historic Woolwich Royal Artillery Barracks; this playing field along Ha Ha Road is where horses train to deliver the Good Beer Guide into Kent along the A2.
It’s the most exciting sight in the 30 minute trudge to Charlton, till you reach the 17th century mansion,
which feels oddly out of place.
St Lukes Church is a gem, too,
but you’re really here either for the Valley, or the Thames Barrier, or the new-to-GBG Bugle Horn.
It’s not a classic interior, though if you live in Chicago I guess you’d take it, but with its quiz/karaoke/TV football/party offer it’s a classic community pub.
The “food” section on Google is revealing.
Tandleman is back posting about London pubs today, noting controversially that “Londoners aren’t that miserable“, and both Guvnor and barmaid say “thanks” when I head off after a pint of Proper Job.
It’s a tasty pint, could have been a tad crisper (NBSS 3), with controversial Crystal Palace beer mat in Charlton territory.
Almost as controversial as a soundtrack that veers from Alison Moyet (“Invisible”) to deep cut Sabbath as the tradies bring the Golden Hour alive.
retiredmartin 