The Fox & Hounds

Tucked away in the heart of Surbiton, The Fox & Hounds London is what happens when time travel meets your favorite local. This isn't just another London pub – it's a slice of 1787 that somehow learned to pour the perfect pint of Moretti while keeping its soul intact. And yes, it might just be the most haunted pub in Surbiton, but don't let that scare you away from what could become your new favorite haunt (pun absolutely intended).

From the moment you cross the threshold, there's something different about this place. Maybe it's the way the afternoon sun streams through the windows, creating golden pools on the well-worn wooden floors, or perhaps it's the welcoming nod from Gary, the chatty landlord who seems to have mastered the art of making everyone feel like a regular. The Fox & Hounds doesn't try to be trendy – it's too busy being authentically itself, thank you very much.

Inside, you'll find the kind of atmosphere that corporate chains spend millions trying (and failing) to replicate. The warm glow of the log fire during winter months draws in cold wanderers like moths to a flame, while the dart board has probably witnessed more friendly rivalries than a season of reality TV. The pool table – the only one in Surbiton, mind you – stands proud like a green-felt altar to good times, with locals occasionally stroking the felt appreciatively between shots (yes, really, this happens).

What sets The Fox & Hounds London apart isn't just its historic bones – though being a former coaching house from the 18th century certainly adds character. It's the perfect blend of traditional pub amenities and modern comfort. The beer selection strikes that sweet spot between craft and classic: Amstel pours like liquid gold, the Moretti has its own dedicated pump (always a good sign), and there's always a rotating real ale for the purists. Even Brixton makes an appearance on tap, though whisper quietly that it's now Heineken-owned.

The front garden deserves special mention – it's a sun trap that feels like it was designed by someone who really understands the British obsession with outdoor drinking. Sure, you have to look past the road to see the river, but on a sunny afternoon, with a cold pint in hand, you won't care much about the traffic. It's the kind of space where afternoon drinks turn into evening sessions without anyone quite noticing how it happened.

For entertainment, The Fox & Hounds keeps things delightfully old-school. The IT Box in the corner might be a blast from the past, but it fits perfectly with the pub's unpretentious charm. Thursday nights come alive with the darts league, and there's something wonderfully authentic about the mix of regulars and newcomers sharing space around the bar. Even the ghost stories add to the charm – though after a few pints, you might start wondering if that cool breeze really was just the door opening.

What really makes this place special is its steadfast resistance to the homogenization of London pubs. While other venues chase the latest trends, The Fox & Hounds remains gloriously true to itself. The reasonably priced drinks won't break the bank, and the atmosphere is worth twice the price of admission. They even host psychic events that sell out faster than concert tickets, and coffee mornings that prove this pub knows how to serve its community around the clock.

The staff deserve special mention – from the legendary Gary to the much-praised Josh behind the bar, they're the kind of people who remember your usual drink and actually care about how your day's going. The pub dog adds to the homey feeling, wagging its tail at regulars and newcomers alike. And while it's primarily an adult space, kids are welcome – though they might have to compete with the adults for a turn on the pool table.

Listen, if you're looking for molecular cocktails or Instagram-worthy food presentations, this isn't your spot. But if you want to experience a genuine slice of London pub culture in a place where conversations flow as freely as the beer, The Fox & Hounds London is calling your name. Get there early on Fridays for the Indian street food, grab a spot by the fire in winter or in the garden during summer, and prepare to lose track of time in the best possible way. Just don't blame me if you end up becoming a regular – some places have a way of turning visitors into family before they even realize what's happening.