Popped in here with a fellow pub enthusiast yesterday evening.

We were impressed with what we found: enough character of the old place remaining, but with what I would call a bit of a ‘vibes’ update - think dimmer lighting, groovier tunes, and rustic seating.

A very solid choice of beer, including Guinness (£5.90), Timothy Taylors Landlord (£5.20), Vodel (£3.50), and of course, Madri. As it was a schoolnight, we opted for the Timmy Taylors and the Vodel.

They had a sample food menu and will be serving food once the kitchen is completed August 1st. It still seems a work in progress with the smell of fresh paint and I look forward to seeing how it progresses from here.

Unfortunately the pool table is now gone, and one can’t help but wonder if it is positioning itself (both geographically and spiritually) as too direct a competitor to the Sylvan Post. I believe the owner is the same proprietor as the East Dulwich Tavern (Antic Pubs), and also the former proprietor of the Sylvan itself.

A shame to for Forest Hill to lose the former Bird in Hand, which was a real asset to the area.

Me and my compadre are already looking forward to returning on a weekend!