The Builders Arms

It might look like a classic local – complete with overflowing hanging baskets – but once through the doors of The Builders Arms, you know this is no typical neighbourhood boozer. A branded makeover has ushered in leather sofas, mismatched furniture & menus on blackboards, while the drinks list runs to interesting lagers (Küppers Kölsch, Pilsner Urquell & Peroni), a solid range of cask ales & a varied choice of wines. Food rises above typical pub grub with crab & wasabi cakes coming in ahead of intriguing serrano ham & Camembert burgers or slow-cooked pork belly with bacon & sage mash. The park benches behind the iron railings outside are much in demand on summer evenings, Sunday roasts are a treat, & televised sport ensures that the Builders doesn’t become too gentrified.