Afternoon delight

West London - field of dreams

The sunny weather has got me thinking about pubs. Is there anything better than spending a Saturday afternoon in a beer garden with friends? The answer is no, apart from a million pounds, tax free. Even if I had a million pounds, I’d still go to these places with my friends. Probably.

Without further ado - Laura’s favourite pubs with gardens (in West London):

The White Horse.

Hopefully no introduction needed, it’s a classic summer drinking spot, even if the beer garden is on the corner of a three way junction.  Hey, if you want grass, live in the country. It’s always crowded and sometimes covered in barbecue smoke, but the atmosphere is second to none. My sisters and I are convinced that it exists in a time space continuum vortex, because if you turn up at 12, there’s no way you’re out before 8. Word to the wise: cancel your evening plans.

To drink: Delirium Tremens or Mort Subite (10% beers that will have amusing effects on your macho male companions), anything from the very interesting wine list, and the jugs of Pimms are pleasingly potent.

To eat: burgers from the barbecue are a cut above, and anything from the menu proper will be delicious. Fish and chips are a classic, and watch out for a changing specials board. I still dream about the ham hock.

 http://www.whitehorsesw6.com/

The Crabtree.

First trip here was a result of a walk by the river in Fulham with a friend, having taken the day off work (legitimately, before anyone sees this and I get fired). We stayed all afternoon. The Crabtree easily wins my ‘prettiest beer garden’ award. It has wisteria all over it - lovely. Suits evenings after work and sunny Sundays.

To drink: Great Pinot Grigio and generous vodka tonics.

To eat: The barbecue is really something (and priced accordingly…). Try the half chicken with harissa.

 http://thecrabtreew6.co.uk/

The Old Ship.

Scene of countless teenage antics. Ok, not strictly true given that we could never get served, but the grassy area outside saw many a White Lightening fuelled escapade. Once inside, you’ll find a really lovely old pub right on the river as it winds through Chiswick. Benches by the water’s edge, two levels of balconies and a conservatory eating area add to the charm.

To drink: cider, shandies, anything in a plastic cup so you can take it outside and sit on the river wall.

To eat: burgers with bloody mary ketchup and a great help yourself salad bar.

 http://www.oldshipw6.com/

The Ship.

This classic Sunday afternoon hangout is just south of the river (gasp) in Wandsworth. I find the seating area overhanging the water a bit scary because all that separates you from an impromptu swim and a tetanus injection is some plexi-glass. But still, fantastic atmosphere and a nice glassed in area for those sunny-but-actually-freezing moments.

To drink: Sauvignon Blanc. Lots.

To eat: I’ve never actually eaten here but am reliably informed it’s ‘fine’.

http://www.theship.co.uk/