Prince of Wales

008Some of you may remember my review of the Imperial Arms, a rough and tumble kind of pub. Right next door is the Prince of Wales. The night we stumbled into the Imperial Arms it was cold. Our next destination was a few blocks away. However, when I stepped out of the Imperial Arms and into the brisk, frigid wind I immediately stepped inside the Prince of Wales. It was during the holidays so the pub was pretty empty. I’ve walked by it on days when Chelsea is playing (this pub is close to Stamford Bridge) and it’s packed with fans. So packed that people spill out onto the pavement.

This is a typical Taylor Walker pub, which means they have the same menu that you find 003at all Taylor Walker pubs. If you want something different, this isn’t your pub. If you want traditional pub food give it a go. I didn’t eat there since I’ve sampled food from other pubs owned by this chain. I’m not bashing chains. The sad truth is that many pubs are in danger of being closed down. If it wasn’t for some of the chains my goal of visiting all of the pubs in London wouldn’t be much of a challenge.

I enjoyed this pub, but didn’t fall in love with it. There’s no wow factor. Since this visit, 006we’ve been back—yes, I ducked in again because it was cold outside. I’m getting wimpy in my old age. Every time the staff has been super friendly. The second time we were there, a football game was on the telly. It wasn’t a big game, but there was one fan that was entertaining to watch. I really wish I could remember his team. He was a super fan who cheered on his team, even though there was no chance they would win. I love fans like that. Passion. It matters folks.

009Overall this pub is decent. Unless you are in the area I don’t suggest seeking it out. But if you are near Earl’s Court and its freezing outside, yes by all means, stop in and have a pint. Or mulled wine. That hits the spot when I want to warm up my bones. Please note, mulled wine is usually only available during the holidays. I give this pub a solid 3 out of 5 stars. I did notice that they have a patio for the summer, which means when I need to quench my thirst on my way home, I’ll probably pop in and find some shade and a pint of cider. I can picture it now.

About TBM

TB Markinson is an American who's recently returned to the US after a seven-year stint in the UK and Ireland. When she isn't writing, she's traveling the world, watching sports on the telly, visiting pubs in New England, or reading. Not necessarily in that order. Her novels have hit Amazon bestseller lists for lesbian fiction and lesbian romance. She cohosts the Lesbians Who Write Podcast (lesbianswhowrite.com) with Clare Lydon. TB also runs I Heart Lesfic (iheartlesfic.com), a place for authors and fans of lesfic to come together to celebrate lesbian fiction.
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26 Responses to Prince of Wales

  1. elisaruland says:

    Nice that you have so many from which to choose…

  2. Woow this pub looks exactly like the Irish pub I work at… in Sweden! They are all designed the same, I guess 😉

  3. Yum. Looks like a great spot!

  4. nrlymrtl says:

    I didn’t know there were pub chains. Why are so many pubs in threat of closing? I can’t imagine drinking is going out of style in London.

    • TBM says:

      I doubt drinking will go out of style, but rents are high, land is scarce and many small pubs are bought by large corporations. I read somewhere that grocery chains are a main culprit. Not sure how accurate that is.

  5. niasunset says:

    I miss too British pubs too… Thank you dear TBM, have a nice weekend, love, nia

  6. I had no idea there were pub chains. Glad to hear they’re surviving–London wouldn’t be London without pubs. I hear the same fate could happen to sidewalk cafes in Paris, so chains may happen there too.

  7. Every pub in London?! I wish you well! When are you going to head to South London…my locals were The Hope at Wandsworth Common, The Bedford (live music and comedy) in Balham and The Nightingale in Nightingale Lane…would love your reviews!

  8. Great review 🙂 Love a cute little pub. Can’t wait to get out and explore Europe!

  9. petit4chocolatier says:

    This looks and sounds like a perfect pub!

  10. cupitonians says:

    There’s a bar that looks exactly like this in Clarke Quay in Singapore. The funny things is, it’s called Prince of Wales as well and for people who bunked with them, free beer on the house! 🙂

  11. sad to think that chains are taking over all the small independents in so many different areas. we’ll pay a little more to shop in an independent store but or eat in a small restaurant but you’re right – it’s hard for them to survive.

  12. Fergiemoto says:

    You are developing quite a nice list of pubs to visit! Fantastic!

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