The London Pub

The pub is a uniquely British phenomenon. The ingredient that makes a true "public house" is not its construction, architecture, furniture,
or even the liqueur it serves, it is actually the clientèle. The term "public house" means literally just that. Everyone is welcome from around the world.

The local, as most British lovingly referred to it, is very much an organic part of the community, ranking in importance along with the local postal office and the town hall and even government offices. The locals who support it generally prefer to stand while enjoying their pint. Pub etiquette dictates you pay for the "round" when served and if you accept a drink, you are expected to buy a round in return.

To accommodate differences in the drinking etiquette of their visitors, most pubs have a second bar area, identified as a lounge or a saloon. There are more seats, and usually the drinks cost a little more.

When are local pubs open? Licensing hours generally permit English pubs to remain open generally from 1100 in the morning to 2300 at night, Monday through Saturday and Sundays from 1200 to 1500 and 1900 to 2230 in England and Wales; 1230 to 1430 and 1830 to 2300 in Scotland; times are essentially up to the individual pub owner or barkeep.

You must be age eighteen or older to buy or consume alcoholic beverages in a pub. Children age fourteen and older may be admitted legally and may consume non-alcoholic drinks. Children of all ages are usually admitted to licensed restaurants; they are also admitted to "beer gardens" and family rooms, which many pubs have now.

A pub is usually rated by the congeniality of its owner, and unless "on holiday," he or she is usually found on the premises during operating hours. Most pub owners are entrepreneurial in spirit, pardon the pun, and many of these owners offer "pub grub" in their establishments. Visitors find it a good alternative to fast food like McDonald’s for example, or the local fish and chip shop (locally called the chippy).

The personality of a pub greets you at the door. You can tell very quickly whether or not it's your kind of place. If its ambience reaches out to you, don't hesitate to enter. No doubt a local or two will greet you with a friendly nod as the bartender also greets you as asking, "What’re you have?"

When advised, the bartender will then indicate that it will be served in the lounge area. Pay when you are served. Never tip the owner if he or she brings the drinks to the table to bid you welcome. The owner is the host; you are the guest. Later, you might join the locals at the bar; but remember, remain standing and pay for a round when it's your turn to buy. With a bit of luck, the locals might suggest you drop by again.

Leave London Pub's for the West End

© copyright 2007 - 2011 London-Day-Trips.com

SBI!