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Critic rating
Reader rating
Welcoming: The Shortlands Tavern
This place has, in the last couple of years, returned to something like its previous incarnation after an unwelcome flirtation with the Spirit Group in the mid-noughties.
The new owners have retained the immaculate hanging baskets, however, and inside, the place has had a lick of paint and retains some period features (not to mention the resident tropical fish, which seem to have multiplied in number in recent months).
The presence of itinerant jobbers from the North and Scotland always makes for a lively, but welcoming, atmosphere, especially when there is football on.
We are, however, disappointed that the old menu, which was good, honest, cheap and hearty, has been ditched in favour of rather bland, mass-produced pizza.
We have also noticed on one or two recent visits that the ale (in particular the Greene King IPA) isn't always as well-casked as it might be.
Things seem to have slipped a little over the past twelve months, and whilst it just about remains a three-pinter following the takeover, the Shortlands needs to redouble its efforts to maintain that rating.
Overall, however, a pleasant alternative to the distinctly loutish atmosphere prevailing in many Bromley pubs - especially when live sport is on - and worth a detour, being only fifteen or so minutes' walk from the town centre.
FOOD REVIEW: Food is available (two meals for £7, or £4-50-ish for one). Ranges from sandwiches to filled potatoes and pie and chips, scampi and chips etc, i.e. standard pub grub. Note that Sunday menu (including two roasts for £7.95) has recently been withdrawn. Food available 12-7 on weekdays, and on Saturday afternoons.
NEAREST STATION: Shortlands station
FEATURES: ATM, real ale, dog friendly, open after 11:00pm, outdoor seating, children welcome, pool table, Sky TV (big screens)
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
