Few things in life are more pleasurable than a good pub next to a railway station. Sydenham's The Greyhound ticks both those boxes, and adds a few more.
It's a bright, pleasant pub to walk into. Large south-facing windows bathe the place in light, while the intricately decorated interior is a celebration of arts and crafts. Copper-top tables reflect the sunbeams up onto the faience tiled bar. Head into the conservatory to watch the world (of Sydenham) go by, or sit out in the front beer yard to be right among the action.
This is a pub with history. The original Greyhound was built in the early 18th century, and served as a hub for the Surrey hunt (a fox-hunting clique). It also, believe it or not, once sported a boat house. In the early 19th century, the pub stood on the banks of the Croydon Canal. This was filled in long ago, but ran where the rail tracks are today.
The drinks selection is laudable, with a breezy cocktail menu (including 'sustainable' options), and a London-centric selection of beers (Five points on cask, and Gipsy Hill and Brockley brews on keg, among others). Wines are at the pricier end, but well chosen. We didn't try the food, but it looks pretty impressive, with a particularly good selection of seafood.
Oh, and be sure to take a look around the back, where this exceptional mural can be found:
On Facebook, Instagram as @thegreyhoundsydenham and twitter as @thegreyhoundsyd. Quiz night is Monday.
