The Brunel sits in a chunky building just a few metres from Rotherhithe station, which is pretty handy for those on the Overground – though it’s not quite the riverside spot I’d read about before my visit. Still, a recent renovation has left this boozer looking smart and relatively inviting.
Inside, they’ve kept a few original features such as the patterned windows and mirrors, but have added in some tacky furniture and carpets that look like they’ve been pilfered from an airport lounge. Further evidence of the revamp can be seen out in the spacious beer garden, where a flock of pink flamingos have been inexplicably plonked in the flower bed, and on the menu, where you can pick from four different types of posh pork scratchings including a tasty sweet maple.
The regulars don’t seem to mind any of this one bit – they can still be found having a natter and filling out crosswords on the bar, ignoring what’s going on around them. My advice? Pull up a stool and follow their lead.