Review: The Yacht, Greenwich (From News Shopper)

Review: The Yacht, Greenwich

2:07pm Thursday 28th June 2012 in Pub Spy By PubSpy

PUBSPY'S VIEW

What better way to celebrate the ever-charming Wayne Rooney’s glorious winning header against the Ukraine than boarding a gorgeous yacht for drinks in the sunshine?

That’s exactly what I did to toast the England star’s success – only this patriotic boat isn’t setting sail any time soon.

Sitting down a little alleyway in Greenwich, The Yacht pub boasts a perfect position along the Thames with beautiful views of The O2, passing ships and bobbing ducks.

Personally, I’m not that into the supposedly beautiful game, but walking into this devoted boozer it’s hard not to get carried away with hopes of glory.

The happy barmen are kitted out in England shirts, and one has even found St George flag earrings – just in case you didn’t realise he’s a fan.

Tempted by a cold and incredibly relevant pint of London Pride, I ended up going for a vodka and cranberry juice and my friend chose a refreshing half a shandy (total £6.48).

Basking in the uncharacteristic weather, we giggled under the pretty hanging baskets and chatted to a hilarious regular/dog expert about his trio of Jack Russells and their brutal ratting hobby.

We also learnt they adore a drop of chilled beer – everyday is a school day.

Sadly my companion had to leave so I wandered back inside to order a spot of lunch.

To my delight there was a list of £4.99 meals to choose from and I went for the tuna mayo sandwich on lovely brown bread with a side salad – yummy.

More substantial dishes are available on the vast menu, but this is great for a quick – and cheap – fix.

When the wonderful wide open windows caught my eye, I abandoned my original table outside and moved the party indoors.

Sat up on a high wooden table, it was very easy to imagine myself sailing down the river.

These great big portholes open out onto the loveliest view of Greenwich and the Thames and the soothing breeze felt heavenly on my face.

“Get ready to jump,” the Madonna-mad barman sang as he delivered my food.

‘Out the window?’ I answered in my head – probably not the best idea.

Although after visiting the ladies, I might really have considered it.

After a thoroughly enjoyable day in the sun, having just eaten, the last thing you want is to be confronted with the intense smell of stale vomit.

Trapped on the loo I had no choice but to suffer this stomach turning stink.

Gag reflex working overtime, I miraculously managed not to follow in the previous visitor’s seasick footsteps and literally ran out the door without washing my hands to escape.

And everything had gone so well.

If it’s a cheeky drink in the sunshine you’re after, The Yacht is perfect for you.

But please remember to take your motion sickness pills before venturing aboard.

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Address: 5, Crane St, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NP

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Decor: *** (comfy seating, traditional pub feel with smashing view)

Drink: *** (good selection of beer and ale in bottles and on tap)

Price: *** (reasonable)

Atmosphere: **** (lovely and welcoming with very friendly regulars)

Staff: *** (happy, patriotic and helpful)