Forum topic: The Fox: Offering a warm Irish welcome from January?

Ah yes, Wishing Well, quite a dingy little place that I never go in there anymore. That's a pretty low bar to set standards-wise so the new Fox can only be an improvement! Can only dream of Winchmore Hill quality pubs....

I've only been in the Wishing Well a few times, but that's because it doesn't sell real ale, not because it's "dingy". It's always struck me as well run, having a friendly atmosphere and being a proper local, somewhere where regulars can drop in and have a chat with someone they know and perhaps make some new acquaintances. That makes it an invaluable community asset.

As for dreaming about Winchmore Hill pubs, in some cases when it comes to their prices it's more of a nightmare.

Narrow frontage with minimal glazing. Deep with little natural light. Dated decor. To me that is a dingy pub even if it might function as a friendly local boozer. Beer selection wasn't good from memory let alone if you don't drink beer....

For God's sake, give it a chance!
It hasn't even opened its doors yet and you get a comment like this.
Nobody will stick a shotgun up your posterior and force you to enter!

This is why I don’t log in that often. There is always someone who wants to do stuff down.

People have different ideas of what a pub is, but that is fine. Different pubs suit different people.

The building has been refurbished- a win. It’s still a pub- a win. The company are investing in it - a win , especially in these times. The fox had got very run down and the beers it’s had a few years ago is irrelevant. This is a new offer.

As for the wishing well, it’s a traditional more homely boozer. It’s not meant to be sparkly or ersatz or trendy like the majority of Winchmore Hill pubs. It is very well run, and the girls work their socks off, and always have a friendly welcome. Let’s not put people off going in with thoughtless comments and let’s give the fox and every new business a chance.

Adding to the Wishing Well’s support from Sue, it is indeed a top spot. Walking in on Tuesday the always lovely staff knew my desired beer without any need of a prompt and brought it to my chosen spot, a seat from where it was possible to switch to a view of the world darts championship from Aly Paly on the other telly whenever out-matched Arsenal were trying to bore a class Newcastle team into submission. How Mikel Arteta avoided a red card for his touchline displays of pique, disgraceful with children and impressionable adults invariable watching, is surely a matter for the FA. Landlady Christine would have made a much more effective ref.
A sea of fancy dress at one venue and shirtless Geordies in the other audience highlighted the country making the most of its Brexit opportunities. Not a dinginess to be seen.

Looks like it's nearly ready to open! Exciting.