About This Pub
Ah, the Hand in Hand – it's one of those pubs that really captures that quintessential British feel, tucked away on the edge of Wimbledon Common, where you can almost forget you're in the hustle of London. I love how it whisks you off to a peaceful, village-like setting, with a cosy interior that's been around since 1831 and a garden that's just made for lazy summer days with a refreshing spritz in hand. The staff come across as genuinely warm and attentive in most reviews, making you feel right at home, and the food? Well, when it's good, it's brilliant – think hearty pies with that amazing gravy and comforting puds that leave you smiling. But, let's be honest, it's not all perfect; there are times when the food falls flat, like with some underwhelming steak and ale pies that didn't quite hit the mark, and service can be a bit patchy, with waits dragging on or the bar getting a tad chaotic. Still, with an overall solid rating, it's clear this place has a lot going for it, and I'd say it's worth a visit for anyone looking for a proper pub experience – just keep in mind it might have an off day, so maybe go with low expectations for the finer details and focus on the lovely atmosphere.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The location is absolutely charming, right on the edge of Wimbledon Common, making it feel like a peaceful village escape in the middle of London – perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
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The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming; from what I've heard, they're attentive and go the extra mile to make you feel at home, with mentions of great service from folks like Andrew and the team.
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The food hits the spot with those homemade pies and seasonal specials – the steak and ale pie gets rave reviews for its tasty gravy, and the puds are a delightful treat to round off a meal.
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It's got a cosy, traditional vibe with a lovely pub garden that's ideal for soaking up the summer sun with a spritz or a pint of real ale.
Cons
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Food quality can be hit or miss; some have had disappointing experiences with dishes like the steak and ale pie, where the filling just didn't live up to expectations and left a bad taste.
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Service isn't always spot on – there've been complaints about long waits for food, a chaotic bar where it's hard to get served, and the odd instance of staff coming across as a bit surly.
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Seating arrangements might not suit everyone, with low ceilings in certain areas that could make for an uncomfortable dine-in, especially if you're taller.
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It can get a bit disorganised during busier times, which might put a dampener on what should be a laid-back visit.
Contact Information
6 Crooked Billet, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 4RQ
+442089465720
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
Monday (Today) | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Tuesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Friday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Saturday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Sunday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
We visited this pub after a friend recommended it, and while the place itself is undeniably charming and the staff were friendly and welcoming, the food left much to be desired.
We ordered three steak and ale pies, and unfortunately, none of us could finish them. The filling was unpleasant in both taste and appearance – it was very sour. The gravy was thin, watery, and lacked any real flavour, which made the dish even more disappointing.
It's a real shame because the atmosphere was lovely and we had high hopes based on the recommendation. Sadly, we won’t be returning, and we’ve let our friend know that her food suggestions may no longer be trusted!
Hand in Hand consistently provides a welcoming atmosphere. Andrew, along with the entire staff, provided exceptional service during our delightful lunch. Poppy's consistently cheerful demeanour enhanced our experience. The chef prepared a fantastic meal, complemented by a refreshing cocktail. We also enjoyed the company of fellow patrons, including a friendly canine companion.
Heard good things about here and all of its true. Very cute pub, with amazing and attentive service from the staff. We had the steak and ale pie, the gravy was insanely good. We ve made it our local now and will be definitely going back to try the homemade burgers! I want to add Andy is one of the best hostess/waitress we ve met!
All in all it was a great experience. We started out ordering at the bar before sitting outside and it was quite cold. The bar was a bit chaotic as they really didn’t seem to have a clue as to who was next and people felt no shame jumping in front of you. Finally we moved to an inside table where we had an actual waitress who was lovely and took our orders and delivered our food and drinks promptly. I would go again but start with a table if it’s available. Food and drinks were great!
Attended for Sunday lunch. Asked for a table with legroom. Was seated in the area of the pub with the lowest head clearance. So ducking to avoid sparking myself out on the low roof. Our waitress was surly and a little rude. Took 30 minutes for the starters to arrive and mains were another 20 minutes behind after that. Elements on the plate were cold with the chicken and the rest lukewarm. Speaks of a chaotic kitchen to me with a head chef not fully in control. The beef arrived well done. I have NEVER experienced that in a Young’s Pub before! It’s always medium rare. When I asked for medium rare, it was bought back with the chef saying that this is simply how all of their beef is… I asked for a large glass of chocolate block wine… I was given a small glass initially - didn’t look or taste like chocolate block - the second glass was a large glass. Taste wasn’t 100%. But by this stage? I just wanted to leave. When this was pointed out to the waitress, she insisted that the measure was the same even though the glass was different… I just wanted to pay and leave by then. So I did. The front of house, Andrew, insisted on returning our money as we didn’t eat. I sent my mother along to the crooked billet, the pub next door and throw herself on their mercy and beg for a table which we luckily got.
I will NEVER return to this pub. The food was bad and the waitress we had was bad. Really surly attitude! The crooked billet is superior in food and attitude and right next door.
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