About This Pub
Ah, the Rising Sun Brewers Fayre in Watford – it's one of those reliable spots you might pop into for a straightforward meal, especially if you're staying at the attached hotel or just fancy something easygoing. From what I've gathered from the chats online, the staff really shine through; they're chatty, efficient, and make an effort to help out, which always lifts the mood. The food deals are spot on too – think hearty lunches from £5 with new treats like grilled chicken flatbreads or fish pies, and it's all pretty tasty and fresh when it works well. Plus, if you're a footie fan, it's a ace place to watch the game with a pint in hand. On the flip side, it's not all perfect; there've been times when service dragged on or dishes turned up cold and underwhelming, like that Boxing Day roast that left someone disappointed. The vibe can be a bit quiet, which is nice for a peaceful catch-up but might not excite if you're after a lively pub crawl. Overall, it's a decent choice for a relaxed outing in Hertfordshire – worth a visit for the good bits, just keep expectations in check for the occasional off day.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are absolutely brilliant – always friendly and helpful, going the extra mile to make you feel welcome, like that Savannah who sorted things out for one visitor.
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Great value for money with affordable lunch deals and mains from just £5, perfect for a casual bite without breaking the bank.
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The food hits the spot, especially the fresh and warm dishes like the bacon cheese burger or fish bites, and they've got some tasty new options to try.
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It's family-friendly with a kids' menu and quick service, making it easy for a relaxed meal with the little ones.
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They show live football, which adds a fun vibe if you're into sports, blending it nicely with good food and drinks.
Cons
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Service can be hit or miss; some experiences had staff who seemed a bit unsure, leading to long waits or confusion.
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Food quality isn't always consistent – a few folks mentioned cold, dried-up meals that didn't live up to expectations.
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The atmosphere can feel a tad quiet or lacking, especially on off-peak evenings, which might make it less lively than you'd hope.
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It's not the busiest spot, which is charming in a way but could mean fewer options or a more subdued feel if you're after a buzzing pub scene.
Contact Information
2 Ascot Rd, Watford WD18 8AP
+441923281185
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
Monday (Today) | 06:30 - 22:00 |
Tuesday | 06:30 - 22:00 |
Wednesday | 06:30 - 22:00 |
Thursday | 06:30 - 22:00 |
Friday | 06:30 - 22:00 |
Saturday | 07:00 - 23:00 |
Sunday | 07:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
Lovely joint to pop in for cheap eats with the family. Only been at lunchtimes so no idea what evenings are like. Should be busier but charming that it isn't. Staff really helpful, Savannah went the extra mile to help us out when we last stopped by.
Not going to lie, my expectations were low when I sat down for my meal here. We were staying in the attached premier inn and I was expecting it to be lackluster. But the staff were amazing, chatty, and really swift at service. The food was fresh and warm. Was pretty impressed. Full menu and a great selection of drinks. Yes it's a chain pub but it's a good example of one.
Booked into the attached Premier Inn and had an evening meal at the Rising Sun. Not much atmosphere on a Monday evening but a good beer, wine spirit collection and the traditional pub grib was good and hot when served. Very friendly staff both on the evening and for breakfast servings which was the usual, all you can eat Premier Inn fare.
Visited for boxing day dinner and now I know why the place was empty. The girl behind the bar had no idea what she was doing and had to constantly ask her colleague. Waited an hour for a roast that looked like it was sat there for days. Parsnips were solid, was all cold and dried up, Yorkshire you needed a hammer and chisel for, definitely not worth the £24 and glad i got a refund for the food as that food i would not even serve to my dog. Being under new management what a joke the place has gone down hill from last year and would not go back in a hurry.
Very helpful staff. It's very nice tasting food. Had the bacon cheese burger and the kids fish bites. Didn't have to wait too long for food or have to wait too long between the main meal and desert. Could do with a menu for younger kids who have less appetite. The breakfast the next morning was lovely. Only downfall to the breakfast was the eggs but that can't be helped when they are in the heated trays.
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