About This Pub
Ah, The Hammer In Hand – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper local gem in Watford, you know? From the website and those reviews, it's clear folks love the place for its friendly staff who go out of their way to make you feel welcome, whether you're there for a quick pint or to catch the game with mates. They've nailed the drinks side of things too, with a brilliant range of beers, ciders, and even some seasonal cocktails that sound spot on for a relaxed evening. And if you're into sports, it's got all the channels you need, plus fun events like live music or a game of darts to keep things lively. The beer garden being dog-friendly is a real bonus – I can picture myself there on a weekend with the pup. On the flip side, it does get busy, and from what I've read, that can lead to a bit of a wait or service not being quite as smooth, which is a shame but totally understandable in a popular spot. Overall, it's a solid choice for a good night out, as long as you're up for a bit of patience when it's packed – I'd say give it a go if you're in the area!
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are absolutely brilliant – so welcoming and attentive, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
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They've got a cracking selection of drinks, from exciting real ales and ciders to wines, cocktails, and even low or no-alcohol options, all poured to perfection.
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It's a proper community spot with a friendly atmosphere, where you can chat with locals, watch the big match on Sky Sports or TNT, or enjoy events like live music and darts.
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The beer garden is dog-friendly, which is just lovely for popping in with your four-legged mate on a sunny day.
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Prices are really reasonable, making it an affordable choice for a casual get-together or family outing, with a play area for the little ones.
Cons
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It can get quite busy at times, which might mean service slows down a bit and you have to wait longer for your drinks.
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Based on a few comments, there might be occasional inconsistencies in service, especially if the team is stretched thin between bars.
Contact Information
Ganders Ash, Watford WD25 7EX
+441923676300
Pub
Closed
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Thursday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Friday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
Recent Reviews
I can't imagine better staff than this from hammer in hand,so pleasure and kind, and they know exactly what you need 🫶
Come all the way from austalia and this pub was close to where i was. I really wanted to visit the british pub scene and it did not disappoint. Had some excellent guinness and great service. The locals were brilliant to talk to. Highly recommend.
Stopped in whilst waiting for my customer (who had gone to Warner Bros Studio) the staff & the locals were very welcoming & friendly. I had a great afternoon playing pool with the lads. Will definitely go back again if I'm in the area.
Drink in the hammer quite often. Lovely little pub were everyone is generally quite friendly. Tonight however, the lady serving us in the pool room was between two bars so was busy! She asked who needs me, we responded us beautiful (bear in mind, we have a pre existing relationship that allows those boundaries and laughs). Out of nowhere, this little girl, probably not even old enough to be behind a bar comes forth to say the words ‘call her that again and I’ll glass your face’.I was taken aback if I’m honest as a 6ft+ man I’m not going to react to a child. I have been told this is the owners daughter. If I ran a pub, I’d be disgraced by this behaviour as it’s only going to cause friction and lose of revenue. Think I’ll take my business to a different pub now. Well done love. Stop threatening people until your at least 4ft.
Our family booked The Hammer In Hand for a wake yesterday. Staff were so friendly, nothing was too much trouble for them. Prices were extremely reasonable and the food served was fresh with a great variety of rolls. The whole day was made so much easier with the great service we received from everyone there. Thank you. I could not recommend this place highly enough.
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