The Owl - LOUGHTON

I was here a couple of years ago and had the fish and chips, which I must say were good and I received a large plate full at the time. This time in August 2017...not bad but or maybe not much! Chips were hidden by the fish laying top and the mushy peas..sorry I mean pea puree was a skid....on my plate. Fish and chips is not fine dining so don't pretend!

My first visit here was a chaotic experience from the moment i arrive. There is no clear direction as to how this pub works. We are directed to a horrible table at the doorway which was a coughing shouting area for every child that walked through with their family. I choose a chicken roast which is a small fillet chicken breast) certainly not a typical roast. The veg was rock hard and lacked any conceivable flavour . The only saving grace was the gluten free cheesecake sadly contaminated with a wafer. I ended up sitting outside among hoards of shouting kids... and a police helicopter taking off just behind me-not a place for a quiet Sunday lunch, unless you have children ...

As a student, many years ago (OK you guys, let me rephrase that as many decades ago) we used to visit this quaint old ramshakle pub which was held up by large wood pillings. I was shocked, and pleasantly surprised on a recent visit, to see that the old pub had been demolished and replaced by a very nice building. I am supposing that the Health and Safety squad got in there. The garden, at the rear, overlooks wonderful fields and woodland. Great on a warm evening sitting out there with a pint, or two, of McMullens real ale. The pub is in the middle of Epping Forest and can be hard to find. It is worth the look. One funny thing, which hasn 't changed over the years, is a large tank full of water with a chain hanging into the water. On the tank is a sign saying 'Beware of the water otter '. Needless to say, kids have to see this otter and pull up the chain. On the end is a kettle LOL.

The best way to get to this place is walking, yes you can drive, they have 2 large carparks but put a bit of effort in if you can. Get hold of the OS map Explorer 174, then either get out at Loughton Station (Central Line tube) or the shorter route from Chingford Station (Over ground Rail). Epping Forest is generally easy walking on nice wide paths, note these you may have to share with an occasional arrogant middle aged horse riders, believe me they think they own the place, just hold your temper, their not worth it.Anyway the Pub, it sells McMullens Beer, that in it's self is a good enough reason to go, AK is a nice pint of Ale for a hot or cold day and is not too strong so many can be drunk. There's seats outside, and an area inside for kids to eat too.The food's served is at reasonable prices and is generous it's a pub type menu, but what do you expect.Have a walk and a meal with a few beers, but don't forget it's about 2 miles back to the station.