The George Inn - London SE1 - a magnificent galleried coaching inn.
The London Pub Survival Guide
by Phil Parkin
Feel "at home" in pubs - know what is happening and what to do and expect, discover how to get noticed (and served) and much, much more.
If you are one of those intrepid souls who feel that they need a little forearming before venturing into that very British of institutions - The "Pub" - or maybe you are one of those who feel that, because of previous experience, you need to know a little more about what's going on - then the London Pub Survival Guide is for you.
Even if you are an experienced pub-goer, you will find much to amuse and inform in this light-hearted guide.
To help you find your way around - the Survival Guide contains loads of TIPS and information - and many stories as well.
Whilst a few pubs are mentioned in passing, primarily this is information as to what to do and what to expect in and from pubs in general.
I concentrate mainly on the type of pubs and bars found in London's tourist, business and shopping areas, but the principles apply throughout the UK and I do explain about other types of pubs as well.
What you get
What are they? - When are they open? - Who can go in?
What constitutes a pub; all about when they are open; people in pubs; young people; pets
How to get served
Even when it's busy - the rules on what to do and how to do it; how to order - food and drink; what to do if you are in a group - this section includes the single most important tip to make sure you get served!
You want to preview the book? - OK - have a look at the first few pages and back cover of the Survival Guide
The preview is a PDF document requiring Adobe Reader which, if you don't already have it, is freely available from adobe.com
How to pay
Tipping; taxes and receipts
Pubs galore
All about different types of pubs and information (and a little history) to help you make your selection - Coaching Inns; Student Pubs; Gin Palaces; "Bistro" and "Gastro" Pubs; Family Pubs; Bars;
Pubs for business and leisure
What is a local? - find out about the local and its regular customers; the role of the landlord; how to become part of the local scene
A Bird's Eye View
The woman's perspective on entering pubs - what to do and what not to do; the single female; ladies en masse
Drink and be merry
All about booze - measures and prices - English beer; shandy and "top"; cider; wine; spirits; cocktails and other drinks
Food glorious food
What sort of food you can expect in pubs around London
Games
Some information on some of the more traditional games
Talk, talk, talk
Conversations in pubs; the things Brits talk about and a few hints
Pubs and beer
A recent history - all about the drinks retail and brewing business; CAMRA (The CAmpaign for Real Ale)
All this AND a great read for less than the price of a pint of good English ale!
Brilliant cut glass mirrors in the Red Lion, St. James's, London SW1 (near Picadilly)
What do I want for it?
Well, there is a tradition between friends who drink together that if a small service is provided from one to the other that when the receiver says "How much do I owe you", the giver says "Oh, just buy me a pint".
So that's what I'm asking you "Just buy me a pint".
Well, I am being very generous here - an average sort of price for a pint in London used to be less than $5 (actually £2.40 in London money), so that is what I ask.
It costs a bit more than that these days.
Anyway, on receipt of your payment the London Pub Survival Guide will be immediately available for download. It is absolutely packed with information, tips, history, the law and amusing stories.
