I don't know about you, but I love a pub, one of my favourite things to do in the world is going to the pub. It's in our blood. Pubs are a part of the makeup of the UK part of our culture. But recently I have found that you'll see a pub from the outside, it looks perfectly reasonable, perhaps the sign is a little too perfectly painted, maybe even printed. You walk in only to see a tartan window seat, flat white walls & some industrial style furniture. I've got no bones with the elements. My problem is with the repetition. It seems to have spread all across the UK, gutting the culture of the pub and replacing it with a mediocre imposter. Thankfully there is nothing mediocre about this weeks Cafe Culture, The Carpenters Arms. I have nothing but love for this place; between Simon Cherry's experience in the industry and the eye of Tamsin Saunders, they have created a slice of heaven just of St Peter's Square in Hammersmith. In the summer, its garden offers up the perfect spot for a negroni & a pint. In winter, the fire inside and the thoughtfully placed blankets make you feel right at home (better than home, in fact). You may well know the pub already, but if not, I hope this feature will show you why it's a winner of a place.
When did The Carpenter's Arms open?
The pub opened in 1871. I've owned it since 2006.
What is your favourite thing on the menu?
Our menu changes every day depending on what’s in season and what’s available from the farmers and fishermen who supply us. The fish comes off the day boats from Poole - personally I don’t think you can beat a dozen oysters and a pint of black velvet if there’s an R in the month.
What makes the Carpenter's special?
We aim to be everything a good traditional back street boozer should be - Friendly, welcoming and relaxed with really good food and drink. We are definitely not a gastro pub we are a proper local pub.
Why did you choose Hammersmith?
We don’t really feel like we are in Hammersmith! I grew up in the area and went to school around the corner. I have always loved St Peter’s Square - it’s a beautiful square of regency stucco-fronted houses a stone's throw from the river and there is still a real sense of community - people actually live here! We were looking for somewhere off the beaten track, with a garden and which would feel small and cosy and be a proper local boozer. We were very lucky to find it.
Comments