With a multitude of pubs in London it's hard to decide where to go, and let's be honest we usually end up going to the one down the road or round the corner from work. With another Bank Holiday looming this weekend why not try somewhere a bit different and the Gorringe Park Pub is certainly that.
They describe themselves it as Tootings best kept secret and they’re not wrong.
Conveniently located just a few steps from Tooting overground station it’s got a lot to offer. So if you don’t live nearby and it’s a little bit further than you would like, I’m going to tell you now why it’s worth the trip.
The Gorringe Park is one of those good old-fashioned boozers with a modern twist and has three floors for you to enjoy.
The ground floor is best described as cosy with lovely old wood, earthy colours and comfy armchairs. When the night draws in there's also a gorgeous fireplace where you can snuggle up with a certain someone.
The bar staff are lovely, warm and welcoming with a great selection of drinks on offer from ales to spirits. Now onto the food (that got your attention didn’t it).
They have just launched a new menu and its mouth watering, with small plates, sharing plates, big plates, classics and the list goes on. Not only is this menu impressive but it also has one of the largest selections of gluten-free and vegetarian options I’ve ever seen in a pub.
So, if you are gluten free yourself you would be silly not to pop down to this gorgeous pub.
If you don’t fancy having your food in the cosy ground floor then why not take it upstairs to the library come dining room. Say What?! Yup a library full of vintage books collected from all around the UK.
Maybe read some poetry to your date or just kick back and get lost in a good novel (the next thing you know its last orders).
The second floor also has an alchemy room which they describe perfectly as ‘Snape’s potion room with a touch of Breaking Bad’.
If you think this is where it ends think again. Not only do they have front and back gardens for those sunny days and warm summer nights, they also have a basement.
What could possibly be on the basement floor… a cinema room! That’s right, a cinema room showing classic films and new releases such as Pulp Fiction, Moulin Rouge, Finding dory and Lego Batman Movie. The room is kitted out with old cinema chairs and big comfy pillows, with matinee and evening showings.
This hidden gem has a great atmosphere and with so much on offer, you could find yourself spending the whole day here.
The staff are sure to look after you and the locals are good eggs too. It has to be up there with my favourite places in London, and between me and you, let’s keep The Gorringe Park our little secret.
http://www.thegorringepark.co.uk
WORDS BY STUART GRAHAME
Stuart is one of our regular hosts and over the years has become something of an expert in dating. Watch out for his regular posts full of dating tips and advice.