Marksman

This is the Marksman, a classy venue, even down to the script used for the signage. The white and green paint job stands it out yet more, as does the small roof terrace with its parasols and cupola. A large white glazed free hanging lamp adds to a very definite upmarket appearance. It wasn't always so though. If you search google images hard enough you'll find the same pub with heavy blue signage. The paint job was white all over, but in need of a pressure wash and there was a huge advert board on the side. As time passed the curve of the outside upper floor wall received a mural of a long ago battle, no doubt giving rise to the pub's name. Even older pictures show a brick facade with pillars and Vesy's Brewery emblazoned across the front. Others show the pub was selling Everards and Godsons beers, and the older windows seem to have been replaced by upvc. The year 1865 is carved into the pub's frontage, it's seen so much change since then. Was there a golden era here I wonder? Indoors the current iteration of the pub is understated, traditional and altogether pleasant. There's still a curtain around the door, most of the chairs match and there's wood panelling throughout. The beers are good with Lost and Grounded, Kernel, Five Points, Deya and Lucky Saint on offer. Prices range from £6 to £7.75. All in, a lovely pub with some real history over the years. I bet the drinking style, punters and the conversation have changed over time as much as the appearance. I'd love to have visited for a bev in those earlier days.