When we first arrived, I started looking for pubs in the few blocks south of us. Most of the blocks north are industrial or under construction. I did notice two pubs about a block north and opted to check them out later. Then I talked to several locals, including one at the library mentioned before, who all recommended getting to the Marble Arch soon. I’m very glad we did… In fact, we’ve now been back a second time before I even got this review posted.

Details:

It was just after dinner on Wednesday, when Morgan and I needed to find something to do for an hour before bedtime. We wandered in and I was immediately sold on this place. Everything has that lived-in patina that says it’s been here for ages. I ordered drinks (their own Mild for me and a lemonade/Sprite for Morgan) and she went to check out the garden in back. Her curiosity was piqued by the sign pointing towards “Heated Huts”. Before my beer was fully pulled, she was back with a grin saying we need to sit out back. She led me to a cozy, well-built shed with a glass roof, soft lights, and a heater, where she declared we would be playing Go Fish. We later noticed there were blankets in there as well. I assume these are extremely popular in winter.

After an hour of losing to a nine-year-old at cards, I decided it was time to head home for bedtime. On the way out, she wanted me to get a photo of the tile floor to share. Two days later, we had a little time after dinner and she immediately asked if we could go back. Instead, we waited another day or two before returning. This time, on a weekend afternoon, all the huts were full so we sat inside. Everywhere I looked, there was some previously overlooked detail telling about the history of this place and the area. I think it’s safe to say, we’ve found our local… but we’ll continue to try other occasionally to be sure

Score:

Cask: 1 / 1 – They have their own brewery a few blocks away and offered 6 of their beers on cask (plus 8 in kegs)
Fireplace: 1 / 1 – Not currently in use but right in the center of the room where you’d expect
Recorded Music: 1 / 1 – No notable music
Seating: 2 / 2 – Benches, chairs, and the “heated huts” with booth seating
Community Energy: 0.5 / 1 – Visited during slow times but it certainly has potential for good community energy
Granddad: 2 / 2 – I think I saw him sitting in the corner
Morgan: 2 / 2 – Morgan has asked to go back several times. She LOVES the heated huts.
Overall: 9.5 / 10 — It probably deserves a 10, I admit that, but I just could give that score yet. Over time, it will probably get there. We will certainly be back