The Drayton Court - Ealing - Pub Reviews

The Drayton Court Hotel’s Victorian turret and façade on The Avenue in Ealing, London. The Drayton Court Hotel is a historic Fuller's pub and boutique hotel in leafy West London (Ealing, W13 8PH). Built in 1894, it is one of the oldest pubs in Ealing. Owned by Fuller’s Brewery, the establishment blends traditional Victorian Gothic charm with modern comforts – inside you’ll find warm wooden décor and a lively atmosphere. The hotel section offers 27 boutique rooms, and the pub boasts London’s largest beer garden. In fact, during the 1940s Drayton Court was renowned for having the biggest garden in both London and the UK. An interesting historical footnote: in 1914 a young Ho Chi Minh (the future Vietnamese leader) famously worked in this pub’s kitchen. Today, the pub holds a solid ★★★★☆ (4.4) customer rating and serves as a community hub for locals and visitors alike. It opens daily (Mon–Thu 11 am–11 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–12 am; Sun 12 pm–10:30 pm), offering food and drink from lunch through late evening.

The Drayton Court sits just a minute’s walk from West Ealing station on the Elizabeth line, making central London easily accessible (Paddington in about 12 minutes). Its location in one of Ealing’s “greenest suburbs” means it’s surrounded by parks like Walpole Park (home to Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery) and Gunnersbury Park. The Ealing Broadway shopping and entertainment district is also nearby, with cinemas, theatres, and restaurants within a short drive. Overall, Drayton Court offers a charming mix of suburban tranquillity and urban convenience – a leafy, historic pub where great food, drinks, and events bring the community together.

Facilities & Entertainment

Drayton Court is a spacious Fuller's pub with multiple distinct areas. On the ground floor you’ll find an open-plan bar area and at least two adjoining rooms: one side is more open with tiled or bare floors and even a pool table, while the other is cosier with carpeting and raised seating areas. There is also a formal dining room and several private function spaces upstairs. Although large, the pub feels welcoming rather than cavernous, thanks to friendly staff and soft lighting. Full British pub games like darts are not a major focus here (no evidence of dartboards), but the presence of a ping-pong table has been noted on occasion. Outdoor drinking is a highlight: the rear beer garden spans far back from the pub and even includes covered lounges (such as an Pergola Spritz lounge) and pop-up bars in summer.

For sports fans, Drayton Court is well equipped. The pub is a TNT Sports venue showing Premier League and Champions League football, Six Nations rugby, and major boxing bouts. A giant outdoor screen in the garden (with heaters in winter) makes it ideal for big matches or tournaments. Despite the big screens, the ambiance stays relaxed – one visitor notes that sports coverage here is “pretty unobtrusive” and you can still chat freely. During national events (World Cup, Six Nations, etc.) and festival weekends, the garden also hosts themed parties and open-air screenings, often paired with barbecues or food stands.

Parking is a convenience rarely found so close to central London: Drayton Court provides on-site parking for guests. (It’s widely praised as a rare perk in zone 3.) The pub is wheelchair-accessible on the ground floor – the main entrance has only a small step – and an accessible restroom is available. However, note that some Victorian-era quirks remain upstairs (e.g. stairs to mezzanine or toilets) which may limit full access. Dogs are warmly welcome throughout the pub and even in the hotel rooms, so feel free to bring your four-legged friends along.

Food on Offer

The menu at The Drayton Court is varied and reliably good, focusing on high-quality pub fare with a few modern twists. Standouts include a wood-fired pizza oven in the garden – full-size pizzas (e.g. Margherita, pepperoni, goat’s cheese) are made to order on-site and consistently get praise from guests. Another highlight is the Sunday roast dinner: succulent roast meats (or hearty nut roast) with Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings, which many locals consider a weekly must-try. The Sunday roast here “comes as a generously portioned plate with succulent meat” according to diners, and can sell out on busy weekends.

Classic pub mains are also on point. For example, fish and chips is frequently mentioned: the batter is crisp, the fish flaky, and accompanied by one reviewer’s praise that the tartare sauce was “probably the best he’d had”. Burgers and loaded fries (e.g. chicken wings or plant-based options), hearty pies, and salads round out the main menu. Vegetarian and vegan choices are plentiful – expect bean-nachos, tasty plant burgers, or dal curry options – so non-meat eaters are well catered for. Light bites and sharers include nachos with salsa and cheese, and a weekday lunch menu of sandwiches and salads.

Throughout the seasons, Drayton Court keeps the menu fresh. The kitchen rotates seasonal specials (like autumnal game pie or summer seafood salad) and holds themed events. In summer, there are often garden BBQ weekends and special street-food pop-ups. In autumn there’s a bonfire-night menu, and winter brings warming stews and mulled wine. The overall tone is “classic with a modern twist”: comforting pub classics are made with quality ingredients, while new dishes (e.g. North African lamb tagine or turmeric-infused chicken) add variety. Reviews consistently praise the freshness and flavour: “freshly prepared food” and particularly the pizzas “come highly recommended” according to several sources.

Beers on Tap

As a Fuller’s pub, The Drayton Court excels on the beer front. You’ll always find a pint of Fuller’s London Pride on tap, along with other core Fullers ales (ESB, Chiswick, and rotating seasonal brews). The draught list is well maintained and includes cask and keg options. For example, one report noted a typical line-up: several hand-pump bitters and a variety of lagers and keg ales. Bartenders here are knowledgeable about the beer board and often give recommendations to guests who want to try something new.

Beyond Fullers staples, craft and guest beers make an appearance. In the beer garden during busy weekends there is a Siren Brewing pop-up bar, offering several rotating keg brews (pale ales, IPAs, stouts etc.) from the West London brewery. This partnership is often highlighted by regulars as a nice touch – you might sip a Fullers cask ale at the bar and then grab a fruitier craft pint from Siren outside. The beer garden, by the way, lives up to its hype: Fullers’ own site calls it “the biggest beer garden in London”, which means plenty of taps are needed to sate all the visitors. On tap you will also find popular lagers (including Fuller’s lager and guest lagers) and sometimes seasonal specials (e.g. a Christmas ale or fresh cider in summer).

Importantly, the bar is well managed. Reviewers note that the beer is always served in good condition (properly cellared and poured), which makes a significant difference in taste. In short, if you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll be very satisfied here: well-kept ales, an adventurous guest line-up, and brewers’ favourites available. Of course, the pub also stocks wine, spirits, and cocktails (the Pergola Spritz is featured in the garden lounge, for example). But the pride of place goes to the well-presented pints of both classic and craft beer.

Price Range & Value

Drayton Court falls into the mid-range (££) category for London pubs. You can expect to pay roughly £12–£18 for a main course (burgers, steaks, salads, or pasta) and about £5–£7 for a pint of beer or a glass of wine. Starters and snacks (like nachos or wings) are usually in the £5–£9 range. These prices are considered reasonable given the location and quality. For comparison, a pint of Fullers London Pride here is around £5 (often cited by customers), similar to other pubs in zone 3.

For the amount you spend, the value is good. Patrons report generous portions and fresh ingredients. For example, the famed fish pie mentioned above weighed in around £9.50 (in 2009; likely around £14–£16 today) and was “very large indeed”. The ambience, beer quality, and friendly service also contribute to feeling you get your money’s worth. There are no hidden surcharges – the prices on the menu are what you’ll pay, and tipping is discretionary as usual. Fullers-run pubs typically do not add service charges for bar orders, so any gratuity is up to you.

In terms of deals: Drayton Court occasionally runs promotions (e.g. a weekday lunch special, happy hour drinks, or festival combo offers). However, it doesn’t rely heavily on gimmicks. It’s simply viewed by locals as a pub that delivers on promise. Many customers (especially in reviews) explicitly note that the pub offers a “satisfying experience at a fair price” – the consensus being that it feels worth the spend for good food and drink in a nice setting.

Customer Service

The staff at The Drayton Court are consistently described as warm, friendly, and professional. One guide observed that despite the pub’s size it maintains a cosy, welcoming vibe “helped by the friendly service behind the bar”. Regulars note that bartenders and servers often remember returning guests by name, and are happy to chat or give recommendations (whether for beers or dishes). For instance, employees might suggest which ale from Siren to try or tell you about tonight’s roast.

Service is generally prompt. Patrons report that servers clear tables quickly and keep drink orders moving efficiently. During peak times (such as quiz nights or summer weekends) the pub can get very busy, and some visitors mention brief waits for food or for their bill. However, even then the staff handle the rush well. One review mentions that even in the midweek theatre crowds, the team still managed to keep lines moving with “decent pace”. The only caveat is that, in very busy periods, you might have to get a drink from the bar rather than table service, simply due to volume. Overall, the service quality earns high marks – friendly and attentive – making guests feel looked-after.

Events & Special Nights

Drayton Court has an active events calendar that caters to a variety of interests. Weekly fixtures include a popular pub quiz every Monday night (typically hosted by Quiz Adams), and a salsa and bachata dance night on Tuesdays (PURA Nights, open to all levels). Sundays often see comedy nights (e.g. Healing Comedy Club stand-up), live music, or themed brunch events (the pub is known to host jazz brunches or acoustic sets). These weekly events draw a mixed crowd of locals, young professionals, and students, giving the weeknights an engaging community vibe.

Seasonal and one-off events add extra flair. In the garden they hold festivals several times a year – for example, summer beer festivals, gin tasting festivals, Halloween parties, and even a World Cup screening event. The Fullers site notes upcoming “big events” like gin festivals, beer festivals, bonfire night parties, and World Cup screenings all in the great outdoors. During these occasions, the garden transforms: there may be extra bars (the Pergola lounge, BBQ stands, or the Siren pop-up), live music, and festival food stalls. Guests cite the “festive atmosphere” of these events as a highlight.

Sports are treated as special events too. The pub is equipped to screen any major sporting match on its big TV or projector: from Premier League football to Six Nations rugby and international cricket. They publicise big games well in advance, so local fans often gather for a match day atmosphere. In short, whether you prefer trivia, dancing, live music, or cheering on your team, there’s usually something going on to make the visit lively.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside, The Drayton Court is a blend of classic pub comfort and contemporary touches. You’ll find polished wood floors, exposed brick accents, and warm lighting throughout. The Victorian-era architecture is evident in the high ceilings, mosaic tiles in the foyer, and the pub’s signature turret visible from outside. One side of the bar area is relatively open-plan (with a concrete or tiled floor and large TV screens for sports), while the other side feels homier – with carpeted nooks, rugs, and cushioned booths. In winter, a working fireplace can be lit, adding to the cosy feel. The decor overall is tasteful rather than theme-park: artwork or vintage photographs line the walls, but the furniture (wooden tables and leather chairs) is sturdy pub-style.

The clientele is famously diverse. On any evening you might see families with children (especially early evenings on weekends), couples out for dinner, local professionals grabbing after-work drinks, and larger friend groups joining for a quiz or birthday. Dog owners often pop in (you might spot a well-behaved pup under the table), due to the dog-friendly policy. After 7 pm, you’ll also get a fair number of younger adults and students drawn by the events schedule. Despite the mix, the mood stays congenial. Conversation buzzes at a medium volume – it’s lively but not overwhelming. Reviewers describe the vibe as welcoming and “buzzy but not rowdy” (much like a neighbourhood pub should be). Even during big games or quiz nights, the energy feels positive rather than chaotic.

Space-wise, Drayton Court is roomy enough to avoid feeling claustrophobic. Even on busy Friday or Saturday nights, you can usually find a seat either in the main bar or in the garden. (Still, it can get very busy; snagging a table early is wise if you’re in a group.) The large garden means indoor areas don’t overflow like smaller pubs. There are also a couple of quiet corners (even near the restrooms) if you prefer low key spots. Because the pub retains some original floorplan quirks, note that not every corner is step-free. However, the pub advertises wheelchair access to the main bar and restrooms. Staff are happy to assist with drinks or menus if needed.

Drayton Court’s atmosphere is one of relaxed conviviality. You’ll hear everything from families talking about their day to excited chatter about a football goal or quiz answers. The ever-present Fullers branding (like the signage and coasters) reminds you it’s a well-run brewery pub, but the overall feel is very much that of a local community pub. It’s a place where regulars and newcomers mingle easily – perhaps a neighbour catching up over a pint while a quiz team occupies a table – and the staff do their part to make everyone feel at home.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Drayton Court Hotel enjoys a convenient suburban location in West Ealing. It’s literally opposite West Ealing station, just a short walk (under a minute) from the station entrance. West Ealing is on the Elizabeth Line, meaning you can reach Paddington and central London in about 10–15 minutes – very handy for travellers or commuters. (Ealing Broadway, another Elizabeth Line stop, is just two stops away.) Bus routes along the nearby Broadway also connect to Shepherd’s Bush (for the Overground/Central Line) and Greenford (Central Line).

Despite the excellent transit links, the immediate neighbourhood feels leafy and quiet. The Avenue is a calm residential street lined with green trees. A few other pubs and eateries are within a 5–10 minute walk (for example, Café York and The Crown Pub), but there aren’t rowdy late-night venues right next door. Instead, you get the charm of suburban Ealing: low-rise historic buildings (some dating to the 1800s) and a village-like vibe.

For day-time visitors, there are several local attractions. Just a five-minute walk away is Walpole Park, a large Victorian park with gardens, a children’s play area, and the Pitzhanger Manor art gallery (the former country house of architect Sir John Soane). On Sundays, many guests might stroll through the farmer’s market or meet friends at one of Ealing Broadway’s cafés before or after their pub visit. Ealing Common (a vast green space popular for jogging and dog-walking) is also a mile to the east.

Angel and Islington are famous for culture, but Ealing too has cultural gems: Ealing Studios (the oldest continuously working film studio in the world) is a 10-minute walk south and often hosts events and tours. Theatre buffs might head to the nearby Questors Theatre on Sundays, or catch a film at the Ealing Film-makers’ Cinema just down the road.

Lastly, being in Zone 3 means some of London’s standout attractions aren’t far. A quick train brings you to Paddington (for Hyde Park and Knightsbridge) or to Liverpool Street and the City, depending on the direction. But many visitors note that the pub is also a destination in itself – even if you’re touring London, spending an evening here feels like a rewarding local experience.

Overall Impression

The Drayton Court Hotel is much more than just a pub with rooms – it’s a beloved community hub in Ealing. It offers the rare combination of big-city convenience and charming village feel. On one hand, you have the full professionalism of a Fullers establishment: quality ales on tap, well-maintained facilities, and a broad menu. On the other, there’s authentic history and warmth: the building’s Victorian roots, the legacy of Ho Chi Minh in the kitchen(!), and a sense of pride among staff and regulars. This mix gives Drayton Court a special character.

Its best features – the extensive garden, the solid beer list (both classic and craft), and the bustling events calendar – consistently earn praise. Whether you’re relaxing under string lights by the barbecue, cheering on a Champions League game with friends, or solving the last round of a pub quiz, the atmosphere is inclusive and upbeat. Families feel comfortable here, young adults find fun things to do, and the food is good enough to draw foodies (particularly for Sunday roast). Many guests leave with fond memories of hearty meals, great pints, and friendly chats with staff.

No pub is without minor quibbles. Drayton Court’s size and popularity mean it can get busy – especially on Friday/Saturday nights and during events. This can lead to slightly longer service times or a bit of noise. Also, while there is a pool table (according to some reports), the absence of other pub games (e.g. no darts oche) is occasionally noted by trivia-driven patrons. But these are relatively small issues. The overwhelming sentiment is positive: service is generally efficient, and any waits are usually because everyone wants to be there – a good problem to have.

The Drayton Court Hotel stands out as a top-quality local pub in West London. It marries classic pub virtues (friendly staff, good beer, hearty food) with extra touches (boutique hotel rooms, a gin festival here, salsa night there) that keep it lively. For many, it offers the ideal Ealing night out – or a comfortable home-away-from-home stay. I’d recommend it to anyone visiting London who wants an authentic community pub experience, or to locals looking for a reliably fun venue for a quiz, a barbecue, or just a great Sunday roast. It truly lives up to its billing: a bit of history, a lot of community spirit, and plenty of great pints in between.