We all know that looks can be deceiving. The Chequers, for example, has always looked a bit like a refined and fairly pricey gastropub when I’ve driven past over the years.

What I found when I finally stopped to go in was a more down to earth, rustic affair.

As an indicator of how far it is from a gastropub, there’s a sign on the bar which says ‘crisps, nuts, cigs available. Just ask’.

There’s also a poster with a giant apostrophe catastrophe which I found especially grating.

In terms of decor, this place is past its best – all a bit dark and tired.

The music was slightly too loud but at least it wasn’t terrible pop or flaming Magic FM again.

Taken together, these things actually form the basis of a positive for The Chequers – there’s a sense of atmosphere in the place.

Granted, the multiple interior CCTV cameras dampen the spirit a bit but this place was pretty busy of a lunch time with regular working folk enjoying a pint, a bite to eat and a decent chat.

And it’s definitely a pub where you feel comfortable having a natter.

The menu is Greene King’s standard one and the food is OK, but not anything to write home about. Or, in fact, anything especially worth leaving the house to go out for.

For the first couple of times I heard the doorbell ringing, I was confused as to what was happening.

Turns out the Jehovah’s Witnesses weren’t out the front with the Watchtower, it’s just the system the kitchen uses to tell bar staff that food is ready.

Having seen the pub, I wasn’t expecting much variety when it came to beer. But there were four ales on tap, including Abbot Ale and Greene King IPA.

The light, citrusy Old Hoppy Hen was refreshing, and refreshingly priced at £3.30.

The Chequers is not too far from Petts Wood and it loses out to all three of the village’s pubs in my view: it’s not as nice at the Daylight, the ale’s not as good as One Inn the Wood and it’s not as cheap nor does it have the variety of The Sov.

The Chequers, Southborough Lane, Bromley

How it rated:

Decor ** Needs modernising    

Atmosphere **** Comfortable

Staff *** Did their jobs well

Drink *** More than I’d hoped for

Food ** Mediocre

Price *** Can’t fault it