February 16, 2011
This is technically my local and I’m proud of that fact! To the non-educated fellow the Claret could be described as the pub that time forgot, but in reality it’s more synonymous with the phrase "old-skool" . The pub is cosy, friendly and full of old brewery advertisement posters and memorabilia. The main draw of the Claret is the six ever-changing pumps of well kept ale. Palmers "IPA" and a Dark Star are the only constant features, with the other four mainly being from fairly small independents. A nice feature is the chalk board opposite the bar which displays the next four/five beers due on each of the six pumps. There is always a selections of cask cider and whisky on offer. Only the usual pub snacks (i.e. crisps and pork scratchings) supply sustenance to long sessions. Other highlights include the bookie that comes in to take bets on the racing and dogs being allowed in the pub

November 30, 2009
Small, dark, one room pub with two small tv screens. Very much a small local boozer. Lacks character and charm, but is comfortable enough. Always has a nice crowd - never too noisey, friendly enough without being intrusive. The main attraction here is the range of real ales. Always changing, but at least one beer from one of Britain’s smallest and least known family regionals - Palmers. In fact this is the only London outlet for Palmers beers. Every time I come here there is a choice of something like 6 different cask ales and four cask ciders. Turnover is quick so condition is always good. Nice.

June 7, 2009
An excellent former wine bar which many years ago became a pub. Six hand pumps dispense a constantly changing selection of real ales, although Palmers IPA is a regular. The pub frequently keeps a beer from Dark Star, and at least one real cider is available at all times. A conversational pub, drawing a loyal clientele and I often make the journey from North London to enjoy a beer with friends here. The pub is conveniently situated next to Addiscombe tram stop, and also note that two tv sets are used for sports fixtures. The Claret is a great pub and certanly worth a visit.

November 27, 2006
A nice local pub in Croydon, with a small but very good and well maintained selection of 6 cask ales from small independant breweries, as well as 2 ciders from small cideries. There were some beers in the fridge but I was not sure how many. I had the dark star festival, two different hogs backs, and something else very nice. Food was limited. Cricket on TV, everyone seemed happy... and why would’t you be!