This beer haven on the corner of Surrey Street Market has always been a real favourite with SD.

With an office move to the other side of town planned it's unfortunately going to be slightly harder in future for SD to indulge at The Green Dragon, so a last amble down the road to this lovely pub was in order.

On arrival at the welcoming doors SD was reminded of another good reason for visiting - The Green Dragon has been named as the Croydon winner of the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) awards.

Before you even cross the threshold you'll get some idea of the sort of place this is with the myriad of posters in the window.

Along side a proud one announcing the CAMRA recognition are others advertising the many and varied entertainments at the pub - from local band gigs to an amateur theatre group performing their latest production on the top floor.

Stepping through the main doors you're immediately met by the sight of a huge pool area, good news for pool fanatics as there is an ongoing contest with prizes.

The huge bar has real ale written all over it - littered with beer pumps and dominated by blackboards telling of the current ales you can enjoy.

SD and friend chose a comfy seat in the window so as to watch the world of South Croydon go by while we scoffed our scampi and chips (incidentally the food here is fantastic too and has regular blackboard specials of delicious soup and sandwiches).

Staff at The Green Dragon are probably the friendliest in Croydon - they are always cheerful and happy to help customers.

You'll be spoilt for choice of drinks here and even though SD is not a big beer drinker, the draw of other options for a tipple and the great atmosphere make return visits a must.

During the Croydon Food Festival customers can enjoy a specially designed vegetarian menu.

It may be packed with delicious drinks and bar food, but the real reason The Green Dragon is so popular is because in a town full of chain bars, this is a real community pub that loves Croydon.

The Lowdown

Style: Traditional

Cost of a pint: Around £3 but depends on your choice of ale

Cost of a glass of wine: From £2.30

On tap: Heineken, Bulmers, John Smiths, 1664, Fosters, Guinness, Stella, Peroni and more real ales than you can shake a pint glass at

Service: Best in Croydon

Parking: On street or car parks behind the main road

Verdict: SD hearts The Green Dragon

The Green Dragon

58-60 High Street

Croydon

CR0 1NA

020 86670684