The Kings Arms

I was turned away from the King’s Arms because staff said I was drunk, despite having had only one alcohol-free Guinness all day. It left me feeling that the staff or security were on some kind of power trip. Friends had told me it was a good place in Berkhamstead, but after this disappointing experience I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

The food was disappointing for the price. The soup of the day was much too peppery, the fish finger goujons had no taste, and only the chunky chips were nice. We were told there'd be a wait, and the order did take a while to arrive. Service was the bigger problem. The first waitress seemed hostile and hard to approach, dropped the menus and walked away when we were being seated. Later, when her manager asked her to take our order as I approached him, she muttered something and went the other way. A younger waitress eventually took it. I wouldn't return, as I think there are better places.

We had brunch on Christmas Eve '25. The building has an impressive facade, and inside there's loads of historic character, with open fires and exposed beams in the walls and ceiling. Service was prompt, friendly and efficient. The food was tasty, nicely presented and generous in portion size. The moccas, cappuccinos, champagnes and bloody marys were lush.

The food is great, but getting it takes a long time. There were plenty of dirty tables still waiting to be cleared, and plates were piling up at the bar. They need more staff and proper management from people who know how to run a pub. The service is just very slow.