Theydon Bois - The Bull

Sunday 12th February 2023

You'll quickly be realising there is absolutely no logic to the order in which I haunt the tube stations. A quiet Sunday provided the opportunity to visit a location much discussed between Jonny, Charlie and I; Theydon Bois (like toys), or is it Theydon Bois (like petit pois)? Having eavesdropped on a conversation in French whilst clearing dog shit off my shoe shortly after arriving, I'm going to assume the latter. Though you should Emma Clarke, the voice of the London Underground who has said this is her favourite stop to announce, goes for an entirely different option altogether pronouncing it Theydon Bois (like Lois).

Heading west this is the penultimate stop on the Central Line. It may (just) be within the M25 but by the time you've reached Theydon Bois the tube has already passed through three stops outside of any London borough. Were it not for the roundels and red and white striped trains, you'd forget you're only eleven stops from Liverpool Street. The station is quaint and befitting of a village, you're almost thrown by the ticket barriers.

Following community action in the 1920s, Theydon Bois is almost entirely absent of street lights but it clings on to two pubs. There used to be more here but as is the case with so many villages, towns and cities across England these have disappeared at an alarming rate in recent years. In the last decade over 7,000 pubs have been demolished or converted into homes, shops and offices across the country. In London alone twenty-five per cent of pubs closed between 2001 and 2017. In Theydon Bois the number has halved since the turn of the last decade.

One of those two pubs still standing is The Bull. Commanding a prime spot in the Village Centre looking out onto Theydon Green, The Bull is Grade II listed and has an impressive, you guessed it, bull painted onto its Northern facade.

Inside the traditional country pub feel is continued by the exposed wooden beams and fire place. The walls are plastered with lovely old photos of Theydon Bois (none in the dark, for obvious reasons) but rudely interrupted by some slightly cringeworthy quotes. If you're after an alcoholic equivalent to Live, Laugh, Love, The Bull might just give you the inspiration. There's a fruit machine and television, which being February was showing the Six Nations, at the far end of the bar ensuring that there's a permanent source of entertainment aside from the Elton John tribute act advertised for a few Saturdays time.

There is an impressive range available at The Bull. I counted at least fourteen beers on draught. Jonny and Charlie both chose a Brewpoint On Point Pale Ale, I opted for a Guinness which was well poured and fresher than many I've had within the city's limits. It was made extra sweeter by the tab only coming to £16.35.

Being a Sunday, however, The Bull's focus was on food. Upon our arrival we were warned that there were no tables free for the rest of the day. We were offered a seat out front in what in Summer I imagine is a magnificent beer garden but declined due the lack of coats (one between three) we'd brought with us.

To the rear of the pub was a dining room which was a clear hit with many locals who were known by name and came in asking after their regular table. One pensioner was even served their antibiotics they'd dropped on the floor by a member of staff, but this friendliness only added to the community feel of The Bull. Even the odd rambler appearing out of place on a day out from the city, of which I saw plenty, could feel welcome here - provided they got seat.