The most satisfying things in life are often the most simple. Being presented with an ale in a proper dimpled beer jug by a polite barman wearing an apron is just one example. Drinking the ale is another. I suppose I’d have preferred a barmaid, but we can’t have it all.

Anyway, these simple pleasures were my introduction to the Surbiton Flyer just the other day.

The pub is a stone’s throw from Surbiton station and provides the perfect platform for many a weary commuter to stop off for a beer and unwind after a stressful day in the office.

On my visit, the Flyer was very quiet – just me, the barman and a handful of punters.

The peace was punctuated by two guys who were having a rather heated business meeting. The music was at an unobtrusive level, which was handy because it meant I could eavesdrop in on their conversation while pretending to read the paper.

It’s a very tidy boozer with patterned mirrors and a stained glass ceiling which give the place an art deco feel.

It has a colourful bookcase and Union Jack cushions, if you like that kind of thing. But, most impressively of all, it has a fine array of ales, and yes, I do like that sort of thing. So, I sat back and supped my way merrily through a pint of Seafarers.

The Flyer is a Fuller’s pub which indicates to me the ales are of a decent standard.

My only gripe with this boozer is that it lacks a certain character, it is perhaps, a little too pristine. I like dark and dingy, mean and moody, and grim and grimey. But hey-ho, as long as they keep serving me pints in dimpled beer jugs then I’ll keep coming back. It’s the simple things which please me most.

The Surbiton Flyer, 84 Victoria Road, Surbiton, KT6 4PD

Decor: XXXX All very tasteful. It’s bright and clean.

DRINK: XXXX Loads of good ales to choose from.

PRICE: XX £3.45 is heading towards pricey.

ATMOSPHERE: XX Quiet, apart from the business chat which me and the barman were listening to.

STAFF: XXX He was a good chap, very polite.