The George, London Bridge

A rare historic survival of London's old galleried coaching inns, The George is, i'm afraid, a rather poorly-run pub in a fantastic building. It is well worth visiting in order to experience having a drink in a 17th century building. Beer and food is generally OK, but service can range from cheerful and friendly, to surly and unhelpful. What I found unforgivable on one visit in winter was the bitter cold in one of the bars – the National Trust which owns the pub really must look to its laurels about this kind of thing. A pub should be a warm, welcoming, happy place where you get the impression they are glad to see you. When I was there last, a group of tourists were shivering with the cold. Not good. To sum up, then, rather like Dr Johnson, I'd say it is worth seeing, but not worth going to see.

29 Apr 2015 10:59

Ye Old Mitre, Holborn

An unchanging gem hidden down a passage off Hatton Garden and within really easy range of both Farringdon and Chancery Lane stations. Always a good, changing range of well-kept beers. Ye Olde Mitre has retained the old fashioned pub approach to food for people having a few drinks – things like pork pies and scotch eggs. It is small and can get very busy at times, but equally you can find it pleasantly quiet. Oodles of character and a very long history.

29 Apr 2015 10:53

The Jerusalem Tavern, Clerkenwell

An early 18th century building with original features, this atmospheric place is a favourite location with film and television crews, and it's easy to see why. As other reviewers say, it is quite small and crowds routinely spill out on to the pavement at busy times. However, time it right, and you will find it pleasantly quiet, tucked away in a side street near Farringdon Station. The St Peter's beer range is extensive and well-kept. In my experience, the food has been quite limited, but then it is not a pub I would go to specifically to eat – this is primarily a drinkers' place, a role it performs extremely well.

29 Apr 2015 10:47