London (Fodor's 2012) - Fodor's [156]
Ye Olde Mitre.
Hidden off the side of 8 Hatton Gardens, this cozy pub’s roots go back to 1547, though it was rebuilt around 1772. Originally built for the staff of the Bishop of Ely, whose London residence was next door, it remained officially part of Cambridgeshire until the 20th century. It’s a friendly little place, with a fireplace, well-kept ales, wooden beams, and traditional bar snacks. | 1 Ely Ct., The City | EC1N 6SJ | 020/7405–4751 | Closed weekends | Chancery La.
Ye Olde Watling.
This busy corner pub has been rebuilt at least three times since 1666. One of its incarnations was supposedly as a hostel for Christopher Wren’s workmen while nearby St. Paul’s was being built. The ground floor is a laid-back pub, while upstairs houses an atmospheric restaurant, complete with wooden beams and trestle tables, with a basic English pub menu. | 29 Watling St., The City | EC4M 9BR | 020/248–8935 | Mansion House.
CLERKENWELL
Fodor’s Choice | Jerusalem Tavern.
Owned by the well-respected St. Peter’s Brewery from Suffolk, the Jerusalem Tavern is one-of-a-kind, small and endearingly eccentric. Ancient Delft-style tiles meld with wood and concrete in a converted watchmaker and jeweler’s shop dating back to the 18th century. The beer, both bottled and on tap, is some of the best available anywhere in London. It’s often busy, especially after work. | 55 Britton St., Clerkenwell | EC1M 5NA | 020/7490–4281 | Farringdon.
THE EAST END
Prospect of Whitby.
Named after a ship, this is London’s oldest riverside pub, dating from around 1520. Once upon a time it was called the Devil’s Tavern because of the lowlife criminals—thieves and smugglers—who congregated here. Ornamented with pewter ware and nautical objects, this much-loved “boozer” is often pointed out from boat trips up the Thames. | 57 Wapping Wall, East End | E1W 3SH | 020/7481–1095 | Wapping.
CHELSEA
Admiral Codrington.
Named after a hero of the Napoleonic Wars, this smart pub was once the most popular meeting place for the upwardly mobile of Sloane Square (Lady Diana Spencer is said to have been a regular in her teaching days). The “Admiral Cod,” as it’s known, now houses a modern restaurant where excellent English fare is served at lunch and dinnertime (treat yourself to a delicious raspberry soufflé to finish). Activity at the island bar centers on the wine list; well-off Chelsea residents pack the bare wood interior on weekend evenings. | 17 Mossop St., Chelsea | SW3 2LY | 020/7581–0005 | www.theadmiralcodrington.co.uk | South Kensington.
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
The Nag’s Head.
It’s best not to upset the landlord in this classic little mews pub in Belgravia—he runs a tight ship, and no cell phones are allowed. If that sounds like misery, the lovingly collected Victorian artifacts (including antique penny arcade games), high-quality beer, and old-fashioned pub grub should make up for it. | 53 Kinnerton St., Belgravia | SW1X 8ED | 020/7235–1135 | Hyde Park Corner.
MAYFAIR
The Running Horse.
Wood paneling gives this smart Mayfair pub an authentic feel, although the bright Art Deco lights may seem a bit out of place. Pub grub is served, and it’s a pleasant stopover during your jaunt around the elegant neighborhood. | 50 Davies St., Mayfair | W1K 5JF | 020/7493–1275 | www.therunninghorselondon.co.uk | Bond St..
NOTTING HILL
Fodor’s Choice | The Cow.
Back in 1999 Tom Conran, a scion of the design-mad Conrans, opened this as the first shot in the gastro-pub revolution—a tiny, chic mix of fun, haute food and friendly, quaint decor. Notting Hillbillies and other stylish folk flocked to this place, just off Portobello Road, and couldn’t get enough of the special: a half-dozen Irish rock oysters with a pint of Guinness. Today, crowds still head here for Guinness and oysters, either enjoying them in the unpretentious downstairs bar or the upstairs more formal restaurant. The food is still excellent, if pricey for pub grub, with lots of seafood and steaks