Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
betide anyone who tries to flout either. A favorite of writers, poets, and actors over the
years, the French House makes few concessions to modernity—and that's just the
way its bohemian patrons like it.
49 Dean St., W1.
&
020/7437-2477.
www.frenchhousesoho.
com. Tube: Leicester Sq.
Harp
Wedged between Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, the Harp is a
much loved traditional pub offering an authentic experience, and just as importantly,
a refuge from the hustle and bustle outside. Break up the shopping trip with a lei-
surely pint (or two) from their interesting range of ales and lagers.
47 Chandos Place, WC2.
&
020/7836-0291.
www.harpcoventgarden.com. Tube: Leicester Sq. or Charing Cross.
Punchbowl
London's pubs are many things, but rarely would you use the word “glam-
orous” to describe one. Still, if you do want to combine star-spotting with your ale sup-
ping, then you could do a lot worse than check out the Punchbowl. Famous for being
owned by the film director and former Mr. Madonna, Guy Ritchie, the Punchbowl has
more to offer than just the occasional passing Hollywood star. Head chef Chris Molloy
has built up a solid reputation for serving up original modern British cuisine alongside
the ale.
41 Farm St., W1.
&
020/7493-6841.
www.punchbowllondon.com. Tube: Green Park.
The City & Clerkenwell
Counting House
Located bang in the heart of the City, London's financial dis-
trict, the Counting House is, suitably enough, housed in a former bank. As watering
holes go this is a rather impressive one and its size, imposing architecture and great
glass domed ceiling offer a drinking experience unlike most other London pubs.
50
Cornhill, EC3.
&
020/7283-7123.
Tube: Bank.
Wilmington Arms
Located just a short hop from bustling Exmouth Market, the
Wilmington is a quality pub serving Clerkenwell locals a fine selection of seasonal
ales, lagers, and decent, unfussy pub food in comfortable surroundings. Settle into
the comfy sofas, and work your way through the day's newspapers, while the pub's
well-stocked jukebox provides the soundtrack. If that all sounds a little too sedate
then head out back where you can also catch up-and-coming indie bands and come-
dians on most nights.
69 Rosebery Ave., EC1.
&
020/7837-1384.
www.thewilmingtonarms.co.uk.
Tube: Farringdon.
Ye Olde Mitre Tavern
Ye Olde Mitre is the name of a working-class inn built
here in 1547, when the Bishops of Ely controlled the district. Despite being slap bang
in the heart of London, one of those historical anomalies that are so prevalent in
Britain meant that until the 1930s it was considered part of Cambridgeshire. Hidden
away and hard to find, it's a rough gem of a pub well worth searching out.
1 Ely Court,
EC1.
&
020/7405-4751.
Tube: Chancery Lane.
West London
Churchill Arms
Stop here for a nod to the Empire's end. Loaded with Churchill
memorabilia, the pub hosts a week of celebration leading up to Churchill's birthday
on November 30. Decorations and festivities are also featured for Halloween, Christ-
mas, and St. Paddy's Day, helping to create the homiest village pub atmosphere you're
likely to find in London.
119 Kensington Church St., W8.
&
020/7727-4242.
Tube: Notting Hill
Gate or High St. Kensington.
Ladbroke Arms
Previously honored as London's “Dining Pub of the Year,” the
Ladbroke Arms is still highly regarded for its food. An ever-changing menu includes
roast cod filet with lentils and salsa verde; and aged bone-in rib steak with mustard,
peppercorn, and herb and garlic butter. With background jazz and rotating art prints,
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