The Coach and Horses, Soho

The last time I was there, about a year ago, the flooring was removed, which admittedly looked like it had been there for a century, but when I returned recently the floor was the same. Come on now, I know it's a bloody recession, but at least the landlords could stump up the cash for some Lino? When I was there It was packed full of weird people in drag and forties outfits, so they must be earning enough to do the place up by now. Apparently it's even turned itself into a tea room upstairs, which seems a sacrilege given its notorious past, and that they're clearly feeding of the wonderful Maison Bertaux next door, which has the most amazing cakes in all of London. I was also informed that the current licensee has sold out to Fullers, so at some point we can expect the floor will be put back, but it will take what's left of its soul in return. Not that there's much of that left since the current asset stripper took over, you can practically hear Jeffrey Bernard screaming "Tea and bloody cakes?!"

30 Jan 2012 12:28

The Duke (of York), Holborn

This pub has a wonderful character, but like so many hiddens gems it's run by the wrong people, so what should be the heart and soul of an area remains at times like the Mary Celeste. As a result the staff seem increasingly frustrated and at times unable to cope when there is actual demand. Actually, Dickens used to live just round the corner, and I'm sure if he were still alive he would come in for inspiration. Well, if he could afford the prices!

30 Jan 2012 12:06

The Golden Heart, Shoreditch

The landlady and her staff seem to live in a parallel universe to their customers, in which the only overlap that occurs is to take your cash or your drink and throw you out. I suppose if one could see inside their universe one might be able to understand their actions, but I think it really would be quite scary to be in heir head space. I think I'll stick to acid, it's safer! If you're an anthologist with an interest in cults this would be a good case study though, and you'd have a great excuse for staying in the pub all day. Just make sure you don't go native!

30 Jan 2012 11:31