Hand & Shears

There’s old and there’s old. A pub has stood here since the 12th century, though the present building is a mere 1840s stripling. There’s still something of a medieval air about the place though, with its division into a series of sparse worn wooden spaces concealed from the street by opaque period windows. Decor restricts itself to antique prints in black and white or muted colours. A predominantly legal clientele dress in similar vein as they sup decent beer – Courage Best, Directors and changing guest ales – and house wine while cogitating on tricky cases or the cosmos. While it lacks a little in atmosphere, the Hand & Shears compensates with a rare sense of privacy – especially if you nab the solitary table in the Private Bar.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008

Services:

Available for hire: Restaurant
Function room: Function room
Games: darts
Music: No piped music or jukebox
Other: Quiz (weekly; call for details)

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