Bars & Pubs

Quirky, atmospheric and nicely unpretentious, the Cross Keys begs one question. What the hell is it doing in tourist-mobbed Covent Garden? Catering to ordinary folk and regulars, that's what; yep, this place does exactly what a pub is supposed to do. You'll find Bombardier, Courage Best, John Smith's and Guinness on draught, alongside doorstep sandwiches and pub bites. Most first-time visitors find themselves peering through the dim light to gawp at a poster for the Beatles' Royal Command Performance of 1963, Elvis Presley's napkin and a newspaper article relating to the landlord's successful £500 bid for it. Any man who pays £500 for a soiled napkin deserves to be celebrated.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9