Bars & Pubs

This tiny piece of 'Little England' started life as one of the many front room pubs that flourished in the 19th century. Originally beer was served by the landlady through a hatch, but gradually the business overtook her living room and then kitchen - as the still-visible partitions reveal. Stepping into the diminutive bar still feels very much like entering someone's lounge, thanks to its compact cosiness, comfy old chesterfields, bookshelves, hunting-themed oil paintings and weatherworn regulars - many of whom are Chelsea Pensioners. It's now a Young's house; ales on offer include Young's Special and Winter Warmer and Wells Bombardier, complemented by a teensy wine list and reassuringly homely food (bangers and mash, £5.95) served on weekday lunchtimes.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9