Bars & Pubs

There's more than a hint of Hammer Horror in the Mansion's looming tower and black turret windows and interior with its endearing mix of camp and vamp thanks to the grand piano, enormous gilt mirrors and elaborate candelabras. Boris Karloff, erstwhile resident of nearby Peckham Rye, would have felt right at home. For all that, the place feels anything but sinister; it's hugely popular and often packed with punters lounging on sofas and tucking into top-end pub food (there's a barbecue in the back garden during summer months). One guest ale accompanies Young's Special, plus there's Staropramen, Leffe and Weston's cider, a range of cocktails and a decent wine list.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9