Bars & Pubs

This Fuller's gem enjoys a lovely location on the Thames near Hammersmith Bridge. But be warned that while cosy and romantic on a chilly winter's night (the perfect place for a date, in fact), in the summer, it and its neighbouring hostelries are packed out. The pub is divided into four distinct areas: a decent-sized riverside garden/terrace, a low-ceilinged lounge bar, a gorgeous conservatory area with vine leaves and fairy lights snaking across the ceiling, and the tiny front bar, which merits an entry in Guinness World Records. Real ales including London Pride, ESB and Chiswick are very well kept. The 17th-century building is also steeped in history: 'Rule Britannia' was penned in an upstairs room, and Charles II and Nell Gwynne once caroused here. Today, it's mostly twenty-to-fortysomethings and couples.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9