Bars & Pubs

Set on the west side of Queen Square, this pub is well placed to bag custom from Great Ormond Street hospital and among the learners and lecturers of neighbouring Mary Ward Centre; it also draws business types down the alley from busy Southampton Row. Not that many can get in, mind you, given the tiny ground-floor bar, although an equally petite space upstairs does cater for a small amount of overspill. Reds dominate the decor, and over the bar a strange gaggle of toy clowns watch proceedings. A trio of ales - Old Speckled Hen, Greene King IPA and a guest ale (Fireside on our visit) - are served, as is basic pub grub.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9