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London Beer Week has arrived to mop up the last of the early-year abstainers. Around 100 pubs and bars are involved, but where to start? We asked Matt Curtis, one of the city's most revered beer writers, for his top picks.
So Matt, which boozers should we be visiting during London Beer Week?
'There are some really great pubs and bars taking part this year. One of my absolute favourites has to be The Three Johns, on White Lion Street, just a few minutes from Angel station. It’s spacious but cosy, and they’ve always got something decent on tap like Beavertown's citrusy Neck Oil pale ale, or new Battersea start-up Mondo Brewing's slightly sweet London Alt Beer. You'll occasionally find some real gems in the fridge too, such as gueuze – a type of sour beer from Brussels' iconic Cantillon brewery.'
Sounds like a winner. Any others?
'I'm a big fan of the Draft House pubs, and my two favourites are the one on Goodge Street and the one right by Tower Bridge. Both have a great selection of local and not-so-local breweries, with some tasty burgers and wings if you're peckish. The Tower Bridge pub is also home to a cocktail bar called Bump Caves, which serves up some of the most bonkers cocktails imaginable. Should you get bored of drinking beer, that is.'
Wouldn’t dare. Any last words, so to speak, ahead of LBW?
'Yeah – remember that it's a marathon, not a sprint.'
Matt’s top five pubs taking part in London Beer Week
1. The Three Johns
2. Draft House Charlotte
3. Old Red Cow
4. The Italian Job
5. Rake
London Beer Week runs February 22–28. All selected drinks are £3, and you’ll need to pre-purchase a wristband for £10 to take part.
A week not enough? Check out London's best craft beer bars and pubs.