The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping

For history and character this is one of London's 'great' pubs. It may not have quite the view that say the Founders Arms (Bankside) has, but then you don't go to the Founders Arms for its charm, it's all about the view. With the Prospect, you have a nice riverside view and the added bonus of a pub with a great history.

In terms of food, this isn't the best pub...in fact there are many many more who do better food, but then this isn't the kind of pub you come to for professional chef-style food - you come here for the history and the decent selection of ales.

Why do so many people expect a 'gourmet' experience in every pub they go to?. This isn't the point of most pubs, and those who seem to think that this and all pubs should have top notch food are also missing the point. This may not be the best pub in London but few can match it's history - it reeks of it.

12 Oct 2013 23:51

The Yorkshire Grey, Fitzrovia

A solid, if unspectacular (architecturally) Sam Smith's pub. Ideal for a relaxed sunday afternoon pint or two. Not good for large groups as others have said, as it's a small pub, but there's plenty of large pubs in central london for big groups so this isn't an issue. Friendly bar staff made visiting this pub worthwhile. Overall a decent pub that I'd come back to again.

12 Oct 2013 22:53

The Bricklayers Arms, Fitzrovia

In the heart of Fitzrovia, this is a pubI'd been meaning to visit for a while as I'd heard good things about it. I have to say though that I was somewhat disappointed on my visit. I got the impression this was very much a locals pub despite being a stones throw from Oxford Street. It was also extremely quiet when I was there, even though it was late afternoon on a saturday. The person who served me was maybe the landlady (?), and although efficient, the service was abit brusk - not rude but not particularly welcoming either.

It's a Sam Smith's pub, but in my view not one of their better ones. Would I visit this pub again? perhaps, but with so many pubs in the area, some of the competition is quite formidable.

Overall, satisfactory but a pretty unremarkable pub. It may be completely different when packed, but as I said, I wouldn't make a point of coming back unless I happen to be round the corner. The one bonus was a nice open fire in the upstairs lounge......which was almost deserted. I'll give it 6 just for that!

12 Oct 2013 18:23