please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Plush Fullers' house. Beer excellent. Packed with mixture of tourists and local office workers.
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A typical Fullers pub which is attractive to the eye and which serves decent food and drink. The seasonal Gales Firecracker was my choice of beer today and I could easily have had another if there had been time. My sandwich was a little underwhelming for the price, I knew I should have had a pie....
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I have passed this pub several times in the past when doing the tourist rounds but have always made my pit stops at the Westminster Arms & Speaker. Decided to enter this year & instantly regretted it. Pretty to look at, and I had plenty of time to do that as ALL staff were chatting at the opposite end of the bar. One finally noticed me and asked if I was alright. The Pride was 4.40, par for the course but the service was feral, all geared to seated diners.
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Not an area of London I go to too often. I visisted this pub twice recently. A large pub similar to a Wetherspoons. The decor and layout is like many other Fullers pubs I've visited, wood pannelling, chandeliers and different floor levels.
The beers were the usual Fullers selections, ESB, Pride, Chiswick and Redwood. The clientele was a mix of office types and tourists. Perhaps it was the time of day I was there ( around 4pm) but I had no trouble getting a seat.
Have to mention the toilets, quality over quantity! The carpeted stairs to the toilets and the pictures on the wall are quite impressive. However there could be more urinals.
Can't speak for the decor in the Women's!
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My 2nd visit last night with a group of work colleagues.
We booked a table for 8 and this was laid out ready for food on our arrival.
Traitor's gate was a new Fuller's beer for me and was on tap so I had several pints with my dinner.
4 out of 8 of us had the pie's and along with the others everyone said their food was excellent. All brought to the table together so no-one had to wait with every meal being hot.
This trumps my first visit and I have scored it higher than before, good Fullers beer and excellent home cooked food.
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Rather like a Wetherspoons in respect except for sport on the Tv and serving Fullers instead of GK fayre. Pleasant enough anyhow. Had a half of Chiswick at £1.80 and an ESB at £2.08. At lunchtime when I visited were plenty of chaps and lasses in black suits with brief cases talking yuppyesque, but once they departed it felt more tranquil. Worth a visit if in the area.
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Large open planned Fullers pub just down from St James's Park tube station. I came in around 18.30 on a Tuesday and it busy with local workers.
A very interesting mural adorns the far wall, there is also full wood paneling and wooden flooring
8 taps that were dispensing 5 different Fullers beers on my visit, the pint of Front Row I had was good but not sure it merited £3.90 a pint.
As said in previous reviews fairly unremarkable layout but the pub is fine for a visit and a couple of pints
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Have to agree with some of the comments with regard to tourists- as we were some who stopped in last week for a pint. The Fuller's range is nott one of my faves but any port in a storm, as they say.
The Chiswick Bitter, however was one I had grown fonder of in past visits, so I ordered that. Of course, it had just run out (it was 11:30 in the morning) but I was told they would put on another if we could wait. We did and the barman told us we would receive the freshest pint of CB you can get. Well, maybe that was the case but it was very disappointing compared to others I have been served. The staff were very friendly and seemed eager to please and food coming out looked pretty good. We didn't stay for that but I would likely give the place another try when back in this part of London again.
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Decent boozer.
Good choice of ales and good staff, hard to fault it really.
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Called in for midweek lunch after a stroll around town. The Beef and Abbott Ale pie was excellent and served to my table after only a 15 mins wait. The Black Cab Stout was also very well kept and enjoyable. As others have said, a pretty unremarkable pub layout wise but does the job. I would visit again if in the area.
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Met up with some friends for a Birthday Bash who worked at Scotland Yard. Enjoyed myself and would go again. A typical no frills central London pub
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Very disappointing for a Fullers Pub. A second visit in 6 months has resulted in cold food, 40 minutes late on both occaisions. The Honeydew beer was bland and the only reason I stayed in there was because of the football on the TV.
I agree with the comment below in that this pub takes advantage of the fact that tourists come in here and they know they can get away with serving rubbish food and rubbish beer for extorionate prices.
Sort it out Fullers.
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Went here for dinner and was massively disappointed. They were serving up rubbish that they knew they could get away with because it was mostly tourists in the pub. The "yorkshire pudding" was like a rock and looked more like a bread roll. It was also topped with cranberry sauce while being served alongside beef. It was 10mins between our first plate arriving and our last. Staff were rude and acted like it was us being fussy when we complained. Do not eat here, you will be disappointed.
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Always found this pub okay but it is a little pricey. Ate in there a couple of times but there seems to be a fast turnover of staff - mostly Polish. The interior is nice like most fullers pubs and the toilets are always well maintained. Give this pub a 7/10.
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went here on a pub crawl, VERY NOISEY. The lucky ones tried the london porter, but not all our group were that lucky. Bengal Lancer left a lot to be desiered.
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Very poor management. Not good policy to let your children play in the bar particularly in front of the counter. Management seem to think theyare doing customers a favour by letting them use the place. Not one of Fullers better pubs.
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Been popping in here on and off over the last few years, and always find it agreeable on most fronts. I once ate here and the food was reasonable, if ambitiously priced as is always the case with sizeable Fuller's houses, and the ale is always well-kept - beer doesn't seem so over-priced but this is only because of the relative inflation of pricetags across the Westminster area which sadly one has to adjust to.
Service is always consistent in my experience, and although not perhaps a venue one would make a particular bee-line for, it acts as a worthy stop-off if you need a quick pie and pint, or indeed if one is traversing from Parliament Street to Victoria on a crawl which takes in the various decent pubs in the vicinity.
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Beer is good, but the service is diabolical. One of those places where the staff don't care about what they are doing, and it shows.
Go for a pint but steer well clear of the food......
arkid - 19 Apr 2010 11:09 |
I've always found this an enjoyable pub to spend time in if I can get a seat away from the TV. There's a good selection of food, though I did have to send my fish pie back because it was frozen in the middle. Useful if you're showing people around Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace etc. because it's off the tourist trail a bit so therefore quiet at a weekend. Weekdays it's a popular after-office boozer. Has a bit of character with all of the polished wood in it.
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Toursisty souless clean & corperate bland with side order of pricey! Spannish barmaids lift this kicking and screaming to a 7, just!
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I realise that one's view of pubs can be as subjective as anything else and much depends on imponderables such a the time of day and varying clientele etc. but I stand by my comments. I much prefer to drink beer than coffee and what is wrong with being able to converse or read in a civilised way with a pint or two? I can remember when many pubs had two or three bars, a public bar for those who wanted tp play darts or whatever, a saloon for those who didn't and a lounge where customers could peacefully enjoy their drink. So much more sensible than the " lets all be Jack the Lads" mentality that is now the norm. Nowadays it has become necessary to have bouncers at pubs because of the marauding bands of oiks that infest our city centres during the evenings.
You have probably gathered by now that I am English and you might also have gathered that I am no longer proud of the fact.
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Padderborn I'm guessing by your comments that you're not English and quite frankly thank God that you're not representing our nation. If you want to go and read a paper in peace (loner), I suggest you go to a coffee shop - there are quite a few around here.
Perfectly good watering hole, perfectly good atmosphere and not loud at all. Great place for a lunchtime drink. Lovely.
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I visited this pub yesterday evening and it is a marvellous replica of a spacious Edwardian public house; exactly the place that am looking for as a regular haunt. Unfortunately, apart from ther decor and the selection of beers, that's where all appreciation stops. Firstly, why, oh why, oh why is it necessary to have trashy pop music playing ? Secondly, at the othe end of the bar, there is the ubiquitous television set adding further to the noise, and thirdly, what makes your average Englishman such a cocky loudmouth, even allowing for the fact that the unecessary music/television noise isn't conducive to decent conversation? Get rid of the loudmouths, trash music and television, and you have got yourself a decent pub where civilised conversation can take place and it is possible to read a newspaper in peace.
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I�ve found that you can�t really go wrong in selecting a Fullers pub for few beers and this place doesn�t disappoint. They have eight hand pumps, but only four ales (Chiswick, Pride ESB and Discovery) alongside some standard lagers. The pub is bigger than most in the area and there is a large TV up on the wall, not that I saw any sport advertised. I had to wait to be served as there was only one barman, but he was polite and quick when he finally got to me.
I would return here again if passing.
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The Sanctuary House is a Fullers Ale & Pie House/Hotel and is situated just along from St James Park tube station. I have paid a couple of visits of late and have satisfied on both occasions. The interior is smart and appealing, with a definite sense of grandeur. Adequate seating can be found in the main bar area and to the rear of the pub is a raised carpeted section which can be hired out. Many prints depicting Westminster adorn the walls. Music is pleasingly and rather suitably, is restricted to background noise. A few flashing fruit machines fail to detract from the tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. Clientele within, as expected, are made up of local office workers and tourists � here was somewhat empty upon arrival, though picked up after 5pm. Choice at the bar is extensive enough, with almost the full-range of Fullers ales present - the organic Honey Due is currently restricted to keg-form, however. The condition of both the Discovery and Chiswick Bitter was acceptable (Cask Marquee accredited), though you will need to watch out for short measures � prices are a little on the steep-side, also. Both members of staff, however, were polite and seemingly working like Trojans to ensure prompt service once business had picked up. To conclude: I like it here and can envisage future trips. If a couples of slight niggles were to be rectified, then here would be quite an excellent pub.
HTM69 - 27 Feb 2009 14:16 |
Fullers house that has pretty much all their range on, including seasonals. It's usually a decent pint as well. Has wooden panelling all around the walls which make it look like a boardroom. It's an OK choice when my colleagues want to go out for a pint, but I wouldn't make a special effort if on my own.
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I presume this is attached to the adjacent hotel of the same name. The newish "old" interior is ok. It's also a bit bright but generally ok. Not one to go out of your way for but if the alternatives are some of the tourist traps on Whitehall then rock on.
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We went in here having had recent good experiences. This time the ale was fairly ordinary, and when food was ordered we were advised that most of the food was unavailable, which was a real shame. Could be a good pub, but needs to look after its customer service and food supply much better. One of the few Fullers pubs which disappoints.
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Customer service is beyond most of the staff at this pub. A basic grasp of english would help. 'Hello' when you arrive. 'Sorry' when your food takes over 40mins AGAIN!!! The kitchen staff produce meals to an acceptable standard, it's the attitude of the bar staff that lets the place down. This area is crying out for a pub with manners.
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Very hotel like. Good size screens for sport. One of those new Fullers houses that lacks character. May improve with age. Ok for a quick pint but nothing more.
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This is a fairly new pub to Westminster built in an old office building. Apart from civil servants during the week it is atourist pub at weekends. Beer average nothing special.
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Guaranteed a table at a weekend - on a Saturday night the place felt quite empty, which made it a good place to watch international football on the tv. Although it is designed as a smart venue it felt a bit scruffy and worn. Bar staff ok, though manager was obviously not having a good day - no hint of a smile. Beer well kept.
anonymous - 26 Mar 2007 14:39 |
Have been avoiding this place as it looked a bit trendy but I must admit I was quite taken with this place when we finally frequenred it. Very busy but the bar staff, including your standard Polish bar girls, were very pleasant. Pricey but decent food and well kept Fullers' ales. Definately worth a visit.
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Lovely-looking pub, both inside and out. Non-smoking area which is a bonus, and friendly bar staff. Well worth a visit just to try the chicken pie - it is divine!
If you happen to be escorting friends or family visiting from overseas around Westminster Abbey/Big Ben etc, this is a great boozer to pop into for lunch as it is not crowded at all in the weekends, due to being largely surrounded by offices.
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A bit hotel-like, beer fine, no-smoking area, but restauranty or hotellish (well, it is a hotel).
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Whilst this is actually a hotel, the pub element is far more noticeable, the hotel entrance being little more than a doorway to one side. This was apparently an MI5 building until being converted to its current purpose. The interior consists of one large room, expanded by knocking out a few walls. Despite the high ceiling and open, spacious expanses, it does not feel cavernous. The decorative mirrored pillars, oak paneling, brass lighting and large windows with the now commonplace etched Fullers Ale & Pie logo give the place quite an elegant feel. The wooden bar has a dark polished marble top and traditional wooden back bar. The floor tiling around the bar soon gives way to a polished bare wooden floor with a decent amount of seating without feeling claustrophobic. To the rear is a raised carpeted area to one side with a monastic mural and tucked away in the corner is a carpeted non smoking area with pictures of London and in particular, Westminster. A basic TV in the main bar has never been on during my now numerous (admittedly lunchtime) visits. A couple of fruit machines do not intrude on the civilized atmosphere. Naturally the beers are all Fullers but the prices are a bit higher than I would expect albeit not exactly extortionate (my usual Fuller tipple, Discovery is �2.80). They are Cask Marque accredited and the standard is therefore usually pretty good. The food is also fairly pricey but is home cooked according to the menu - main meals are generally around �7-9). Service has always been good although a smile and a welcome wouldn�t sometimes go amiss. Customer base is generally office workers, tourists and government types, being close to the Houses of Parliament. Perfectly accommodating without being particularly extraordinary but a visit is recommended if in the area.
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It's ok, standard Fullers but when I went recently the Ales were a bit too cold for my liking.
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An interesting building, and a well-run Fuller's house. The 'Sanctuary' name is also fairly apt since it makes a pleasant change from some of the other scrum-like pubs around Westminster/St James's Park.
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Really friendly bar staff from all corners of the globe and excellent local beers from Fullers make a visit to the Sanctuary a very pleasurable experience.
anonymous - 23 Aug 2006 13:54 |
The pub is fine, but the B&B accommodation is fabulous and very reasonably priced for a pub at the centre of things in London. Stayed there for a few nights in July when the weather was very hot so the air conditioning in the bedroom was greatly appreciated
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I travel to London several times a year but this is the first time I've been to the Sanctuary - what an amazing pub. The bar staff are wonderful and obliging, the food is excellent and the beer is possibly the best Fullers I've tasted. I look forward to returning in a few weeks and will hopefully be able to confirm its all round excellence.
anonymous - 11 Aug 2006 13:21 |
Ah, the Sanctuary. Home from home. Has the most varied bunch of characters in it... Bar staff are great (once asked if we could have some bread to feed the ducks in St James Park - barman didn't even blink, just asked if we wanted butter on it). Buy them a drink - they deserve it. Can either have an average night or an incredible one. Never had a bad one. Food is excellent - try the Chicken and Spinach pie. Mmmmm!
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Nice looking interior,good selection of Fullers ales, foreign girl who served us could have been a bit friendlier, but overall very good.
My Rating 8/10
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A great setup behind the bar, with a large number of pulled ales available at any one time. The pints I've had there were in very good shape, with little to complain about.
The pub itself is a bit sprawling, but can still get quite crowded. It's quite modern for the most part and not the most characterful place in the front, but things rapidly improve the further back into the seating area you go. I recommend going at a quieter time, since some of the details of the place (like the copies of manuscript illuminations on the back wall) are best appreciated with a clear view. Overall, a very nice pub with an obvious commitment to getting things done right.
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This is by far the best pint in London (and Britain for that matter). I don't know how they manage to be so consistent but the bar manager certainly knows his stuff. The food's excellent too.
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Decent Pint of London Pride. Food and service is not always great when at their busiest ie friday lunchtimes, when de-mob happy civil servants descend upon it.Have eaten well in here however. Bar satff friendly most of the time. Popular also with American tourists becauase of proximity to the Abbey. Friday night heaving with suited wage slaves until about 8.30/9pm.
anonymous - 23 Sep 2005 11:19 |
Good service, well-kept Fullers ales. Gets very busy with suits on a Friday evening.
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By far the best and most consistent pint of Fullers (or any other beer) in London. Food of a very high quality (steak and ale pie a classic) served by friendly, helpful bar staff. An absolute gem.
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I visit this pub regularly when in London and have always found good beer, good food and helpful staff. I've also stayed in the hotel on one occassion and found the room and facilities to be very good.
anonymous - 14 Dec 2004 11:02 |
I have been in this pub before. I cannot see why people cant see the attraction. I find the Food excellent and the real ale very good. Would reccommend this pub to any one
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It'ok. Nothing special. Can't understand why it's so popular. Food is functional, beer is ok, but certainly no major selling points.
Paul - 5 Nov 2004 11:16 |
Has a chain-pub feel. Not bad on a quiet afternoon, but rammed with civil servants after work. Staff are pretty useless.
Lee C - 29 Oct 2004 16:48 |
We stayed at the hotel upstairs, and found the pub downstairs to be good. The food was very good, and the wait staff fine. We would return if we are back in London.
Carolyn Bountress - 17 Oct 2004 03:53 |
Very good Sunday lunch.
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Could be a half-decent pub, but spoiled by bar staff who don't speak English, and are so slow.
DaveC - 16 Apr 2004 18:36 |
I've been here about a dozen time. Mostly ok but on one occasion the the winter warmer beer was ICE COLD (!). On another visit the russian(?) barmaid had great difficutly understanding what we wanted (vodka, lime & soda) and after three times of explaining we eventually got or drink...a vodka, lime and tonic!
Robin - 8 Feb 2004 13:10 |
Not too bad, albeit small.
Willie - 19 Jun 2003 23:09 |
Great venue over three levels. Beer is reasonably priced for the area!
Jeff - 5 Mar 2003 08:56 |
