The Coach & Horses, Mayfair, W1

A nightingale’s chirp from Berkeley Square, dating from 1744, this boasts being the oldest pub in Mayfair, grade II-listed and cited on CAMRA’s list of pubs with historic interiors, being of Some Regional Importance, on account of the fine but simple mirrored bar back and beautiful canopy; the carpeted snug also has a lovely marble and carved wood surround. Otherwise, the interior is rather elegant. The floor is modern bare boarded, the walls are chocolate brown whilst the richly detailed ceiling with egg and dart cornice is white, Anaglypta to both. There are swag curtains with sturdy brass curtain rails. Furniture is conventional, with some studded banquettes; lighting comes from brass lanterns over the bar, with Victorian-style sconces and a few candles in jars; decent music played at an acceptable level. Being a Shep’s house, nothing other than their beers were ever going to be available, but just the two: Whitstable Bay and Spitfire at £2.80 a half and rather nice, served by a barman wearing a stupid pair of pointy ears. This is quite a fine pub and with a greater selection of ales could be a destination, but it’s worth a look for the lovely interior.

The Coach & Horses at the Shepherd Neame site - www.shepherdneame.co.uk

The Coach & Horses at the Shepherd Neame site - www.shepherdneame.co.uk

Confusingly, there are two Coach & Horses pubs in the same part of Mayfair, but this is the Shepherd Neame house. Attractive, if narrow, single bar with a staple-shaped counter and traditional furniture / decor. Kent's Best and Spitfire (£3.80) available from the four handpumps. Overall, nothing particularly distinctive but certainly more appealing than many of the more upmarket establishments nearby.

Randomness Guide to London - Coach And Horses entry

Randomness Guide to London - Coach And Horses entry

Very close to the other pub in Mayfair bearing the same name, and this one is more of a traditional local. In fact everything inside seemed to be steriotypical pub decor, usual carpet stools etc. There is a square bay area opposite the bar which is perhaps unusual. Its a Shepherd Neame pub & the beer is ok if not out of this world, though it is Good Beer Guide 2010 listed. Its ok if you are passing