George IV, WC2

Before anyone gets all historical about the George, it should be mentioned that this is probably the most “fake” pub in London and I don't particularly mean that in a bad way. The mock Tudor façade is very impressive and one can easily mistake the building as being medieval. It isn't – the current building is Victorian at best although there has been a pub on the site for much longer. A plaque outside provides a potted history of the pub. Its proximity to the Royal Courts of Justice means the customer base consists largely of lawyers, legal teams, alleged criminals and local office workers. The pub is quite spacious inside and is basically one long room, the bare floored front area being divided from the carpeted rear area by a screen. All the features from its fake beams to its deer antler light fittings are all recreations. There are 4 well kept and reasonably priced Real Ales, a decent food menu and friendly staff. It is a bit out of the way from any of the tourist areas but is worth a visit in conjunction with some of the other excellent pubs in the immediate vicinity.

Randomness Guide to London - George IV entry

Randomness Guide to London - George IV entry

I was standing outside here finishing off my cigarette before entering and I noticed the “open to staff, students and members of the public” sign. It had me scratching my head until I walked in and spotted all of the students and the big “London School of Economics” sign hanging from the ceiling. This was a first for me, but everyone seemed pleasant enough, although there were a couple of strange blokes contemplating which I made a point of avoiding. The prices are very reasonable and various lagers are available along with Landlord (which was good), Adnams and Bombardier. My student days are over so I'll probably never drink here again, but I didn't really find any other fault with the pub.