The Imperial, Leicester Square, WC2

Many of the typical GK ticks are as expected, but there’s some very good woodwork in the shape of the bar back with etched ‘Imperial’ mirror (mirrored on the opposite side of the pub with bevelled mirror panels), aged wood flooring with carpet to the periphery, interesting wood panelling to the dado, then patterned Edwardian wallpaper to the picture rail, followed by white on up to the similarly coloured ceiling; furniture is traditional, with some oxblood banquettes. Lighting is Victorian-style and brassy with décor comprising framed prints and rococo gilded mirror. Sport is conspicuous by its absence and advertised Wi-Fi took me to a Hewlett Packard printer(?); what’s not at all attractive is the bus stop-style glowing advertising board and condiment bottles on tables. Ales: GK IPA, Abbot, Tribute and Portobello Star at £2.65 and good. This place is better than expected, with an above average quality interior and an ale worth drinking; it’s surprisingly less touristy than other pubs, probably because it’s slightly off the beaten track – worth a visit if in the immediate vicinity and with a thirst.

Official site of The Imperial - www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

Official site of The Imperial - www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

distinctly average central London pub just off Leicester Square. for a quiet mid afternoon pint it fit the bill and there were only a few in, including a rather over friendly man annoying the barmaids. dull Greene King real ales available.

Trapped in the area between Leicester Square and Chinatown, this is a fairly plain pub without too many gimmicks. There are some tables outside on the pavement, which benefit from the pedestrianisation of the street. Beers from Greene King with guests; at time of visit draught ales were Abbot, IPA, Tribute and Portobello Pale and seemed in fair condition.

Basic one room pub with four pumps. The one I wanted went off whilst being pulled so made do with Guinness.