Lyceum Tavern, WC2

This is a decent Sam Smiths pub that has a Old Brewery Bitter on hand pump and a dartboard. There are a few booths along the side of the pub, but these were taken up by hoards of students. The barman was very friendly and maybe I'll check out the upstairs bar next time I'm in the area.

A Sam Smith’s pub, but one that does have Old Brewery Bitter on handpump. The OBB was OK, if a little too cold. Like so many Sam Smith’s pubs, they have not sought to “update” the interior. The booths on the left have been retained and remain unscathed, as has the dark wood panelled walls, and the lino floor. There is an upstairs lounge bar which I didn’t visit on this occasion, but which probably hasn’t changed much over the years, although I always regarded it as comfortable spot to escape to when I have used it in the past. Essentially it’s a typical Sam Smith’s pub, retaining its original character, even if it does sit on one of the busiest thoroughfares in London. I prefer it as a pub to the Wellington next door, but I’m not a great fan of Sam Smith’s beers, even if they are such excellent value, so probably won’t go out of my way to visit again.