The Dog & Duck, Soho, W1

A Nicholson's pub on two storeys, small and loads of character. The downstairs bar is pleasant with traditional mirrored and tiled walls, a haven for drinkers, while the upstairs concentrates on food. Eight ales on, I had a pint of Nutty Black, a deviation from my normal choice but one I don't regret - it was perfectly kept and most enjoyable. Well worth dropping in for a pint, though I found the place a bit too cramped to enjoy the food. I would happily include on a future crawl.

Will agree with the other reviewers that this is a good Soho watering hole. As several others have mentioned it is quite a small corner pub, both in the downstairs bar area with adjoining room to the side and then even smaller in the upstairs room which is all comfortable seating and does have its own bar but I’ve never seen it operational. Very nice traditional decor and a good place for a decent pint, especially if you can get a seat, which in my experience is rarely. As it was again during my last visit on an evening between Christmas and new year when it was standing room only. But I had a decent pint of Landlord before moving on.

Randomness Guide to London - Dog And Duck entry

Randomness Guide to London - Dog And Duck entry

This tiny Victorian corner pub can be an absolute treat when it is not too busy but rather unbearable when crammed (as it often is). The bar area is limited with just a few seats at a ledge opposite. The pub is full of very ornate tiling (spot the dog and duck tiles) and a few unusual advertisement mirrors. Away from the bar area is a small room with a few tables but you need to get there early to blag one. There is also an upstairs bar that offers a bit more room and a good view of the surrounding streets for those who like to people watch. Good selection of beers (Nicholsons range) but can be poor service (expect to have to go through a topping up ceremony with the pidgin English bar staff). Whatever the faults, this remains one of my favourite Soho pubs.

Official pages of the Dog & Duck, contains menu and real ale details - www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

London Pride, Landlord and Thwaites Lancaster Bomber on, one pump unused. The beer quality was good and 2.95 for this location is acceptable too. Some good quality wood panelling, but a narrow area quickly filled. A historic pub worth a look for the fine tiled interior, supplemented by large ornate mirrors. A small seating area to the rear with shelf seating opposite the bar. The Orwell bar and dining room upstairs gives further options. Various sausages seem to be the pub speciality. The descent and return from the gents is somewhat perilous, as the door opens across the steep staircase.

Official pages of the Dog & Duck, contains menu and real ale details - www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk