Angel in the Fields, Marylebone, W1

Typical Smiths set up,inside the dark woodwork on one hand is something to behold, upon the other it leads to a rather dark and dingey pub. They have cask here but I opted for my default Sam Smiths beer, Export Stout on keg and consistently good. The pub is ok for what it is but not a pub I'd frequent on a regular basis.

Quite a large, photogenic pub on a prominent corner, though the busy road means any photographers have to be careful where they put themselves and wait for the opportune moment for the shot. Once inside it's a comparative haven of peace. As with many Sam Smith's pubs there's lots of dark wood panelling which matches the bar counter in style and colour. My notes made at the same say "very nice", which I think was prompted by the appearance and ambience, but it could also have applied to the beer: Old Brewery Bitter served by hand pump and scoring NBSS 3.5. It's not often in my experience that their cask beer is this good; though I know some of my drinking companions would say it's a cracking pint, this seems to be generally based on optimism rather than evidence. On this occasion I was glad to be able to compliment the licensee on the quality of the beer. Spread a little joy, that's my motto. Date of visit: 8th January 2024