Coach & Horses, Soho, W1

My first impression when I went into Molly Moggs for the first time a couple of years back was that I didn’t see the point or need of this place. A small, one bar corner pub with no architectural or interior decor merit, standing room only except for a few bar stools, quite a weak drinks choice, and next door to a humongous ‘Spoons and with superior traditional pubs in the shape of the Cambridge and the Three Greyhounds just around the corner. But then I went back on a late evening and caught one of the post-theatre drag shows and the attraction of this place became apparent. And of course its location at the start of Old Compton Street should have been a bit of a clue. However, it’s not exclusively a gay pub and there have always been a good mix of people and a friendly atmosphere when I have ventured in. But the lack of a decent beer choice, one Adnams hand pump only, means I tend to leave this one for those of you for whom the sight of a bloke in a sequined dress does do something.

This has to be one of London's smallest pubs. The interior is a bit camp and tacky but not too outrageous. The 2 busts on the wall holding up the ceiling are somewhat eccentric and immediately draw the attention. The ceiling is partly decorated with some old Theatre posters and there are a few jugs hanging from the rafters in between an excessive amount of mirror-balls. Not too much selection on the beer front (and the only Real Ale (Adnams) was off when I was there). Despite its size we managed to get a table and whenever I have walked past, it rarely seems to be packed. It is hard to imagine having live entertainment in such a confined space but they apparently do although drag artists are definitely not up my street! Whilst the pub is welcoming enough and the service fine, there is nothing special to go out of the way for other than its curiosity value. OK for a quick pint if on a crawl.