Running Horse, Mayfair, W1

The fact that this place is owned by the First Restaurant Group will give you a bit of a clue to what it majors on. There is a restaurant section upstairs and most of the tables downstairs seem laid out for eating It’s meant to be one of the oldest pubs in Mayfair, although you wouldn’t know it, either from the outside or inside. The original building was turned into a tavern in 1738 and the name comes from the Galloping Horse of Hanover and was a way of seeking royal protection back in those days. Internally the ground floor bar is a modern plain wood makeover with dark wood panelling on all four walls and plain wooden tables and chairs. The only thing of any historical note is what looks like a Victorian fireplace at the non bar end of the room. There were quite a few in just drinking on the early evening I visited so I ventured in but only could see one hand pump dispensing the ubiquitous Pride, but then spotted a second which had Skinners Cornish Knocker as a guest. Decided to have a small one which was perfectly fine, but as this is not my type of place and I didn’t get much change out of £2 for a half I don’t think i can see myself coming back.

Randomness Guide to London - Running Horse entry

Randomness Guide to London - Running Horse entry

Official site of the Running Horse, contains menu and wine list - www.therunninghorselondon.co.uk

Official site of the Running Horse, contains menu and wine list - www.therunninghorselondon.co.uk