St James Tavern, Soho, W1

On a sunny Saturday afternoon it was packed out with tourists, which is not surprising considering its proximity to Piccadilly Circus. It had the look of a Spirit Group pub, with its faux chalkboards and staff in their black uniforms – but I could be wrong. They had London Pride and Courage Best clips on two pumps, but unfortunately the Pride went off with my pint. But credit is due to the barman here as he spotted it before I did and exchanged it for Courage Best. The Best was OK, tasting as it is supposed to, and I suppose not unreasonably priced for the area at £3 a pint. It’s an unexciting pub – I would say unremarkable other than for the rather nice (original Victorian I believe) tiled mural at the back. To be honest I would struggle to find a reason to return – but it was there, and open, when I fancied a drink as I was passing.