The Hansom Cab, Kensington, W8

The island bar is straight ahead on entering from Earls Court Rd, and has some carved detailing. The front area has a few fairly large circular tables with what I would describe as dining chairs. Up a step to the rear area with a small leather corner banquette, some stools at a shelf, and a few low sofas. There are a random mix of pictures and drawings framed on the walls, and a large picture of a row of Hansom cabs features on the fire surround. The fire wasn't lit but there is a stack of cut logs. Wooden boarded floor painted black, red flock wallpaper to the rear although curry didn't feature on the menu. Newspapers in a rack by the bar. The tables have candles, and there were scattered cushions laid around some of the seating, all a bit tacky and unnecessary I felt. I was half way down my pint when suddenly the room appeared to shake, the light fittings rattled and I wondered what on earth was happening. This continued for a couple of minutes but the staff didn't seem perturbed at all. I concluded that the washing machine was spinning upstairs! Five handpumps, but Doom Bar x2, GK IPA x2 and GK Flankers Tackle. I had the Doom Bar naturally which although not rejectable didn't seem quite right. Not too bad for a quick pint but would benefit from a different ale or so, and perhaps new bearings for the washing machine.