The Viaduct Tavern, Holborn Viaduct, EC1

This pub was built in 1869 and named after the Holborn Viaduct that was built the same year. The prison cells in the cellar are those of Newgate prison, which used to be here, mainly on the site of the Old Bailey which is opposite. I’m told it is possible to view the cells, although I’ve never done so. The pub itself has the remains of a classic Victorian pub fitting. Pride of place belongs to the marble-framed three paintings of female figures on the right, which represent “agriculture”, “banking”, and “Arts”. One of them was supposedly shot by a soldier who was (justifiably I would say) overly exuberant due to the end of WWI. I did see a hole in one that could indeed have been caused by a bullet. The typically Victorian mahogany fittings are present, as well as some excellent cut glass mirrors. This is still a Fuller’s pub, with Pride, discovery and Bengal lancer on when I was in the other day. Sandwiches were either £5.35 or £6.60 depending on filling, and I spotted a hotplate with food on it, but whatever it was it wasn’t listed on the menu that I saw. Furnishings are standard for Central London – a tall pedestal and tall stools, a sofa, a bit of banquette seating, plus some standard issue tables and chairs. As a pub it’s like many others in London, but what sets it apart is the unique Victoriana and although I wouldn’t make a special effort to come here just for the beer and food, it is well worth a visit to see a tour de force of mid-Victorian pub fitting.