The Hand & Shears, EC1

I'd been meaning to go to this place for a while - its fine example of a centrally located backstreet pub, with a simple, effective two-bar arrangement and an old-fashioned ambience. Adnams Bitter (£3.30), GK IPA, Courage Best and Courage Directors were available - not an inspiring choice, admittedly, but well kept - and they also do a range of traditional meals at below average (i.e. non gastro) prices. Internally it is bright and comfy, not dissimilar in look or feel to the Rising Sun (Samuel Smiths pub) across the road. I liked it here and would return.

Very bland place, promises so much more when you see the outside and read elsewhere about the unspoilt interior layout. Two Courage Beers on tap (my Directors was OK), but very little else of note. The inside could do with a clean-up; it’s pretty filthy and unkempt. Considering the heritage factor and location, the owners are missing out big time here. I'm not going back in its current state, but would love to have a reason to do so in the future.

Fine old ale house with a central bar, with the room around it separated by various partitions to form different drinking spaces. Lots of wood panalling. 2 real ales, ok quality.

Randomness Guide to London - Hand And Shears entry

Randomness Guide to London - Hand And Shears entry

Courage Best and Wadworth's 6X on handpump. The 6X was excellent. This is a hidden gem of a real pub, retaining the separate rooms that were so common until they started to be combined in the 70s. Excellent pub - the real deal – highly recommended.