Ye Olde Mitre, EC1

Difficult to find but worth it. Ales were Fullers/Gales, Adnams Broadside and, from left field, Rudgate Odin's Raven. Back bar has booth and open seating while the front bar layout means you usually get talking to someone you've never met when the tables get full. Highly recommended

One of my favourite pubs. It has all the history and character of a 16th century pub (although I believe the current building dates from the 18th century, though a faithfull copy of the original). Both bars are good - the back bar has the old furniture that gives it the atmosphere of a really great pub. Sure it gets tourists (those that can find it- it is hidden down an alleyway near Leather Lane), but I have only ever encountered small groups, not coach parties. I met a trio of Norwegians searching out good London pubs - I told them they had made a good start, and was happy to recommend several others for them to visit. One of the few pubs remaining where gentlemen can enjoy the dubious pleasure of an outside, and very cramped, toilet. The pub was heaving inside and outside - but with a real gem like this you can be sure that enough afficionados will know of it to make it very popular. Now owned by Fuller’s of course, but there remains a decent ale selection.

Simply gorgeous pub. Ticks all the boxes, good ale, historical interest, warm and convivial. Timbered ceiling, wood panelling, lots of paintings and a small snug off the rear lounge named "Ye Closet". Attentive bar staff (with aprons), my pint was topped up to the brim immediately and without asking, rare nowadays. Adnams, Caledonian, Nethergate Old Growler, and my choice Rooster's Yankee on yesterday, plus Thatchers Cider. I didn't eat but the range of snacks are very well priced, toasties for £1:50,Scotch eggs etc £1:25 and hot sausages for 60p! As seems to be usual wherever I go, the outside is wrapped in scaffolding so I couldn't judge the exterior however even though the Xmas Decs are up already I'm awarding a well deserved 9 to this place.

I have been meaning to visit this pub for some time and I have to say that I was not disappointed as it was better than I had imagined. I think that it is a must visit for any pub goer interested in good beer whilst taking in a bit of history in friendly surroundings.

Magic, pure magic! Excellent real ale, small cozy rooms, good food at reasonable prices. Difficult to find and a revelation when found. It is claimed that a little girl played around a tree in the garden. Who was that girl? The future Queen Elizabeth I. Would I go again? Just you try & stop me.