The Camden Head, N1

The Camden Head is situated at the end of a narrow pedestrian alley lined with quaint antique shops, a little spot of London that has changed little since the likes of Dickins was rambling around looking for inspiration. Fortunately the pub remains one of the best preserved Victorian pubs in London with many outstanding features even if it has had a few knocks down the years. Some of the larger windows have sadly been replaced with plain glass but there is enough beautifully etched glass, both inside and out, for you to realise just how effort the Victorians put into their pubs. The interior is now a single room with an Island bar (complete with impressive central bar back and clock) but still retains much of its Victorian splendour. Note the water taps on the bar (no longer functional) and even a call bell (the only one I have seen in London pub) from the days when the pub would have been divided into smaller rooms. Screens divide the seating areas and there is a cosy recess by the stairs with a couple of tables. On the Ale front, only London Pride survives from my previous visit with the ubiquitous Bombardier and GK IPA now thankfully replaced by Doom Bar and Tribute. Prices are very good (Pride was £2.50 and change from £3 for the others). The pub grub menu was also reasonably priced (the all too familiar burger and a pint was £7) and several people were eating which was a good sign. There were 2 TV's but not too intrusive and a large outside patio area. Additional seating can be found upstairs which is also home to regular Comedy evenings and where the Kinks played some of their early gigs. For me this, historic and attractive pub is one of the first places to head for when in the area, especially now the ale selection has improved.