The Britannia, SE1

This is another backstreet boozer that has moved away from its traditional roots and moved upmarket. There was only one ale on – Bombardier – which actually tasted particularly good, but possibly only in contrast to the Courage Best I had had in the previous pub. They did have a second handpump that had a clip turned round, but it seems they only ever have one ale on, and the clip that had been turned round was in fact an ancient Wells Bombardier clip. The food menu was fairly limited but the homemade burger I had was absolutely superb, and reasonably priced at £6.00 as it came with chips and a salad garnish. But whiskies are this pub’s stock in trade. They had literally dozens of single malts on offer, many of which were unknown to me, advertised on a large chalkboard taking up one wall of the pub. They even have a brass spigot on the bar, dispensing ice cold water I was told, so that customers can add water themselves to their whiskey. Furnishings consist of normal tables and chairs (of the hard wooden variety), plus some sofas. The main bar at the front is bare boarded, with what are some ancient, and probably original, floor boards. It looks to have been extended to the rear, with the flooring a modern pseudo pine board covering I believe. The walls where I was sitting were adorned with some interesting Port of London Authority prints of the docks’ layout. The lady who served me was very friendly and helpful. Now I don’t usually like these sort of upwardly mobile pubs, but I nevertheless liked this one very much. Down to the friendly atmosphere I suppose, or possibly the excellent whisky selection, but certainly not the ale choice. I may return, probably with a chum who is a whisky afficionado.

Randomness Guide to London - Britannia entry

Randomness Guide to London - Britannia entry