The Elgin, Notting Hill, W11

A large and resplendent Victorian pub, beautifully restored by Young's, but as with many they have gone too upmarket and too much aimed at dining so have destroyed the atmosphere and character. Added to which the ales, which were Young's Original. Hophead and Proper Job, were not in very good order at all and several were abandoned. A terrible shame because it could be a terrific pub. Luckily it gets a bonus point for the splendid fittings.

Popped in due to the heritage factor. The main bar is as many are in London; a stripped-out gin palace with high ceilings, big windows and not a huge amount else. The left bar, which was inexplicably empty, is where the high Victorian intricacies remain, including a wonderful dark wood and picked glass screen entrance…which some moron has labelled 'El Gin Bar' ho bloody ho. Lining the far wall is a lovely set of etched mirrors and tiles inset into what looks like mahogany. There's also an exquisite bar back. I'm guessing these must be listed as the upper and ceiling have, inevitably, been stripped and hipsterfied and looking pretty terrible into the bargain. Three ales were hidden away; Youngs Bitter, St Austell Proper Job and a warm Redemption Big Chief (NBSS 2) which would have been much better if anyone else was actually drinking it. Still, this one is worth a visit for the history factor. 6.5