The Corner Bar, EC1

This was originally the Bull’s Head, replaced in the 1960s due to either bombing or redevelopment and recently renamed as Corner Bar probably because it’s a bar, on a corner – clever branding here. The Concrete Block would have been a better name. Inside there are no surprises, right down to the fake brick wallpaper to the walls and brightly lit interior. Primarily a locals’ pub with dross showing on at least one TV with the sound off so as not to compete with rather loud music on the gramophone; games machines complete the ensemble. Acoustics aren’t helped in that the place has a flagstone floor. Service was provided by a friendly barmaid though there was no real ale, just three unused pumps; a half of keg Whitstable Bay Pale Ale came in at a very reasonable £2.00. This pub is passable though there are few remaining in this immediate vicinity. A short walk though, is rewarded with some very good hostelries such as the Old Fountain.