The Dean Swift, Shadwell, E1

There’s no real ale in here, nor any sign of food. This is an example of an increasingly rare London survivor of the locals’ pub. It’s carpeted, with a bit of banquette seating but mainly just normal tables and chairs. There’s a central peninsular bar, a brick built fireplace on the right, a pool table at the back, two or three mirrors but otherwise no décor worth mentioning. A TV was showing the racing (but muted), with magic radio playing over the sound system. When I was in the barmaid was regaling the regulars with her expoits in dealing with a drunk and obnoxious punter. I wouldn’t have wanted to be in his shoes. It’s all very basic, although very clean, in here. But it’s not somewhere I’m likely to revisit.

Run-down backstreet pub. Opened out to form a 'U', but still with traces of original layout (e.g. ladies and gents toilets on both sides). Basic furniture and decor. Pool. Small patio out front by no benches to sit on. No real ale, and not even any crisps. Had a very quick pint of John Smiths (£2.85) before moving on...