Coach & Horses, WC2

Tris C left this review about Coach & Horses

Date of visit: 18th April 2016.

I used to be a bit of a regular here about 17 years ago, but until yesterday hadn't been in for an age. Perfectly described below, this is something of an oddity as it attracts an appreciable Irish crowd, despite the lack of an Irish community around here, perhaps drawn by the pub boasting that it serves the best Guinness in all of Christendom.
This is a very traditional, pleasant boozer which makes a surprising change from all the other surrounding pubs; service is friendly and there's a good atmosphere. I'd give the place a higher mark if it weren't for the ale selection: St. Austell's Tribute and Courage Best.
Worth seeking out.

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Still with the Watney Combe Reid etched windows and roundel atop the pub sign, a return six nights ago and unsurprisingly the place is unchanged, probably not for decades, other than that the Irish crowd seems to have died out, the clientele now being a bit younger, including some minstrels from the Royal Opera House. Sandwiches – at eyewatering prices – are advertised (see photo), as well as bottles of Champagne, some marketed at the type of tycoon unlikely to ever set foot in here.
The ale choice remains basic, the Courage Best eschewed in favour of Pride, still the Tribute (the pub boasts a framed award from St. Austell), on good form, served by two very friendly barmaids, the older stalwart staff perhaps now retired.
Still unsurprisingly the only traditional locals’ pub in Covent Garden and long may it stay that way.

On 16^th July 2024 - rating: 6
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