The Seven Stars, WC2

The Seven Stars hasn't changed a bit since I first visited some thirty years previously. Some may call it shabby but for me it sits just the right side of comfortably traditional. I was greeted by a friendly, Irish barmaid, barrister cat with his Judge's collar and a log effect gas fire. Perfect on a chilly day. The food board offers an interesting range and if you're feeling athletic enough to climb the stairs to the loo you'll catch a glimpse of them being cooked. I didn't eat but everything produced from the dumb waiter behind the bar looked and smelt delicious. Beers on were Adnams Ghost Ship and Broadside, Harveys Sussex Best, Whitstable Native Bitter and Sharps Coaster. The Ghost Ship was in decent shape without being the very best I've had but that's a more interesting range than I remember from previously. A top boozer and I'd hope that it remains unchanged for the next 30 years - at least.

Nobody in the General Counter today, just the side rooms. Adnams Broadside at the bar, which tasted good. Can imagine this place absolutely rammed later on, so my three o'clock call was well timed. A nice pub.

Official site of Seven Stars - www.thesevenstars1602.co.uk