The Champion, Fitzrovia, W1

This is a Sam Smith’s pub, and another one in this area that doesn’t do OBB on handpump. The keg version is not really worth drinking (in my opinion). The windows are quite remarkable – in fact they may be unique in design, commemorating, as they do, various, mainly unsung, British heroes. But, as good as they are, they are not very old. The Captain Matthew Webb window is signed “Ann Sotheran – York – 1989”. Old or not, they are impressive. Indeed, it demonstrates Sam Smith’s commitment to looking after their estate. In fact this is a good pub, but if they only did a decent ale it could be a superb one.

I'm not a big fan of the lack of choice in Sam Smiths pubs, but they are all worth popping in to have a look at the décor and this place is no exception – Check out the windows! I found the staff to be friendly, although my friends were not happy about the lack of OBB on hand pump so we only stayed for a pint. The pavement outside was packed, but the pub was almost empty so lacked some atmosphere.