King & Queen, Fitzrovia, W1

Official site of King & Queen - www.thekingandqueenpub.com

Official site of King & Queen - www.thekingandqueenpub.com

A proper corner local in an area that doesn’t necessarily look like it would need one. The exterior is striking in that it has a large corner tower, visible from quite some distance down the road. Four ales available (Adnams Bitter, St Austell Tribute, Doom Bar and Dartmoor) priced at a slightly high £3.40. The two I had were both of a good standard, though judging from other reviews elsewhere the quality of beer has improved considerably in recent years, so much so that it is now in the Good Beer Guide (2010) for that area of London - not bad for a former Watney’s house (their old sign is visible on the exterior). I also spotted a good range of whiskies. The single bar layout looks like it has literally come out of the Watney’s mid-70’s catalogue in terms of décor; it also smells a bit musty, need to get the upholstery cleaned methinks. Some bits of old Victoriana remain - the old looking brass till behind the bar made me smile and there’s some nice tile work in the tiny gents. Pictures of old kings and queens are hung around the walls along with rugby paraphernalia which looks to be often shown of the big screen (switched off during my visit). Piped radio filled the otherwise quiet atmosphere on a grim weekday afternoon. I thought this was a worthwhile visit and would recommend it for a pint.