Duke of Kendal, Bayswater, W2

This wedge-shaped pub has a cramped layout meaning that the outside bench seats come in very handy if the weather allows. A large triptych of plain mirrors (above which is the old slogan "West End Wine & Spirit Stores") dominates one side of the saloon, with the bar counter at the 'thick' end of the wedge. Somehow they have managed to fit in a small upright piano (which the event posters suggest gets a regular airing from Gilly most weekends). Several TVs showing sport. Dining room in the former lounge bar to rear. Two of the three handpumps were in operation, offering GK IPA and Bombardier (£3.60). Overall, much more traditional than one might expect, given the general poshness of the area.

This is a smallish, flat-iron shaped corner pub in a very up-market area. They had 6X, Courage Directors and GKIPA on – I had the GKIPA which tasted the same as it usually does. I had a bite to eat off the Thai menu, which was pretty good and not overpriced at £5.95. Actually this is another OK pub, although nothing special and not really worth going far out of your way to visit.