The Bell Inn, Marylebone, NW1

Judging by the external architecture, this is a classic Victorian pub, but of course there is nothing inside remaining from that period. It’s clearly a locals’ pub, with a lively bunch of apparent regulars in at 3.00 PM on Friday afternoon. It’s carpeted throughout, with normal tables, chairs and a bit of banquette seating by the windows at the front. There was also a very friendly pub dog, and the radio station blaring out only provided an unwelcome increas to the ambient noise level. The inevitable TVs were thankfully switched off. There was a traditional looking fireplace on the left, and the only other feature of note was the very large mural size (circa 20’ x 3’) photograph above the bar gantry of the River Thames at night. There was no real ale, and no sign of any food available during my late lunchtime visit. I’m not likely to return.