The Viaduct Tavern, Holborn Viaduct, EC1

A beautiful looking Victorian corner pub with a typically grand Victorian interior which matches the snooty brigade that drink in here at office let out time. It is a bit too small and also the first pub in which I have genuinely felt underdressed, but I can’t really blame the pub for that. It’s nice.

This Fullers tied house is well worth a visit for it's very fine exterior and interior,with a host of original features.It covers a 45 degree circular site opposite the Old Bailey ,while the interior has a very fine high moulded ceiling and a relief frieze which has been picked out by spotlights,highlighting cherubs with hops.Along one wall run full height mirrors,some with inlaid silk pictures,while behind the horseshoe bar is a former managers office in etched glass where beer tickets could be purchased and then distributed to thirsty employees after a days hard graft at the Old Bailey/Smithfield/Barts.There is also some fine wood carved doors and wood panelling around this area. On Monday and Tuesday there are trips to see the former cells in the cellars,this pub reeks of history.The bar will offer three Fullers option which on my trip was London Pride,Olivers Island and an excellent Dark Star APA.I noticed the manager has a Fullers cellarmanship award and that explained the excellent conditioning. The bar boards flooring has been scrubbed,and the pub will get rammed on Friday afterwork,but spend a little time here and soak up the fine features.