Ye Olde Mitre, EC1

Randomness Guide to London - Old Mitre entry

Randomness Guide to London - Old Mitre entry

Situated down a quaint alleyway, just a short stroll from Chancery Lane tube station, this is one of the city's finest historic pubs, seemingly fairly unknown amongst the tourist masses. A recent visit saw Fullers London Pride and Discovery, Gales Seafarers, Millbridge Mild, Adnams Broadside and Deuchars (£3.25) on offer, split between the two sides of the bar, each serving a separate room. The two main rooms are quite small and cosy with some nice old tables and chairs which fit in very well with the dark wooden interior. There is a very small room called 'Ye Closet' adjoined to the rear area, which is just big enough to accommodate one table and a few chairs. There is also a room upstairs called the 'Bishops Room' which can apparently cater for private functions. The alleyways outside have some large barrels stood on end which people can congregate around if it's too cramped inside and any men visiting will soon become familiar with the twisting passageway, as it leads to the gents as well. There are blackboards inside which give details of the basic, but good value food menu (toasted sandwiches, scotch eggs, sausages, etc...), the wine list and upcoming ales. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the beer which was very well kept. An essential part of any serious city pub crawl, but even if it weren't for the good beer, this would still be worth a look for the sense of history you get as you sit back and admire your surroundings.

Difficult to find but worth it. Ales were Fullers/Gales, Adnams Broadside and, from left field, Rudgate Odin's Raven. Back bar has booth and open seating while the front bar layout means you usually get talking to someone you've never met when the tables get full. Highly recommended

One of my favourite pubs. It has all the history and character of a 16th century pub (although I believe the current building dates from the 18th century, though a faithfull copy of the original). Both bars are good - the back bar has the old furniture that gives it the atmosphere of a really great pub. Sure it gets tourists (those that can find it- it is hidden down an alleyway near Leather Lane), but I have only ever encountered small groups, not coach parties. I met a trio of Norwegians searching out good London pubs - I told them they had made a good start, and was happy to recommend several others for them to visit. One of the few pubs remaining where gentlemen can enjoy the dubious pleasure of an outside, and very cramped, toilet. The pub was heaving inside and outside - but with a real gem like this you can be sure that enough afficionados will know of it to make it very popular. Now owned by Fuller’s of course, but there remains a decent ale selection.

Simply gorgeous pub. Ticks all the boxes, good ale, historical interest, warm and convivial. Timbered ceiling, wood panelling, lots of paintings and a small snug off the rear lounge named "Ye Closet". Attentive bar staff (with aprons), my pint was topped up to the brim immediately and without asking, rare nowadays. Adnams, Caledonian, Nethergate Old Growler, and my choice Rooster's Yankee on yesterday, plus Thatchers Cider. I didn't eat but the range of snacks are very well priced, toasties for £1:50,Scotch eggs etc £1:25 and hot sausages for 60p! As seems to be usual wherever I go, the outside is wrapped in scaffolding so I couldn't judge the exterior however even though the Xmas Decs are up already I'm awarding a well deserved 9 to this place.

I have been meaning to visit this pub for some time and I have to say that I was not disappointed as it was better than I had imagined. I think that it is a must visit for any pub goer interested in good beer whilst taking in a bit of history in friendly surroundings.