Bricklayers Arms, EC2

I popped in here early on a recent Friday afternoon and found the barmaid to be friendly enough and, although it wasn't that busy, the crowd was decent. Unfortunately when I returned a few hours later the crowd had completely changed into the sort of Hoxton types that I have only read about – truly up their own. The Deuchars was good and Pride and Theakston Best were also available alongside a selection of standard and premium lagers. The advertised patio area out the back is actually a small beer yard with old barrels with cushions attached for seats, perfect for having a cigarette, but not a lot else. I'd probably walk past if in the area again.