The Black Friar, Blackfriars, EC4

One of London's spectacular interiors, and a fine exterior as well. Now a Nicholsons so the beer is excellent. Shame Nicholsons insist on certain areas for diners only.

One of London's finest pub interiors can be found in this strange wedge shaped building opposite Blackfriars station. The main bar area displays some excellent metal reliefs including one over the grand fireplace. Most of these images show the friars, after whom the pub takes its name, engaging in various pursuits such as eating, singing and even seemingly gardening. The right hand bar is a bit lighter than the rest of the pub thanks in part to the fine leaded windows. There was loud music playing in here on my recent Friday night visit, so I moved into the more peaceful main bar having failed to secure a seat in the pub's finest area - a small, almost snug-like room behind the three marble archways to the left hand side of the bar. This section contains the most amazing mosaic ceiling, which is vaulted presumably due to the train line running over it, as well as some more depictions of life in the friary. A large patio area is available outside the front of the pub for those who would prefer to view the building work over the road rather than the splendour within. A good range of ales awaited me on my recent visit, with Sharp's Doom Bar, Fullers Summer Ale and London Pride, Vale Black Beauty (£3.50), St Austell Tribute and Nethergate Umbel Ale on offer. The Black Beauty was in good shape, although the barmaid initially served me the wrong drink after a communication mix up caused by the aforementioned loud music. A must see pub for anyone remotely interested in pub heritage or wanting to visit a unique building. The decent beer is a definite bonus and it is only the popularity of the place that presents a potential downside.