The Elgin, Notting Hill, W11

Popped in due to the heritage factor. The main bar is as many are in London; a stripped-out gin palace with high ceilings, big windows and not a huge amount else. The left bar, which was inexplicably empty, is where the high Victorian intricacies remain, including a wonderful dark wood and picked glass screen entrance…which some moron has labelled 'El Gin Bar' ho bloody ho. Lining the far wall is a lovely set of etched mirrors and tiles inset into what looks like mahogany. There's also an exquisite bar back. I'm guessing these must be listed as the upper and ceiling have, inevitably, been stripped and hipsterfied and looking pretty terrible into the bargain. Three ales were hidden away; Youngs Bitter, St Austell Proper Job and a warm Redemption Big Chief (NBSS 2) which would have been much better if anyone else was actually drinking it. Still, this one is worth a visit for the history factor. 6.5