The Elgin, Notting Hill, W11

On a corner site this is a typical large city pub, but its most interesting aspect comes with retaining much of its superb Victorian interior. Visited on Saturday lunchtime. No welcome from the barman to speak of and the atmosphere was distinctly flat but at least managed to get a couple of seats after escaping the Portobello Road crowds. London Pride was in good condition if a tad expensive. Overall above average if only for the interior.

A huge and ornate pub with a myriad Victorian features: cut and etched screens with stained glass, mirrors, tiling and high ceilings. To the rear is an enormous drawing room. Outside is a spacious beer patio with quality furniture; the choice of beers is impressive. My only real complaint is that this pub tolerates rowdy drinkers who have clearly drunk too much which spoils the experience for others. That said, I'd come here again and would suggest that if you're in the area then it's definitely worth a visit.

Randomness Guide to London - Elgin entry

Randomness Guide to London - Elgin entry

The ales on were London Pride (at £3 a pint) and GKIPA. The Pride was OK – tastes the way it usually does. Some superb original Victorian features remain – in particular the ornate screen between the bars; the tiling; etched and cut glass mirrors; and the bar back in the “back” bar. It occupies a large corner site. This is a big ornate pub, typical of a prosperous Victorian area. It's so big, with such a high ceiling that voices were echoing round it during a quiet(ish) mid-afternoon session. This is still a very impressive pub, and Worthing dropping in for a pint if you're in the area.