Philomena's, WC2

This former O'Neills is now a family-owned Irish sports bar, and unsurprisingly has a much more authentic feel than its predecessor ever did. The narrow twin-bar layout remains much the same, and you can still see signs of the former brand on the font frames. Fortunately, also serves real ale from two handpumps - Pride and Oxford Gold (£3.90, and in decent shape) when I visited. Tayto crisps and lots of TV screens showing a range of different sports, as you would expect, plus a reasonably-priced menu. Overall, rather better than I was expecting.

This is one of the better O'Neills and I found the staff to be very pleasant. There are plasma screens of all shapes and sizes dotted around the pub with a huge screen at the rear. Lots of lager is available and unsurprisingly I spotted 4 Guinness pumps. A good place to watch sport, but I think I would drink elsewhere if just out for a jolly.