The Shakespeare, Barbican, EC1

Housed at the base of a very dull 1960s block, this pub has an unusual 'H'-shaped arrangement of seating / dining areas with a 'L'-shaped servery in the middle of one side. Rather old-fashioned furniture and decor, with relatively small windows and low lighting levels. However, there are also a number of outside tables under the overhanging upper storeys, with part-glazed screens offering some protection from traffic noise. Two handpumps on the counter, one dispensing Doom Bar (£4.60) and the other having a reversed Pride clip.

Official site of The Shakespeare - www.theshakespearebarbican.co.uk

Official site of The Shakespeare - www.theshakespearebarbican.co.uk

Situated amid the Barbican/Golden Lane estates designed by Chamberlain, Powell & Bon from the 1950s to '70s and all at least Grade II listed. This pub opened in 1964 as part of the less successful Crescent House block and is in effect an estate pub for the surroundings. Well described below, but with the addition of leatherette banquettes and studded leatherette armchairs and otherwise traditional furniture with tea lights on tables. Music is muted, the floor is bare boarded and there was a TV, off. There are also two pianos, one upright, the other a baby grand. Lavs are downstairs and are surprisingly modern. There's a mixed crowd and the owners seem to be Italian which may be borne out by the presence of Italian food on the menu. Ales: Sharp's Doom Bar, Fuller's London Pride and Portobello Star which was a bit warm and not in good nick; it also cost £2.40 for a half which is a bit of an insult, especially given the nature and location of this venue. This is an above average estate pub, but that's what it is and given the beer quality and price, availability of superior substitutes, I won't be coming here again.