Punch & Judy, Covent Garden, WC2

I drank in the subterranean bar this time, and it's the first time I've really appreciated the vaulted ceiling down there. There were two ales on. My pint of Thwaites's Wainwright was in extremely good condition, a marked change from previous experiences here. The clientele was better behaved than previously, the amateur acts in the market basement were very good, so all in all it's a pretty good place to hide from the weather. That's the way to do it.

This listed building dates from 1787 and is part of one end of the Covent Garden piazza,and its been thoroughly ruined under the stewardship of Taylor Walker.Once past the bouncers you either go up to the Balcony Bar or down to the Cellar.I decided on a nostalgic trip to the Balcony,where there is a fine room with a vaulted ceiling,some original cornicing and french windows opening onto the balcony which gives the best view of the street theatre performers below.That's where the good news ends. The very loud tastless musak inhibits normal conversation,all drinks are served in plasic containers (including wine),two large flat screens above the bar are tuned to sports coverage and create a laddish atmosphere,and prices are sky high with two small Peroni's and a small Shiraz almost topping £14.The balcony is also about the only place in Covent Garden where you can smoke ,which takes the edge off the views.Although real ale is served in the Cellar,you can't bring a glass of it up to the Balcony and there is an aggressive bottle and plastic mug collection policy so dont leave your drink unattended if venturing to the gents.No real ale served in the Balcony Bar.I couldn't imagine wanting to eat in such a place,although pub grub is on offer.High tables and sticky surfaces abound. Best left to the tourists in it's present state,it could be an iconic pub in the right hands but fails on virtually every count.

Odd place - no pub at ground level, so you either go up to the bar behind the balcony (imaginatively entitled the "Balcony Bar" - no real ale), or down to the bar in the cellar (surprise, surprise, called the "Cellar Bar" - two handpumps offering Youngs London Gold and Bombardier). In the unlikely event that it is not horribly over-crowded, I suggest first heading down to get a pint then back up two flights of stairs to the balcony for the view. Otherwise, a seat at one of the tables in the lower piazza is probably the best bet.