This busy corner pub was closed for a decade or so, until one day in 2004 it re-opened, awoken from its slumbers by Dorset brewer Hall & Woodhouse, who have made a magnificent job of restoring this lovely Victorian building.
We can't say how much of the original pub survived, having stood empty for so long, but photographs of 1899 show a brilliantly ornate bar with huge spirit urns on the counter. These have been replaced with similar shaped lights, but otherwise the pub looks very similar.
To be frank we're just thankful that the place has been re-opened as a pub and not a fast food restaurant. Perhaps that was unlikely as its neighbours are the Houses of Parliament and Portcullis House, itself the subject of raised eyebrows.
It's a popular pub and seems constantly busy, serving passing tourists and regulars alike. The food is decent pub fayre and the beers of course the Badger brand, with King & Barnes Sussex and seasonal variations. There's a small cosy bar at the back and a mezzanine floor bar area, although this is often used for functions.
paulk, 2008-10-06
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