Situated on the corner of a terrace of smart cream painted houses, the Victoria may seem a little bland, however once inside it's a different story. The overall impression is of a smart Victorian pub, but closer inspection reveals some astonishingly beautiful and unusual artefacts.

The back wall of the single bar has wonderful, brightly coloured, painted mirrors with intricate fleur-de-lys patterns, built into hardwood surrounds. A clock high up behind the counter is dated 1864. Below this is an inscription bearing the name of the makers of the fine hardwood 'stillion', the tall decorative bar back.

Opposite, at dado level, are smoke-brown prints of British Army regiments. There's an etched window with Royal motto. Along the wall, hand coloured prints show scenes from 18th century London, and above them some curious tiles. Contrasting fireplaces at opposite ends of the bar, show how the pub was divided into Public and Saloon bars, but which was the upmarket one? A framed copy of the Sun (not the tabloid!) dated 28th June 1838, gives an account of the coronation of the young Queen.

The Theare Bar upstairs is as remarkable and it is odd. It contains parts of the interior of the Gaiety Theatre that once stood in the Strand. Opposite, another room called The Library, is panelled and relaxing. Both are available for hire

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