The Old Bank of England, 194 Fleet Street

The Old Bank of England, 194 Fleet Street, EC4A 2LT

This Fullers pub is easily recognised by the line of olympic oil lamps outside. The inside is impressive: high ceilings, painted frescoes, a wooden gallery and small ante-rooms which are available for hire. It's rather like a cross between the Sistine Chapel and the bank in Mary Poppins. On the downside, the pub is a victim of its own success and gets packed most weeknights with people from a certain local profession. There is a dirth of seating, so instead you have to stand with your pint and be buffeted by passing lawyers. Despite this it is definitely worth a visit outside peak hours for its sheer beauty.

Reviewed by Paul Melton, Feb 2008

Telephone: 020 7430 2255

Nearby pubs: Seven Stars, 53 Carey Street (180 metres), The Devereux, 20 Devereux Court, Off Essex Street (140 metres), Ye Olde Cock Tavern, 22 Fleet Street (70 metres), The George, 213 Strand (140 metres), The Edgar Wallace, 40 Essex St (150 metres), The Cheshire Cheese, 5 Little Essex Street (190 metres)

Nearest station: Temple, Zone 1 (360 metres)