The Old Red Lion, 72 High Holborn

The Old Red Lion, 72 High Holborn, WC1V 6LS

An attractively traditional exterior leads in to a very cramped downstairs bar, with not much sitting room at all. This doesn't seem to bother anyone as it is usually heaving with a mixture of suits and tourists, all on for that ye olde pub experience. It doesn't seem to disappoint: a mixture of Greene King ales, traditional furnishings, relaxed staff and the lack of diversions (no TV, no music) lead to an amiable atmosphere as the High Holborn traffic charges past outside. Not open weekends, but a worthwhile boozer provided that you don't mind standing.

Reviewed by Fred Flange, June 2004

Telephone: 020 7405 1748

Nearby pubs: The Dolphin, 44 Red Lion Street (210 metres), The Enterprise, 38 Red Lion Street (210 metres), The Ship, 12 Gate Street (160 metres), The Old Nick, 20-22 Sandland Street (150 metres)

Nearest station: Holborn, Zone 1 (210 metres)