Gunmakers

As the capital slowly becomes saturated with stripped pine floors, sharing tables and bland faceless bar staff, it is now time, ladies and gentlemen, for the real thing - a true, traditional London boozer.

The Gunmakers is a fully restored Victorian pub located in Clerkenwell. Off the beaten track but still very much part of the social scene, it is regarded by locals as a return to what Britain does best - a good, honest pint, a friendly face and quality food. The interior mixes original and new features combining the open social bar space with the intimate secret corners, nooks and crannies of the 1840s building.

The décor includes historic photography, painstakingly sourced antique lampshades and a unique etched mirror reminiscent of the Victorian era. Dark wood combines with rich burgundys and blues all of which add to the welcoming, comfortable atmosphere of a traditional local pub. The Gunmakers also encompasses an adjoining room suitable for small or large parties.

The menu, developed by executive chef Jamie Polito (formerly of the Prince Bonaparte and Odette's) is pub food done properly. Incorporating weekly changes, the menu also includes stalwart specials. Choose from fish and chips with tartare sauce and peas, bangers and mash with onion gravy, a pint of prawns with marie rose sauce and brown bread or home cured, honey roast ham ploughmans with ham hock terrine and homemade piccallili. The Gunmakers also pays homage to time-honoured traditions, serving a roast on Sundays, with complimentary roasties available on the bar, and fish on Fridays with seasonal specials such as roasted cod with mashed potato and parsley sauce.

In addition to the traditional pub offerings, the Gunmakers serve seven draft beers including I.P.A. and London Pride as well Scrumpy Jack cider by the bottle. Cigars such as Monte Cristo, Romeo y Julieta and Upmann are also available.