An average pub set in the railway arches near the Tower of London. The Minories is fine for a drink or two, but not worth losing your head over.

The Venue
The Minories is set in two adjacent vaults under the railway bridge at Tower Gateway DLR Station. It is also a stone’s throw away from Tower Bridge and St Katherine’s Docks. Exposed brick walls, stone floors and the clacking of trains going overhead leave no doubt about where you are. The seating has been split over several different levels, which breaks it up well, with squishy low sofas, high tables with stools, and tables and chairs scattered around to create different areas. This helps to make the large space feel less cavernous.

There is a second vault that can be opened up to double the space – great for large parties or gatherings. On the side away from the river is an attractive beer garden with red umbrellas offering plenty of shade – or indeed shelter. It has been prettied up with hanging baskets and climbing vines. The only downside is it’s adjacent to a pretty busy road. The constant traffic streaming by does ruin the chilled out ambience somewhat.

The Atmosphere
With minimal lighting, the interior of The Minories is dark and moody. Thankfully, the staff aren’t. While there aren’t many them to man such a large bar, they are polite and efficient and things move along well. The crowd is a real mixture. Suits and rather scruffy, casually attired tourists rub shoulders at the bar. It’s busy and buzzing after work. Everyone seems to mix well and as the evening kicks along a real party atmosphere can take over.

The Food
There is a very attractively priced menu. Wraps, sandwiches, baguettes, burgers, grills and pub favourites are all available - eat your fill and still have change from a tenner to drink with.

The Drink
The Minories has a good selection of draught beer – London Pride, Bombardier, Heineken, Stella, Peroni, Guinness, John Smiths, Staropramen, Kronenbourg, Becks and Fosters with the addition of draught Strongbow and Bulmers cider. The wine list is well-sourced offering less well known wines at attractive prices. There are over 20 choices of white, red, rose and fizz to choose from. And to get the party really started, there are pitchers of Pimms or Long Island Ice Tea.

The Last Word
With affordably priced food and drink and plenty of space to spread out, The Minories makes a good venue for both tourists and after workers alike – no mean feat.

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