Cross Keys is something of an enigma. An old man's pub at heart, it has an external appearance to entice and a regular crowd of young professionals.

The Venue
The location is a real contributing factor to the success of Cross Keys. Based a short walk from Covent Garden and Holborn tube stations along Endell Street, it makes it the easy choice for the huge numbers of office workers in the area.

You’re most likely to spy this small pub from a distance after work when the weather’s nice. The huge crowd making the most of a couple of benches and the large pavement space outside can be spied from some distance away, increasing its appeal. Upon closer inspection the external appearance is definitely eye-catching - it's a Grade II listed building, after all. Large gold lettering proclaiming its presence stands out against the dark red background of the main sign, flanked on two sides by attractive foliage. Above the sign is an intricate raised motif in gold displaying two cherubs holding St Peter’s Crossed Keys (its namesake) and the arches that align the doors portray an opulent appearance.

Inside, however, is very claustrophobic. A narrow space dominated by a long bar nestled against the wall means that few people can squeeze in when the weather turns. There’s little in the way of seating although the paintings and posters that adorn the walls portraying film and theatre related imagery is a nice touch. The decor is one of considered clutter.

The Atmsophere
Cross Keys is definitely a pub best enjoyed when you can make the most of its outdoor space. The foliage and trees outside makes the usually hectic Covent Garden melt away and there’s a relaxed feel to the area. Large numbers of post-work drinkers give it that happy-go-lucky edge that many other tourist pubs in the area fall short of. Thanks to the range of different industries in the area, not everyone will be suited and booted as you’d expect from places like The City and Canary Wharf, so if you’ve been lucky enough to go shopping for the day you’re less likely to feel out of place.

The Drink
The alcohol selection at Cross Keys will certainly keep beer lovers happy with regular changing guest ales like Brodies, Twickenham Original and Harveys Best alongside Guinness and John Smiths on draught, all at reasonable prices for the area. Spirits are kept simple with a choice of the popular brands – and you may even see change from a tenner from a round, albeit a small one.

The Last Word
In an area where genuine charm is in short supply Cross Keys brings a decent drinking experience to Central London.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (2)