Tucked between M&S and a busy Kings Cross platform, Duke of York is windowless, dark and almost nobody’s destination of choice, but like the sign for platform 9 ¾ just around the corner, it has a quirky, bustling charm all of its own.

The Venue
Duke of York stretches along Platform 8 of Kings Cross station, exuding a dull, orange glow from its open front. Inside, the bar stretches along one half of an old, slightly dingy pub. This is a resolutely old fashioned bar and carries all the hallmarks of a disappearing age in station drinking. There are inexplicable nooks, crannies and pillars that disrupt what should just essentially be a rectangle, and the wooden boarding and seats are uncomfortable. It’s more likely that you’ll be forced to stand, because the pub is always busy, with drinkers spilling on to the platform most match days and rush hours.

The Atmosphere
Duke of York still feels smoky long after the ban. The lack of light, grimy feel and archaic corners and pillars lend it the feel of a 1930s thriller and the less said about the toilets, the better. But this combines with friendly staff, good food and a varied clientele, to encourage a charm beyond what initially seems an underlit watering hole of weary travellers and crumpled businessmen. A station bar never makes you want to settle down to an evening’s drinking, but good security keep newspaper sellers and other bothersome sorts at a distance. Outside their busiest hours, there is rarely any trouble and the busy banter gently bubbling along in the background is almost pleasant. Altogether, the Duke of York offers a curious nook in a bustling station and an ever-changing array of punters to watch, over an ironic pint.

The Drink
A few varied ales and a few good wines that you wouldn’t expect in a ‘lager and crisps pub’ like this. Ask behind the bar to see what they have in, as the barrels and bottles on offer can change fairly frequently. The prices are rather standard for the City, which means steep for out of town travellers.

The Last Word
Duke of York is an institution that feels as old and British as the House of Lords. It’s busy, grubby, dark and quite uncomfortable, but if you can take it, there might be no better place for a quick pint to start your night and finish your day.

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