The epically named Hercules Pillars is a leather-lined haven for the Masonic male of the species. After a long day at work it’s the perfect environment for a get together to chew the fat and see who’s come up with the best secret handshake of the week.

The Venue
Hercules Pillars stands in the looming shadow of the United Grand Masonic Lodge on Great Queen Street. The red awning juts out over a scattering of metal tables and chairs that will become useful in the summer but remain decrepit and derelict in the winter but for the temporary presence of smokers.

The decor within is a mixture of red leather buttoned sofas and smart looking lampshades that catch the eye. A place frequented by the sorts of individuals who gather here must reflect their seemly vigour for smart asymmetric clothing and pressed collars; everything in Hercules Pillars has a clean sheen to it, and even the leather looks like it’s been buffed with Pledge. There are some interesting touches, too, including Hercules himself doing a sterling job of holding up the shelves at the bar and marble pillars doing their part to complete the nod to the pub’s name.

The Atmosphere
The pub is heavily populated with men, in particular men with some connection to the Masonic Lodge a little way along the road. It can seem a little uncomfortable before you have a chance to settle down, and you could liken it to the feeling you’d get if you were crashing a private function. The looks are a little afflictive as eyes linger on you. Once you’re past this stage, though, the jukebox starts back up with a thud and the cowboys keep drinking. All is good. The bar staff are friendly and once you’ve settled into a booth of glimmering leather the good times may roll on. At times, the young may feel underdressed in less than a suit but if you’re into role pay it’s a great way of going back to your youth and ‘mucking around’ at your table whilst the olds talk about boring adult stuff like credit crunches, council tax and wet weather.

The Food
Hercules Pillars comes fully equipped with Masonic dining room where it serves a number of traditional dishes. It’s pure pub grub with a speciality line in sausages the highlight.

The Drink
Hercules Pillars serves the finest in Fosters and Kronenbourg on draught and there is the slightly rarer Sagres, a beer that originated in Portugal, only to spread far and wide to the masses. Guest ales support the London Pride on tap and there is a worthy selection of spirits on the shelves.

The Last Word
Hercules Pillars makes for an interesting drink. The environment is refined with bounce to its taut leather but there remains a somewhat stuffy atmosphere at times. One man’s meat is another man’s poison and this could not be truer of the feeling you get here.

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