Within the narrow passages of Bull Inn Court lies a virtually untouched piece of tradition.

The Venue
The Nell Gwynne Tavern is located in a small courtyard just off The Strand, alongside the Adelphi Theatre. Its lack of visibility adds to the charm of stumbling into such a traditional pub, a throwback to a different era.

Inside, the bar is dark and cosy with a simple dusty interior of old wooden tables and chairs, copper pots and china jugs. The dim light comes from lamps that hang from above the bar, suspended by chains and shedding an amber hue over the place. The presence of flat screens doesn't dispel the sense of history of the pub and strangely they don't look out of place alongside the pictures of Victorian London, its theatres and Nell herself.

The Atmosphere
Working tradesman mix with off duty actors at the Nell Gwynne Tavern and all seem happy to nod along to the flow of soft rock and power ballads. This is a pub that tends to avoid tourists and its lack of pretentiousness helps it to stand out. The actual building is fairly small so it fills up quickly and the space makes sure conversations socially spill over so a willingness to involve yourself with others is required.

The Drink
Sticking to tradition, the Nell Gwynne Tavern offers a large range of cask ales for adventurous drinkers. As well as classics like Deuchars, Old Speckled Hen and Best Bitter there are more alternative choices like Ashes Ale. On draught there is Fosters, Kronenbourg and Heineken and a simple range of wine is available.

The Last Word
If London and the history of its pubs interests you then the Old Nell Gwynne can be explored as something of an anthropological treat as well as an excellent place to drink.

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