A decent City pub with a good selection of beer, The Elephant does its job as a local boozer for weary office workers.

The Venue
Apparently, there has been a pub on the site of The Elephant for over 400 years, although you wouldn’t know it to look like it. Blending in with the surroundings, this is a decidedly corporate spot, although the rather cold exterior is enlivened with foliage. Spread across two floors, the space inside is large enough to deal with the hordes of thirsty office workers. Upstairs is more neutral with swathes of white and a big screen TV in the corner. Downstairs is altogether more ‘pub-like’ with red walls, patterned carpets and old mirrors hanging on the walls. Altogether, it’s a nice venue of two halves and appeals well enough to its clientele.

The Atmosphere
As with most pubs in and around the City, The Elephant fills with suited and booted types, becoming increasingly busy as the weekend nears. The atmosphere is hectic, almost unpleasantly so at times, although the staff are particularly friendly and make a concerted effort to ensure everyone is served as quickly as possible. Still, the wait times at the bar can be lengthy as 5.30pm passes.

The Drink
As with all Young’s pubs, The Elephant serves a good selection of real ale, which is a nice touch in the City where many chain bars prefer to concentrate on their champagne and wine choice. Young’s Special, Director’s and Bombardier all make regular appearances and there are rotating guest ales as well so the regulars don’t get too bored. And yes, there is wine and champagne too – with a great cross-section of prices starting at under £20 – for those looking to celebrate this year’s bonuses.

The Last Word
The Elephant may not be doing anything particularly impressive, but for an after-work beer with colleagues it’s a decent choice, provided you’re happy to fight your way to the bar at peak times, of course.

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