All but the staunchest fans of the Bard should avoid this frantic, unfriendly Soho pub.

The Venue
Located on prime West End real estate at the top of Carnaby Street, and just behind the equally-iconic Liberty flagship store, the Shakespeares Head is a traditionally-appointed pub and restaurant, instantly recognizable due to the life-size model of the Bard himself, casually leaning out of the second-story window. The ground floor consists of several tables and chairs, most of them high off the floor in the centre of the room, leading up to a small bar in the corner; decoration comes in the form of a vintage fireplace, dim lighting hanging overhead, and the odd plasma TV screen and fruit machine. The upstairs room is more thoughtfully arranged, with comfortable sofas and leather armchairs circling a compact dining area and additional bar, but it all feels somewhat cramped, an all-too-transient refuge from the relentless Soho crowds outside.

The Atmosphere
Despite a promising location and whimsical back-story, the Shakespeares Head is not a pub to take to heart, with a huge turnover of customers and particularly rueful, unhelpful staff. The bar-goers are mainly tourists or Carnaby Street enthusiasts, which is all very well but doesn't add immensely to the pub's identity – and even despite the never-ending flux of visitors, access to seating and dining areas is usually restricted, and delays should be expected. This situation is, of course, nobody's fault, but it could definitely be handled better by the staff, who generally come across as surly and resentful. By all accounts, not a terrible place to seek shelter from the sturm und drang, but there are a dozen superior alternatives in close proximity.

The Food
The food at the Shakespeares Head is standard chain pub fare, dispassionate if admittedly filling, and available at typical Soho prices: burgers, pies and fish & chips are all fairly standard at around £10, while sandwiches (£5-£6) and sharing platters (£12) provide alternatives at both ends of the price range. Roasts are also available on certain days, and overall the selection is suitably diverse without ever being particularly inspiring.

The Drink
A proponent of real ales, the pub also offers a selection of bottled and draught beer and cider at reasonable prices (approx. £4), as well as an adequate wine list designed to complement the food menu. Soft drinks are also readily available, and Costa coffee is served in house, which comes in handy during the daytime. Again, nothing to write home about, but there are no glaring omissions either and the rotating list of ales is worth a look.

The Last Word
Unpleasantly hectic and devoid of any real personality, the Shakespeares Head certainly goes through the motions and there are much better options nearby.

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