66 Cowcross Street,
Farringdon,
London,
EC1M 6BP
0871 971 4549
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
The Three Compasses is a slightly confused mix of old, new and other worldly decoration and innovation.
The Venue
In an area of Farringdon that's going through the rigmarole of building works, the Three Compasses manages to influence passers by with an attractive, airy facade. It seems the classic old sign is all that remains of tradition, however, as inside the pub the painted Tudor beams, high tables and clean cut interior give off an aching arrogance, soothed by the suited blokes who submerge themselves in the tidiness.
There's not much show of comfort and the angular lines show off a chain pub’s approach to interiors and it ends up looking like a Hogs Head minus the branding. If you can't find comfort in the furnishings then the flat screen TV that's focused by the surrounding white walls might do it.
The Atmosphere
The Three Compasses possesses the support of a local clientele of workers and passers by that fill it during lunchtimes and after work. The weekends are busier but the lack of charm doesn't help its pulling power and it’s left up to football to do the trick. Things are a little too clean cut to feel relaxed and when the banter begins you'll soon be fleeing unless you want to listen to the sounds of ‘Way hey’ and ‘Get in my son’.
The Food
A popular alternative from the generic fish and chip style pub grub, the Thai menu is a welcome change. Here, the quality of food is beyond satisfactory and you can even spot the prawns in the green curry.
The Drink
There is some call for wine in the heart of Farringdon and you'll find a good range available by the bottle or glass at the Three Compasses. Apart from that, the selection of spirits is fairly pedestrian although the choice of beer on draught is decent. You can choose from Heineken, Amstel, Kronenbourg and Fosters on tap.
The Last Word
The Thai menu gives the Three Compasses a boost over its peers and it makes for a passable, if uninspiring, place to visit for a pint and a bite to eat.
The Three Compasses has been reviewed by 9 users