Woodins Shade is a great place for a drink and a chat with mates, though the venue isn’t much to look at, the atmosphere makes up for it in spades.

The Venue
Woodins Shade has friendly local written all over it. It smells of beer as you enter, but don’t let this put you off (it might entice you further, it depends). With comfy leather sofas, worn stools and sturdy wooden tables to sit around, there’s lots of space chill out with a big group of friends, which is what most of the people in here have opted for. Although the walls and floors make the mood extremely dark, the lovely antique lights add just the right touch of old fashioned quaintness to make up for it.

The Atmosphere
As Woodins Shade is on the corner of busy Bishopsgate, all sorts amble inside from City types to down to earth lads, and all of them are soon laughing with their friends, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The funny banter and welcoming punters add some much needed life to the pub, making it an enjoyable place to hang out with mates or just observe others. The widescreen TV shows that sport is a strong focus of the place, and on match nights there’s a really boyish, fun mood.

The Drink
Woodins Shade is the ultimate place for traditional drinks fans, with lots of ales, lagers, gins and whiskeys on offer, with brand names such as Timothy Taylor Landlord Ale, Adnams Bitter, Tanqueray and many other wonderful makes. There’s also a good mixture of new world and European wines, none of which are too expensive. The food is truly hearty British grub, including a speciality in sausages, offering flavours such as lamb and mint, carrot and parsnip or pork and sage.

The Last Word
It may not look great, but Woodins Shade is a relaxed pub that’s perfect for a lazy drink and good company.

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