Housed in a building of historical beauty, the Cock has charm to spare.

The Venue
Located at one end of Fleet Street, Ye Olde Cock Tavern is almost hidden by the bricks of its neighbours that jut out on either side. Once you're past the tiled foyer, all natural light is forgotten as the glowing orange and red bulbs of lights and lamps gently bombard you. High tables dominate the entrance but as you walk through the corridor-like space the venue becomes gradually more intimate, building to a crescendo of comfort at the back. A mezzanine level can be reached by stairs and, as well as giving a good view of the exposed brickwork and the pub's large flashy mirrors, it creates a view over the Chesterfields in the lounge area below.

The Atmosphere
The look and the name above the door is always bound to attract the tourists who search so thoroughly for the historic London of old, and attract them it does. They help to take back a charming venue from the usual patrons of surrounding pubs in what is a very business orientated area. Staff are friendly and even offer table service. Apart from big screens showing terrestrial rugby and football games, the only other entertainment is visible in the form of fruit machines.

The Food
The classic British menu is a collection of miscellaneous pub grub, with the Chip Shop Sharer standing out. For £7 you get a mixture of scampi and cod with plenty of chips. Prices are reasonable with a selection of sandwiches (£4.25) and jacket potatoes (£4.25) also available. Slightly more exotic meals include the mussel frites (£8.25).

The Drink
As well as a wine list that includes eight bottles of each colour, the white starts with a reasonable Garducci Catarrato at £12.95. Fosters, Kronenbourg, Staropramen and Stella (£3.33-£3.69) are on draught as well as Adnam’s, London Pride, Bombardier and Greene King IPA (£2.89-£3.20 a pint).

The Last Word
Ye Olde Cock may serve a regular pub grub menu, and a fairly generic selection of beers, but its bricks and mortar help make it a true individual.

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