Oxford Street in the heart of London is famed, above all else, for the retail offer it embodies, with many of the shops which line it being the flagship versions of those which can be found up and down high streets across the UK, as well as independent boutique outlets and the huge and iconic Selfridges and Co. Many of the people who book a room in one of the Oxford Street hotels do so in order to make sure that they have somewhere comfortable and relaxing to return to after a long and exhausting day seeking out bargains. It would be a mistake, however, to imagine that Oxford Street is just about shopping, since its position as a historically vital main road through the centre of the city, one which has been around since Roman times, has resulted in it being thronged with pubs, clubs entertainment venues and other places which draw the crowds after the shops have stopped trading for the day. Although visitors are literally spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting a pub in the centre of London there are a few especially fine examples, and the following are some of them:
Argyll Arms – built as long ago as the 1740’s and updated in 1897, this pub is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. At the same time as you’re enjoying the drinks on offer you can marvel at the carved wooden ceiling, etched mirrors and wood and glass partitions used to divide the various bars.
Coach and Horses – this pub is a Soho institution which is gradually beginning to attract a younger clientele than was traditional. Despite this, however, the entertainment on offer still frequently consists of a good old fashioned sing song around a piano.
Lowlander – this Covent Garden based pub is a must see for those who think of themselves as serious beer drinkers – connoisseurs with discerning tastes rather than those simply looking for a glass of something or other to relax over. It serves no less than 120 different types of beer on tap or in bottles including many which are Dutch or Belgian.
Harp – despite being based in the tourist haven on Covent Garden, this pub manages to retain the atmosphere of a small and friendly local, and is also famed for the excellent quality of the real ale which it offers in abundance.
The Lamb – this pub is frequently listed as being one of the best in London, thanks to a combination of intriguing Victorian décor, a selection of delicious pies such as steak and ale and leek and ham and a choice of cask ales and ciders which changes every week.
If you yearn for something a little bit more upmarket than a traditional pub, then head for Chakana, an Inca themed lounge bar which is just a 4 minute walk from Oxford Street. Since it opened in 2013, this venue has proved to be a magnet for celebrities such as David Beckham, Pixie Lott and Gordon Ramsey. The food, drink and décor all reflect the innovative theme of the Inca civilisation.
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