Albion, West Kensington

This wood-panelled wooden floored corner lounge bar, halfway between Hammersmith Broadway and the Olympia exhibition halls, has a snug feel about it, though it can become very busy when there is a show on at the latter. There are a few high tables and stools at the front, but the room is mostly furnished with dining tables, banquettes and stools. The pub is well lit through leaded windows and at the far end of the bar is a delightful exposed brick alcove complete with large fireplace, often containing a real log fire in cold weather.

The handpumps normally offer a choice of three to four cask ales. On the food front, a good selection of pub classics is offered at lunchtimes and added to the menu in the evenings are well-made stone-baked pizzas. There is additional seating on the upper floor, reached via a semi-spiral staircase at the front of the bar, and this can be reserved for functions.

Gentlemen may wish to admire the unusual design of their facilities: a good example of recycling!