Ship & Shovell, London

Attractive welcoming pub almost underneath Charing Cross Station, it is, perhaps uniquely (for London, at least), divided into two separate halves, these buildings facing each other across Craven Passage alleyway which runs between Villiers Street and Craven Street.

Both were originally early Georgian terraced houses, later refaced and the interiors remodelled to suit their conversion to commercial premises. Despite being grade II listed in 1970, the original pub was under threat of demolition until bought by Hall & Woodhouse in 1997. The smaller bar opposite (not open all the time) was added in 1999: converted from an antiques shop, it has provided a snug and the upstairs Crows Nest room.

In early 2017, the pub underwent a subtle refurbishment: most noticeably, the carpet was removed to expose an attractive wooden floor. The wonderful etched mirrors, engraved glass, polished brass, wood panelling and nautical pictures all remain, as do discreetly placed TVs for certain sporting events.

As a tied house, the cask ales are all from the Badger range. Hot meals of classic pub food, smaller dishes and sandwiches are available at lunchtime and cold bar snacks in the evening when the main menu is not served. The lunchtime food offering includes Sunday roasts.

NB it is reported that transactions are card-only, no cash accepted.

Note that this well-known pub can become very busy in the early evening.