Stanhope Arms, South Kensington

An elegant bar-back is the stand-out feature of this 1869 pub.

This wedge-shaped, four-storey pub, built in 1869, has been much opened out and many features have been replaced over the years, yet it still retains its Victorian flavour. The bar counter is still in its original position, having once served three separate rooms. The attractive bar-back may date from the late Victorian period. At its summit is a broken pediment with carved floral motifs on either side. Beneath this, in a wide, shallow arch, is a mirror featuring etched leaf patterns. Below this are eight small glass panels containing star emblems. Below them are three large, mirrored bays separated by woodwork with slender, carved mullions. The patterned glass in these bays may be modern replacements.

High on the wall to the right of the bar-back is a system of lights and a bell which allowed people in upper rooms to summon staff from downstairs. It is not known if this is original to the pub or bought in later as an antique feature. On the walls of the right-hand area – once a separate room – are three mirrors which have patterned glass of some age. Most walls are topped by a cornice with egg and dart designs .The chequerboard tiling at the foot of the bar counter is modern.