Theodore Bullfrog, London

Post-war pub with a multi-level bar layout on a corner site just off Villiers Street. Previously part of Whitbread’s Beefeater chain. Originally licensed in 1690 as the St Martins Tavern and rebuilt in 1959, it was renamed the Gilbert & Sullivan for a while in the 1970s. Downstairs there's an L-shaped bar in the far corner. On the first floor there's a dining room, which can also be hired for private parties, etc.

Pub fare is fairly typical e.g. pies, burgers and toasties, and bar snacks are available. There are two TV screens, and an eclectic range of background music is played at a reasonable volume. Comedy nights on Saturdays (booking needed and door charge). If you're drinking outside after 6pm you may have to settle for a plastic glass. To compensate, there are ledges on the pavement side of the windows which are ideal for setting your pint down. If this pub is one of a number on your tour, do watch out for the steps just inside the entrance!

Potential visitors should not be put off by this pub's clunky name; it is a pleasant oasis of calm, away from the bustle of Strand and Charing Cross. As from 2019 Youngs have operated this pub under a leasehold agreement. There are three ale handpumps including normally a guest ale that rotates monthly.