Two bar corner pub rebuilt in 1896, and subsequently Sam Smith's have done their usual good job in restoring the pub to its Victorian roots. The ground floor bar has leaded frosted windows, dark panelling and exposed wood flooring, a relic of the days when it was a Youngers “Scotch House” outlet. The first floor elegant Edwardian-style bar (not always open) can be hired for functions. Renamed Rose & Crown between 1986 and 1999, before reverting to its original, 1762, name. The name is thought to refer to the blue bollards that once marked the "taxi-ranks" of sedan chairs.

As usual in Samuel Smith's outlets, only their own beers are on offer. Patrons should note that the brewery's policy is that its pubs are for social conversation person to person. This includes bans on swearing, mobile phones (except for payments), laptops or tablets; however, in the London area this policy may be relaxed or not enforced by staff.