George Inn, 75-77 Borough High Street. 1677. Last remaining galleried coaching inn in London. Dickens literally drank here when researching Little Dorrit. Pints £5.50-7. National Trust owns it so the atmosphere stays authentic.

Lamb & Flag, 33 Rose Street off Garrick Street near Covent Garden. 1667. Fits maybe 30 people max. Former nickname 'Bucket of Blood' from bare-knuckle boxing matches upstairs. Hand-pulled ales £6.50-7.50. Absolutely mental after 3pm when theatre crowds descend but brilliant energy.

Churchill Arms, 119 Kensington Church Street. Famous year-round flower displays covering entire facade. Random Thai kitchen tucked inside serving surprisingly excellent pad thai £12-15. Fuller's pints £6-7. Packed solid after 6pm — Arrive early or forget finding seats.

Skip Wetherspoons chains near major attractions. Cheap but zero soul and all taste identical.