The Narrow Boat

Given the lack of a seaside and proper summertime weather, Londoners make do with whatever is available, whether that’s the sand-filled rooftop of Camden’s Roundhouse overlooking the not-at-all scenic Chalk Farm Road, or Wapping’s very own “beach”, where you may dip your toes in the Thames at your own peril. Then there’s the Regent’s Canal, which in parts has been optimistically rebranded as a “riviera”. And why not? It’s picturesque, has boats to look at, and some of it is lined with pleasant bars and eateries, or at the very least there are shops selling booze within spitting distance.

On paper The Narrow Boat ticks a lot of boxes. A smart-looking gastropub, it’s on the edge of the canal, and even boasts a little patio overlooking the water. Naturally it gets extremely crowded, particularly the slim-line terrace which barely has enough room to swing your cigarette out of. Two pints of beer - Camden Hell’s Lager and Young’s Bitter - come to £9.05. A small portion of undercooked chips is £3.50, so we decide against ordering any more food – in any case, we’re not seduced by haddock fishcakes, mac ‘n’ cheese or a baked Camembert for £11. It also appears to be populated by rather a lot of loud preppy types who are one blazer away from joining Hooray Henry’s boat. It’s over-priced and over-hyped, and if that’s not enough to put you off, Boris Johnson drinks here with his wife.