The pub itself is very convivial serving various real ales and good wine cheaply. There is also a good menu.
However, for the last month and a half or so, people are not allowed to congregate on the pavements outside.
As the pub is very small, it has become a major problem especially for smokers. A recent Friday evening visit with work coleagues had to be abandoned because of the lack of space and getting served was stressful because of the lack of barstaff.
At least one barperson, sometimes two, were on patrol outside making sure customers were not edging onto the pavement. It simply isn't worth the hassle - you can't relax and enjoy yourself there anymore.
Elephant & Castle was voted 1998 Best Pimms Pub in Great Britain. This is a traditional English pub, with the emphasis on chat not music. There is also a small outdoor seating area on the pavement.