The Cross Keys

Pretty flower boxes, classic copper utensils decoratively displayed and a cosy dim interior put the Cross Keys into a category that many others might fall into in Central London but something sets it apart.

That something probably isn’t the big sandwiches and pub grub menu that they offer, not that it is bad, just a little ‘meh’ - take it or leave it. It’s something else entirely. Community, intimacy, charm? All of the above.

Located on Endell Street in Covent Garden, The Cross Keys is a workers pub, frequented by regulars from surrounding businesses. The flowers on the façade are over the top and oddly out of the ordinary for this little shopping stretch. Inside, pop memorabilia finds pride of place on the walls, the lights feel like they’re as low as they go and that inimitable bustle of a real London pub is always on show.

You’ll find some good ales on draught along with a selection of the usual European lagers. Take your drink to a table – they can be hard to find – settle down and enjoy the buzz of a pub unaffected by fads and trends.

The Cross Keys is a lovely place, particularly worth paying a visit at Christmas.