The Star, Belgravia

For any Londoner of visitor the Star is visually the pub of dreams. Lost within a sleepy cobbled backstreet, foliage dangling beautifully from its exterior and the lights of the interior beckoning you inside it is a very special place.

It’s spectacular pavement appeal sets London apart from anywhere else in the world for the range of its public houses and their unique splendour which is not replicated anywhere else in the world. Other than an image of a Dickensian drinking den such as Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese you’d imagine when international visitor conjure up an image of a London hostelries this might be what they anticipate they will be imbibing in,

As you approach you know you’re onto a winner and there is something so traditional, but yet bursting with life, about this grand old dames facade. Inside is timeless with dark wood, a small bar on the hard right as you enter and a feeling  of simplistic class and elegance.

Fullers pubco have done well to leave it alone with just a gentle spruce up and it is always a pleasure to spend some time in here. The dark gloom of the back room is stark contrast to the light front bar and a snug and homely setting prevails. Perfect for an afternoon session away from the hustle and bustle.

Steeped in history it was the pub the Great Train Robbery of 1963 was planned in and apparently the stars of the day used to enjoy mixing with villains here. Today it’s more of a local for monied ageing playboys, tourists and the odd Embassy staff from the many local consulates. What’s certain, no matter who drinks here, is it’s a West London classic.