Best service and hospitality in London from our new friend Kyle! One of the oldest pubs in London, this place is not to be missed if you are anywhere near the Barbican area (and worth the journey if you are a bit farther away). Incredibly easy to access from the Barbican/Farringdon tube stops. So much history in this place, can’t recommend highly enough. We were only here for drinks, as they are not historically known for food - however, Kyle is beginning to add handmade sandwiches (and soon to carry proper fish & chips) to the menu as well. Unfortunately, we only had 2.5 days to explore London, yet we still found our way into this particular pub 4 times - the only place we visited more than once!

🚇 Barbican 🍺 £6.40 Asahi ❤️ A charming historic pub that will transport you back in time. . The Hand & Shears is located in a quite backstreet just a stones throw from Smithfield Market. The nearest tube is Barbican but I would recommend walking from Farringdon station to take in the sights and sounds around Smithfield. . There has been a pub on this site since 1532, the name of this pub relates to its association with the once local St Bartholomew’s Cloth Fair. Cloth merchants not only used this pub to swill beer but to settle disputes and conduct day to day business. . The current building was built in the 1850’s and is constructed in the Georgian style. This is such a pretty pub with its leaded windows, beautiful brickwork and delightful dark green paint. . There are two entrances, I entered through the corner door which takes you in to the saloon bar, the side entrance will take you in to the (named) private bar. As you enter you are transported back in time to what feels like victorian times, it’s as if this is the original decoration when the pub was first built. The decor here makes for an atmospheric setting, the walls, bar and furniture are all in dark wood which add to the cosy feel. At the centre of the pub is an island servery with various nooks and snug areas surrounding it. There is also a fireplace which is where I sat next to, the roaring fire was great on this chilly December afternoon. . The beer choice has bit of something for everybody. I had a pint of Asahi which was £6.40, this is generally an expensive lager but was cheaper than most Fullers, my pint was very good and hit the spot. There were a couple real ales on offer including Hobgoblin and an in-house ale. . The atmosphere here was homily and relaxed, this is such a great place to chill and have a chat with friends. In the summer months it does get packed outside on the street, but with the day’s drawing in and getting colder, this is the perfect place to go this autumn/winter. Just a side note that this pub is closed on weekends. . The Hand & Shears is a perfect example of what a pub can be if you don’t knock it about and maintain its original features. If someone asked me where is a great example of a London pub, this boozer would be high on the list. If you’re ever in this part of town, you must visit one of London’s most original and historic pubs. . 📊 Information correct on visiting 21/12/21