Queen Boadicea

Part of the new wave of old pubs updated for today’s younger tastes, this venerable Clerkenwell pile’s original Edwardian treacle-glazed tiles, stolid mahogany bar & vast picture windows have been retained in a Monarch Of The Glen meets Agatha Christie makeover. Pity more attention hasn’t gone into the somewhat lacklustre beer offer (Fosters, Kronenbourg et al), although the introduction of Chilean organic Merlot (£16.50) & a worthy Rioja (£23) adds interest to the wine list. As much of its custom is from the adjacent City University, is anyone over-fussed? Cocktails come on a two-for-one basis at happy hour on Tuesdays & there’s a pub quiz on Wednesdays & acoustic open-mic sessions post-Sunday roast. Otherwise, expect a range of burgers, pies & platters that tick most boxes.