The Devereux, 20 Devereux Court, Off Essex Street

The Devereux, 20 Devereux Court, Off Essex Street, WC2R 3JJ

The dusty judge's wig and ballot box high up by the TV are a reminder of this area's legal heritage, so it comes as no surprise to see the pub slowly fill up with middle class, middle aged male drinkers. The lunchtime tunes were so middle of the road the pub should have been pulled over by the music police and charged with crimes against humanity. The whole law theme is perpetuated by the pub's rules and regulations. Most tables were reserved by person or persons unknown who failed to even bother to turn up and claim them. Smoking at the tables was also forbidden, although some would see this as a bonus. Regulatory matters aside, the pub offers a fine range of seasonal guest ales which sit nicely alongside the familiar favourites. That is its saving grace.

Reviewed by Paul Melton, Dec 2003

Telephone: 020 7583 4562

Nearby pubs: Ye Olde Cock Tavern, 22 Fleet Street (170 metres), The George, 213 Strand (40 metres), The Edgar Wallace, 40 Essex St (20 metres), The Cheshire Cheese, 5 Little Essex Street (50 metres), The Old Bank of England, 194 Fleet Street (140 metres)

Nearest station: Temple, Zone 1 (220 metres)