An English pub trail

England's pubs, inns and bars are institutions in themselves, and the local people are very proud of them. Their history, their quirky names, the drinks they serve, as well as the food, have loyal followers. I love their exteriors (bright electric blue, red, yellow, black), their quirky names (how about The Slug and the Lettuce), and the history that many of them have. Most of them are charming, full of character and great places for people watching, and of course, downing your favourite drink.

Ye Olde Watling
Christopher Wren, who was responsible for building 52 churches after the great fire of London in 1666, also built four pubs. Out of these, only this central London pub survives.

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
The foundations of Ye Olde Fighting Cocks at St. Albans date back to the year 793. This inn claims to be the oldest public house in England and to have sheltered Oliver Cromwell for one night during the Civil War.


The White Hart
The White Hart, situated near the Globe Theatre in London, has a beautiful beige and sage green colour combination.


The Anchor
At first glance, The Anchor, near Southwark Cathedral in London, appears quite forbidding. Then one notices the gleaming brass anchor, the flowers on the window sills, the laughter and the music, and suddenly the place seems so much different.


The Cricketers at Richmond
It was only 11 in the morning and this trio of friends were seriously discussing, you guessed right, cricket with a glass of their favourite tipple!

Haunch of Venison
The Haunch of Venison in Salisbury has a bar on the ground floor and a restaurant on the first floor. It is considered to be the oldest building in this cathedral town, with first records appearing in 1320.


The George
The George or George Inn was established somewhere in the medieval period in Southwark, London


Crown & Anchor
The 5 'o' clock pint at the Crown & Anchor, London, before heading home.