The Star Tavern

The Star Tavern in Belgravia has seen plenty of well-heeled visitors—including Peter O’Toole, Diana Dors and Alexander Korda—since it was built in the early 19th century. However, it is most noted for its role in one of the most colourful—and notorious—episodes in 20th century England. The grand upstairs room was supposedly where the Great Train Robbers hatched their plan to attack the Mail service in 1963. Bruce Reynolds, the ringleader, would reportedly drive up from south-west London in an Aston Martin to flesh out the details of the £2.3m heist. Now, it’s a grand, welcoming place with a good selection of Fuller’s beers.