Fox & Hounds, Belgravia  

The Fox and Hounds - a tiny pub on a tiny SW1 back street - has an interesting past. Until 1998 it was the last 'beer only' pub in London, but these days you'll find a pretty good choice of Whisky, almost as if they're making up for lost time. With a profusion of wood, a gas fire and only two small windows at the front, it's warm and glowing - the perfect pub for cosy winter evenings. Despite its size they even managed to fit a couple of Chesterfields at the back without the place becoming claustrophobic. The mix of customers is good, too; apart from the bar-propping regulars, there are customers from all walks of life meeting for a pint or three. On one visit we spied a troupe of musicians, along with their instruments, having popped in for some post-performance imbibing. One of the best in the area - with a caveat: the service can be surly and sometimes downright unfriendly. When we were last here, the barmaid rang last orders at 10:40 and called time at 10:50, so the unfortunate couple who arrived at 10:55 had to find somewhere else to go. And at 11:00pm sharp, the candles on the tables were unceremoniously extinguished - we got the message. With so many pubs closing down you'd have thought it would be an rather unwise move to appear to be so hostile to the people who provide your income. Despite that, it is a great pub and a handy meeting spot for Sloane Square tube.

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