The Ship, Fenchurch Street  

You could pass Talbot Court - an essay in concrete that looks like a loading bay - a hundred times and never notice The Ship tucked on an inside corner just a hundred yards down where the slabwork gives way to a traditional London yard. It's a gem. Rebuilt in the 17th century after the original ale house was incinerated in the Great Fire, it's smallish, simple and comfortable offering decent ales and a wide food menu. The spiral wooden staircase leads up to the narrowish upper bar where - perhaps a trick of the eye - the limited space seems to have been enhanced by installing slightly undersized tables and chairs and a tiny serving area in the corner. Perhaps it is the location, but we are told you can nearly always get a seat upstairs. Not the most happening of pubs but a splendid place for local workers to catch up on the gossip or for a relaxing one if you are passing. Closed weekends - but open until 11pm during the week.

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