The Wheatsheaf, Borough  

Like most people who knew the old Wheatsheaf, we were sorry to hear that it was closing down to allow for the Thameslink Programme and, even though its demise supposed be temporary (about four years), we couldn't help feeling that would be the last we would see of it. Well we needn't have worried - the Wheatsheaf is back in a new location - bigger (it needed it) and possibly better. A former wine bar in the old Hop Exchange on Southwark Street is the venue, its cellar origins make an excellent starting point for the new pub. Once down the narrow, steep stairs, the pub opens out into a large, low-ceiling, vaulted space. The supporting pillars divide the pub up nicely into a series of areas with seating and tables. The central bar is naturally much larger and offers an expanded range of beers, now with guests on the hand pumps in addition to the regulars - eight or nine in total, we lost count an excellent improvement in our estimation. There are a few TV screens dotted about the place for the sport, but this, unfortunately, works against the layout as they're low down and have limited viewing angles. On important match nights you'll find it hard to get to the bar as the route will be blocked by sports fans trying to see the screens - which is what happened to us (and quite a few other thirsty people) when we were last in, we gave up and left. The relocated Wheatsheaf's continued (and considerably increased) popularity is good news for the owners, less good for punters who aren't footy fans. We'll be watching the place to see how it all works out.

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