The Scarsdale

If pubs were judged by their location and setting, The Scardale Tavern in Kensington would top many lists for this really is quaint London at its very best. Sipping a beer on the spacious terrace of the Scarsdale, a stone's throw in either direction from delightfully overgrown private squares and set on a quiet residential street with Victorian and Georgian houses (costing ?4 million, apparently), you really forget the hustle-bustle of the city. You may even hear the occasional thwack of a tennis ball from a nearby court and the cheep of the birds nestling in the trees that shade the glorious boozer's exterior. Inside, there's a welcoming front bar area and a comfortably smart back room for dining with an open kitchen emanating delicious smells. The restaurant menu is appetising gastropub fare, while steak sandwiches and burgers are favourites from the front bar menu. Fullers recently took over The Scarsdale from Punch and there has been a noticeable change: staff are more friendly and the whole place seems reinvigorated. A log fire provides heat in the winter, while the terrace is idyllic for Sunday paper reading on the weekend - providing you can get a seat. Fiercely popular with the locals (Roman Abramovich is a fan) and those in the know, if you want to eat you really should book or be prepared for a let down. Roast lunches come recommended.