Dog & Duck

In the bustling heart of Soho this narrow corner pub site has been licensed from 1734, with the present grade II listed building dating from 1897 to designs by architect Francis Chambers. An M&B Nicholson's outlet, this is one of Britain's Real Heritage Pubs; it is also reported to have two ghosts and the pub is featured in the Ghost Pubs website. An elaborate mosaic depicts dogs and ducks; the pub name possibly derives from the old-time "sport" of setting dogs on ducks with pinioned wings and timing how long it took for the dogs to catch them. The loser paid for the drinks! Wonderful advertising mirrors adorn the walls and original light fixtures and marvellous tilework complement the interior. George Orwell was a regular here and celebrated in the pub after hearing that Animal Farm had been chosen by the American Book of the Month Club for that issue. His pub choice on that occasion was influenced by the fact that somehow the landlord had got hold of some real absinthe, 135 degrees proof. Now named after the author, the upstairs Orwell Bar can be hired for functions. The pub is small and so popular, especially with media people, that it is not just smokers who have to drink outside. The bar has been extended towards the main Frith St door.