Bloomsbury Tavern

Said to date from 1856 and Grade II listed, it was called the Black Lion until rebuilt in 1905 to the design of C Fitzroy Dell. Half-way between Holborn & Tottenham Court Road Underground stations, the pub is handily placed for visiting the British Museum, Covent Garden and Theatreland. Legend has it (and is claimed by various local pubs - take your pick!) that the Tavern was the last drinking spot between Newgate Prison and present-day Marble Arch for condemned criminals before being hanged at Tyburn Tree. A resident ghost is also claimed. Closed Sundays and public holidays.