Built in 1750, this Kensington Irish pub was once frequented by Winston Churchill's grandparents (expect nostalgic bonanzas every year on his birthday). The façade is covered in masses of flowers, while inside you’ll normally find a boisterous crowd, eager to see a British pub at its most baroque. The decoration is a medley of wicker baskets, chamber pots, Churchill and US presidential memorabilia and flags, while the thriving Thai restaurant serves up curries, stir-fries and noodles amid a jungle of greenery. Unsurprisingly, it’s been a Chelsea Flower Show winner and even claims to be the first-ever London pub with a Thai menu. Long-serving landlord Gerry O’Brien has built a real sense of bonhomie thanks to open fires, candles, amber lights and hot toddies during the winter, while the bar deals in real ales and guest beers which get the CAMRA seal of approval. For restaurant reservations, call 020 7792 1246.