This Bloomsbury boozer is quite a rare find in that it’s a traditional free-of-tie public house (meaning it’s free to stock beer from any suppliers it likes). As such, The Perseverance on Lamb's Conduit Street specialises in craft beers and lagers from local London breweries such as Camden and The Kernel, and some from a little further afield like Wooden Hand in Cornwall and Brewdog in Scotland.
It’s not all about beer at this neighbourhood pub near Russell Square, though. The bar also stocks fine wines selected by Boutinot Wines and all the usual spirits and softs, while the kitchen turns out freshly-made pizzas and other sharing plates to hungry punters.
There’s no need to book a table at this casual pub – just turn up and settle in on one of the tan leather banquettes which line the room. Décor here is minimal but smart thanks to sage green painted walls, scrubbed wooden tables and a polished bar. Like the surroundings, the menu is nothing fancy, but the kitchen does strive to cook all food fresh on the premises, using local and seasonal ingredients from nearby markets.
The menu here is full of crowd-pleasing pub classics, including sandwiches – fish finger, mozzarella and tomato or B.L.T – burgers (both beef and vegetarian), a selection of pizzas (which includes a vegan offering), and traditional beer-battered haddock and chips with mushy peas and tartare sauce. There are also plenty of bar snacks on offer, including fries – skin-on, sweet potato or cheesy – and chicken wings.
As well as providing a convenient spot for a pint and a pizza for Bloomsbury office workers and residents, The Perseverance also hosts events from time to time. Rugby is shown on match days and there’s a pub quiz every Monday night. There’s also a private room available for hire.