Randomness Guide to London - Differences between Version 3 and Version 2 of Hand And Shears, EC1A 7JA

Good Beer Guide pub in Clerkenwell.

It's pretty small, with seating for around 30-35 if that (plus some standing space), but despite this the interior is still divided into four distinct areas; the front bar, a side room with more seating, a saloon bar round the back, and a little snug at the side. The island bar sits in the middle, with service on all sides. The windows are textured/dimpled, so light gets in but nobody can actually see in.

Kake visited on a Tuesday afternoon in September 2009. There were only a couple of other customers in when I arrived around 3pm, plus me and a member of staff, but somehow the place still seemed lively, as the other customers carried on conversation with the lady behind the bar. Four real ales were available; Courage Directors and Best, Wadworth 6X (£1.50/half), and Adnams Bitter. A board above the bar mentioned that the 6X and the Adnams were guests.

Food is served at lunchtimes Mon-Fri (the pub is closed on weekends), according to the 2010 Good Beer Guide. A sign above the bar seen in September 2009 indicated that a bookable function room is available.

Accessibility: A high step up to get in. Step-free to the ladies', but there are two narrow doors on fierce springs to negotiate.

See also:

• Fancyapint review
• Beer In The Evening comments
• CAMRA National Inventory entry

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