Part of our Best Pubs in London microsite. Is your local listed?
As a rule, the pubs of central Westminster are touristed up to their rafters. Certainly, the ones along Whitehall are a-throng with out-of-towners. The Westminster Arms exudes a different character. It's still very close to the Abbey and Houses of Parliament, but hides from view down a sidestreet. Yes, you'll find tourists in there, but you're more likely to be drinking among locals. That includes Nigel Farage, but don't let that put you off.
The main bar is tiny, and kept free of tables to pack in the standing drinkers. If that's not your thing, then head downstairs to the basement bar, which has a number of cosy booth tables and its own bar (not always open). Most drinkers, though, hang around outside when it's not raining.
This is a Shepherd Neame pub, with the usual well-kept beers, and a newly expanded food menu (dining is downstairs). Look out, too, for the Division Bell, which calls MPs back to the Commons for a vote.
The pub was recently refurbished to the tune of £1.2 million, having survived the threat of redevelopment. It's looking more handsome than ever... despite the MPs hanging around.
