Part of our Best Pubs in London microsite. See if your local is listed.
There's no shortage of excellent drinking options in this part of town, but the Old Red Cow has long been among the finest. It's been pouring pints (under different names) since before the Victorian meat market was built, and counts Peter Ustinov and Bernard Miles among its former clientele.
The bar was once almost bafflingly well-stocked with craft ales both on tap and bottled. It's still pretty good, though nothing like as beer-heavy as our lead photograph. The Sunday roasts are well thought of, and you could hardly get closer to the country's premier source of fresh meat, with Smithfield Market just across the road (though not for much longer). The new Farringdon Elizabeth line entrance is also just across the road. It's a small pub (most of the seating is upstairs), so be sure to reserve space if you're bringing a large group.
