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Of all the pubs in London, we've probably spent more hours in the Rugby than any other. It hasn't changed in the two decades we've known it. Ran by Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewer, it retains a welcoming vibe that never disappoints.
Perhaps it's the quiet location, tucked away down a back street on land owned by Rugby School (hence the name). On warm summer nights, the shaded outside seating area can be very pleasant. There are no frills, nor tricks or peculiar features of interest here — simply a pub that treats its ales and its customers right.
The beer choice is typical of Shepherd Neame, with the likes of Master Brew and Spitfire on draught, and long-time Dutch favourite Oranjeboom lager. A decently sized upstairs room is perfect for mingle events — in another life, we organised a party here that was gatecrashed by Brian Cox and James Randi. That's how good a pub this is.
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Last updated October 2018.
