Hansom Cab, Kensington

This two-storeyed 1827 pub was formerly the Pembroke Arms; it was renamed in 1965. Although it has been heavily restored there is much old fittings to see within. A door with etched glass panels leads to the principal room from the Earls Court Road. Facing you is a classic probably Victorian counter fitted with brackets and an unusual patterned fascia beneath the counter top. The three-bay mirrored bar back looks old and is fitted with glass shelves. The central bay incorporates an opening to the rear room. Especially attractive are the twin mirrored columns either side of the bays and at each end, which have decorated capitals.

The rear room may be accessed from either side. The startling feature here is the splendid display of timber and etched mirrors on the inner wall. Clearly this is the former bar back - the counter has been removed, thus stranding it. At the far (north) end of the room is an attractive wooden fireplace which looks old; it has a mirrored overmantel. Behind the erstwhile bar back stairs lead to the cellar.