Bridge House, Maida Vale

Dating from 1848, the Bridge House as its name implies is adjacent to a bridge, the Horse Bridge, over the Grand Union Canal (Paddington Arm) at its junction with the Regents Canal at Little Venice. The Bridge House is an appealing mix of old-style pub - a good solid bar counter, wooden floor and paneling, and old mirrors (Bass, and note H D Rawlings High Class Mineral Waters 'as served to His Majesty the King' above the fire place) - and modern. There's a chandelier in the front bay window, grey painted walls above a dark painted rail, high tables and chairs, low easy chairs, as well as more normal tables and chairs, and fairy lights around the back bar together with somewhat oddly red pendant lights above the counter. There's an extensive food menu for lunch and dinner. The craft beer selection varies regularly both on tap and bottled. There are occasional brewery residencies. While it's not over intrusive there is background music and it can be turned up into the evening.

And don't forget the Canal Cafe Theatre, a separate operation above the pub: http://www.canalcafetheatre.com/