The Ship is a hidden Gem

You could pass Talbot Court - an essay in concrete that looks like a loading bay - a hundred times and never notice The Ship tucked on an inside corner just a hundred yards down where the slabwork gives way to a traditional London yard.

It's a gem. Rebuilt in the 17th century after the original ale house was incinerated in the Great Fire, it's smallish, simple and comfortable offering decent ales and a wide food menu.

The spiral wooden staircase leads up to the narrowish upper bar where - perhaps a trick of the eye - the limited space seems to have been enhanced by installing slightly undersized tables and chairs and a tiny serving area in the corner.

Perhaps it is the location, but we are told you can nearly always get a seat upstairs. Not the most happening of pubs but a splendid place for local workers to catch up on the gossip or for a relaxing one if you are passing. Closed weekends - but open until 11pm during the week.

NEAREST STATION: Monument station
FEATURES: real ales and a function room available

The Ship
11 Talbot Court, EC3V 0BP