The Argyll Arms - Soho - Pub Reviews

The Argyll Arms is a historic pub in London’s West End (18 Argyll Street, just off Oxford Circus), known for blending traditional pub charm with a rich Victorian ambiance. This Grade II* listed Victorian pub – the current building was constructed in 1868, possibly replacing an older tavern from the 1740s – exudes late-19th-century character with its stunning period interior. Operated by Nicholson’s, the pub is celebrated for its original mahogany panelling, intricately etched glass partitions, and mirrored walls that transport visitors back in time. It’s a popular haunt for tourists (especially theatre-goers bound for the nearby London Palladium), local shoppers and office workers alike, all drawn by the combination of well-kept ales, hearty British fare, and the pub’s storied historic atmosphere. The Argyll Arms currently holds a solid customer rating (around 4.0/5.0), reflecting a positive reputation for its ambiance, food, and friendly service. Opening hours are 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, and 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM on Sundays.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Argyll Arms offers a cosy, traditional setting that prioritises conversation and heritage over modern pub entertainments. As with most central London pubs, there is no on-site parking available – patrons typically arrive via public transport or on foot. Inside, you won’t find pub games like dartboards or pool tables, nor are there loud jukeboxes or arcade machines. The pub also eschews big-screen sports; there are no regular live sports broadcasts here, which helps maintain a relaxed, old-fashioned pub atmosphere. (WhatPub notes a small TV for terrestrial programs, but any usage is infrequent and unobtrusive.) Instead, the “entertainment” centrepiece is the pub’s Victorian interior itself, with its snug little compartments and historical curiosities, encouraging patrons to socialise and soak up the ambiance rather than focus on electronic distractions. For those who prefer some fresh air, the Argyll Arms does provide a bit of outdoor seating: a few pavement tables out front (complete with red Nicholson’s umbrellas) offer a prime spot to people-watch on bustling Argyll Street when weather permits. While modest in size, this outdoor area is a nice bonus in such a dense urban location. Overall, the facilities skew toward the traditional – think comfortable benches, wooden bar stools, and cosy nooks – making it an ideal pub for conversation, quiet pints, and enjoying the historic setting, rather than for high-energy games or sports nights.

Food on Offer

The Argyll Arms serves up a quintessential British pub menu, delivering classic dishes with a focus on hearty, comforting fare. Patrons will find enduring favourites such as beer-battered fish and chips, a savoury lamb shank shepherd’s pie, and a rich beef and ale pie on the menu – unpretentious staples that are done well and hit the spot. A selection of traditional desserts is also available, including a warmly spiced blackberry & apple crumble with custard, among other sweet treats, to round out the meal. The kitchen manages to honour pub tradition while accommodating modern preferences: vegetarian and gluten-free options are clearly offered (for example, a plant-based burger or a veggie pie might feature, alongside lighter salad choices), ensuring that most visitors will find something to their liking.

Service is typically all-day, covering lunch and dinner – and even Sunday roasts on Sundays, which many British pub-goers appreciate. In fact, the pub’s main menu has a bit of a fish focus, unsurprisingly spotlighting its popular fish and chips, especially in the rear mirrored saloon dining area and the upstairs restaurant. Reviewers generally praise the food as delicious, often calling out favourites like the fish and chips (and even the steak sandwiches) as must-tries. Portions are satisfying without being over-the-top, and the quality of ingredients and cooking earns good marks for a pub in the heart of a tourist area. While the Argyll Arms doesn’t reinvent the wheel with avant-garde cuisine, it reliably delivers on classic pub grub. The Sunday roast (when available) is generous and traditional, coming with all the trimmings – a comforting highlight for those visiting at the end of the week. In summary, expect well-executed British pub classics here: nothing too fancy, but hearty, flavourful dishes that pair perfectly with a pint of ale and the historic surroundings.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will be pleased with the curated selection of cask ales at The Argyll Arms, which reflect Nicholson’s commitment to quality brews. As a Nicholson’s house (part of the Mitchells & Butlers group), the pub typically offers a mix of reliable staple ales and rotating guest beers. In fact, the Argyll Arms usually has on tap about three regular cask ales – often including famous British standards like Fuller’s London Pride and Sharp’s Doom Bar, as well as Nicholson’s own St Austell-brewed Nicholson’s Pale Ale. Alongside those, there are usually around five guest ales available, which change periodically. These guests often feature a range of styles and origins, from well-known regional favourites (for example, Timothy Taylor’s Landlord is commonly seen) to seasonal or craft offerings from smaller breweries. On any given visit, you might find a hoppy IPA from a microbrewery or a malty amber ale as the rotating “guest,” which means there’s often something new to try.

Importantly, the quality of the beer is kept high. The Argyll Arms is known for well-maintained ales – the casks are cared for diligently, lines cleaned regularly, and pints poured properly, ensuring each beer is served in prime condition. (The pub’s inclusion in CAMRA’s inventory of heritage pubs underscores its real ale cred, and CAMRA notes that “drinkers can enjoy changing guest ales from a variety of brewers” here.) The bartenders are generally knowledgeable about the beers on offer and happy to make recommendations, whether you’re a seasoned ale aficionado or a visitor unsure of what to try. In addition to cask ales, the Argyll Arms carries a selection of popular lagers, wines, and spirits – including a good gin line-up, as many Nicholson’s pubs do – but it’s the real ales that truly shine. With up to eight beers on tap in rotation, the Argyll Arms provides a satisfying range for beer lovers, from traditional bitters to more adventurous brews. Each pint comes with the bonus of being enjoyed in one of London’s most atmospheric pub settings, which for many beer fans makes it taste all the better.

Price Range & Value

For a pub in central London, The Argyll Arms falls into a reasonable mid-range (££) price category, offering good value considering its location and the quality of its offerings. Prices for food and drink are moderate and in line with other West End pubs. You can expect most main courses to be around the £10–£15 range, which covers substantial dishes like pies or fish & chips. Desserts typically come in at about £5–£7, and a pint of beer is usually about £5–£6 (varying slightly depending on the brew). These figures are pretty standard for the area and era – not rock-bottom cheap, but certainly fair for hearty portions and well-kept ales in the middle of London.

Customers often remark that the value for money is quite decent. In reviews, people highlight the combination of the pub’s ambiance and its reasonably priced menu as a big plus. You’re not just paying for food and drink here; you’re also enjoying the historical atmosphere, which many feel justifies the prices. Compared to chain pubs or tourist-trap venues in the immediate vicinity, the Argyll Arms competes well by delivering quality and character without gouging the wallet. There aren’t many gimmicks or hidden fees – for instance, no mandatory service charge for ordering at the bar – so any tipping is at your discretion for table service or exceptional hospitality. Given the prime location near Oxford Circus, one might expect higher prices, but regulars note that a meal and pint here won’t break the bank. Value for money is therefore a consistent theme: you get what you pay for, and in this case that means solid portions, tasty traditional food, and a great pint in historic surroundings. It’s an honest pub pricing structure that leaves most patrons feeling their money was well spent.

Customer Service

Walk into The Argyll Arms and you’ll likely be greeted with a dose of warm, British pub hospitality. The pub has a reputation for friendly and attentive staff, which contributes to its welcoming vibe. Regular patrons often note that the team behind the bar and on the floor are approachable and efficient. The staff are knowledgeable about the menu and the beers – it’s not uncommon for bartenders to expertly suggest an ale that suits your taste or to answer questions about the history of the pub, demonstrating both training and pride in their workplace. There’s a palpable sense of tradition among the crew, as many Nicholson’s pubs (this one included) take service quality seriously to match their historic settings.

During typical times, service is prompt and cheerful. Orders are taken with a smile, pints are poured correctly (with that proper British head), and food is brought out in a timely manner. The pub can get very busy at peak periods, however, and this is where some mixed feedback arises. During rushes – say, the after-work crowd around 6 PM or the crush of shoppers and tourists on a Saturday afternoon – service can slow down a bit, simply because of the volume of patrons. A few reviews have noted that at these packed times, staff can appear stretched thin, and the wait for a drink at the bar or for food to arrive might be longer than desired. There have even been the occasional comments of slightly brusque or rushed service during the most hectic moments, likely a result of the team hustling to cover everyone. However, those experiences seem to be the exception rather than the rule.

On the whole, customer service at The Argyll Arms earns praise. Many visitors commend the “friendly staff” and how the team manages to stay upbeat and helpful even when the pub is full. There’s often a manager or senior staff member visible, keeping things running smoothly. If you happen to visit at an off-peak hour, you might even find the staff have time for a bit of chit-chat, maybe sharing a tidbit about the pub’s history or engaging in some light banter – touches that can make a stop here feel like visiting a local haunt despite being in the middle of London. The combination of efficiency and genuine friendliness leaves a positive impression on customers; it’s the sort of service that helps turn first-time visitors into repeat patrons. The pub’s management seems to take pride in this heritage establishment, and that attitude is reflected in how guests are treated. Do keep in mind: if you come during a very busy period (for example, right before a show at the Palladium or a Saturday evening), a bit of patience might be required, as you may need to wait your turn at the bar. But rest assured that you’ll be served as soon as possible, and usually with an apology for any delay. Overall, the Argyll Arms’ staff contribute greatly to the pub’s charm, balancing the demands of a high-traffic location with the personal touch of a traditional local pub.

Events & Special Nights

Unlike some pubs that build their identity around weekly events or themed nights, The Argyll Arms does not prominently feature regular events or special theme nights. There’s no weekly pub quiz, no karaoke evening, and no in-house live music sessions on the calendar. Instead, the Argyll’s appeal lies largely in its historic ambiance and classic pub experience, which tends to be attraction enough for its steady stream of customers. Patrons come here primarily to enjoy the atmosphere, the ale, and the company of friends rather than to attend organised events.

That said, the pub does occasionally participate in or accommodate certain one-off happenings. For example, during city-wide events or major holidays, you might find it decorated festively (the Victorian interior looks especially charming decked out for Christmas). On major national sporting occasions – say, an England match in a tournament – the Argyll Arms might show the game on a small screen or projector in a corner, but this is relatively rare and not a core part of its identity (it’s first and foremost a heritage pub, not a sports bar). The management also sometimes supports beer-centric events like Nicholson’s annual Cask Ale Week by rotating in special ales or holding informal tasting promotions, but again, these are subtle nods rather than loud parties.

One area where events do play a role is in private bookings. The pub’s layout actually lends itself to small private gatherings: the upstairs dining room can function as a private function room, and even the snug areas downstairs may be reserved for groups on occasion. This means that while the Argyll Arms isn’t hosting public open-mic nights, it might be the venue for a company’s social gathering, a birthday party in one of the snugs, or a pre-theatre meet-up. These are typically closed-group events rather than pub-wide festivities, so if you’re just dropping in, you might not even notice except for a “Reserved” sign on a table or two.

In summary, The Argyll Arms keeps things low-key and traditional when it comes to events. Its charm is in being the kind of pub where any night can feel special simply because of the environment and history. Regulars and visitors don’t come expecting entertainment laid on – the conversation, the Victorian surroundings, and the clink of pint glasses provide the ambiance. If you are looking for a particular activity (like a quiz or live band), you won’t really find that here. But if you’re after a place that feels steeped in London pub culture, the Argyll Arms itself is the main event.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Argyll Arms: etched glass and mahogany partitions line the narrow corridor, forming small snugs and leading back toward the saloon bar. Stepping inside The Argyll Arms is akin to walking into a Victorian time capsule. The atmosphere hits you immediately – a blend of warm wood, stained glass, and the murmur of contented patrons. The interior layout is unique and central to the pub’s character. At the front, the space is divided into three small “snug” rooms, created by elegant mahogany and etched-glass partitions that date back to the 1895 refurbishment. Each snug is like a little hideaway with its own doorway and high wooden walls topped with glass, originally intended to segregate Victorian drinkers by class, but nowadays simply offering cosy alcoves for conversation. These snugs are a rare feature (few pubs still have them intact) and give the Argyll Arms much of its intimate charm – you can be sitting just feet from the bustling bar, yet feel tucked away in your own private nook.

Moving towards the rear, the pub opens up into a magnificent saloon bar area. Here you’ll find a larger, airier space lined with mirrored walls on three sides, which together with a richly embossed ceiling and ornamental columns creates a sense of Victorian elegance. An impressive mahogany bar counter and back-bar anchors the saloon, complete with a historic Bass brewery mirror and even a tiny vintage manager’s office built right into the bar-back (a quirky little cubicle with etched glass windows, where in bygone days the publican could keep an eye on proceedings). Above the rear of the bar, a wrought-iron spiral staircase with a swirling, decorative railing leads up to the upstairs dining room. Though the upper floor is a later addition as a restaurant space, it carries through the design elements (you’ll notice the “nobbly” decorative ceiling and mirrors continue upstairs as well), and it offers a view down to the throngs of Oxford Street through the front windows – a lovely perch if you’re dining up there.

The ambiance in the Argyll Arms is often described as warm, cosy, and evocative. Thanks to the preserved decor, the pub glows with character: light filters through coloured and frosted glass, lamps reflect off polished mirrors, and every corner seems to have a piece of Victorian craftsmanship to catch the eye. Despite the historical surroundings, it’s not at all museum-like – it’s a lively, working pub full of chatter and clinking glasses. There is usually background music kept at a low volume, but it never overpowers the environment. In fact, many visitors specifically praise the “amazing atmosphere” and beautiful interior details, noting how the pub feels especially cosy during the festive season when holiday decorations add extra charm. Because of the layout, even when the front corridor and bar get busy, you can often find a slightly quieter spot in one of the snugs or in a corner of the back room. The narrow corridor that runs along the left side of the pub (from the front door toward the rear saloon) is lined with ornate mirrors and provides access to the snugs and the back; this corridor can get a bit congested when it’s crowded, as it essentially channels people from the entrance to the various bars. At peak times, expect a friendly bustle – the pub can be full and vibrant, with a mix of locals and tourists marvelling at the decor. At quieter times (like mid-afternoon on a weekday), the atmosphere is more relaxed, and you might hear the staff chatting with regulars or even catch the soft tick of a clock amid the hush.

In terms of clientele, the Argyll Arms sees a diverse mix. Given its location, you’ll encounter tourists (drawn by guidebook mentions of the historic interior or just stumbling in from Oxford Street), theatregoers and performers (especially due to the Palladium next door – it’s common to see a pre-show crowd grabbing drinks, and occasionally even actors from the show might pop in afterwards), as well as local office workers and shoppers seeking a traditional pub respite. This mix gives the pub a welcoming, all-comers feel. It’s the kind of place where someone in a suit can be enjoying a pint next to a family of visitors with shopping bags, while a group of friends from the neighbourhood convenes in a snug – and everyone feels at home in the gentle hubbub. Despite the high tourist footfall in the area, the Argyll Arms maintains an authentic pub vibe that endears it to Londoners too (indeed, some Londoners make a point to stop here to remind themselves what a classic pub should feel like, even if Oxford Circus isn’t their usual turf).

Accessibility: Being a historic building, one might expect difficulties, but the Argyll Arms has made some efforts to be accommodating. The main entrance has only a small step (almost level with the pavement), and once inside, the ground-floor is all on one level, navigating the corridor and bar areas. Notably, there is a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating area, and reportedly even an accessible restroom on the ground floor to assist those with mobility needs. This is a commendable feature, as many older pubs have restrooms down narrow stairs or in basements – here it appears adjustments were made to provide a usable facility on the main level. That said, the interior’s original design means some tight squeezes: the snugs have narrow doorways and the bar area can be compact, which might be challenging on a crowded day for those in wheelchairs or with strollers. The upstairs restaurant is only reachable by staircase (a beautiful ironwork stair, but unfortunately not accessible to those who cannot climb it). So, mobility-impaired patrons will be mostly confined to the ground floor – though that is the pub’s main attraction anyway. The staff are very helpful in this regard; they will assist in carrying drinks or finding a comfortable spot if needed.

It’s worth noting that the pub is dog-friendly (as many British pubs are). You’ll occasionally see a well-behaved dog on leash curled up at its owner’s feet – adding to the homey feel. The overall comfort level is high if you enjoy historic charm, although if you prefer modern, bright spaces, you might find it dim or old-fashioned (which is, of course, the point here!). In cooler months, the interior stays snug and warm – one can imagine escaping a rainy London day inside these richly adorned walls. In summer, the front windows open up and the pavement tables are lovely, though the lack of a beer garden means outdoor seating is limited. Ventilation inside is generally fine, but on an extremely packed evening it can get a touch warm and stuffy until people filter out – nothing unusual for a pub of this size. Noise levels are moderate: conversations and merriment fill the air, but without amplified music or TV commentary, you can usually chat without shouting (except perhaps when the post-work crowd is at its peak).

In sum, the atmosphere at The Argyll Arms is a huge part of its charm – it feels authentically Victorian yet vivacious, like a living piece of London’s pub heritage. It’s an atmosphere that both locals and visitors appreciate immediately upon walking in. The pub manages to be both a bustling central London watering hole and a kind of refuge from modern hustle just outside its doors. Whether you’re an architecture buff marvelling at the etched glass, or simply someone looking for a cosy corner to enjoy a pint, the Argyll’s environment delivers. And with thoughtful touches towards accessibility and comfort, it endeavours to let as many people as possible share in that experience of stepping back in time, but with all the comforts of a well-run present-day pub.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Argyll Arms enjoys a fantastic location in the heart of London’s West End, one that is both a blessing (for newcomers) and, at times, a minor curse (for crowd-weary locals). Situated on Argyll Street, it’s literally steps from Oxford Circus, one of the city’s busiest and most famous intersections. In fact, Oxford Circus Underground Station (served by the Central, Bakerloo, and Victoria lines) is almost on the pub’s doorstep – you can exit the Tube and be at the Argyll’s entrance in under a minute, making it extremely easy to reach for anyone exploring central London. Numerous bus routes also run along Oxford Street and Regent Street, meaning public transport options abound. The prime location means if you’re out shopping or sightseeing in central London, popping into The Argyll Arms is very convenient. It’s the kind of place you might choose as a meeting spot, given how well-known Oxford Circus is as a reference point.

Being so central, the pub is surrounded by a wealth of attractions and amenities. Argyll Street itself connects the bustling Oxford Street (major retail thoroughfare) with Great Marlborough Street (home to the iconic Liberty department store just around the corner). Shoppers will find all the big names in retail within a stone’s throw – from the famous Liberty London (a beautiful Tudor-style luxury store) to the flagship stores on Regent Street (Apple, Hamleys toy store, fashion boutiques, etc.). Just to the south lies Carnaby Street, a historic pedestrian shopping street known for its trendy boutiques and eateries, which is part of the wider Soho district. In other words, if you need a break from shopping, The Argyll Arms couldn’t be better placed.

For entertainment, the pub is adjacent to the London Palladium theatre – literally next door, as the Palladium’s entrance is on Argyll Street as well. This makes the Argyll Arms a popular spot for theatregoers; one can easily grab a pre-show dinner or a post-show drink and discuss the performance. The Palladium is a major West End venue (hosting musicals, concerts, and pantomimes), so on show nights you might notice an influx of patrons with playbills in hand. Beyond the Palladium, many of the West End’s other theatres and cinemas are a short walk or a few tube stops away, given that Shaftesbury Avenue and Leicester Square are not far. Also in walking distance are cultural spots like the Photographers’ Gallery (on Ramillies Street, just 2 minutes away) and nightlife hubs throughout Soho (with its myriad bars, clubs, and restaurants north of Brewer Street). In essence, The Argyll Arms sits at the crossroads of shopping, entertainment, and dining districts.

Despite this ultra-central setting, stepping into the pub truly feels like a retreat (as CAMRA aptly put it, “a welcome escape from frenetic Oxford Street”). One moment you’re in the thick of Oxford Circus – with crowds, buses, and neon shop fronts – and the next you’re ensconced in a wood-panelled Victorian snug. That contrast is part of the Argyll Arms’ charm, and it’s something many visitors comment on appreciatively.

As for practicalities: There is no dedicated parking at or near the pub (few West End venues have their own parking). If you’re driving, the closest options are public car parks several blocks away, but honestly, driving to Oxford Circus is not recommended due to heavy traffic and congestion charges. Most people will arrive by public transit or taxi/rideshare. For those on foot, the pub is easy to spot by its black-and-gold traditional signage and hanging lanterns. Cyclists might find some public bike racks along Regent Street or Great Marlborough Street to lock up their bikes.

The area around the pub is extremely busy during peak shopping hours (daytimes and early evenings), especially in the lead-up to Christmas when Oxford Street is packed – so keep that in mind if you prefer a quieter visit (earlier in the day or later at night might be better). If you do find the streets overwhelming, know that inside the Argyll Arms you’ll get a respite from the commotion. Also, thanks to the foot traffic, the pub rarely feels “dead” – there’s almost always a healthy flow of patrons, which gives it a nice buzz even at off-peak times.

In summary, the location of The Argyll Arms is unbeatable for convenience and surrounding attractions. It’s centrally located for a day of London adventures: you can shop Oxford and Regent Streets, drop in for lunch and a pint, then continue to a museum or theatre, all within the same vicinity. Its proximity to Oxford Circus station means it’s a great rendezvous point or a final stop before hopping on the Tube home. And while being in such a busy area means the pub can get crowded, it also means the Argyll Arms firmly embeds itself in the classic London experience – a historic pub amid the capital’s most famous streets, offering tradition and character in the midst of modern hustle. Whether you’re a visitor marvelling at the location or a Londoner who usually avoids tourist spots, this pub’s placement has a certain magic: it’s both extremely accessible and yet, once you’re inside, wonderfully apart from the world outside.

Overall Impression

The Argyll Arms delivers a quintessential British pub experience that is hard to replicate, even in a city full of notable pubs. It seamlessly combines historical significance, architectural beauty, and everyday conviviality. In the heart of one of London’s busiest districts, it stands as an oasis of Victorian charm – a place where the clocks seem to have stopped in the late 19th century, yet the pints and hospitality are very much of the moment. The pub’s greatest asset is undoubtedly its exceptional interior, which has rightly been lauded as “one of London’s finest pub interiors — a Grade II listed gem straight from the Victorian era”. Drinking here truly feels like participating in living history. Each etched glass panel, each ornate mirror, each cosy snug not only delights the eye but also connects you to generations of patrons who have enjoyed the same surroundings. For lovers of history and architecture, the Argyll Arms alone is worth the visit; it’s part pub, part museum piece (in the best sense).

Importantly, the Argyll Arms is not a case of style over substance. The food and drink offerings hold their own – a solid line-up of ales and classic pub dishes ensure you’re well fed and watered. It’s the kind of place where you can have an excellent pint of real ale alongside a comforting plate of pie and mash, and both will meet or exceed expectations. The commitment to quality in maintaining those cask ales and preparing that traditional menu means the pub experience is holistic: ambiance, taste, and service all complement each other. Nicholson’s stewardship is evident in the attention to detail, from the cleanliness of the glassware to the warmth of the welcome.

Of course, no pub is perfect for everyone. Given its location by Oxford Circus, crowd levels can be intense. At peak times, the Argyll Arms can be standing-room only, and as Londonist humorously noted, you wouldn’t want to “try it on a busy Saturday afternoon” if you dislike crowds. Some London locals might initially dismiss it due to the tourist-heavy area, but those in the know understand that the experience inside is worth braving the outside throngs (“give it a chance… what we have here is a gem”, as one review put it). If you prefer a pub where you can always find a seat and a quiet corner, you’ll need to time your visits strategically here (mid-afternoon or late evening on a weekday can be pleasantly calm). Also, if you’re seeking modern entertainment like big sports matches on TV, or a sprawling beer garden, the Argyll Arms will not fit that bill. It deliberately maintains an old-school vibe that might feel quaint to some and lacking in high-tech amenities to others.

However, these are relatively minor trade-offs when weighed against the pub’s many strengths. The overwhelming consensus from patrons is one of delight and admiration – for the surroundings, the ale, and the sense of authenticity. Tourists often count it among their favourite “real London pubs” after a visit, and many locals have a soft spot for it as a characterful refuge in a part of town better known for chain stores and fast foot traffic. The pub also carries with it some fun historical lore (for instance, it’s said to be named after the Duke of Argyll who once lived across the street, and there’s even a rumour of a secret tunnel that once connected the pub to the Duke’s mansion!). It’s touches like these – true or apocryphal – that give the Argyll Arms an extra layer of mystique and story.

A visit to The Argyll Arms is highly recommended for anyone seeking an authentic British pub experience in central London. It offers the rare combination of convenience and tradition: easily accessible in the West End, yet a world apart once you’re inside. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a flavourful pint of ale, savour some fish and chips, admire one of the most historic pub interiors in the UK, or simply rest your feet in a beautiful setting after shopping on Oxford Street, this pub will oblige. It’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression – you might snap a few photos of the gorgeous glasswork, chat with a friendly bartender, and leave feeling like you’ve touched a piece of London’s soul. As long as you keep in mind that it can get busy (and plan accordingly), you’re likely to have a wonderful time. The Argyll Arms stands as a shining example of a Victorian pub that’s not only survived into the 21st century, but continues to thrive, offering atmosphere in spades and a reliably good pint to boot. For locals and visitors alike, it remains a treasured spot – one where the past and present clink glasses each day, much to everyone’s satisfaction.