Pete Brown

1 week ago | thetimes.com | Pete Brown

London has about 3,500 pubs. Even if you take out the tourist traps, quasi-restaurants and boozers going through the motions, you’re still left with hundreds worthy of celebration. How can I pick nine? First, these are pubs I’ve loved drinking in. Second, I followed George Orwell’s lead. In 1946 he set out the ten key characteristics of his perfect pub, the Moon Under Water, including simple snacks and friendly staff.

2 weeks ago | thetimes.com | Pete Brown

3 weeks ago | thetimes.com | Pete Brown

I'm leaving out the many excellent pubs in the county capital, Norwich - they could easily fill a list like this themselves - to give you my eight favourites. 1. The Brisley Bell, BrisleyWhen we're losing hundreds of pubs a year, it's always heartwarming to hear of a derelict pub being saved and reopened. Especially when it instantly starts winning awards for food and accommodation, and plaudits for being a great "proper" pub. Who said the pub as a concept is dying?

1 month ago | thetimes.com | Pete Brown

1 month ago | thetimes.com | Pete Brown