The Hand and Shears — Restaurant in London

🚇 Barbican 🍺 £6.40 Asahi ❤️ A charming historic pub that will transport you back in time. . The Hand & Shears is located in a quite backstreet just a stones throw from Smithfield Market. The nearest tube is Barbican but I would recommend walking from Farringdon station to take in the sights and sounds around Smithfield. . There has been a pub on this site since 1532, the name of this pub relates to its association with the once local St Bartholomew’s Cloth Fair. Cloth merchants not only used this pub to swill beer but to settle disputes and conduct day to day business. . The current building was built in the 1850’s and is constructed in the Georgian style. This is such a pretty pub with its leaded windows, beautiful brickwork and delightful dark green paint. . There are two entrances, I entered through the corner door which takes you in to the saloon bar, the side entrance will take you in to the (named) private bar. As you enter you are transported back in time to what feels like victorian times, it’s as if this is the original decoration when the pub was first built. The decor here makes for an atmospheric setting, the walls, bar and furniture are all in dark wood which add to the cosy feel. At the centre of the pub is an island servery with various nooks and snug areas surrounding it. There is also a fireplace which is where I sat next to, the roaring fire was great on this chilly December afternoon. . The beer choice has bit of something for everybody. I had a pint of Asahi which was £6.40, this is generally an expensive lager but was cheaper than most Fullers, my pint was very good and hit the spot. There were a couple real ales on offer including Hobgoblin and an in-house ale. . The atmosphere here was homily and relaxed, this is such a great place to chill and have a chat with friends. In the summer months it does get packed outside on the street, but with the day’s drawing in and getting colder, this is the perfect place to go this autumn/winter. Just a side note that this pub is closed on weekends. . The Hand & Shears is a perfect example of what a pub can be if you don’t knock it about and maintain its original features. If someone asked me where is a great example of a London pub, this boozer would be high on the list. If you’re ever in this part of town, you must visit one of London’s most original and historic pubs. . 📊 Information correct on...

Hidden gem in forgotten corner of alleyway London. Secluded down the back alleys of Farringdon this old London boozer is a well preserved time capsule. Set on the corner with curved doors, close dimpled glazing prevents the revealing of in and out. Vintage wood panelling everywhere. A spacious, square hall pub interior well divided by panel and glazed partitions and a ĺarge central dark wood O bar joins the space together. There's a fantastic wooden  cross beamed centre piece to the architectural heritage that links the partitions in the corners of the room to a cross point at the centre of the bar, featuring a dark wood set of shelves inset with vintage smoked glass. Each area overs a different vibe that interconnects through the bar for an overall, old school London pub. A good variety of seating and excellent, pedestrian only alleyway external London drinking. The glazing only let's you see that there's a bustle inside, a mystery surprise waiting for you to enter and once in, you're isolated from the outside world, aiding a disconnect and a reconnect to the friendly, social purpose of a pub. Some great features in the original fireplaces, antique clock, old London artworks and vintage glass lettering. Loose yourself and find a secret in the past of Farringdon's market...

The Hand and Shears – A Proper Pint and a Lifted Mood We had a great time at The Hand and Shears — the kind of old-school London pub that instantly lifts your spirits. Tucked away near Smithfield Market, it’s full of charm: wood-panelled walls, a crackling fireplace, and a relaxed, friendly crowd.

The cask ales were well-kept (Timothy Taylor’s Landlord was a standout), and the staff were genuinely welcoming. Prices were fair, and the atmosphere felt cozy without being cramped — perfect for catching up with friends or just unwinding after a long day.

It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. The Hand and Shears delivers warmth, character, and a proper pint — and yes, we left in a better mood...