London – Westminster (Borough of) – Round House

This Fullers pub is located in Covent Garden, in the heart of the tourist action. Or what would usually be the beating heart if it wasn’t for Covid, as everything is rather muted at the moment in terms of the number of people about.

There was a friendly welcome from the staff member who was making an effort to be helpful and conversational with customers, so that was rather lovely. Table service was being offered and the process was well managed and the environment was clean and comfortable. I was offered a choice of tables either inside or outside, but on this occasion I went for inside.

It’s an interesting and quirky building and it’s evident from its shape why the pub has its name. Fullers purchased the pub from Punch Taverns for £3.3 million in 2009, which is fortunate as if it was up to Punch Taverns it’d like be a Tesco Express or similar by now. CAMRA mention that the pub was built in 1863 and was known as the Petters Hotel until 1943.

There were a couple of real ales on, although I only later realised that there was a Tiny Rebel beer on that I would have had if I had known. I went for half a pint of the Hophead from Dark Star Brewing, an acceptable and quite average beer. But, given the heat it was suitably refreshing and the pricing wasn’t unreasonable given the location. All absolutely fine, although there was nothing exceptional to surprise and delight me.

It’s a pleasant little pub and food is served as well, the traditional Fullers menu being available, although I didn’t see anyone order food when I was there. The pub is well reviewed, so seems a safe option for tourists to the area when they finally start to return again.