The Lamb - Holborn
The Lamb opened in 1729 and little has changed since, but in the best possible way. 
With outside seating and a charming courtyard, Young's beers and helpful staff, like many of the pubs in this guide - just off the beaten track. Which means they haven't become jaded and worn with tourist traffic, but are exceptionally close to the centre of things. It's all about knowing where to look.
The Lamb still has etched glass snob screens in place above the bar (in the photo). These glass screens were popular in the 1890s and hid the customer from other drinkers when they refreshed their pints. Why? Well if you're on a pub trip, take in the not-too-distant Princess Louise on High Holborn. That has the original etched glass privacy booths intact, which was how pubs were laid out, in the traditional British class-conscious manner. The well-heeled did not wish to see the 'spit & sawdust' section of the pub, so would swivel the screen to order, then close it again once the transaction was complete.
The Lamb is named after the street, which in turn was named after William Lamb in 1577. The area is rich in freshwater springs and Lamb created a conduit to share this area's water with needy Londoners further affield. 
Lamb's Conduit Street is also a notable shopping hotspot, with many independent and unique traders - follow the previous link to find out more.
Busy in the evening, but preferable during weekday lunches or afternoons, when you're more likely to get a seat. Decent range of ales with food available too. Last visit the barman threw every bottle into the bottle bin with excessive and unnecessary force after clearing the tables. Generously sharing his surly mood with the everyone. Unimpressive.
It usually isn't that kind of place, however. It enjoys many regulars, many nearby sights and that elusive atmosphere that pubs can't manufacture - they earn it over the centuries. It also has its own ancient well (that you can't see) and apparently a resident ghost too, though details remain sketchy on that front.
If you own a pub in London, are reading this and want to bring in some extra punters. Scare up a ghost story and put it out on the Web. Bed it down for 6 months, allowing it to spread organically (a shaky, handheld YouTube vid will work wonders, in this respect). Add some spooky detail to the website and brace yourselves for the rush.
Opening Times:
Mon to Wed - 12:00 to 23:00
Thur to Fri - 12:00 to 24:00
Sat 12:00 to 24:00
Sun 12:00 to 22:30
Food:
Sun to Sat - 12:00 to 21:00
94 Lamb's Conduit Street, WC1N 3LZ.
Russell Square or Holborn Tube.
Call: 020 7405 0713
