Blue Lion, London

On a visit in Sept 2022 (and again in Sept 2023) just the one cask beer - a reflection of the lack of footfall and trade in this area at present.

Following its sale by Greene King, this is now an independently run free-of-tie house. Pre-Covid we could expect to see a changing range of cask beers as a result. However the "work from home" trend seems to have adversely impacted trade.

The former central bar has service just to the left side, the other side being given over to seating booths, a feature repeated around the pub. A mixture of high tables and comfy chairs and sofas enable good use of space. The front of the bar is illuminated by large picture windows, while at the back, overlooking a pool table, are leaded windows with coloured infill. Interesting fireplaces have been retained in the new layout. Entry is available off Brownlow Mews at the rear, which also provides for smokers, but only on Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 14:30 and 17:30 to 20:30.

There has been a Blue Lion on Gray's Inn Road since 1627, although its original location was across the road, next to St Andrew's burial ground. The pub moved to its current location in 1824 and was completely rebuilt in 1936. An article from The St Pancras Chronicle in March 1972 describes how the current building was nearly demolished to make way for a new office complex.

Planning application - 2024/0934/P. Partial change of use from pub (Sui Generis) and ancillary accommodation to pub (Sui Generis) and residential (Class C3) involving the creation of new residential units. Erection of four-storey rear extension (1st - 4th floors) and the creation of rear terraces at 1st - 4th floors. Associated exterior alterations to front and rear elevations.