The Gunmakers

The Gunmakers is a local favourite in Clerkenwell and, looking behind its pane-segmented timber frontage, it's easy to see why. A cream interior flows throughout, from the friendly bar at the entrance, the cosy lounge midway through and, right at the back, the conservatory where the pub opens out with warmth and light.

Beer Specialists

Their main bragging rights at the Gunmakers are the fact that A) their publican is a seasoned ale writer and B) subsequently knows a thing or two about beers. Ask Jeff about one of the guest ales they have on tap and he'll reel off chorus and verse without taking a breath. Incidentally, their guest ales vary so often that you're guaranteed a surprise every week. The ambition is rife at this place, giving you all the more reason to get yourself down there and see what we're talking about.

On the Menu

Moving on to food and, again, this place delivers. A recent menu showed, for starters, homemade scotch eggs for £3.50; a leek and feta salad for a fiver; soup for a fiver and duck liver pate for £6. Their mains included beer-battered cod with hand-cut chips and peas for £14; smoked sausage Creole for £12; rib-eye steak for £16.50; and veal chop for £14. If these aren't bargain prices, we don't know what are. It gets better, as well, when you see the desserts for four pounds each: lemon meringue pie and a layered cheesecake which, we must add, has become quite the talk of the town.

For a really hearty and homemade meal, a real ale or a glass of wine, head for Clerkenwell's Gunmakers; the staff will treat you with the respect you deserve without being overwhelming, and the rest of the clientele, although locals and regulars, will only welcome a new face with a smile.

Opening Times

Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 23:00