This lovely, large pub describes itself as a tarted up boozer on Chalk Farm road. You could say the same for 95% of pubs in our great city. Probably 90% would fail the taste test, i.e. they would be indistinguishable from Graham Norton's boudoir.

The Lock, thankfully, is in the top of the remaining 5. The place brings a smile to the face whether dropping by for a post shop pint or settling in for an evening of giddy drink and dance. The interior blends a solid mix of old and new, dingy and clean, pub and bar, with a swanky dancing area upstairs and an impromptu tail-shake going on next to the bar.

The Lock is big on the local scene as an indie venue, so expect fashionably nonchalant staff and a laid back clientele. DJs drop by at the weekend to give the night that extra kick.