The atmosphere is thick with history in this St. James’s drinking hole, which was first built in the wake of the Great Fire of London. Back then, it was called the Mason Arms, where coachmen would await their bosses and kill time by playing chequers. No prizes for guessing, then, where the gaff got its name. Nowadays, it’s a super-cosy little pub with a menu offering such lip-smacking treats as hotpots, pasties and sweet-and-sour chicken. It’s still pub grub, but can you imagine anything more comforting to accompany your pint? You’ll have to bring your own chequers, though.
What’s nearby?
The Chequers is right next door to what was formerly the Indica Gallery, where John Lennon and Yoko Ono first met in 1966. Imagine all the pasties…
Time Out tip
Grab a stool or bench out back in historic Mason’s Yard, and take in an area that has more than a few tales to tell. When the vibe is this relaxed, we’re all ears.
RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Mayfair.