Although the Princess of Wales has undergone a revamp by Mitchells & Butlers, turning it into a modern bar bright with exotic beer taps, the pub hasn’t forgotten its history. In 1871, England players gathered here before the first ever international rugby union match, an event commemorated with a modest alcove of mementoes.
Elsewhere, though, the huge main bar, a corridor of tables and various back areas done out in pub-cum-lounge-bar style have been given over to a young clientele sipping selections from a global beer range (Doom Bar, Meantime Stout, Früli, Kozel) to a student-rock soundtrack.
Dishes such as a large 21-day-aged rib-eye steak or Cotswolds lamb leg steak with lentils and peppers can also be enjoyed on the front terrace, in the conservatory or in the back garden.