The Porterhouse,  Wednesday, 28 November 2007 The Porterhouse is literally three floors of jolly, tipsy, rather excitable clientele. Admittedly I visited on a Saturday night that included two important rugby games (both shown on giant screens). The place was rammed, which made for a buzzing atmosphere and it was still relatively easy to get to the bar and get served.

Emotions were running high by the time the rugby finished, but then as if to diffuse any tension - a live cover band started up singing out commiserations and celebrations with the new pub anthems (think Aussie man singing Maroon 5).

The Porterhouse is fab for meeting a large group - there’s loads of space, service is quick and the crowd are all up for a good time. A band is so much more enjoyable than no or piped music and if you don’t fancy dancing you can escape to the top floor and chat – you can just hear the band in the background - very civilised. The toilets also get a thumbs up - there’s a full length mirror! It’s not an unusual, special venue and I wouldn’t recommend going for a quiet pint, but it’s great for sport and for the start of a big, bold night out!