The Victoria

The Victoria’s exterior conjures up varying images depending on how much of an optimist you are. If you think the glass is half full you can chalk up the decrepit frontage and lack of a sign to the fact the owners are just so damn eager about doing up the insides and it’s your own fault if you dismiss it.
If you’re a pessimist however, it looks like a lazy front for a crack den, the kind of place that would knife you as soon as you walk in then complain that you knocked over a half empty drink as you fell… or should I say a half full glass. No, because I’m a pessimist.
Surprisingly, the pub isn’t as rough as gorilla buggery. A good indicator of this is the fact my chum opened Gladiators-​based birthday presents from inside kitten-​based wrapping paper and wasn’t instantly glassed. My prejudices were flipped on their heads.