London Westminster

Westminster isn’t an ideal location for nightlife, pubs, or clubs. Enjoy it during the day, and then take the party elsewhere, old sport.

The Buckingham Arms, 62 Petty France (020 7222 3386; www.buckinghamarms.com) When the lawmen and -women who keep order in this country need to unwind, they can come here: it is right down the street from the Ministry of Justice. Partially lit by a cool skylight, the pub has comfy armchairs and large windows, so homey charm abounds. It is also worth noting that the Ministry of Justice is on a street named "Petty France." Coincidence? We think not. Victoria. Right onto Grosvenor Pl. Continue onto Victoria St., left onto Buckingham Gate, right on Petty France. Pint of Youngs £3. Open M-F 11am-11pm, Sa-Su noon-6pm. Takes credit cards. Wheelchair access. Serves alcohol.

The Cask and Glass, 39 Palace St. (020 7834 7630; www.shepherd-neame.co.uk) A small pub hidden in the concrete and brick facades of Westminster, The Cask and Glass imports a bit of that old 1698, the year of the brewery's founding, charm to which pubs in other parts of town aspire. The beer is good but a bit expensive in this pleasant, neighborhood joint. Victoria. Right onto Grosvenor Pl. Continue onto Victoria St. Left on Palace St. Pints £3.35-3.85. Open M-F 11am-11pm, Sa noon-8pm. Takes credit cards. No wheelchair access. Serves alcohol.

The Phoenix, 14 Palace St. (020 7828 8136; www.geronimo-inns.co.uk) A basic, slightly posh pub, The Phoenix is well located and filled with 30-something professionals. Enjoy the relaxed beer garden or a dinner of upscale pub grub served in the Yalumba room upstairs. Even if you’re bored by this pub, you’ll be able to say you’re eating in the Yalumba room. Try saying Yalumba 10 times fast. Victoria. Right onto Grosvenor Pl. Continue onto Victoria St. Left on Palace St. Pint £3.55-3.85. Ales £3.25. Open M-F 11am-11pm, Sa 11am-11pm, Su noon-10:30pm.