Well, we may no longer be dreaming of a white Christmas,

because judging by the snow globe-scenes that have descended upon the capital

today, we might just get one yet!

Being stuck indoors on both a Friday AND Saturday night isn’t my idea of fun

however, regardless of how pretty Soho Square looks in the snow, but with more

heavy snow predicted this evening, is it wise to venture out and brave the elements?

Well, that got me thinking; if I was to head out and indulge in a festive pint

or four, then where in Soho would be the best place to get snowed in?

I love an open fire in winter, especially when it’s snowing outside and I have

a pint in my hand, so the Red Lion on Kingly Street is right up my...ahem...street.

The dark wood frontage blends right in with the buildings beside and hints at

the warm, inviting interior inside. With its walls completely clad from top to

bottom in dark oak panelling, the pub rather resembles an old gentlemen’s club,

but is very welcoming and cosy for us ladies too. My favourite thing about this

pub though, is the open stone fireplace, which I just love at winter time. The

Red Lion also has such a relaxed atmosphere, partly due to the fact that it

never seems to get uncomfortably busy like so many other pubs in Soho and with

no music, if you close your eyes, you might just drift off to the gentle

crackle of the open fire.

Another favourite of mine is the Star and Garter, tucked

away on Poland Street. This small, but cosy traditionally tiled one room

boozer. The staff are very smiley and friendly and there’s some great bitters

on tap.

Serving two of my favourite winter warmers – ale and sausage of course! The Dog

and Duck on the corner of Frith and Bateman Street has it all. This bijou, but

cosy pub serves tasty, sausage meals which are reasonably priced (there’s even

a veggie option) and a great selection of ales to boot. I could think of much

worse places to be in a blizzard!

Often overlooked by its big brother; Waxy’s Little Sister is

a great little pub on the corner of Wardour Street and is perfect for watching

the world go by. They too have an open fire place and being an Irish pub, the

know how to make a mean hot toddy! Avoid weekends if you don’t want a fight on

your hands to get to the bar.

Last, but certainly not least, is one of my favourite pubs

in Soho all year round; the John Snow on Broadwick Street is a traditional

style pub, complete with dark wood and glass partitions and some of the

cheapest and tastiest booze in Soho, the John Snow is the perfect place to get

snowed in!

So you’ve heard just some of my top picks for the perfect

winter hideaway now I want to hear yours! Where are your favourite bars or pubs

to shelter from the elements this winter and why? Get writing!