It's not often that you'll decide to visit a museum for a pint, but in the case of 1802, you might do just that. The place bills itself as 1802 Bar, Lounge and Dining and 99 per cent of the people who come here, are here for the food and pretty decent grub it is too.

1802's dockside location combined with decent weather can make a visit just for liquid refreshment and pleasant conversation a very worthwhile proposition. There are a few beers on tap - eg Amstel and Kirin - and a large range of bottled beers from just about every continent: the Sleeman's Honey Brown Lager from Canada was particularly nice, slipping down far too easily on a hot afternoon.

Oenophiles are pretty well catered for with a decent (if pricey) wine list and of course if you do start to feel peckish you can always try the food. The prices are high, but then all purchases in the bar go to help fund the Museum in Docklands next door. You should be warned that the aforementioned good weather can cause the quayside to be packed to bursting point with punters, at weekends it does tend to be quieter, although bank holidays can also see the crowds return.

With its waterside location, broad, traffic-free pavements and terraces with table service, West India Quay is one of the few areas in London that truly emulates a continental style ambience. And if cultural curiosity should get the better of you, the museum is well worth a visit.

CLIENTELE: local workers, tourists, locals
NEAREST STATION: West India Quay station
FEATURES: disabled facilities, ATM, gay friendly, outdoor seating, separate restaurant