Bow Street Tavern, once the home of Britain’s first police force, the Bow Street Runners, is back following an extensive refurbishment.

Set in the heart of theatreland, the historic pub has undergone a complete transformation, reopening its doors with five floors of dining and event spaces, including rooftop pub garden and a karaoke room.

From outside it looks like an ordinary pub but it’s so much more than that. With 5 floors offering its own distinct character and charm it has space for everyone.

At the heart is the pub, where traditional British boozer meets modern flair and where perfectly poured pints await.

The first-floor bar, terrace and dining space comes with a cosy outside terrace covered in twinkling lights, whilst the upper floors play host to three event spaces.

There’s an intimate private dining room for up to 20 guests; a covered rooftop terrace for 35 revellers and, those who fancy a sing-along, the fourth-floor karaoke room hosts up to 20 under a glittering disco ball.

Dating back to 1763, great care has been taken to pay homage to the pub’s history. Subtle nods to the Bow Street Runners are in evidence, from police box memorabilia, policeman’s notebook-style drinks menus and artwork to the aptly named private dining room, The Constabulary.

The site’s former prison cells now form the pub’s cellar, with other design details including exposed brick walls, polished brass and dark stained wood against a palette of plum, burgundy and purple.

Onto the menu, it’s comforting yet contemporary dishes ranging from small plates to pub classics, all championing seasonal ingredients with many sourced from local farms and suppliers.

My favorite highlights include shredded chicken taco with pickled red onion and chilli, Chorizo with jalapeños and hot honey.

And crispy Gammon and Ogleshield cheese croquettes with creamy center and Marmite mayo on the side.

And I can’t forget the wild mushrooms sautéed in creamy sauce over crispy rye bread, simple yet too good to miss.

Whilst the pub classic of a Cumberland Scotch egg with the runny middle and piccalilli relish is an effortless comforting dish to try.

Larger plates follow a more traditional route, with choices of Steak & Young’s ale pie and Fire-charred sirloin steak with wild garlic butter and dairy cattle beef burger.

The sweet menu includes English classics such as rhubarb and custard knicker-bocker- glory and dark ale toffee pudding.

On Sundays expect roasts of course, all served with an abundance of crispy-yet-fluffy roasties, double egg Yorkshires, seasonal greens and plenty of gravy.

Succulent meats include West Country beef; slow-roasted Dingley Dell pork belly; and a half lemon and thyme Shropshire chicken; whilst the meat-free Spinach and pea tart ensures there is something for everyone.

Behind the bar, local on-tap, bottled and cask brews sit alongside Young’s Original.

The drinks list also features a concise list of world wines and premium spirits, followed by signature cocktails, including a dedicated margarita flight.

Bow Street Tavern, 37 Bow St, London WC2E 7AU