Could an SW1 staple on Wilfred Street be the latest victim of the decolonisation woke agenda? Popular pub The Colonies has been spruced up recently… but reopened under the new (less flavoursome) name The Pineapple. Despite its homage to colonial Africa and imperial theme, the watering hole was a particular favourite of right on Home Office civil servants, not to mention CCHQ staff…

It’s not all bad news though for culture warriors and history warriors – the name change is just a throwback to the pub’s previous incarnation – the original tavern on the site was named The Pineapple as far back as 1809. As the Campaign for Real Ale notes:

“Named the Pineapple until 1974 and refurbished ten years later to reflect an African colonial theme, this comfortable, split level pub has an extensive back courtyard garden leading to Castle Street. Some interesting prints are displayed on the panelled walls.”

Guido’s looking forward to the new menu, and catching up with some civil servants from 4 p.m. onwards…