If you’re hopping off at West Kensington Tube, you’re in for a treat – this corner of west London is packed with charming pubs, cosy cocktail bars and lively locals‑spots that keep the evenings buzzing. Whether you’re after a traditional cask ale, a craft cocktail, or somewhere quirky with live music, there’s something around every corner. Start on leafy North End Road and stumble into ivy‑draped pubs, then wander over to Barons Court for laid‑back gastro vibes. From vintage interiors to beer gardens and hidden gems with theatre in the basement, this guide will point you to the best watering holes just a short stroll from the station. Get ready to drink in the atmosphere – pint glass at the ready!
The Curtains Up
Address: 28A Comeragh Road, West Kensington, W14 9HR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on a charming side‑street between West Kensington and Barons Court, it’s a short stroll from both Tube stations, making it conveniently accessible yet delightfully tucked away.
- What’s the Vibe? A cosy and convivial atmosphere with theatrical touches, the pub exudes warmth through its eclectic interiors, exposed ceiling beams, island bar and open‑plan seating. Expect friendly chatter, live sports on screens, regular quiz nights and a mix of locals, drama students and theatre‑loving visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Fare: Serving a well‑curated menu from brunch to supper, they champion British farmers and fisheries. Classic pub dishes like eggs Benedict, fish cakes, hearty Sunday roasts and rib‑eye steaks feature alongside daily specials.
- Basement Theatre & Live Events: Beneath the pub lies the intimate Barons Court Theatre (about 60 seats), staging short‑run plays and occasional afternoon magic shows. The venue also hosts a weekly pub quiz, live sports screenings, and vibrant events during Queen’s Tennis week.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Pub Hours: Mon–Sat 11:00–23:00; Sunday 11:00–22:30 (food served daily until 22:00; 21:30 on Sundays).
The Famous Three Kings
Address: 171 North End Road, London, W14 9AE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated right next to West Kensington Tube, this Edwardian-style pub sits on North End Road in Fulham/West Kensington, making it incredibly easy to find and access.
- What’s the Vibe? A lively, sports‑centric atmosphere with multiple widescreens showing Premier League, rugby, darts, boxing, Formula 1, and American football. The place buzzes on match days; at other times it’s relaxed with a casual, friendly feel.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers, Cask Ales & Cocktail Selection: A broad drinks menu includes real ales, craft beers, premium lagers, ciders, artisan cocktails, and a spirit emporium bustling with gin, rum, tequila and more.
- Stone‑baked Pizza & Bottomless Brunch: A menu of hand‑stretched pizzas and burgers. Bottomless brunch events feature unlimited drinks plus pizza options like loaded pepperoni or veggie. Seasonal menus also include dishes like ‘Tingly Ted’s Burger’ and limited‑time cocktails.
- Sports Events & Live Screenings: The pub hosts live coverage of all major sports – football, rugby, boxing, F1, darts and NFL – often attracting large crowds on big game days.
- Interactive Nights & Private Events: Weekly events such as talkSPORT pub quizzes, bottomless brunches, plus facilities for private hires, hen/stag parties, corporate gatherings, and birthday celebrations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Sunday–Thursday: 12 pm–11 pm
- Friday: 12 pm–1 am
- Saturday: from 11 am until 1 am
- Food is served daily from 12 pm, typically until 9 pm (10 pm Fri/Sat)
The Scarsdale Tavern
Address: 23a Edwardes Square, Kensington, W8 6HE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on a charming, leafy corner of Edwardes Square, the pub sits just off Kensington High Street and a short stroll from Holland Park.
- What’s the Vibe? A classic‑looking Georgian square pub with frosted‑glass “gin‑palace” frontage, roaring fireplace and an ornate mirrored interior. It exudes an old‑London charm – polished yet welcoming, with a slight posh edge.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional & Seasonal Menu: A refined selection of gastropub classics, from slow‑roasted half shoulder of lamb and grass‑fed ribeye steaks to fish & chips and burgers, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Real Ales & Wines &: The pub pours classic cask ales (such as London Pride and Gales Seafarers), plus a strong wine list.
- Live Sports: It also broadcasts major sports on Sky/BBC, making it perfect for laid‑back after‑work drinks.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Bar hours: Monday–Saturday 12:00–23:00, Sunday until 22:30
- Food service: Monday–Saturday 12:00–22:00, Sunday until 21:00
The Cumberland Arms
Address: 29 North End Road, Hammersmith, W14 8SZ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked around the corner from Olympia exhibition centre, this wood‑panelled gastro‑pub sits on North End Road in West Kensington, easily reached via Kensington Olympia station and several bus routes.
- What’s the Vibe? A cosy yet spacious local with dark wood interior, cream‑painted walls and large windows. Flat‑screen TVs are discreet, offering a relaxed, informal atmosphere framed by a leafy side garden and patio.
What’s On Offer
- Mediterranean-inspired menu & famed paella: The Cumberland Arms has served Mediterranean‑style dishes for over 20 years. In summer, their paella is a standout, alongside seasonal Italian‑influenced offerings such as Tuscan rabbit casserole and chicken‑spinach ravioli.
- Real ales, craft beer and quality wine list: Regular cask ales include St Austell Tribute and Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, plus a rotating guest ale. The wine list features around 15 reds and whites by the glass.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Mon & Sat from 16:00–23:00;
- Tue–Fri midday–23:00;
- Sun midday–22:30
- Dining hours:
- Lunch Tue–Fri midday–15:00 and Sun midday–20:30;
- Dinner Mon–Sat 18:00–21:30
The Hansom Cab
Address: 84–86 Earls Court Road, Kensington, W8 6EG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on the corner of Earls Court Road and Pembroke Square, this Grade II listed Victorian pub lies in a quieter stretch of Kensington, just a few minutes’ walk from Earls Court Underground station.
- What’s the Vibe? A cosy, vintage-feel “local beer house” with mismatched wooden furniture, stained glass and chandeliers. The ambience is warm and unpretentious, ideal for relaxed group dining or casual pints.
What’s On Offer
- Craft beers & beer snacks: A strong selection of craft ales on tap, including local breweries. Try the beer snacks like brisket chilli cheese fries or peri‑peri cornflake chicken, often offered as “2 for £10” deals.
- Seasonal British menu: Monthly-changing food offering featuring hearty mains and small plates. You might find lobster nachos, chicken‑leek‑mushroom pies, fish and chips, or indulgent desserts such as chocolate brownie Eton mess.
- Weekly events: Tuesday burger nights and a Sunday pub quiz are regular features, adding to the friendly, community-style atmosphere.
- Dog-friendly & pooch perks: Welcomes dogs and hosts occasional pet‑friendly gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday: from around 3pm to 11pm
- Friday–Sunday: from 11am to 11pm, with Sunday closing around 21:00 on some listings
Ready to Visit?
West Kensington and its surrounding pockets like Barons Court and Earl’s Court offer a vibrant slice of west London’s pub scene. Whether you’re catching a play beneath The Curtains Up, settling in for sport and stone-baked pizza at The Famous Three Kings, or enjoying a Mediterranean lunch in the leafy garden of The Cumberland Arms, there’s a venue for every mood. From traditional alehouses to creative cocktails, roaring fireplaces to pub quizzes and live theatre, this area packs in charm, variety, and atmosphere all within strolling distance of the Tube.
Share the Love
Tried a pint at one of these West Kensington gems? Share this guide with your mates, pop in a review, and help spread the word about your new favourite local.
