Heading to Crayford Station and in need of a pint? You’re in luck! This area is bursting with unique bars and cosy pubs that promise not just a good drink but a great atmosphere too. Whether you’re after a bustling spot to catch up with mates or a quiet corner to relax after a long day, the establishments around Crayford Station have got you covered. So, let’s dive into the best places where you can sip and savour the local vibe!
Bear & Ragged Staff
Address: 2 London Rd, Dartford, DA1 4BH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on London Road in Dartford, the Bear & Ragged Staff is easily accessible for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a classic pub experience in the Crayford area.
- What’s the Vibe? The Bear & Ragged Staff boasts a welcoming and lively atmosphere, catering to a diverse crowd. The venue is particularly known for its vibrant ambiance during live sports events and special occasions like Mother’s Day, making it a popular destination for family gatherings and sports fans alike.
What’s On Offer
- Food: The pub offers a varied menu that includes traditional British pub fare along with modern options. Noteworthy are the “Bacon & Blue Burger” with melted blue cheese and the range of meat-free options like “Plant-Based Meatball Marinara” and “Chicken-Less Tacos”. The venue is also known for its weekly steak days and Sunday roasts which provide a hearty dining experience.
- Events: The Bear & Ragged Staff hosts several events including live sports screenings like the Six Nations rugby matches. They also offer themed food and drink specials such as bottomless brunches and happy hours, providing a great setting to enjoy with friends and family.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub welcomes guests daily from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Dukes Head
Address: 53 Crayford High St, Dartford, DA1 4EJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Dukes Head is situated on Crayford High Street in Dartford, placing it conveniently within a historic area near local shops and amenities. It is well-positioned for both locals and visitors exploring the town of Crayford.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub features a mock Tudor style from a 1926 rebuild, offering a quaint and traditional English pub atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find a coSy setting with panelled walls, brick fireplaces, and exposed ceiling joists, fostering a warm, inviting environment for its patrons.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Grub & Real Ales: Dukes Head serves a selection of traditional pub dishes, though the availability of food might vary. The pub also offers real ales such as Courage Best and Bombardier, catering to those who appreciate classic British beers.
- Historic Interior: While not listed, the pub’s interior is recognised on CAMRA’s National Inventory for its special historic interest. This includes original fittings like a three-sided servery and possibly original etched window glass, adding to its charm and appeal.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open seven days a week, from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Crayford Arms
Address: 37 Crayford High St, Dartford, DA1 4HH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Crayford Arms is nestled on Crayford High Street, near Dartford in Kent. This location is within the London Borough of Bexley, conveniently close to London, and offers easy access to local transport links.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub boasts a traditional panelled interior with two bars, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known affectionately as ‘the Arms’ by its regulars, it accommodates a diverse clientele including families and dog owners. The venue is recognised for its community spirit and vibrant buzz.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional & Real Ales: The pub features a robust selection of Shepherd Neame Real Ales with options like Kent’s Best, Spitfire, and Bishop’s Finger, along with seasonal specials. For those who prefer other types of drinks, there’s also a variety of lagers, ciders, and spirits available.
- Function Room: The Crayford Arms includes a first-floor function room ideal for private parties and events.
- Events: The venue regularly hosts live music on weekends, enhancing its lively social scene.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – Midnight
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
The Penny Farthing Micropub
Address: 3 Waterside, Dartford, DA1 4JJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Penny Farthing Micropub is centrally located in Crayford, near Dartford, offering a charming riverside setting. Its position is notable for being a refurbished venue with a quaint and cosy atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing drink in a friendly environment.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by its rustic décor featuring old-fashioned pump clips and penny-farthing bicycles. The micropub maintains a classic, community-oriented spirit with an emphasis on discouraging mobile phone use to foster social interactions.
What’s On Offer
- Specialised Drink Selection: The Penny Farthing is celebrated for its direct-from-cask real ales and a diverse array of ciders. Notable offerings include local brews like Kent Nutcracker and Northern Monk Eternal, alongside a unique selection of ciders such as Blackcurrant Cider and Spiced Rum Cider.
- Events & Community Engagement: Regular events like visits from local seafood vendors and interactive games such as giant Jenga contribute to the lively social scene. The pub also participates in themed nights and supports local activities, further solidifying its role as a community hub.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Penny Farthing opens its doors from Tuesday to Thursday from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM, on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Note that the pub is closed on Mondays.
The One Bell
Address: 170 Old Rd, Dartford, DA1 4DY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The One Bell is situated in Crayford, a locality within the town of Dartford, Kent. Positioned on Old Road, it benefits from a historic setting near local landmarks and provides a cosy, traditional pub atmosphere.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue features a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with a quaint and well-maintained interior that includes exposed wooden beams and a cottage-like feel. The outdoor area is modern and comfortable, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Pizzeria in the Garden: A standout feature of The One Bell is its in-house pizzeria, located in a charming outdoor kitchen in the garden area. Patrons enjoy freshly made, flavourful pizzas served in a vibrant and nicely kept garden, adding a unique touch to the traditional pub experience.
- Local Ales & Sports Memorabilia: The pub offers a selection of local ales and has embraced its sports heritage by displaying memorabilia from notable footballers. This includes signed shirts and other sports-related artefacts, which contribute to the pub’s character and appeal to sports enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The One Bell is open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Ready to Visit?
If you find yourself near Crayford Station and in need of a refreshing drink, the local area offers an excellent selection of pubs and bars, each with its own unique charm. The Bear & Ragged Staff is a lively spot, perfect for enjoying live sports and a vibrant atmosphere, while the Dukes Head offers a more traditional, cosy pub experience with its historic Tudor style and real ales. Both establishments provide a warm welcome and a diverse menu, making them ideal for a relaxing visit after a busy day or for catching up with friends.
Share the Love
Why not drop by one of these fantastic bars next time you’re in the area? Whether you opt for the lively Bear & Ragged Staff or the charming Dukes Head, you’re sure to have a great time. Don’t forget to share this article with your mates and let everyone know about your experience by leaving a review. Cheers to good times and great company!