Looking for a cracking spot near Kensal Rise Overground? You’re in luck! This area boasts a variety of pubs and bars, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re after a traditional pub experience or a trendy bar vibe, there’s something here for everyone. So, let’s dive into the local scene and discover some of the best watering holes Kensal Rise has to offer.
The Island
Address: 123 College Road, London, NW10 5HA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Island is situated on a sunny corner in the heart of Kensal Rise, North West London.
- What’s the Vibe? his independent local pub offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, emphasising good food, great service, and a lively environment filled with fun and laughter.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Menu: The Island’s menu focuses on seasonal dishes, serving fresh, predominantly British produce carefully sourced from the best local producers. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available, ensuring a diverse selection for all.
- Rotating Real Ales & Extensive Wine Cellar: The pub regularly rotates its selection of real ales and beers from across the country, keeping the selection fresh and interesting. Additionally, there’s an extensive cellar of wines from around the world to choose from.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Island’s bar is open Monday to Saturday from midday to 11 pm, and on Sunday from midday to 10:30 pm. The restaurant operates Monday to Friday from midday to 3 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm, on Saturday from midday to 10 pm, and on Sunday from midday to 9 pm.
The Chamberlayne
Address: 83 Chamberlayne Road, London, NW10 3ND
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Chamberlayne is situated in the heart of Kensal Rise, a vibrant area in North West London. It’s conveniently located near Kensal Rise station.
- What’s the Vibe? This family-run gastropub offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior combines the charm of a traditional pub with modern brasserie-inspired touches, creating a cosy yet contemporary setting. The open-plan kitchen adds to the lively ambiance, allowing guests to observe the culinary team at work.
What’s On Offer
- Brasserie-Inspired Cuisine: The Chamberlayne prides itself on serving freshly prepared, home-cooked meals that blend brasserie-style offerings with classic seasonal fare. Their menu celebrates fresh British produce sourced locally, ensuring every dish is a delight.
- Diverse Beverage Selection: To complement their dishes, The Chamberlayne offers a fantastic range of cocktails, along with a diverse array of local and international beers, ales, and an extensive selection of wines and spirits.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub operates from midday to 11 pm from Monday to Saturday, and from midday to 10:30 pm on Sundays. The kitchen serves food from midday to 3 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm on weekdays, from midday to 10 pm on Saturdays, and from midday to 9 pm on Sundays.
The Whippet Inn
Address: 64-66 Chamberlayne Road, London, NW10 3JJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Whippet Inn is situated in the heart of Kensal Rise, a vibrant area in North West London. It’s conveniently located near Kensal Rise Overground station.
- What’s the Vibe? This independent, local pub offers a relaxed and informal atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for meeting friends or enjoying a quiet drink. The interior boasts a blend of classic and modern design elements, creating a warm and inviting environment. Additionally, the heated, all-weather garden space is perfect for alfresco drinking and dining throughout the year.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Cuisine: The Whippet Inn prides itself on serving modern seasonal food sourced from top-quality producers and suppliers. The menu features British pub classics, from mouth-watering burgers to beautiful burrata, ensuring there’s something to please everyone.
- Sunday Roast: On Sundays, they offer some of the best roasts in North West London, with a choice of meat or veggie options, accompanied by all the traditional trimmings.
- Craft Beers & Fine Wines: Complementing the food menu is an excellent range of local and continental craft beers, as well as a thoughtfully curated wine list. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a wine connoisseur, there’s a beverage to suit your palate.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Maggie’s Bar
Address: 102 Chamberlayne Road, London, NW10 3JN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Maggie’s Bar is situated on Chamberlayne Road in Kensal Rise, London, a short walk from Kensal Rise station.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional Irish bar has been run by Maggie Hammill for over 35 years. It boasts a friendly atmosphere, with welcoming staff and locals contributing to its community-focused charm.
What’s On Offer
- Sports Viewing: The bar features three large-screen TVs showing all sports on Sky and TNT Sports channels, as well as all Gaelic games.
- Function Room: Maggie’s offers a function room with a bar in the basement, available for events and gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Every day 10:00-00:00.
Zin Restaurant
Address: 20 Station Terrace, London, NW10 5RX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Zin Restaurant is situated in Kensal Rise, North West London. The venue is conveniently located near Kensal Rise Overground station.
- What’s the Vibe? Upon entering Zin, guests are greeted by a harmonious blend of traditional Moroccan décor and contemporary design. The interior features earthy tones, intricate tile work, and soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for various occasions, from romantic dinners to family gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Authentic Moroccan Cuisine: Zin prides itself on delivering an authentic Moroccan dining experience. The menu boasts a variety of traditional dishes, including signature tagines with options like tender lamb, succulent chicken, or flavourful vegetables. Additionally, their couscous dishes are a highlight, featuring delicate semolina grains paired with a range of delectable toppings.
- Moroccan Bar Experience: Complementing the culinary offerings, Zin features a well-curated bar that serves an extensive selection of Moroccan and international wines, as well as a variety of spirits. Guests can enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea or choose from a range of cocktails inspired by Moroccan flavours, making it an ideal spot for both dining and socialising.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Zin Restaurant welcomes guests daily, with the restaurant opening from 9:00 AM and the lounge area from 4:30 PM.
Ready to Visit?
Kensal Rise is a vibrant pocket of North West London, brimming with a diverse mix of cosy pubs, stylish bars, and unique dining spots. Whether you’re after a relaxed evening in a traditional pub or a lively night out with friends, there’s something to suit every taste. The Island offers a warm atmosphere with a fantastic selection of real ales and an impressive wine cellar, while The Chamberlayne blends brasserie-style dining with a superb cocktail and wine list. For those who prefer an independent pub with an all-weather beer garden, The Whippet Inn is a must-visit.
Share the Love
Why not pop into one of these fantastic bars and see what Kensal Rise has to offer? Whether it’s a pint at The Island or a Sunday roast at The Whippet Inn, there’s something for everyone. Share this guide with your friends and let us know your thoughts by leaving a review after your visit!
