If you’re in the mood for a top-notch pint or a cheeky cocktail near Holborn Tube, you’re in luck! This area is brimming with some of the best bars and pubs in London. Whether you’re after a cosy, traditional pub with a cracking atmosphere or a sleek, modern bar with inventive drinks, Holborn’s got you covered. From hidden gems to popular haunts, here’s where you can raise a glass and unwind in style near Holborn Tube.
The Princess Louise
Address: 208 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Princess Louise is situated in the heart of Holborn, a bustling area of central London. It’s conveniently close to several underground stations, including Holborn and Covent Garden, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The pub is a short walk from London’s Theatreland and legal districts, giving it a mix of after-work crowds and tourists.
- What’s the Vibe? The Princess Louise is a quintessential Victorian pub, offering a rare glimpse into the opulence of the 19th century. With its Grade II* listed status, the pub is famed for its stunning interiors featuring ornate tiles, etched glass, and mahogany partitions that divide the space into several cosy snugs. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a focus on quiet conversation rather than loud music or televisions, making it a favourite for those who appreciate historic charm.
What’s On Offer
- Victorian Interior: One of the standout features of The Princess Louise is its remarkable Victorian interior, which was painstakingly restored in 2007. The pub’s design includes elaborate tiling, grand mirrors, and a central mahogany island bar that harks back to its 19th-century origins. The detailed craftsmanship, from the mosaic floors to the stuccoed ceilings, makes it one of the most visually stunning pubs in London.
- Samuel Smith’s Ales: The pub is owned by the Samuel Smith Brewery, known for its affordable and high-quality ales. While the drink selection is limited to the brewery’s own products, it includes a variety of traditional ales, stouts, and lagers. The absence of mainstream brands adds to the pub’s distinctive character, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable given its central location.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Princess Louise is open from Monday to Saturday, typically from midday until 11 pm. On Sundays, it opens later, around 3 pm, and closes earlier, around 10:30 pm.
The Ship Tavern
Address: 12 Gate Street, Holborn, WC2A 3HP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship Tavern is tucked away on Gate Street, just a stone’s throw from Holborn Tube Station and the tranquil Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Its central location in the heart of Holborn makes it easily accessible, yet it retains an air of being a hidden gem in bustling London.
- What’s the Vibe? Steeped in nearly 475 years of history, The Ship Tavern exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere that harks back to Victorian times. The pub’s rich mahogany interiors, crackling fireplaces, and antique décor create a cosy, Dickensian ambiance, perfect for a quiet pint or a hearty meal. The upstairs Oak Room dining area adds a touch of elegance, making it a favoured spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Fare: The Ship Tavern prides itself on offering classic British pub food. Their menu is a homage to British culinary traditions, featuring favourites like beef wellington, homemade pies, and scotch eggs. The Oak Room’s setting adds to the experience, with dishes served in a charming, historical setting complete with candlelit tables and Victorian trinkets.
- Real Ales & Whiskies: The main bar is known for its selection of ‘Cask Marque’ certified real ales, which rotate regularly to offer something new for ale enthusiasts. Additionally, the pub boasts an extensive whisky collection and a curated wine list, making it an ideal place for both casual drinks and more refined tasting experiences.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Ship Tavern is open Monday to Wednesday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am, and Sunday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. It’s worth noting that the Oak Room dining area upstairs opens at noon.
Scarfes Bar
Address: Rosewood London, 252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Scarfes Bar is nestled within the luxurious Rosewood London hotel, situated on High Holborn, a prime location just a short stroll from Covent Garden. Its central position makes it easily accessible, yet it exudes a sense of exclusivity.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at Scarfes Bar is a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The decor pays homage to British political cartoonist Gerald Scarfe, whose original artwork adorns the walls, creating a gallery-like ambiance. The setting is enhanced by plush velvet armchairs, dim lighting, and shelves lined with antique books, giving it a club-like, cosy feel. Live jazz performances further elevate the atmosphere, making it both lively and intimate.
What’s On Offer
- Artisanal Cocktails: Scarfes Bar is renowned for its meticulously crafted cocktails. The latest menu, titled From Scratch, offers 22 unique drinks that reimagine classic cocktails with a modern twist. Highlights include the Spring Lady, a contemporary take on the 1919 White Lady, and the Ramos & Eve, a luxurious variation of the Ramos Gin Fizz. The bar’s dedication to using homemade ingredients ensures each drink is an experience in itself.
- Live Jazz Music: One of the standout features of Scarfes Bar is its commitment to live music. Every evening, the bar hosts live jazz sessions, starting around 8 PM. These performances complement the bar’s refined setting, making it a perfect spot for both a relaxed evening drink or a more vibrant night out, especially on weekends.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Scarfes Bar’s combination of exquisite cocktails, live music, and artistic ambiance makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of London’s bar scene.
The Gin Bar
Address: 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Gin Bar is located within the luxurious Rosewood London hotel in the heart of Holborn, a short walk from Covent Garden. This central London location is easily accessible and perfect for both locals and visitors exploring the city’s historic and cultural landmarks.
- What’s the Vibe? The Gin Bar exudes a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, characterised by its elegant, copper-topped bar. The venue combines traditional British charm with modern sophistication, offering a cosy and inviting space to enjoy a drink. The interior features rich russet leather, reclaimed oak, and antique mirrors, giving it a clubby, heritage feel that’s both trendy and timeless.
What’s On Offer
- London’s Largest Gin Collection: The Gin Bar boasts London’s most extensive collection of gins, with over 500 varieties and 30 tonics available. This allows for more than 14,000 possible gin and tonic combinations, catering to both gin enthusiasts and casual drinkers. The selection includes well-known international brands, as well as unique, small-batch gins from local distilleries, making it a paradise for gin lovers.
- Exclusive Gin Tastings & Masterclasses: For those looking to deepen their appreciation of gin, the bar offers exclusive gin tastings and masterclasses. These sessions are led by knowledgeable bartenders who guide guests through the history, production, and tasting notes of various gins. It’s a perfect way to explore new flavours and learn about the intricate art of gin-making.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Gin Bar is open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
This venue perfectly marries the charm of a traditional British gin bar with the elegance of a luxury hotel, making it a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for this quintessentially British spirit.
The Square Pig
Address: 30-32 Procter Street, London, WC1V 6NX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Square Pig is situated in the heart of Holborn, just a short walk from Holborn Underground Station. The venue is conveniently located near Bloomsbury, making it an accessible spot for both locals and visitors exploring central London.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Square Pig is a blend of modern and traditional pub elements. With its eclectic mix of industrial decor and cosy corners, it offers a relaxed environment perfect for everything from a casual lunch to after-work drinks. The venue’s diverse interior spaces cater to various moods, whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a quiet nook.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal Menu: The Square Pig prides itself on its ever-changing menu that reflects the best of seasonal produce. As of September 2024, they have introduced a new menu featuring classic pub dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, perfect for enjoying with family and friends.
- Live Sports and Events: For sports enthusiasts, The Square Pig offers live screenings of major sporting events, including Premier League matches. The venue is equipped with multiple screens, making it an ideal spot to catch the game with a pint in hand.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Friday from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm. It remains closed on Sundays. Food service hours differ slightly, so it’s advisable to check in advance if you plan to dine.
Ready to Visit?
Holborn, a bustling area in central London, offers a diverse selection of bars and pubs, each with its own unique charm. Whether you fancy a historic pub experience or a sophisticated cocktail, there’s something for everyone near Holborn Tube. Notable mentions include The Princess Louise, a beautifully restored Victorian pub known for its ornate interiors and Samuel Smith’s ales, and Scarfes Bar, a sophisticated venue in the Rosewood London hotel, offering artisanal cocktails and live jazz in an art-inspired setting.
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