If you find yourself near Barbican Tube and fancy a drink, you’re in luck! This area boasts a great mix of bars and pubs, perfect for unwinding after a day in the city or catching up with mates. Whether you’re into cosy, traditional pubs or sleek cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone. From craft beers and classic ales to fine wines and creative cocktails, the bars around Barbican offer top-notch drinks and a buzzing atmosphere. Time to explore!
Fox & Anchor
Address: 115 Charterhouse Street, Barbican, EC1M 6AA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Fox & Anchor is situated on the edge of Smithfield Market, within easy walking distance from Barbican and Farringdon tube stations. Nestled in the historic Clerkenwell area, it enjoys a prime location perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant attractions, including St Paul’s Cathedral and the Barbican Centre.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue exudes old-world charm with a modern twist. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be enveloped by a cosy and warm atmosphere, complete with traditional decor that pays homage to its historical roots. The pub boasts a classic British feel with leather booths, wooden interiors, and a private snug known as the “Fox’s Den.” It’s an ideal spot for a hearty meal or an evening drink, attracting both city traders and local regulars alike.
What’s On Offer
- City Boy Breakfast & Pub Classics: Fox & Anchor is renowned for its gut-busting “City Boy Breakfast,” complete with a pint of Guinness, ideal for early risers. Beyond breakfast, the pub offers a delicious selection of British classics, such as braised lamb shank pie, steaks from Smithfield’s famous butchers, and seasonal game dishes. Their Sunday roasts are particularly popular, known for generous portions and served with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire puddings and rich gravies.
- Craft Beers & Cocktails: The pub features an excellent range of real ales and craft beers, with a rotating selection of guest ales. Additionally, their mixologists shake up some fantastic cocktails, perfect for an after-work wind-down or weekend treat. Whether you fancy a classic G&T or something more inventive like a Passionfruit Kiss, the drink menu offers plenty of options to suit all tastes.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
The Rising Sun
Address: 38 Cloth Fair, Barbican, EC1A 7JQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the historic Cloth Fair area, just a short walk from Barbican Station, The Rising Sun is tucked away in a quiet part of central London. Its location makes it a hidden gem for those seeking a more traditional pub experience in the City of London.
- What’s the Vibe? The Rising Sun exudes the charm of a classic London pub. It’s small, cosy, and full of character, offering a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a long day or having a pint with friends. The pub has retained many of its historic features, and some say it even carries a haunting aura—quite fitting given its ghostly past. With a warm, welcoming environment, this is a spot for both locals and tourists alike to soak in some old-world London charm.
What’s On Offer
- Sunday Roast: One of the highlights at The Rising Sun is its traditional Sunday roast. A hearty offering, it provides the perfect way to unwind at the weekend, whether you’re a local or exploring London. Their Sunday menu is a hit with regulars, especially after a leisurely walk through the Barbican area.
- Samuel Smith’s Brewery: All drinks at The Rising Sun are sourced from the renowned Samuel Smith’s Brewery. Known for its commitment to using authentic, natural ingredients, the pub serves a range of beers and ales, including their famous cask Old Brewery Bitter. This gives patrons a taste of traditional English brewing at its finest.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from Monday to Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Wood Street Bar & Restaurant
Address: 53 Fore Street, Barbican, EC2Y 8BD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Wood Street Bar & Restaurant is nestled within the Barbican complex in central London, a short walk from Moorgate station. Although it might be a bit tucked away, its location in this Brutalist architecture hub gives it a distinctive charm.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue has a cosy yet somewhat traditional pub feel despite its modern surroundings. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, with a warm, down-to-earth vibe. The bar attracts both casual drinkers and those looking for a good meal. There’s a two-floor setup, with a bustling bar upstairs and a more serene restaurant area downstairs, offering views of the nearby Barbican lake.
What’s On Offer
- Unique Beers & Ciders: Wood Street Bar is renowned for its selection of well-kept ales and ciders. You can find rotating options from local breweries, with past offerings including Redemption Revolver Amarillo and Sambrooks Tomahawk, as well as special ciders like SeaCider White Peach. The diversity of beverages is one of its standout features, perfect for ale and cider enthusiasts.
- Anglo-European Dining: The restaurant serves a menu inspired by modern European cuisine with seasonal influences. Signature dishes include Orkney fillet steak with triple-cooked chips and peppercorn sauce, and sea bass fillets with sautéed new potatoes. The restaurant also boasts a curated wine list featuring reputable producers, making it ideal for both casual and celebratory meals.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The venue is open Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM for both lunch and dinner service. It closes on weekends.
The Old Red Cow
Address: 71 Long Lane, Barbican, EC1A 9EJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the Smithfield area of London, The Old Red Cow is a stone’s throw from both Barbican and Farringdon stations. Nestled right by the historic Smithfield Market, it’s perfectly located for those exploring the City of London or attending an event at the Barbican Centre.
- What’s the Vibe? This cosy, two-floor pub exudes a traditional yet lively atmosphere. The downstairs bar is bustling, with a focus on craft beers and lively conversation, while the upstairs provides a quieter, more intimate space perfect for relaxed dining. The pub has a historic feel, yet is unpretentious and welcoming.
What’s On Offer:
- Rotating Beer Selection: The Old Red Cow prides itself on its diverse and ever-changing selection of beers. With up to 16 taps available, featuring local ales, international brews, and even a rotating brewery of the month, beer enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. This commitment to quality beer makes it a must-visit for craft beer aficionados.
- Sunday Roasts & Gastro Pub Fare: Known for its hearty and meat-heavy menu, this pub is a prime spot for a traditional Sunday roast, thanks to its proximity to Smithfield Market. The pub also offers well-regarded pub classics such as beer-battered fish and chips and seasonal specials, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? Open seven days a week, The Old Red Cow welcomes patrons from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, they close slightly earlier at 10:30 PM.
The Sutton Arms
Address: 6 Carthusian Street, Barbican, EC1M 6EB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Sutton Arms is tucked away on a side street in Barbican, just a short walk from Barbican Tube Station. Its central location makes it a popular choice for City workers and those exploring the nearby cultural spots like the Barbican Centre.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub has a welcoming, cosy atmosphere, blending traditional pub aesthetics with a modern twist. The space retains charming original features, including a stained-glass roof and opal glass light fittings, giving it a warm, inviting glow. Despite its proximity to busy areas, it maintains a relaxed feel, making it an ideal spot for after-work drinks or casual gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Charcuterie Boards & Toasties: The Sutton Arms is known for its artisanal food offerings, including a fantastic selection of charcuterie boards featuring high-quality Spanish and Italian meats, as well as British cheeses. Their toasties are also a hit, with standout options like the Three Cheese and Chutney toastie, which combines Cheddar, Gouda, and Goats Cheese for a delightful bite.
- Craft Beers and Tap Takeovers: Beer lovers will be thrilled by the pub’s extensive selection of craft beers, featuring both cask and keg varieties from UK breweries and beyond. Regular events such as Tap Takeovers highlight different breweries, making it an exciting destination for those wanting to explore unique and diverse beers.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Sutton Arms is open Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with slightly shorter hours on Saturday, closing at 8:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays.
Ready to Visit?
If you find yourself near Barbican Tube, you’re in for a treat with a range of excellent bars and pubs to explore. This lively area is home to a mix of traditional British pubs and modern cocktail bars, making it the perfect spot to wind down after a busy day or catch up with friends. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or craft beers, there’s something for everyone. Try Fox & Anchor for a classic British pub vibe with craft beers and hearty dishes, or The Rising Sun for a cosy, historic pub experience with a traditional Sunday roast.
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Why not pop into Fox & Anchor or The Rising Sun next time you’re near Barbican? Don’t forget to share this article with your friends, and leave a review after your visit to spread the word about these fantastic local spots!