If you’ve hopped off at the Woolwich Clipper stop, you’re in for a cracking evening out – just don’t ask for a gondola! Woolwich has come a long way, mixing riverside charm with proper pub history. You’ve got classic locals, riverside terraces, trendy cocktail dens and a sprinkling of Thai‑fusion magic. Whether you fancy a cosy pint in a restored armoury or a spritz with Thames views, this lively corner of south‑east London has something up its sleeve. Here’s a quick taste of the best bars and pubs just steps away from Woolwich Clipper.
The George IV
Address: 120 Rectory Place, Woolwich, SE18 5BY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in a post‑war housing estate in southeast London, this corner‑plot pub sits just a short walk from Woolwich Dockyard station and local bus stops, making it easy to reach.
- What’s the Vibe? Recently refurbished in March 2025 and now part of Craft Union Pub Co, it offers a community‑focused, “wet‑led” local feel. Expect a friendly atmosphere, live sport, music and typical pub games such as darts and pool.
What’s On Offer
- Wide Variety of Drinks & Seasonal Offers: A solid selection of regular cask ales like Fuller’s London Pride and Wychwood Hobgoblin Ruby, plus rotating promotions on lagers, spirits and cocktails.
- Sporting & Entertainment Hub: Sky and TNT Sports on HD screens, quiz nights every Tuesday (8–10 pm), occasional live music and a sports‑focused area featuring a renovated pool table.
- Outdoor Patio: Side‑covered patio with café‑style seating and festoon lighting
- Private Hire: Weekend function‑hall availability for private hire until 3 am.
- Features & Facilities: Real ale, free Wi‑Fi, dog‑friendly, family‑friendly, gardens, parking, darts & pool, HD sports TV, smoking area, live music, function rooms.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday & Sunday: 11:00 AM–Midnight
- Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM–1:00 AM
The Guard House
Address: No 1 Street, Royal Arsenal, SE18 6GH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled at the heart of the Royal Arsenal regeneration, this Grade II‑listed former guardhouse sits just a minute’s stroll from Woolwich Arsenal Elizabeth line and DLR station — ideal for visiting from central London or even Heathrow.
- What’s the Vibe? A blend of historical charm and contemporary comfort: you’ll find cosy bar rooms, a modern restaurant extension and a light‑filled conservatory. The atmosphere is warm and vibrant – perfect for everything from after‑work drinks to weekend brunch
What’s On Offer
- Real Ales, Craft Beers & Cocktails: The venue boasts multiple hand‑pumps serving real ales, complemented by a curated selection of craft beers, wines and inventive cocktails served in both bar and restaurant areas.
- Seasonal British Menu & Sunday Roasts: Expect hearty, seasonal British dishes with twist – particularly their renowned Sunday roast served weekly. Ideal for families or groups enjoying classic pub fare.
- Events, Private Rooms & Pub Weddings: Regular events include quiz nights (chalked up weekly on the pub’s sign), plus private dining rooms and unique wedding packages set against the historic backdrop of the Arsenal.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open daily from 10:00 until 22:00 for breakfast, lunch, afternoon drinks, dinner and Sunday lunches.
The Elephant & Castle
Address: 18 Greens End, Woolwich, SE18 6JY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled at the edge of Beresford Square and just steps from Woolwich DLR station, this historic pub sits in the heart of Woolwich’s market district.
- What’s the Vibe? An independent, traditional pub with a home‑from‑home feel. Expect wood‑panelled interiors, a mural depicting 1950s Beresford Square, pool tables and TVs showing Sky Sports. A lively but unpretentious atmosphere suited to locals and visitors alike.
What’s On Offer
- Heritage: A Grade II‑listed building (listing since 1973) originally part of Beasley’s Brewery before transfer to Courage in 1963, the pub dates back to at least the mid‑19th century. Its notable mural celebrates Woolwich’s old market and tram‑lined streets.
- Traditional Pub Games & Sports Broadcasts: Enjoy a game of pool and catch major sporting fixtures including football and rugby on-screen throughout the week.
- Classic Pub Space with Historic Mural: The pub’s interior features a superb heritage mural from the late 1940s or early 1950s, offering a charming glimpse of Woolwich’s past.
- Facilities: Family‑friendly until early evening, equipped with pool, Sky/TNT Sports, free Wi‑Fi. Dogs are not permitted.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday: 08:00–21:00
- Friday–Saturday: 08:00–22:00
- Sunday: 08:00–21:00
The River Ale House
Address: 131 Woolwich Road, Greenwich, SE10 0RJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on Woolwich Road in East Greenwich, just a short stroll from Westcombe Park and Maze Hill stations, and not far from the DLR at Cutty Sark.
- What’s the Vibe? A laid‑back, rustic micropub with exposed brick, wooden scaffolding‑board furniture, high benches and low‑key background music. Dog‑ and board‑game‑friendly, it attracts a friendly, slightly younger crowd and even Charlton Athletic fans on match days
What’s On Offer
- Real Ales & Ciders: Typically six to eight rotating cask ales, plus a dozen or so ciders, complemented by bottled, canned beers, gins, wines, rums, whiskies and soft drinks – all served with tasting notes and sometimes tasters.
- Regular Folk Music Night: Every Tuesday from around 8:30 pm, the pub hosts an open‑mic folk session – impromptu, welcoming and instrument‑friendly.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday: from 4 pm (until 11 pm
- Friday: from 2 pm to 11 pm
- Saturday: midday to 11 pm
- Sunday: from 1 pm to 11 pm
The Dial Arch
Address: Riverside, The Warren, SE18 6GH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located within the historic Royal Arsenal Riverside development on the south bank of the Thames, The Dial Arch sits just a minute’s walk from Woolwich Elizabeth Line station and around five from the DLR and mainline rail – making it exceptionally accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? A beautifully restored Grade II* listed munitions building, the pub exudes a grand-industrial charm. Inside are spacious communal sofas, multi-zone seating areas, a central bar beneath a glass ceiling, and a real fire for cosiness. Outside, there’s a buzzing riverside terrace perfect for al fresco lounging.
What’s On Offer
- Hearty Seasonal British Food & Pub Classics: From brunch and sandwiches through to pizzas and Sunday roasts, the kitchen uses seasonal British ingredients. Popular menu items include a full English, Eggs Benedict, fish‑finger sandwich and epic Sunday roasts complete with Yorkshire puddings and the option of vegan versions.
- Cocktails, Cask Ales & Spritzes: The bar menu ranges from well-kept Young’s cask ales (plus local Hop Stuff brews) to crafted cocktails – especially spritzes in summer – and a carefully curated wine list. They also host events like blind wine tastings.
- Private Hires, Weddings & Events: Offering flexible event spaces – including the Montgomery Room, Wellington Room and the Pantry – for everything from birthdays and business gatherings to weddings. Packages include seasonal menus, drinks stations, cake arrangements, and planning support.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible (via cobbled pavement). Disabled toilets are available, though there’s no on-site parking – nearest is a short walk from the Heritage car park
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00–23:00 (Friday & Saturday late nights until midnight)
- Sunday: 10:00–23:00
- Food Service:
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00–22:00
- Sunday: until 21:30
Ready to Visit?
Woolwich is no longer just a gateway to the Thames – it’s a full-on destination in its own right. A quick hop off the Clipper and you’re met with a winning mix of characterful pubs, riverside charm and regenerated historic spaces. Whether you’re after local ales in a market-square boozer like The Elephant & Castle, Sunday roasts and cocktails at the elegant Dial Arch, or live folk music at the rustic River Ale House, there’s something for every kind of drinker. It’s a cracking patch of south-east London that blends heritage, hospitality and good cheer.
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Tried a pint or two in Woolwich lately? Pop into one of these standout spots, bring your mates along, and don’t forget to share this guide with fellow pub-lovers. Leave a review and let us know where your next round’s coming from!
