Ready for a tipple or two near Kew Bridge? This bustling area isn’t just about scenic riverside walks and the botanical beauty of Kew Gardens; it’s a goldmine for some of the cosiest and most charming bars and pubs you’ll find in London. Whether you’re after a classic British pub experience with a pint of real ale in hand, or looking to sip on sophisticated cocktails with a view of the Thames, the spots around Kew Bridge Rail Station have got you covered. Let’s dive into the heart of this vibrant drinking scene and discover the best watering holes where you can unwind, chat, and maybe even make a few new friends. Cheers to exploring the hidden gems of Kew Bridge’s nightlife!
The Express Tavern
Address: 56 Kew Bridge Rd, Brentford, TW8 0EW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Express Tavern is located on the northern bank of Kew Bridge, offering a scenic spot that’s steeped in history. This venue, a short walk from the Kew Bridge Steam Museum, the Musical Museum, and Kew Gardens, has been a local landmark for over 200 years, originally serving as a coaching inn stop from London to Bath.
- What’s the Vibe? With its warm welcome, the pub boasts a CAMRA award-winning selection of beers and a spectacular outdoor space. The interior offers a cosy atmosphere with a modern twist, maintaining its traditional pub charm. The venue is split into two drinking areas, including a large heated glazed conservatory and a spacious beer garden, making it an ideal place for a relaxing drink or a meal.
What’s On Offer
- Culinary Delights: The Express Tavern prides itself on its unfussy, homemade pub classics like great burgers, pulled pork, BBQ ribs, and especially their Sunday roasts. Their seasonal menu reflects the best of British cooking, prepared with great ingredients and lots of love.
- Beverage Selection: Boasting 10 cask ales, 15 keg lines, and 5 ciders, the Tavern ensures a varied and constantly changing selection of drinks. The range of bottled beers, ciders, affordable wines, and carefully selected spirits caters to all tastes. Their commitment to quality is evident in the regular introduction of new guest beers and offers.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours are Sunday to Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, and Friday to Saturday from 11 am to Midnight.
One Over the Ait
Address: 8 Kew Bridge Road, Brentford, London, TW8 0FJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? One Over the Ait is strategically located on Kew Bridge Road, offering a prime spot for both locals and visitors. Its proximity to the Thames makes it an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy the scenic views and the vibrancy of West London.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue provides a perfect combination of traditional pub charm with a modern twist, making it an ideal location for enjoying live sports, with a view of the action from every table. It’s celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a range of activities such as pool, darts, and football tables in the Player’s Lounge, or relax in the terrace and garden area.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Menu & Special Diets: One Over the Ait offers a wide array of dining options, from refined pub classics crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients to specific dietary accommodations such as vegetarian and gluten-free options. The menu includes British pub and gastropub fare.
- Live Sports: The pub is a go-to destination for live sports enthusiasts, offering an immersive viewing experience with big screen sports viewing facilities, including BT Sports and Sky TV.
- Private Events: It also caters to private events, providing a versatile space in the Player’s Lounge for celebrations or casual get-togethers.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open seven days a week, with operating hours from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM from Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Saturday, and 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM on Sunday.
One Over the Ait combines the warmth of a traditional British pub with modern amenities and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a casual meal, a special occasion, or to catch a live sports event, it promises an enjoyable experience with its diverse offerings and accessible location.
The Greyhound
Address: 82 Kew Green, Richmond, London, TW9 3AP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Greyhound is an independent, family-run gastropub situated a stone’s throw away from the renowned Kew Gardens. This cosy establishment boasts a prime location with the charm of Kew Green adding to its allure.
- What’s the Vibe? With a focus on premium food offerings, seasonal and locally sourced produce, and a fine selection of wine, draught beers, real ales, and cocktails, The Greyhound creates a welcoming atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy their visit in the bar area, the first-floor dining area that offers stunning views of Kew Green, or the beautiful beer garden.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal & Locally Sourced Cuisine: The Greyhound prides itself on menus that change seasonally, packed with the best ingredients from British producers. All food is cooked from scratch, including pub classics and Chef’s week specials, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Special Events & Offers: The venue hosts various events and offers, such as weekday lunches for £8, happy hour on Fridays and Saturdays, Friday Fizz for £20, and a famous family-style Sunday Roast. These offerings cater to different tastes and provide a reason to visit any day of the week.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Greyhound’s opening hours cater to a wide audience, with the bar open from 12 pm on weekdays and 11:30 am on Sundays. The kitchen operates from 12 pm to 9 pm Monday to Saturday, and 11:30 am to 8 pm on Sunday, making it a perfect spot for both lunch and dinner.
The Cricketers
Address: 79 Kew Green, Richmond, TW9 3AH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Cricketers is situated with an enviable position and terrace overlooking Kew Green. It is described as the closest pub to Kew Gardens, near The Thames and Kew Pier, featuring a large beer garden that is dog-friendly.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional free house offers a welcoming and warm atmosphere for visitors. With its location offering picturesque views over Kew Green, it provides a serene and inviting ambiance, perfect for a relaxing visit.
What’s On Offer
- Sunday Roasts & Burger Thursday: The Cricketers boasts a diverse menu, with special mentions for its Sunday Roasts and Burger Thursday. These offerings highlight the pub’s commitment to providing quality, heartwarming meals that cater to a variety of tastes.
- Gluten-Free Options: Accommodating dietary requirements, the venue offers gluten-free options, ensuring that guests with specific dietary needs can enjoy their meals without concern.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12pm to 11pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 10pm. The kitchen operates from Tuesday to Friday between 12pm – 3pm / 4.30pm – 8.30pm, on Saturday from 12pm to 8.30pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Last orders are called 30 minutes before the closing times, and timings may vary on matchdays.
The Cricketers offers a unique blend of traditional British pub charm with a modern culinary twist. Its offerings, from the special Sunday roasts to gluten-free options, ensure a wide range of preferences are catered to. Coupled with its historical setting and proximity to London’s natural and cultural landmarks, it stands out as a must-visit venue for both locals and tourists alike.
The Bell & Crown
Address: 11-13 Thames Rd, Strand on the Green, London, W4 3PL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Bell & Crown is situated right on the banks of the Thames in Chiswick, blending the charm of a country pub with a prime London location. It’s known for its scenic riverside setting.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying superb food, fresh real ales, and friendly service.
What’s On Offer
- Dining: The menu features a menu of refined pub classics crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients, including daily chef’s specials and famous Sunday roasts.
- Private Events: The Bell & Crown caters to various events, from wedding receptions to birthday parties, providing a picturesque riverside location for celebrations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open Monday to Saturday from 09:00 – 23:00, and Sunday from 09:00 – 22:30, with food served until 21:00 or 20:00 on Sundays.
Ready to Visit?
Kew Bridge, a vibrant spot in London, is not just known for its scenic walks and the botanical splendours of Kew Gardens but also for its rich array of cosy and charming bars and pubs. Whether your preference lies in enjoying a pint of real ale at a traditional British pub or sipping on sophisticated cocktails with a Thames view, the area offers diverse options. Notably, The Express Tavern and One Over the Ait stand out for their unique atmospheres, quality drinks, and delicious food offerings. The Express Tavern, a historical site with over 200 years of history, offers a CAMRA award-winning selection of beers alongside a cosy setting, while One Over the Ait combines traditional charm with modern amenities, perfect for enjoying live sports or a meal with a view.
Share the Love
Why not give one of these bars a try on your next outing? Whether you opt for the historic charm of The Express Tavern or the lively atmosphere of One Over the Ait, you’re in for a treat. Don’t forget to share this article with friends and drop a review after your visit. It’s always a great time to explore new spots and create memorable experiences together. Cheers to discovering the hidden gems of Kew Bridge’s nightlife!