Alright, Farringdon folks and thirsty travellers, ready for a pint? Just a hop, skip, and a stumble from the Farringdon station lies a treasure trove of bars and pubs. Whether you’re after a cosy corner for a quiet pint or a buzzing spot for a night out, Farringdon’s got you covered. We’re talking historic taverns oozing charm, trendy bars serving crafty concoctions, and everything in between. So, forget the map, let’s embark on a liquid adventure through Farringdon’s finest – cheers to that!
The Castle
Address: 34-35 Cowcross St, Greater, London EC1M 6DB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Castle Farringdon is located in the historic Farringdon area within the City of London’s square mile. This spot is near the iconic Smithfield Market and just across the road from Farringdon tube and mainline station.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue combines traditional elements with contemporary touches. It features exposed brickwork and traditional wood panelling, creating a comfortable and spacious bar area. It reflects the upbeat vibe of its Farringdon neighbourhood, buzzing with customers during milder months and maintaining the authenticity of a true British local.
What’s On Offer
- Historical Charm: The Castle is housed in a Grade II listed building with a rich history, including a pawnbroker’s licence issued by King George IV. The venue offers a laid-back yet distinctly memorable drinking and dining experience suitable for various occasions.
- Extensive Drink and Food Menu: The Castle Farringdon boasts a range of continental Pilsners, British brews, local craft ales, accessibly priced wines, and various ciders. Their British menu includes burgers, deep-fill sandwiches, bangers with spring onion mash, Devon crab cakes, steaks, and superfood salads, along with bar snacks like beef brisket cubes and pumpkin and kale croquettes.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 23:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 23:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 20:00 PM
The Castle Farringdon stands out as a venue that seamlessly blends its historical roots with modern culinary and social experiences, making it a must-visit spot in London.
The Fence
Address: 67-69 Cowcross St, London EC1M 6BP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Fence is situated in the vibrant area of Farringdon, London. This address is easily accessible and well-known for its lively city atmosphere.
- What’s the Vibe? The Fence boasts a stylish interior with a blend of chrome and blond wood, complemented by comfortable couches and sofas. The venue is recognised for its splendid garden and alfresco space, complete with its own bar and BBQ area, offering a welcoming and airy atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Food: The Fence offers a menu that includes modern dishes with Mediterranean influences, featuring options like platters of cured meats, burgers, rib-eye steaks, and more. Vegetarian-friendly dishes are also available.
- Drinks: The venue offers a range of Fuller’s brews and a respectable collection of reasonably priced wines.
- Spacious Beer Garden: One of the main attractions is its large beer garden, which is regarded as one of the best in the city. This space can accommodate up to 150 guests, making it an ideal spot for celebrations and casual gatherings.
- Events: Additionally, The Fence is known for hosting special occasions like wedding receptions and birthday parties.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Fence is open Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM or midnight, with varied food serving hours. On Saturdays, it opens from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, while on Sundays, it is available for private hire only.
Simmons Bar
Address: 105 Charterhouse St, Barbican, London EC1M 6HW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Simmons Bar is situated a few minutes’ walk from Farringdon Station in the heart of London. The bar is well-positioned near the famous and historic Smithfield Market, making it easily accessible by public transportation.
- What’s the Vibe? Known for its retro decor and quirky styling, Simmons Bar creates a fun and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular destination for both social gatherings and intimate evenings. The ambiance is further enhanced by awesome DJs and a vibrant, party-like environment, especially on weekends.
What’s On Offer
- Signature Happy Hour Specials: Simmons Bar is recognised for its legendary five-hour-long Happy Hour, offering great deals like 2 cocktails for £10, and other discounted drinks. This has been a defining feature of the bar, making it a go-to spot for after-work drinks and early evening socialising.
- Vibrant DJ Nights and Club Space: The bar boasts an exciting underground club space that comes alive with some of the best DJs around, from 8 pm onward from Thursday to Saturday. This feature caters to those looking for a lively nightlife experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Tuesday: 4 pm – 11 pm
- Wednesday: 4 pm – 12 am
- Thursday – Saturday: 4 pm – 2 am
- Sunday: Closed
Simmons Bar has made a name for itself in the London bar scene with its distinctive offerings, especially its extended happy hour and lively weekend DJ nights. Its convenient location and inviting atmosphere make it a popular choice for a wide range of customers.
White Bear
Address: 57 St John St, London EC1M 4AN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? White Bear is situated in the heart of London, a short walk from Farringdon Station and near Smithfield market. Its address is 57 St John Street, London EC1M 4AN, in the bustling neighborhood of Islington.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub blends the charm of a traditional English pub with contemporary elements. It’s housed in an 18th-century building that has been lovingly restored. The interior features captivating traditional decor, including a Victorian fireplace, wooden panels, glossy embossed wallpaper, and decorative tiles, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Rotating Craft Beers and Artisan Sourdough Pizzas: White Bear is known for its rotating selection of craft beers and artisan sourdough pizzas. The beers are a mix of mainstream and craft options, catering to a variety of tastes. Their pizzas are Neapolitan style, made to order, and have been praised for their authenticity and quality.
- Cocktails and Quality Wines: Alongside beers and pizzas, White Bear offers a classic list of cocktails and quality wines. The cocktail menu includes both classic options and fun shots, making it a great spot for an evening out with friends or colleagues.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Sunday: Closed
The kitchen operates from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM on days it’s open, offering lunch and dinner options.
White Bear is a charming blend of old and new, offering a range of drinks and food in a setting that echoes the history of London pubs. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this pub is worth a visit for its unique ambiance, quality offerings, and prime location.
The Conductor
Address: 1 Fleet Pl, London EC4M 7RA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Conductor is ideally situated opposite the City Thameslink Station and is within walking distance from St Paul’s tube station, Chancery Lane, and Blackfriars. This makes it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Conductor presents a trendy and stylish ambiance, perfect for a variety of occasions. Its interior boasts panelled walls, a geometric-patterned bar, and warm lighting, creating a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere. An alfresco terrace adorned with fairy lights and a living wall adds to its charm, especially in warmer weather. The venue is known for its laid-back yet indulgent vibe, making it a great spot for casual drinks or a special dining experience.
What’s On Offer
- Innovative Dining: The Conductor offers a menu designed for sharing, featuring a mix of indulgent yet healthy culinary delights, including options for vegans and those preferring gluten-free meals. Their signature dishes change seasonally, emphasising the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes items like battered haddock with triple-cooked chips, handmade sandwiches, and sharing platters.
- Beverage Selection: This venue is renowned for its wide range of craft beers, with 14 taps continuously rotating to offer new flavors. Alongside this, they serve expertly curated wines, classic cocktails, and an impressive selection of non-alcoholic drinks, catering to all tastes.
- Private Events and Functions: The Conductor is well-equipped for hosting private events, ranging from business meetings to weddings and birthdays. Their dedicated event space, ‘The Conductor 2’, is a self-contained area with a private bar and a separate entrance, suitable for up to 60 guests standing or 30 seated. The main venue can accommodate larger groups with a capacity of up to 200 standing or 80 seated.
- Accessibility and Facilities: The venue is wheelchair accessible and has disabled access toilets. It also provides facilities like Wi-Fi, a projector, whiteboard, and a PA system, making it suitable for a variety of events and functions.
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: The Conductor is open from Monday to Friday, 12:00 – 23:00. Food service is available until 21:00 or 22:00 depending on the day. On Saturdays and Sundays, the venue is available for private hire.
Ready to Visit?
Farringdon, a vibrant and eclectic area near Farringdon station, is a haven for bar enthusiasts and those seeking a lively night out. From the historic and charming Castle Farringdon to the unique and garden-adorned The Fence, this locale offers a diverse range of drinking spots. Whether you’re in the mood for classic ales, inventive cocktails, or just a cosy atmosphere, Farringdon’s array of bars, including the trendy Simmons Bar and the traditional yet modern White Bear, caters to all tastes.
Share the Love
Why not dive into the dynamic bar scene of Farringdon? Whether it’s the classic charm of The Castle Farringdon or the eclectic vibes of The Fence, there’s something for everyone. Share this article with your friends, plan a visit to one of these fantastic bars, and don’t forget to share your experience and reviews with us. Your next memorable night out in London is just a pint away!