Looking for a pint with a side of posh? Holland Park’s got you covered. This leafy corner of West London is brimming with charming pubs and stylish bars. Whether you’re after a cosy spot like The Mitre, a gastropub serving seasonal British fare, or The Castle, a Victorian gem with a bohemian twist, there’s something for every tipple enthusiast. Not to mention The Ladbroke Arms, boasting a floral terrace perfect for sunny sips, and The Sun in Splendour, the area’s oldest pub with a delightful beer garden. So, lace up your finest brogues and explore the best watering holes Holland Park has to offer.
The Ladbroke Arms
Address: 54 Ladbroke Road, Kensington, W11 3NW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked away in a tranquil residential pocket of Notting Hill, The Ladbroke Arms sits just a short stroll from both Holland Park and Notting Hill Gate tube stations. Its charming, flower-adorned exterior makes it a standout spot on Ladbroke Road.
- What’s the Vibe? This gastropub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, blending rustic charm with refined elegance. Inside, you’ll find a cosy bar area leading to a raised dining room, while outside, a delightful terrace offers the perfect setting for sunny afternoons. The ambiance is relaxed yet lively, attracting both locals and visitors seeking quality food and drink in a comfortable setting.
What’s On Offer
- Award-Winning Cuisine: The Ladbroke Arms boasts a menu of seasonal dishes crafted from sustainable produce, earning it an AA Rosette for culinary excellence. Highlights include modern British fare with European influences, such as salt-cod brandade and sautéed kidneys with bacon.
- Exceptional Sunday Roasts: Renowned for one of the best Sunday roasts in London, the pub offers options like succulent pork belly and tender sirloin, accompanied by perfectly roasted vegetables and Yorkshire puddings. The attention to detail and quality ingredients make it a must-visit for roast enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Kitchen Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Castle
Address: 100 Holland Park Avenue, London, W11 4UA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of West London, The Castle sits on the corner of Lansdowne Road and Holland Park Avenue. Just a stone’s throw from Holland Park Underground Station, it’s ideally placed for both locals and visitors exploring the Notting Hill and Kensington areas.
- What’s the Vibe? The Castle boasts a charming blend of old and new. Its original Victorian tiled façade hints at the pub’s heritage, while inside, you’ll find a stylishly bohemian interior featuring wood panelling, etched glass, and statement chandeliers. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined – perfect for anything from casual drinks to special occasions.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Fare with a Modern Twist: The menu is a celebration of British pub classics, elevated with contemporary flair. Highlights include the slow-cooked steak & pale ale pie served with buttery mash and red wine gravy, and the beer-battered Atlantic haddock with minted crushed peas. There’s also a strong selection of vegetarian and vegan options, such as the spiced falafel burger and crispy cauliflower florets.
- Weekly Events: The Castle hosts a popular Sunday Roast from 12pm to 8pm, offering a comforting end to the week. On Tuesdays, quiz enthusiasts can test their knowledge from 7pm to 8pm.
- Private Hire: For those planning events, the pub offers private hire options, including a semi-private dining room and full venue hire, accommodating various group sizes and occasions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
The Hillgate
Address: 24 Hillgate St, London, W8 7SR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Hillgate is nestled on a quiet residential street just a two-minute stroll from Notting Hill Gate Underground Station. Tucked behind the bustle of the high street, it offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of west London’s Notting Hill.
- What’s the Vibe? This charming gastropub boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere with rustic wooden interiors, soft lighting, and a fireplace that enhances its cosy appeal. The venue attracts a diverse crowd – from locals enjoying a quiet pint to visitors seeking a quintessential British pub experience.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Cuisine: The Hillgate prides itself on a menu that celebrates fresh, seasonal British produce. Dishes range from hearty classics like Stilton-topped burgers and roast corn-fed chicken with Puy lentils to lighter options such as charcuterie plates and macaroni cheese. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring a fresh dining experience year-round.
- Renowned Sunday Roasts: A highlight of The Hillgate’s offerings is its acclaimed Sunday roast. Served from 9am to 9pm on Sundays, the roast features succulent meats, crisp roast potatoes, and seasonal vegetables, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
- Kitchen Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 – 15:00 & 17:00 – 22:00
- Saturday: 12:00 – 22:00
- Sunday: 9:00 – 21:00
The Windsor Castle
Address: 114 Campden Hill Rd, London, W8 7AR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled between Notting Hill, Holland Park, and Kensington, The Windsor Castle is a charming Grade II listed pub tucked away on Campden Hill Road. It’s just a short walk from Notting Hill Gate Underground station, making it easily accessible yet pleasantly secluded.
- What’s the Vibe? Stepping into The Windsor Castle feels like entering a cosy village inn. The pub boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere with traditional wood panelling, period features, and a series of intimate nooks and crannies. Its 1930s refurbishment introduced charming elements like low-beamed ceilings and snug compartments, offering a delightful blend of historic character and contemporary comfort.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Menu: The Windsor Castle offers a menu that celebrates classic British cuisine with a modern twist. Dishes are crafted using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavourful dining experience. From hearty mains to lighter options, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
- Sunday Roasts: A highlight of the week is the traditional Sunday roast, served from 12 pm to 8 pm, featuring succulent meats and all the trimmings.
- Courtyard Garden: During warmer months, patrons can enjoy their meals or drinks in the secluded courtyard beer garden – a hidden gem perfect for alfresco dining or a relaxing afternoon pint.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm
The Stables Bar
Address: 1-3 Kensington Ct, London, W8 5DL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Kensington, The Stables Bar is part of the five-star Milestone Hotel, situated directly opposite Kensington Palace and Gardens. It’s a short stroll from High Street Kensington station, making it easily accessible while offering a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle.
- What’s the Vibe? Once a functioning stable, the bar has been transformed into an intimate, sophisticated space that pays homage to its equestrian roots. Think dark wood panelling, green leather banquettes, tartan accents, and horse-themed artwork by Belgian artist Elie Lambert. The atmosphere is both cosy and refined, with natural light filtering through during the day and a warm, candlelit ambiance in the evening.
What’s On Offer
- Signature Cocktails & Creative Mixology: Under the guidance of resident Bar Manager Angelo Lo Greco, The Stables Bar offers a menu of inventive cocktails. Highlights include the “Milestone Old Fashioned,” infused with apple shisha tobacco smoke, and the “Rocking Horse,” a blend of Broken Clock Vodka, passionfruit, lemon, and Darjeeling kombucha. For those seeking a theatrical experience, the “Ride of the Valkyries” combines spiced rum, blackberry, orange blossom, and champagne.
- Elevated Bar Menu: The food offerings complement the drinks, featuring dishes like Yellowfin Tuna Tartare with lime and wasabi ponzu, a Wagyu & Brisket Beef Smash Burger, and a selection of caviar served with crispy potato rostis or blinis. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring a diverse menu to suit various preferences.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Stables Bar is open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Ready to Visit?
Holland Park and its surrounds offer a stylish slice of West London packed with characterful pubs and refined bars. From leafy terraces to cosy interiors, this area has something for every mood – whether you’re after a rustic Sunday roast or a creative cocktail in a plush setting. Highlights include The Ladbroke Arms, with its award-winning menu and floral terrace, and The Castle, a Victorian beauty known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty British fare. It’s an ideal destination for both a relaxed pint and a memorable night out.
Share the Love
Why not try The Castle or The Ladbroke Arms next time you’re in the area? Share this guide with your friends and let them in on the secret – and don’t forget to leave a review after your visit to help others find their perfect Holland Park pub. Cheers!
