Heading to Kensington Palace and fancy a cheeky pint or a classy cocktail? You’re in for a treat! Nestled in the heart of royal London, the area around Kensington Palace is brimming with some of the most charming pubs and swanky bars you’ll ever stumble across. From historic pubs oozing with character, where you can ponder over a pint just like the locals do, to trendy bars serving up fancy concoctions that’ll make your Instagram pop, there’s a spot for every mood. Whether you’re looking to soak up the royal vibes post-palace visit or just want to experience the local nightlife, these watering holes near Kensington Palace are not to be missed. Cheers to a royally good time!
Goat Tavern
Address: 3A Kensington High St, London W8 5NP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Goat Tavern is an 18th-century pub located in the heart of Kensington, London. It’s easily recognisable by its golden goat effigy and is situated near Kensington Palace, making it an ideal spot for visitors exploring local sights or attending events at The Royal Albert Hall.
- What’s the Vibe? The Goat Tavern boasts a rich history and an inviting atmosphere. It has original features from the 18th century and a beer garden. The pub has been a part of London’s social scene for centuries, historically frequented by notable figures like Lady Hamilton and Lord Nelson. It offers a blend of traditional charm and a welcoming environment for all visitors.
What’s On Offer:
- Delicious Dishes: The Goat Tavern prides itself on serving freshly cooked traditional pub food. Their menu includes British pub classics like hand-battered fish and chips, pie and mash, and succulent burgers. They also cater to various dietary needs with vegan, vegetarian, and non-gluten containing options.
- Sunday Roast: A standout feature is their Sunday Roast, offering choices like 28-day aged sirloin of beef, roasted half chicken, or nut roast wellington.
- Classic Cocktails & Premium Beers: Additionally, the tavern serves up classic cocktails, including the refreshing Blackberry Tom Collins, and features premium beers like Level Head Session IPA or Flint Eye Dry Hopped Lager.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- Friday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Saturday to Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm
- Monday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Tuesday to Thursday: Serving hours are from 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Goat Tavern is a historic pub that offers a unique blend of traditional British pub fare, classic drinks, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit venue in Kensington, London.
The Elephant & Castle
Address: 40 Holland Street, London, Greater London, W8 4LT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The venue is situated in a vibrant and accessible part of London, known for its rich history and cultural significance.
- What’s the Vibe? The Elephant and Castle presents a unique city center pub ambiance, blending traditional British pub elements with a touch of historical charm. The interior is adorned with historic front pages, reflecting its popularity among journalists. The atmosphere is cosy and welcoming, perfect for casual gatherings.
What’s On Offer:
- Beverage Selection: The pub boasts an exquisite selection of perfectly-poured, ever-changing Cask Ales, including their very own Nicholson’s Pale Ale, brewed by St Austell Brewery in Cornwall. Additionally, they offer a wide range of gins in their Gin Palace, featuring diverse flavor profiles from juniper-heavy to sweet and fruity.
- Specialty Pies: A key feature of The Elephant and Castle is its range of delicious, hearty pies. These include the award-winning Steak and Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie, along with other varieties like the Chicken and Truffled Oyster Mushroom Pie. The pies are known for their rich flavors and are a highlight of the pub’s menu.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Tuesday: 11:00 – 23:00
- Wednesday to Saturday: Not specified
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
The Elephant and Castle offers a quintessential British pub experience with its focus on seasonal specialties, mouth-watering favorites, and a wide range of drinks. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy traditional British cuisine in a historic and cosy setting.
Prince of Wales
Address: 8 Kensington Church St, London W8 4EP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Prince of Wales is an ornate 19th-century pub situated in Kensington, London. It’s located just 10 minutes from Kensington Palace, making it a convenient spot for both locals and tourists.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a traditional decor, creating a classic and cosy atmosphere. It’s a great place for sports viewing, with facilities like TNT Sports and Sky Sports available, enhancing its appeal to sports enthusiasts.
What’s On Offer:
- Cask Ales & Classic Pub Food: A key feature of the Prince of Wales is its selection of cask ales and classic pub food. This includes popular dishes like Fish and Chips, Steak and Ale Pie, and BBQ Chicken, catering to traditional British pub cuisine lovers.
- Happy Hour: The pub hosts Happy Hour from 7 pm until close, Thursday to Sunday, offering crafted cocktails and draught beers.
- Live Sports: Additionally, it’s a venue for watching live sports, including major events like the Six Nations 2024 rugby tournament, providing an unbeatable pub atmosphere for sports fans.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- The opening hours are as follows:
- Friday: 12:00 pm – 12:30 am
- Saturday to Thursday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- The serving hours for food are from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
- The opening hours are as follows:
The Builder’s Arms
Address: 1 Kensington Court Place, London, Greater London, W8 5BJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Builder’s Arms is located in a charming and accessible area of London, offering a quintessential British pub experience in the heart of the city.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a classic British pub atmosphere, combining traditional charm with a welcoming and relaxed ambiance. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a genuine slice of London pub culture.
What’s On Offer
- Food & Drink: As a traditional pub, The Builder’s Arms offers a range of classic British pub fare and a selection of beverages.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Opening Hours:
The Greyhound
Address: 1 Kensington Square, London W8 5EP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Greyhound is a Grade II listed pub situated in Kensington, London. It boasts a beer garden and is known for showing live sports.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a modern yet cosy ambiance, serving cask ales and cocktails. It’s a place where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a mix of traditional and contemporary elements.
What’s On Offer:
- Food & Drink: The Greyhound presents a modern menu featuring light bites and vegan options. They also have a range of low and no-alcohol options for those preferring non-alcoholic beverages.
- Live Sports: This venue is a hotspot for sports enthusiasts, especially during the Six Nations rugby tournament.
- Additional Features: Additionally, it’s dog-friendly and offers facilities for various functions, making it a versatile spot for different occasions.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- The Greyhound is open from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Saturdays, and until 10:30 PM on Sundays. From Monday to Friday, it serves guests from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Ready to Visit?
Kensington Palace and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of historic charm and contemporary flair, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a drink in royal London. This area is home to a variety of pubs and bars, each with its unique character. The Goat Tavern, an 18th-century pub, is renowned for its traditional British fare and classic cocktails, while The Elephant and Castle is celebrated for its seasonal specialties and hearty pies. Both establishments provide a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal spots for a post-palace visit or a casual night out.
Share the Love
If you’re planning a visit to Kensington Palace, don’t miss the chance to experience the local pub culture. Try a pint or a cocktail at The Goat Tavern or The Elephant and Castle, and immerse yourself in the area’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Share this article with your friends and encourage them to explore these gems. After your visit, we’d love to hear about your experience, so please share your review and let others know about your favorite spots!