Ready to explore the chic and sophisticated nightlife of Kensington and Chelsea? This part of London, known for its upscale charm and cultural flair, is a treasure trove of fantastic bars and pubs. Whether you’re after a classic pub experience with a pint of ale in a cosy corner, or a swanky bar where the cocktails are as creative as the clientele, Kensington and Chelsea have got you covered. Each spot oozes its own unique vibe, from historic establishments steeped in stories to modern venues pulsing with the latest trends. Let’s dive into the heart of this posh borough and discover the best spots for an unforgettable night out!
Hollywood Arms
Address: 45 Hollywood Rd, London SW10 9HX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Hollywood Arms is situated in the heart of Chelsea, a chic and upscale area in London. It’s close to iconic locations like Kings Road, Fulham Road, and Stamford Bridge, making it easily accessible and well-placed for those exploring the area or looking for a sophisticated spot to relax.
- What’s the Vibe? The Hollywood Arms offers a luxurious bar and restaurant experience with a beautiful interior. Its design includes elegant flamingo wallpaper and birdcages, adding an artesian flair. The ambiance is described as lively and magnetic, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s a favorite for Chelsea socialites and known for its dynamic atmosphere and chic pub setting away from the busier areas like Fulham Road.
What’s On Offer
- Special Menu and Cuisine: The gastropub serves premium drinks and fresh British food, focusing on gastro dining with fresh, British seasonal produce. They offer a range of dishes, including Sea bass, Greshingham Duck, and classic British pub grub like black pudding Scotch eggs and ale-battered haddock.
- The Boulevard Bar: A standout feature of Hollywood Arms is The Boulevard Bar. Inspired by English country estates, it’s a gin & cocktail lounge that boasts vibrant colors, quirky decor, and floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a bright and inviting space. This area is perfect for various occasions, including cocktail parties, weddings, and private dining. It has a capacity for 56 diners or 100 standing guests and is available for private hire.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- The venue is known for being busy but retains a genuine pub feel despite its trendy and upscale transformation. It’s a great spot for different times of the day, whether for brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks.
The Hollywood Arms has successfully transformed from a conventional pub to a trendy and glamorous gastropub over the years. It’s well-regarded for its chic atmosphere, high-quality British cuisine, and elegant spaces like The Boulevard Bar, making it a popular destination in Chelsea.
The Duke of Clarence
Address: 148 Old Brompton Rd, South Kensington, London SW5 0BE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, this venue is conveniently situated between Gloucester Road and South Kensington tube stations, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? This historic pub, known as a quintessential English pub, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Its interior, combining traditional charm with a touch of modernity, creates a cosy and comfortable environment. The pub is especially popular for its vibrant match-day atmosphere, being a favorite spot for watching live sports.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Cuisine and Premium Steaks: The Duke of Clarence is celebrated for its focus on high-quality British cuisine. The menu features a range of options from casual brunch and small sharing plates to lavish premium steaks, including their special Regency cuts. These dishes, made from grass-fed bulls for optimal flavor, are highly recommended and can be perfectly paired with a selection from their extensive wine list.
- Live Sports: As a top venue for live sports in South Kensington, the pub boasts an unparalleled match-day experience, particularly for fans of Chelsea FC. It features five large HD TVs showing live sports, ensuring an excellent view for its patrons.
- Signature Ales: Additionally, the pub serves a variety of ales, including the popular Young’s London Original, and a selection of beer-based bar snacks.
- Family-Friendly and Welcoming to Groups: The pub is known for being family-friendly and is well-suited for large groups or casual gatherings with friends.
- Historical Significance: As the oldest licensed building on Old Brompton Road, the pub is steeped in history, adding to its charm and appeal.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Queens Arms
Address: 30 Queen’s Gate Mews, Greater, South Kensington, London SW7 5QL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located at 30 Queen’s Gate Mews, Greater, South Kensington, London SW7 5QL, The Queens Arms is situated in a charming area, offering a cozy retreat in the bustling city.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub exudes a discreetly stylish and authentically British atmosphere, blending comfort with elegance. It’s a hidden gem where visitors can enjoy a memorable drinking and dining experience, perfect for those looking for a blend of classic British ingredients with a creative twist.
What’s On Offer
- Unique Culinary Offerings: The Queens Arms features an enticing menu with a variety of options. Highlights include Whole Baked Sourdough, Padrón Peppers, Rosemary & Garlic Camembert baked in sourdough, and a Charcuterie Board. For mains, the pub offers dishes like 10oz Ribeye Steak, Pan-Roasted Cod, and Beer-Battered Fresh Atlantic Haddock & Chips. Dessert options such as Belgian Chocolate Brownie and Spiced Sticky Toffee Pudding are also available.
- Craft Beers and More: The pub is renowned for its superb selection of cask ales, craft beers, fine wines, and artisan spirits. This wide array of drinks complements the food menu, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
- Inside & Outside Seating: The Queens Arms is also a great spot for winding down in the evening, offering both a beer garden and authentic interiors.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?: The Queens Arms is open every day of the week, with varying hours. From Monday to Saturday, the pub operates from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday, the hours are slightly shorter, from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch, a sumptuous Sunday roast, or simply a place to enjoy a craft beer, The Queens Arms in South Kensington provides an inviting and memorable experience.
The Goat Chelsea
Address: 333 Fulham Rd., London SW10 9QL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Goat Chelsea is situated in the heart of Chelsea, London. This location offers easy accessibility and places it within a vibrant area of the city.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Goat Chelsea is described as cosy, inviting, and rustic yet elegant. It’s known for its wooden accents and soft lighting, creating a warm ambiance. The venue is perfect for a romantic rendezvous, family outings, business lunches, or private parties. It’s also pet-friendly, adding to its welcoming environment.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Dining Options: The Goat Chelsea offers a variety of dining experiences including an Italian-inspired a la carte menu with options for everyone, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian choices. Notable offerings include bottomless wood-fired pizza and a variety of imaginative dishes that combine the finest seasonal ingredients. They also provide a special Sunday roast featuring choices like roasted beef, pork belly, chicken, and vegan Wellington.
- Special Events and Services: The venue hosts a range of events and offers various services. These include special offers like Happy Hour and a Wednesday Residents Night. Additionally, there’s a secret speakeasy for a more intimate experience, and a cocktail bar with a selection of original and classic cocktails. For those looking to host private events, The Goat Chelsea offers venue hire options with the capacity to accommodate up to 80 seated guests or 150 for standing receptions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Thursday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
The Goat Chelsea combines London’s history with modern dining, making it an appealing destination for various dining and social experiences. The venue’s diverse offerings, cosy atmosphere, and versatile services cater to a wide array of preferences, ensuring a memorable visit for its guests.
The Anglesea Arms
Address: 15 Selwood Terrace, South Kensington, London SW7 3QG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The pub is situated in South Kensington, London, providing a classic and comfortable environment.
- What’s the Vibe? The Anglesea Arms boasts a casual and authentic ambiance, often crowded, with a moderate noise level. It features outdoor seating and a full bar, ideal for group gatherings.
What’s On Offer:
- Seasonal British Menu: The pub is celebrated for its seasonal British menu, including favorites like roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and Beef Wellington.
- Sunday Roast: A standout feature is their Sunday Roast, especially the roast beef, noted for being delightfully cooked.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? The Anglesea Arms is open every day from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
The Builders Arms
Address: 1 Kensington Ct Pl, Greater, London W8 5BJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Builders Arms is nestled in the well-heeled Kensington area, surrounded by picturesque Georgian terraces. It’s in close proximity to various attractions such as the prestigious museums of the area, the Royal Albert Hall, and Kensington Palace Gardens.
- What’s the Vibe? The Builders Arms offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere, combining traditional wood-panelling and period features with contemporary touches. It boasts a bohemian-style bar, white-washed brickwork, and a vaulted skylight ceiling, creating a unique and inviting ambiance. This pub is known for its authentic community atmosphere, retaining many of its original Georgian features while adding a touch of urban refinement.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drinks: The menu at The Builders Arms features time-honoured British fare with a modern twist, catering to a range of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The pub is particularly praised for its excellent fish and chips, roast beef dinners, and other pub classics. It also has a full bar offering a selection of local and international beers, wines, and spirits.
- Special Events and Amenities: The Builders Arms is ideal for a variety of occasions like special events, casual dinners, and day drinking. It’s also a great spot for watching sports and enjoying a Sunday roast. The pub features an outdoor seating area which is particularly popular in the summer months, offering a perfect spot for al fresco dining or enjoying a drink while watching the world go by.
Practical Info
- Visiting Times The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Builders Arms is a blend of historical charm and contemporary style, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its location, coupled with its diverse menu and inviting atmosphere, makes it a must-visit spot in Kensington.
The Coopers Arms
Address: 87 Flood St, London SW3 5TB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Coopers Arms is located in the Chelsea neighborhood of London. It’s a short distance from the iconic King’s Road, placing it in a prime location within the city.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub maintains a nostalgic, Victorian Dickensian charm while offering a contemporary, stylish ambiance. It’s known for its comfortable and traditional atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- British Cuisine and Drinks: The Coopers Arms prides itself on its classic British menu with a modern twist. Highlights include traditional fish and chips, dry-aged steaks, and a famous Sunday roast. The pub also offers a selection of seasonal British dishes, with principles of British, seasonal, and fresh cooking at the forefront.
- Private Dining and Events: The Albert Room, an elegant space upstairs, is perfect for private dining and events. It provides a suitable ambiance for various functions, including weddings, corporate gatherings, and Christmas celebrations. The pub also hosts unique events like Christmas wreath making classes.
- Wide Range of Beers: The Coopers Arms is one of just two pubs in Chelsea tied to Young’s, known for its traditional London beers, craft pints, and real ale.
- Historic Building: The pub has a rich history, having been first licensed in 1831 and rebuilt in 1874. The building’s fine decorative frontage and attractive architectural details are noteworthy.
- Additional Features: The pub also offers various amenities such as a garden, lunchtime and evening meals, disabled access, a smoking area, a function room, and is dog friendly and Wi-Fi equipped.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Coopers Arms stands out for its mix of traditional British charm and contemporary offerings, making it a unique venue in the heart of Chelsea.
The Surprise
Address: 6 Christchurch Terrace, London SW3 4AJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Surprise is situated in a prime location in Chelsea, just steps away from the area’s renowned attractions and King’s Road’s legendary shopping district. This historical site has been a local landmark since 1853, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern flair.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, combining the comfort of a neighborhood pub with the sophistication of a modern British eatery. Its ambiance is a mix of classic and contemporary, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual meals to special celebrations.
What’s On Offer
- Contemporary British Cuisine: The Surprise prides itself on serving flavorsome, well-priced British-inspired cooking. With a focus on simple dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers a delightful culinary experience that emphasises seasonal flavors.
- Private Dining and Events: The venue features a private dining room, The Hamilton Room, perfect for hosting gatherings, celebrations, and meetings. It accommodates up to 35 guests for seated events and 50 for standing receptions, offering a versatile space for private functions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?:
- Lunch: Monday to Saturday from 12pm – 3pm, Sunday from 12pm – 8.30pm
- Dinner: Monday to Saturday from 6pm – 9.30pm, Sunday from 6pm – 8.30pm
- Bar: Open daily from 12pm – 11pm
The Surprise is more than just a pub; it’s a reflection of London’s vibrant history and contemporary culinary scene. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint, a hearty meal, or a venue for a special event, The Surprise offers a uniquely appetising experience in one of London’s most fashionable neighborhoods.
The Windsor Castle
Address: 114 Campden Hill Rd, London W8 7AR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Windsor Castle is an historic pub nestled between Notting Hill, Holland Park, and Kensington, offering a serene escape from the bustling city.
- What’s the Vibe? The Windsor Castle boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, characterised by its distinctive Victorian architecture. The lush beer garden and the interior’s eclectic decor, featuring period features and cosy fireplaces, contribute to its unique charm, making it an iconic spot amongst London’s pubs.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Fare and Drinks: The Windsor Castle is renowned for its traditional pub fare, which includes a variety of flavorful dishes with a creative twist. Highlights of the menu include small plates like Pan-Seared Scallops, Crispy Calamari, and Oak-Smoked Atlantic Salmon. The main courses range from classics like Beer-Battered Fresh Atlantic Haddock & Chips to Plant-Based Burger for vegan patrons. The pub also offers an extensive selection of beers, wines, and spirits to complement the food.
- Special Sunday Roasts: A standout feature is their Sunday Roast, a popular British tradition. The roast includes options like 21 Day-Aged Sirloin of Beef and Slow-Cooked Pork Belly, served with traditional accompaniments like Yorkshire pudding, thyme-roasted potatoes, and various vegetables. This offering highlights the pub’s commitment to British culinary traditions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Windsor Castle is open seven days a week. From Monday to Saturday, the pub operates from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday, it opens from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Britannia
Address: 1 Allen St, London W8 6UX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Britannia, tucked away just off Kensington’s busy High Street, occupies a historic site that was once the Britannia Tap Brewery and has been serving guests since 1834.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub blends traditional elements like a real fireplace and comfy leather armchairs with contemporary service, style, and simplicity. It’s known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual drink or dining experience.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Food & Drink: The Britannia offers a menu of traditional British classics with innovative twists. Their seasonal menu includes dishes like the classic Scotch egg, fish & chips, and a double chocolate brownie. They also have an extensive range of beers and ales, with special pairings for each course.
- Private Events and Celebrations: The venue features dedicated private rooms, namely the Monty and Willow Rooms, suitable for various events like family celebrations, wedding receptions, meetings, and corporate dinners. The pub is well-equipped to host special occasions with a touch of elegance and comfort.
- Festivie Celebrations: The Britannia is particularly noted for its festive celebrations, offering a cosy and jolly atmosphere during the Christmas season.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Britannia is open every day from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Monday to Wednesday) and 11:00 AM to 23:00 PM (Thursday to Sunday).
Ready to Visit?
Embark on a journey through the sophisticated and vibrant nightlife of Kensington and Chelsea, a district in London celebrated for its upscale charm and rich cultural scene. This area boasts an array of exceptional bars and pubs, each with its own unique character. From the elegant and stylish Hollywood Arms, known for its blend of traditional and modern tastes, to The Duke of Clarence, a quintessential English pub with a rich history and a diverse drink selection, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a cosy corner for a classic pint or a trendy spot for creative cocktails, Kensington and Chelsea’s nightlife promises an unforgettable experience.
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If you’re planning a night out in London, why not visit one of Kensington and Chelsea’s renowned bars? Whether it’s the chic Hollywood Arms or the historic Duke of Clarence, these spots are sure to provide a memorable evening. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and let them in on these hidden gems. And once you’ve experienced the magic of these bars, we’d love to hear your thoughts – share your review and spread the word about your favourite Kensington and Chelsea haunts!