If you’re around Loughborough Junction Station and fancy a pint or a cheeky cocktail, you’re in luck! This area boasts some hidden gems where you can enjoy a laid-back vibe, craft beers, and good company. From cosy traditional pubs to trendy bars with a twist, there’s something for everyone within a short walk of the station. Whether you’re grabbing a quick drink after work or looking for a spot to settle in for the evening, Loughborough Junction has plenty to offer. Cheers to exploring these local favourites!
Craft Metropolis
Address: Arch 263, 241 Coldharbour Lane, SW9 8RR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located under the railway arches of Coldharbour Lane in Brixton, Craft Metropolis sits in a vibrant part of South London. Just a short walk from Brixton station, it’s nestled in an area known for its buzzing nightlife, independent shops, and eclectic food scene.
- What’s the Vibe? Craft Metropolis offers a laid-back yet energetic vibe, perfectly balancing the feel of a modern beer lover’s haven with the cool industrial character of a railway arch. With its communal seating and quirky touches like arcade games and a projector, it’s a popular spot for both casual meet-ups and lively events.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer Selection: Craft Metropolis boasts an impressive 11 taps featuring independent beers from across the globe. Whether you’re into IPAs, lagers, or more experimental brews, they offer a curated selection, including beers from top names like Verdant, Polly’s, and Vault City. They also cater to diverse tastes with craft cocktails, local gins, and natural wines.
- Event Hosting: For larger gatherings, Craft Metropolis offers private hire of their arch for free, accommodating up to 75 people (or 100 with full hire). Guests get full use of the space, including an upstairs area, sound system, retro arcade machine, dartboard, and even a projector for personal use. They also collaborate with nearby food outlets to bring in pizzas from Yardsale Pizza or Mexican cuisine from Jalisco.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 5 pm – 9 pm
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4 pm – 10 pm
- Friday: 2 pm – 11 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm – 11 pm
- Sunday: 2 pm – 8 pm
Supercute Brewhouse
Address: Unit G1, Coldharbour Works, SW9 8RR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Supercute Brewhouse is situated in the vibrant area of Loughborough Junction, just a short walk from the train station. Housed in the historical Coldharbour Works, a former grain mill, this brewery is nestled in a bustling part of Brixton, South London, offering an industrial yet cosy vibe.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, making it an ideal spot for both craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The taproom features a spacious, minimalist setup with industrial charm, retaining the historic feel of the building. The brewhouse regularly draws in locals with its casual vibe and community-focused events.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer Selection: Supercute Brewhouse boasts a rotating selection of craft beers brewed on-site, with seven of their own beers on tap, ranging from session IPAs to pale ales. They also feature guest beers from local London breweries, along with cider, wine, and cocktails, ensuring a diverse offering for all tastes.
- Popcorn & Games: A quirky feature of this brewhouse is their working fairground-style popcorn machine, adding a fun, nostalgic touch. Guests can also enjoy their drinks while playing one of the many board games available, enhancing the relaxed and social atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Supercute Brewhouse is open Thursday to Saturday, from 18:00 to 23:30.
The Shrub & Shutter
Address: 336 Coldharbour Lane, London, SW9 8QH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the vibrant heart of Brixton, London, The Shrub & Shutter is close to the bustling Brixton Market, making it easily accessible and perfect for pre-event drinks if you’re heading to Brixton Academy. The bar is nestled in a trendy, up-and-coming area, surrounded by a mixture of independent shops and local culture.
- What’s the Vibe? The Shrub & Shutter offers an intimate, laid-back atmosphere with a focus on expertly crafted cocktails. The front room is a lively space, often filled with music, and has a more bustling, energetic feel, while the back room is quieter, ideal for groups or a more private setting. Expect hip hop beats and an alchemist’s lab of ingredients behind the bar, creating an exciting and experimental vibe.
What’s On Offer
- Signature Cocktails: The Shrub & Shutter is known for its innovative cocktails that combine unexpected ingredients and presentation. Drinks like the “Autopilot” come with quirky touches like a DIY paper aeroplane kit, while others, such as the “Georgetown Negroni”, are a mix of smoky and rich flavours. These unique creations are a true highlight and elevate the experience beyond your typical cocktail bar.
- Creative Small Plates: In addition to the drinks, the bar offers an international selection of small plates to complement your cocktail. Dishes like oxtail nuggets with papaya and scotch bonnet or marinated chicken skewers with mango salsa are just a taste of the adventurous, fusion-inspired menu. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy a drink alongside gourmet nibbles.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 5 pm – 1 am
- Thursday: 5 pm – 2 am
- Friday: 5 pm – 3 am
- Saturday: 12 pm – 3 am
- Sunday: 12 pm – 11 pm
The Cambria
Address: 40 Kemerton Rd, London, SE5 9AR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the heart of Denmark Hill, South London, The Cambria is a recently revamped local pub. Its central position makes it easily accessible for those living in or visiting the SE5 area, near Camberwell and Brixton.
- What’s the Vibe? The Cambria boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a mix of modern and classic pub aesthetics. You’ll find a leafy garden room, a cosy rear terrace illuminated by festoon lights, and an airy bar and lounge area. The pub is perfect for social gatherings, offering a laid-back vibe during the day and a lively, community feel in the evenings.
What’s On Offer:
- Delicious Pub Grub & Drinks: The Cambria offers a menu filled with generous portions of classic pub dishes and small plates to share. Their menu caters to diverse tastes, with standout Sunday roasts, plant-based options, and indulgent desserts. They also feature beers from the local Brixton Brewery, alongside a solid selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails.
- Shuffleboard Fun: One of the unique features of The Cambria is its shuffleboard table. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, guests can enjoy a round for just £5 per 30 minutes. This adds a fun, interactive element to any visit, making it a great spot for groups of friends.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? The Cambria is open from Monday to Saturday, 11:00am to 11:00pm, and on Sundays from 12:00pm to 10:30pm. They serve lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and dinner every evening, with kitchen hours varying slightly across the week.
Brixton Brewery Tap Room
Address: Arch 548, Brixton Station Road, SW9 8PF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the heart of Brixton, the Brixton Brewery Tap Room is nestled under the railway arches on Brixton Station Road. It’s just a short walk from Brixton Village and Brixton Station, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The taproom embraces the industrial-chic vibe, with its location under a railway arch giving it a spacious yet cosy feel. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with a community feel. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a casual pint, this spot is perfect for enjoying some local brews.
What’s On Offer
- Exclusive Beers & Taproom Favourites: The Brixton Brewery Tap Room serves up a selection of their freshest beers, including taproom-exclusive brews. They have a range of beers on keg, often offering about 10 different options, all brewed locally. The selection includes favourites like their Electric IPA and Coldharbour Lager, alongside some experimental brews that you won’t find elsewhere.
- Dog & Family Friendly: The venue welcomes both dogs and families. If you bring your dog, they’ll even offer a water bowl and a treat. It’s a great spot for casual afternoon meetups, and kids are welcome too – though they ask that children leave by 9 pm.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Wednesday – Friday: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Sunday: 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ready to Visit?
Loughborough Junction and Brixton offer a lively atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a relaxed drink or an evening out. With its blend of cosy pubs and trendy bars, the area is a hidden gem in South London. Whether you’re in the mood for craft beer at Craft Metropolis or a casual pint at The Cambria, there’s something for everyone. The industrial charm of these venues, particularly under the railway arches, adds a unique flavour to the vibrant local scene.
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Why not head to Craft Metropolis for a taste of independent brews, or stop by The Cambria for a laid-back gathering? Share this article with friends, and don’t forget to leave a review after you’ve explored these local favourites!