If you’re hopping off the Tube at Oval and fancy a pint or a cheeky vino, you’re in luck! This South London neighbourhood might be best known for its cricket grounds, but it’s also got some cracking bars and pubs worth exploring. From traditional boozers with a warm, welcoming vibe to trendy spots where you can sip on craft brews or fine wines, the area around Oval Tube offers a delightful mix for any night out. Whether you’re after a cosy corner or a lively atmosphere, you’ll find just the right spot to raise a glass near Oval.
The Kennington
Address: 60 Camberwell New Road, London, SE5 0RS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Kennington is located on Camberwell New Road, in South East London. It’s well-positioned between the bustling areas of Kennington and Camberwell, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The pub is a short walk from Kennington Park, adding a touch of greenery to the surrounding urban environment.
- What’s the Vibe? The Kennington offers a cosy yet vibrant atmosphere, balancing a traditional British pub feel with a modern twist. Inside, you’ll find a blend of recycled furnishings and a minimalist decor, with quirky touches like a globe atlas sitting atop an old suitcase. The pub is known for its warm, welcoming environment, making it a popular spot for both casual drinks and more substantial meals. There’s also a snug area at the back, perfect for a more intimate setting, and a small front patio for outdoor seating.
What’s On Offer
- Gastro Pub Dining: The Kennington is celebrated for its high-quality, British-inspired menu. From weekday lunchtime specials to a classic Sunday roast, the pub prides itself on delivering hearty, well-prepared dishes. One standout feature is the varied selection of mains, including options like the “rump of belted Galloway beef with confit garlic mash”. The food is a significant draw, and the pub’s kitchen plays a central role in its appeal.
- Events: The pub regularly hosts events, including a popular Sunday quiz night, which starts at 7:30 PM.
- Special Offers & Happy Hour: Additionally, they offer enticing deals such as a burger and pint combo on Tuesdays, which has become a local favourite. Happy Hour runs from Monday to Thursday, 5 PM to 8 PM, making it a great spot for after-work drinks.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 5 PM – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
The Fentiman Arms
Address: 64 Fentiman Road, London, SW8 1LN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Fentiman Arms is nestled in a quiet residential street in Kennington, just a short walk from both Oval and Vauxhall tube stations. Its location makes it a convenient stop for locals and those heading to or from events at the nearby Oval cricket ground.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a warm and homely atmosphere, enhanced by its recent renovations that have given it a fresh yet cosy feel. Inside, you’ll find comfortable seating, snug lounging areas, and a laid-back, welcoming ambiance. The clientele is a mix of local residents and professionals, creating a lively yet relaxed environment, especially during evenings and weekends.
What’s On Offer
- Beautiful Beer Garden: One of the standout features of The Fentiman Arms is its expansive beer garden, which is perfect for those warmer days. The garden is adorned with festoon lights, providing a charming backdrop for an afternoon pint or a leisurely meal with friends. The space is well-maintained and offers plenty of seating, making it an ideal spot for both sunny and rainy days.
- Sunday Roasts & British Classics: The pub is renowned for its Sunday roasts, which come piled high with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy. They also offer a vegetarian roast option that is equally popular. Throughout the week, you can enjoy a menu filled with freshly prepared British pub classics, all of which pair nicely with their selection of craft beers, ales, and wines.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Fentiman Arms is open Monday to Saturday from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, and on Sundays from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm. The kitchen serves food from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm Monday to Friday, 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Sundays.
The Derby
Address: 336 Kennington Park Road, London, SE11 4PP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Derby is situated on Kennington Park Road, a prime spot in the heart of Oval, South London. It’s just a short stroll from the Oval underground station, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Derby has a welcoming and lively atmosphere, perfectly blending modern touches with a nod to its rich history. Following an extensive refurbishment in 2022, the pub now offers a comfortable and stylish interior, featuring a mix of bare-boarded and carpeted areas. The décor is a mix of traditional and contemporary, with Gaelic influences and exposed rafters giving it a warm, inviting feel. The pub is popular with a diverse crowd, from sports fans catching the latest game to those enjoying the vibrant live music scene.
What’s On Offer
- Live Sports: The Derby is a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts. It boasts five HD screens showing a wide range of live sports, including Premier League football, rugby, cricket, and more. Whether you’re a football fanatic or a boxing buff, The Derby has you covered.
- Live Music Fridays: Every Friday night, The Derby comes alive with live music, showcasing some of the best local talent. The performances start at 9 pm and create a great atmosphere to kick off the weekend, drawing in a crowd that appreciates good music and a lively environment.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Sunday to Tuesday: 12:00 – 23:30
- Wednesday and Thursday: 12:00 – 00:30
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 – 01:00
This pub offers a great mix of traditional and modern, making it a favourite spot in South London for a casual drink, watching sports, or enjoying live music.
The Hanover Arms
Address: 326 Kennington Park Rd, London, SE11 4PP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Hanover Arms is conveniently located on Kennington Park Road, just a stone’s throw away from the Oval Underground Station. This central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors, particularly those heading to or from The Kia Oval cricket ground.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub exudes a traditional, no-nonsense atmosphere, typical of many classic London pubs. It’s a comfortable spot for a pint, particularly popular with cricket fans and locals. The interior, while simple, is clean and well-kept, offering a bright and inviting environment. The pub often features sports broadcasts, adding to its lively yet relaxed vibe.
What’s On Offer
- Great Guinness: The Hanover Arms is particularly known for its exceptional Guinness, often praised as some of the best in London. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just enjoy a good pint, the quality here is consistently high.
- Live Sports: The pub features two large screens where live sports, especially football and cricket, are shown. This makes it a favourite spot for catching a game with friends, offering a great communal atmosphere for sports enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub opens from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM on weekdays, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, it closes slightly earlier, at 10:30 PM.
Mc & Sons
Address: 355 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 5QY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Mc & Sons is located in the heart of Vauxhall, just a short walk from Vauxhall Station, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The pub is situated on Kennington Lane, surrounded by the vibrant energy of South London.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue perfectly blends the charm of a traditional Irish pub with eclectic, rustic décor. Inside, you’ll find wooden panels, velvet bar stools, and a cosy atmosphere that harks back to a different era. Despite its Irish theme, Mc & Sons brings a lively yet laid-back vibe, ideal for a relaxed evening out. It’s a place where you can enjoy live Irish music, giving it an authentic yet slightly modern twist.
What’s On Offer
- Authentic Thai Cuisine: One of the standout features of Mc & Sons is its unique offering of authentic Thai street food. The menu, crafted by Thai chefs, includes a variety of small plates perfect for sharing, such as crispy fried cauliflower bites and duck spring rolls. For main courses, options like Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles add an exotic flair to the traditional pub experience.
- Live Music Nights: Another highlight is the live Irish music, which takes place weekly. These sessions fill the pub with the toe-tapping rhythms of traditional Irish tunes, making it a vibrant spot for music lovers. Whether you’re enjoying a meal or just having a drink, the music adds a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mc & Sons is open from Monday to Friday, 16:00 to 23:00 or later depending on the day. On weekends, it opens at 12:00, closing at midnight on Sundays and 01:00 on Saturdays.
This pub is a unique blend of cultures and offers a refreshing twist on the traditional pub experience, making it a must-visit if you’re in the Vauxhall area.
Ready to Visit?
Oval, South London, might be renowned for its cricket grounds, but it’s also home to some fantastic pubs and bars that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re after a traditional pub experience or something with a modern twist, the area around Oval Tube has you covered. For a cosy yet vibrant atmosphere, The Kennington on Camberwell New Road offers a perfect blend of traditional British pub vibes with modern touches, while The Fentiman Arms boasts a beautiful beer garden ideal for warm days. Both spots promise a welcoming environment and excellent food and drink options.
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Why not try one of these delightful pubs the next time you’re in the Oval area? Be sure to share this article with friends and don’t forget to leave a review after your visit!