Looking for a great spot to grab a drink near Waterloo Station? You’re in luck! This bustling part of London is packed with lively pubs and trendy bars perfect for unwinding after a long day or kicking off a night out. Whether you’re after a traditional pint in a cosy pub or fancy cocktails in a stylish bar, the area around Waterloo has it all. So, let’s dive into the best spots to raise a glass, just a short stroll from the station!
The Hole In The Wall
Address: 5 Mepham Street, London, SE1 8SQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Hole in the Wall is nestled under the railway arches of Waterloo Station, making it extremely accessible for commuters and tourists alike. Just a stone’s throw from the Victory Arch entrance of the station, this pub is ideal for a quick pint before catching a train or after a day exploring the South Bank.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a quirky, old-fashioned charm, with an interior that hasn’t changed much over the decades. Known for its down-to-earth, casual atmosphere, it draws in a diverse crowd—from office workers and rail commuters to rugby fans and tourists. It has a distinctly traditional British pub feel, with a laid-back vibe that welcomes regulars and newcomers alike. The arched ceilings add to the cosy, historic charm of the place.
What’s On Offer
- A Wide Selection of Beers: One of the standout features of The Hole in the Wall is its excellent beer selection. The pub offers six cask ales on rotation and over 25 beers on tap, including options from local independent breweries. Whether you prefer a classic ale like Greene King’s Abbot or something from a smaller craft brewery, there’s something for every beer lover here.
- Live Irish Folk Music: On Sunday evenings, the pub hosts live Irish folk music sessions, bringing together musicians and guests in a lively, friendly environment. These sessions start at 5 pm and are a perfect way to unwind at the end of the weekend.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from Monday to Thursday, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm; Friday and Saturday from 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm; and on Sundays from 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
Address: Unit G, Waterloo Station, SE1 7BH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Waterloo Lost Property Office is nestled within BrewDog Waterloo, located at the Sidings inside Waterloo Station, a central and convenient location for commuters and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? This speakeasy has a distinctive 1920s style, creating an atmosphere of mystery and charm. It’s a hidden gem that combines vintage décor with a modern twist, offering an intimate and relaxed setting for socialising over expertly crafted cocktails.
What’s On Offer
- Eclectic Seasonal Cocktail Menu: The bar is headed by award-winning mixologist Rich Woods, and it features a rotating menu of both classic and contemporary cocktails. The unique seasonal offerings mean there’s always something new to try, crafted with creativity and precision.
- Private Hire for Events: With a standing capacity of 50 and seating for up to 24 people, the venue is also available for private hire, making it an ideal spot for small gatherings, parties, or corporate events. The venue’s team can tailor the experience to fit the occasion, adding a personalised touch to your event.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The speakeasy is open every day from 7 PM.
The White Hart
Address: 29 Cornwall Road, London, SE1 8TJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The White Hart is tucked away in the historic area of Lambeth, just a short walk from Waterloo Station. The pub is situated in a quiet street near some of London’s best-preserved Dickensian terraces, giving it an authentic and quaint charm, despite being centrally located.
- What’s the Vibe? The White Hart blends traditional British pub culture with a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere. It is a local favourite known for its cosy and rustic interior, complete with a homely, friendly vibe. With regulars ranging from local workers to tourists, the pub is often described as lively yet relaxed, offering the perfect spot for a leisurely meal or a quick pint.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Sunday Roasts: The White Hart is celebrated for its great selection of craft beers and ales, including popular choices like Camden Hells. Their traditional Sunday roast is a standout offering, with tender lamb and perfectly made Yorkshire puddings, making it a must-try for those after a quintessential British pub experience.
- Big Screen Sports & Weekly Quiz Night: Aside from the food, the pub also has a large screen for live sports, making it a popular spot to catch football matches. In addition, The White Hart hosts weekly quiz nights, offering a bit of fun for groups looking for a relaxed evening out.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The White Hart is open every day of the week. From Monday to Saturday, the pub operates from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Sundays, it closes slightly earlier at 10:30 PM.
The Victory
Address: Unit 1, The Balcony, Waterloo Station, SE1 8SW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Victory is located right above the bustling concourse of London’s Waterloo Station. Perched on the Balcony level, it overlooks the famous Victory Arch, making it a convenient and scenic spot for travellers and locals alike.
- What’s the Vibe? This modern British pub combines a sense of history with a contemporary feel. Its décor pays homage to the station’s 175-year legacy through vintage posters and railway-themed photography. The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, ideal for a casual meet-up or a pre-travel pint.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer & Gourmet Mains: The Victory is known for its extensive drinks menu, which includes craft beers, wines, and cocktails. On the food side, you’ll find classics like fish and chips, burgers, and their signature souvlaki plates, blending British pub favourites with Mediterranean flair.
- Live Sports: With large screens throughout the venue, The Victory is a go-to spot for watching live Premier League football, rugby, and more.
- Sunday Roast: Their traditional Sunday roast, featuring options like roasted meats, Yorkshire pudding, and seasonal veg, has also gained a reputation as one of the best in the South Bank area.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Victory is open from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 12:30 am, and on Sundays from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.
The Kings Arms
Address: 25 Roupell Street, London, SE1 8TB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Kings Arms is located in the heart of South London, nestled on the historic Roupell Street, just a short walk from Waterloo Station. The street itself is lined with charming 19th-century workers’ cottages, offering a picturesque backdrop that feels distinctly Dickensian.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a cosy and traditional British pub atmosphere, with vintage interiors and a classic horseshoe bar. The Kings Arms is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, with a lively after-work crowd during the week and a more laid-back, intimate feel as the evening progresses. Despite being busy, it retains a warm and inviting charm, especially for those who appreciate real ale and a touch of London history.
What’s On Offer
- Real Ale Selection: The Kings Arms is renowned for its selection of real ales, with eight pumps offering a rotating choice of brews from local breweries. It’s a haven for craft beer lovers, featuring well-kept ales such as Sambrook’s Wandle and Adnams, among others.
- Thai Cuisine: One of the pub’s standout features is its authentic Thai kitchen, Kanchana’s Kitchen, which serves up freshly prepared Thai dishes daily. This unique culinary offering makes The Kings Arms a destination for those seeking a blend of British pub culture with exotic flavours.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 23:00, and on Sundays from 12:00 to 22:30. Food is served during lunchtime and dinner hours, with specific timings for the Thai menu: 12:00–15:00 and 17:00–22:00 on weekdays, and extended hours over the weekend.
Ready to Visit?
The area around Waterloo Station is a vibrant hub filled with an exciting mix of traditional and trendy drinking spots. Whether you’re looking for a quick pint before catching a train or want to explore hidden gems, this part of London has something for everyone. From the quirky, old-fashioned charm of The Hole in the Wall, nestled under the station’s arches, to the speakeasy allure of the Waterloo Lost Property Office, known for its 1920s décor and creative cocktails, there’s plenty to enjoy.
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