Looking for a pint or a cheeky cocktail near Catford Rail Station? You’re in luck! This lively spot in South East London has a mix of classic pubs and trendy bars just a short stroll away. Whether you fancy a cosy local with craft beers on tap or a vibrant venue with live music, Catford’s got you covered. Let’s explore the best watering holes this area has to offer!
Catford Bridge Tavern
Address: Station Approach, Catford Road, SE6 4RE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Catford Bridge Tavern is conveniently situated adjacent to Catford and Catford Bridge railway stations.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional pub exudes a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, featuring a snug interior complemented by a beer terrace. The establishment is divided into a lounge-style bar and a comfortable dining area with booths, providing a relaxed setting for patrons. The heated terrace offers an inviting space for year-round enjoyment.
What’s On Offer
- Proper Pub Grub: The Catford Bridge Tavern serves a menu of honest pub classics, including towering burgers and a variety of small plates, all crafted to satisfy traditional British pub fare enthusiasts.
- Sunday Roasts: Renowned for its Sunday roasts, the tavern offers generous portions featuring massive Yorkshire puddings, crispy roast potatoes, and all the traditional trimmings. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring a delightful experience for all guests.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Duke of Catford
Address: 167 Rushey Green, London, SE6 4BD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Duke of Catford is situated on Rushey Green in the heart of Catford, South East London. It’s conveniently located near Catford and Catford Bridge railway stations.
- What’s the Vibe? As an independent venue, The Duke of Catford prides itself on being a vibrant hub for the local community, celebrating culture, music, food, and sport. The pub features two bars, a spacious garden oasis, and a chic private room, offering a welcoming atmosphere for various occasions, from lively parties to relaxed gatherings with friends.
What’s On Offer
- Live Sports Broadcasts: The Duke of Catford is an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts, boasting multiple screens, including a giant screen in the courtyard, where patrons can watch the latest games in a lively setting.
- Diverse Events & Entertainment: The venue hosts a variety of events, such as live music gigs, DJ nights, and themed parties, catering to diverse tastes and ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Blythe Hill Tavern
Address: 319 Stanstead Road, London, SE23 1JB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated along the A205 South Circular between Catford and Forest Hill, the Blythe Hill Tavern is easily accessible to locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional Victorian corner pub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With its three-room interior featuring 1930s panelling, the establishment maintains a classic charm. The landlord and staff are known for their smart attire and attentive service, contributing to the pub’s friendly and relaxed environment.
What’s On Offer
- Exceptional Real Ales & Ciders: The Blythe Hill Tavern is renowned for its selection of real ales and niche ciders, having received multiple awards, including CAMRA South East London Pub of the Year in 2012 and 2015. The pub prides itself on offering one of the best pints of Guinness outside Dublin.
- Live Traditional Irish Music: Every Thursday evening, local musicians gather in the snug from 9 pm, filling the pub with traditional Irish music. This regular event adds to the tavern’s vibrant and communal atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 11:00–23:00
- Tuesday: 11:00–23:00
- Wednesday: 11:00–23:00
- Thursday: 11:00–24:00Friday: 11:00–24:00
- Saturday: 11:00–24:00
- Sunday: 12:00–23:00
The Black Cat
Address: 9 Winslade Way, London, SE6 4JU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Black Cat is situated at the entrance of the Catford Shopping Centre in south-east London, making it a convenient stop for shoppers and locals alike.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional pub offers a spacious, wedge-shaped interior with a 1970s aesthetic. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, often described as a “proper locals pub.” While it lacks natural light, patrons appreciate its clean environment and friendly staff.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music & Events: The Black Cat frequently hosts live music, particularly on Saturday nights, featuring genres like loud rock. These events contribute to a lively atmosphere and are popular among patrons.
- Caribbean Cuisine: The pub offers exceptional freshly made Caribbean (Barbados) food, prepared by well-known Barbadian chef Shaun Walcott. Dishes such as beautifully cooked seabass and salad, accompanied by a distinctive hot pepper sauce, bring the flavours of Barbados to south-east London.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 – 23:00
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
Catford Constitutional
Address: 108-110 Rushey Green, London, SE6 4HW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on Rushey Green in Catford, the Catford Constitutional occupies the ground floor of the former Argos building, a short distance from its previous location.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a nostalgic charm with its eclectic décor, featuring hues of red and blue, framed prints, photos, bunting, and 1970s bric-a-brac adorning the walls. This creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of traditional British pubs.
What’s On Offer
- Volden Brews: Exclusive to Antic pubs, the in-house Volden Session Ale is available at a fixed price of £4.30 per pint, alongside a selection of guest beers, making it a haven for cask ale enthusiasts.
- Fairytop Garden Zoo Rooftop: During the summer of 2022, the pub introduced the Fairytop Garden Zoo on its rooftop, offering patrons a whimsical oasis with city views, colourful bunting, playful animal sculptures, and lush greenery. This enchanting space is ideal for lively gatherings and special events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Ready to Visit?
Catford, nestled in South East London, offers a lively mix of classic pubs and trendy bars, all within a short walk of the railway station. Whether you’re after a cosy spot for craft beers or a vibrant venue with live music, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include the Catford Bridge Tavern, renowned for its hearty pub grub and welcoming beer terrace, and The Duke of Catford, a community hub with live sports broadcasts and a chic garden oasis.
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