Oh, New Cross Station! The pulsing heart of South East London’s nightlife, where the vibes are as eclectic as the crowd it draws. If you’re on the hunt for a night to remember, this area’s bars and pubs won’t disappoint. From quirky, indie joints where the beer flows as freely as the conversations, to cosy, dimly-lit pubs perfect for a pint and a pie, New Cross has it all. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, get ready to be spoilt for choice. Let’s dive into the best spots where you can unwind, laugh, and maybe dance a little too close to strangers. Welcome to the lively side of London!
The Amersham Arms
Address: 388 New Cross Rd, London SE14 6TY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Amersham Arms is situated opposite New Cross station, a convenient location that makes it easily accessible. It’s a Victorian pub that has become a cornerstone of the local community and cultural scene, especially among students from the nearby Goldsmiths University.
- What’s the Vibe? Described as a trendily ramshackle yet comfortable venue, the Amersham Arms feels like enjoying a night out in your own living room. Its eclectic decor includes a collection of antique radios, binoculars, and kitsch crafts, appealing to a diverse crowd ranging from students and young artists, to media professionals.
What’s On Offer
- Happy Mondays Comedy Club: The Amersham Arms hosts the Happy Mondays comedy club every fortnight, with Holly Walsh as the resident host. This event features top-quality line-ups of comics, offering an affordable and enjoyable night out with great burgers available to complement the entertainment.
- Musical Heritage: The venue is also known for its strong musical heritage, having hosted DJ sets and performances by notable bands and artists like Alt-J, Bombay Bicycle Club, The Vaccines, and Carl Barat, among others.
- Events: It offers a space for film and poetry evenings, exhibitions, and serves as a platform for emerging talent.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Amersham Arms is open Monday to Sunday from 12 noon to midnight, extending to 3 am on Thursdays through Saturdays
The Amersham Arms stands out as a key player in London’s cultural and nightlife scene, offering a mix of live comedy, music, and art events that cater to a wide range of tastes and interests. Its welcoming atmosphere and eclectic decor make it a must-visit for those looking to experience the heart of London’s creative community.
The Royal Albert
Address: 460 New Cross Rd, London, SE14 6TJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Royal Albert is nestled in the vibrant area of New Cross, London, providing a sophisticated yet cosy retreat amidst the locality’s more bustling scenes.
- What’s the Vibe? It offers a homey atmosphere that balances traditional pub charm with a hint of sophistication. Dark wood furnishings, dim lighting, and antique furniture enhance its traditional London pub feel, smartened up with ornate lamps and leather sofas, making it welcoming to everyone.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal Small Plates & Pub Classics: The Royal Albert prides itself on its food offerings, including seasonal small plates and pub classics with a comforting twist. Their menu features delicious sharing platters, hearty burgers, dreamy desserts, and notably, a vegan burger that has become the talk of the town. Sundays are reserved for the best pub Sunday lunch in New Cross.
- Craft Beer: A rotating range of craft beers, ciders, and casks on tap showcases the best from local independent brewers.
- Events: The pub is a hub for social gatherings, offering events like soulful jazz nights, life drawing, and the best pub quiz in New Cross. It’s the go-to place for an enjoyable evening with something for everyone.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 4pm – 11pm
- Friday to Saturday: 12pm – 1am
- Sunday: 12pm – 12am
The Royal Albert offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike, with its blend of traditional pub elements and modern twists, making it a must-visit spot in New Cross.
The Little Crown
Address: 495 New Cross Rd, London, SE14 6TQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Little Crown is situated in Deptford, London, on the bustling New Cross Road. It is part of the Lewisham borough and has a historical presence, having been operational since at least 1869 and rebuilt in 1897.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue offers a cosy and casual atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for groups looking to enjoy a relaxed time. The pub is known for its friendly environment, accommodating both lively sports fans and those looking for a quiet drink.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music & Entertainment: The Little Crown stands out for its live music and entertainment options, including disco nights. They frequently update their social media with upcoming events, so it’s worth checking their Facebook or Twitter for the latest.
- Live Sports: Sports enthusiasts will find The Little Crown to their liking, with the pub broadcasting various sports events, including premiership and international football, GAA sports, rugby, cricket, and golf, on Sky Sports and other channels.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open 7 days a week, with opening hours from 11:00 to 23:00 from Monday to Thursday, extending to 00:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and operating from 12:00 to 22:30 on Sundays.
Marquis of Granby
Address: 322 New Cross Rd, London, SE14 6AT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Marquis of Granby is a well-established pub situated in the heart of New Cross, London. It is notably positioned near Goldsmiths University, making it a central and accessible location for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue exudes the charm of a traditional Irish pub, with a vibrant and sometimes raucous atmosphere, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s a blend of old and young, frequented by students from the nearby university and long-standing locals. The decor includes inter-war door lobbies, stained glass windows, wooden wall panelling, fireplaces, and an island bar, contributing to its cosy and inviting feel.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Clientele: A unique aspect of the Marquis of Granby is its diverse clientele, ranging from post-match Millwall fans to bohemian art students from Goldsmiths. It’s a place where contrasting cultures blend seamlessly.
- Live Sports: The pub is also equipped with TVs for live sports, making it an ideal spot for watching football and other sports.
- Music: The pub features a jukebox with a selection of old Irish tunes and Johnny Cash, among others, adding to the lively ambiance.
- Drinks: While it may not boast the widest selection of drinks, the quality of its offerings, especially Guinness, is highly regarded.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open 7 days a week, with opening hours from 11:00 to 23:00 from Monday to Thursday, extending to 00:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and operating from 12:00 to 22:30 on Sundays.
For those interested in experiencing a traditional Irish pub with a lively atmosphere and diverse clientele, the Marquis of Granby is a standout choice in New Cross, London.
The Shirker’s Rest
Address: 9 Lewisham Way, London, SE14 6PP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in New Cross, The Shirker’s Rest is a result of a collaboration between Camberwell Shark and south London enthusiasts, Deserter. This venue has quickly become a staple for the locals.
- What’s the Vibe? Offering a cosy atmosphere that feels like being in a cool friend’s living room, the pub boasts a unique ambiance with a blend of a Kent micropub and craft beer shack, featuring a ‘Crisp News’ wall and a casual ‘A20 Lounge’ beer garden.
What’s On Offer
- Local Craft Beers & Ales: The pub offers a diverse selection of delicious cask and keg beers from local breweries such as Anspach & Hobday, Kernel, Mondo, and Villages, catering to all tastes.
- Crisp News Wall & Street Cotch: Unique to The Shirker’s Rest, the Crisp News wall offers a variety of potato snacks, complemented by a quaint outdoor seating area known as the ‘A20 Lounge’.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon 15:00-22:30, Tues & Wed 15:00-23:30, Thurs & Fri 15:00-00:00, Sat 12:00-00:00, Sun 13:00-22:30.
The Shirker’s Rest stands out as a pub with soul, inviting patrons into a space filled with character, excellent drinks, and a welcoming vibe.
Ready to Visit?
New Cross Station, the vibrant heart of South East London’s nightlife, offers a diverse array of bars and pubs that cater to every taste. Whether you’re drawn to the quirky, indie vibes of the Amersham Arms, located opposite New Cross station, known for its eclectic decor and vibrant cultural scene, or the cosy, traditional atmosphere of The Royal Albert, with its dark wood furnishings and selection of craft beers, New Cross has something for everyone. These venues stand out for their unique character, inviting atmospheres, and the variety of entertainment options they offer, from live comedy and music, to delicious food and craft beverages.
Share the Love
If you’re looking for a memorable night out in London, why not start at one of New Cross’s standout bars, like the Amersham Arms or The Royal Albert? Share this article with your friends, and don’t forget to leave a review of your experience to help others discover the best of what New Cross has to offer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these bars are sure to provide an unforgettable evening.
