If you’re stepping off the train at St Johns Rail Station and in need of a great spot for a drink, you’re in luck! This charming corner of southeast London is home to a variety of bars and pubs that offer everything from cosy, old-school vibes to trendy spots for craft beer lovers. Whether you’re looking to relax with a pint, grab a quick cocktail, or enjoy a night out with friends, there’s something for everyone just a short stroll from the station.
The Brookmill
Address: 65 Cranbrook Rd, London, SE8 4EJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the heart of St John’s, Deptford, The Brookmill is nestled near the serene Brookmill Park. It’s easily accessible, a short walk from St John’s station, and close to both Lewisham and Deptford, making it an ideal spot for locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The Brookmill offers a cosy yet vibrant atmosphere. With its Victorian exterior, exposed brick walls, and eclectic furniture, it strikes a perfect balance between traditional charm and modern comforts. The pub has a welcoming community feel, known for its relaxed, family-friendly environment during the day and a livelier crowd in the evenings, especially on weekends.
What’s On Offer
- Locally Sourced Food & Drink: The pub prides itself on its locally sourced offerings, from craft beers brewed in nearby South London boroughs to a menu that emphasises seasonal British ingredients. You can enjoy dishes like burrata with aubergine caviar or classic pub fare with a modern twist. Their Sunday roasts are particularly popular, offering both traditional and vegan options.
- Events & Entertainment: The Brookmill hosts a variety of events, including quizzes, live music, and immersive dinner experiences. Notable events include their “Murder Mystery Immersive Dinner” and regular open mic nights, drawing in crowds for entertainment beyond the usual pub experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Brookmill is open Monday to Sunday. Opening hours are 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm on most days, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 1:00 am.
The Royal George
Address: 85 Tanner’s Hill, Deptford, SE8 4QD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Royal George is located on Tanner’s Hill in Deptford, a short walk from St Johns station and New Cross. It sits in a quieter part of this bustling area, known for its mix of Victorian architecture and vibrant, youthful energy.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub has a cosy, traditional feel, largely unchanged for years, making it a great escape from more commercial venues. It has a welcoming, local atmosphere where both regulars and newcomers can feel at home. The pub is part of the Samuel Smith’s chain, which adds to its charm with affordable prices and unique drinks offerings. Expect a snug, Victorian corner-pub vibe, with regulars often enjoying darts or a quiet pint.
What’s On Offer
- Affordable Samuel Smith’s Beers: The pub serves a selection of Samuel Smith’s brews, known for their quality and reasonable prices. You won’t find mainstream brands here, but the beers, especially the Extra Stout, are well-regarded and cheap compared to other London pubs.
- Traditional Pub Games: For entertainment, there’s a dart board and a pool table, perfect for casual games while enjoying a drink. It’s a proper “local” in every sense, with a relaxed pace and a welcoming atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
The Royal Standard
Address: 86 Tanner’s Hill, Deptford, SE8 4PN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Royal Standard is located in Deptford, South East London, on Tanner’s Hill, a historic street in the area. It’s close to Deptford Bridge DLR station, making it easily accessible by public transport.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub has a vibrant and quirky atmosphere, blending its 18th-century origins with a modern touch after a 2016 refurbishment. The venue features large windows, graffiti-style artwork, exposed brickwork, and industrial-chic decor, creating an eclectic and lively environment. It’s known for its welcoming vibe, appealing to a mix of locals, families, and foodies alike.
What’s On Offer
- Indian Street Food by Chai Naasto: A standout feature of the Royal Standard is its Indian street kitchen, offering a range of authentic and flavourful dishes. The kitchen is run by Chai Naasto, serving unique delights like Nizami’s Lamb Samosa Chaat and Pani Puri Shots, which provide a true taste of India in a casual, pub setting. This collaboration brings a distinctive culinary experience that sets the venue apart from other local pubs.
- Craft Beers & International Wines: The drinks menu includes a variety of craft beers, including brews from Hawaii’s Kona Brewery and Norway’s Lucky Jack Pale Ale, as well as a carefully selected range of wines from South Africa, France, and Italy. This variety caters to different tastes and enhances the pub’s appeal for beer and wine enthusiasts alike.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, staying open until 1:00 am.
The Talbot
Address: 2 Tyrwhitt Road, Brockley, SE4 1QG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Talbot is situated in the heart of Brockley, a vibrant and community-focused area of South East London. Located on the corner of Tyrwhitt Road, it enjoys a prime position in a residential area known for its local charm and easy access to nearby green spaces.
- What’s the Vibe? The Talbot offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a mix of modern style and traditional pub cosiness. The bar features a Brooklyn-inspired design, and the dining room is adorned with open fires, perfect for colder months. The pub prides itself on being a cornerstone of the community, with a relaxed and friendly environment, whether you’re there for a casual drink or a more formal dining experience.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal Menus with Local Produce: One of The Talbot’s standout features is its ever-changing menu, with dishes that evolve throughout the day. The pub works closely with local farms and producers to ensure the freshest British ingredients, making their seasonal dishes both flavourful and sustainable. Chef Robin Freeman crafts each dish to showcase key ingredients with delightful touches, making dining here a consistently enjoyable experience.
- Special Nights and Events: The Talbot hosts several regular events that draw both locals and visitors. Every Monday, there’s a Smash Burger Night, where you can enjoy freshly prepared burgers starting at 5pm. Wednesday is Steak Night, featuring a three-course meal for £30, along with an optional bottle of wine for £20. They also host a lively quiz night every Monday, offering 20% off food and the chance to win a £50 bar tab.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 4pm – 11pm (kitchen from 5pm – 9pm)
- Friday to Saturday: 12pm – midnight (kitchen from 12pm – 9pm)
- Sunday: 12pm – 11pm (kitchen from 12pm – 7pm)
Bar Beach Grill
Address: Lindsay Court, Loampit Vale, SE13 7LL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Bar Beach Grill is located in Lewisham, South East London, near Lewisham Station. It’s easily accessible by public transport, with the DLR and various buses nearby. It’s a short walk from Lewisham Shopping Centre, making it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a beachside retreat. With its casual décor and cosy setting, it provides a warm environment where patrons can unwind and enjoy good food and company. The friendly staff and relaxed vibe make it perfect for both casual dinners and larger gatherings.
What’s On Offer:
- Exotic Cocktails & Grills: Bar Beach Grill offers a range of freshly made exotic cocktails, perfect for those looking to enjoy unique flavours. Their cocktails are a signature draw, but you’ll also find an impressive range of spirits, beers, and wines. Alongside these drinks, they serve succulent grilled dishes like lamb chops, ribs, and prawns, with a distinct focus on BBQ and seafood options.
- Bottomless Brunch: One of the standout features is their daily bottomless brunch, where you can indulge in unlimited drinks alongside popular menu items like lobster, lamb chops, and steaks. It’s a popular choice for those looking to celebrate with friends or family, especially over the weekend.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from 12:00 to 23:00 daily.
Ready to Visit?
St John’s and Deptford, located in southeast London, offer a variety of charming pubs and bars, perfect for both locals and visitors stepping off at St John’s Rail Station. The Brookmill is a popular spot, boasting a cosy atmosphere with exposed brickwork, local craft beers, and a well-curated menu featuring seasonal British fare. For a more traditional pub experience, The Royal George offers a classic Victorian vibe, where patrons can enjoy affordable Samuel Smith’s beers and engage in pub games like darts. Both are within walking distance from the station, making them ideal for a leisurely visit.
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