The Best Bars and Pubs In Lewisham

The Best Bars and Pubs In Lewisham

Ready for a pint in Lewisham? This vibrant corner of London isn’t just about leafy streets and bustling markets – it’s a hidden gem for bar enthusiasts! From cosy pubs with history-soaked walls to trendy bars serving up inventive cocktails, Lewisham’s nightlife scene is a delightful surprise. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back evening with friends or a lively night out, these top-notch spots in Lewisham promise a memorable experience. Let’s dive into the best bars and pubs this eclectic area has to offer – you’re in for a treat!


Joiners Arms

Address: 66 Lewisham High St, London SE13 5JH

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Joiners Arms is situated in the Lewisham area of London, known for its local market and community feel. The pub itself has a quaint exterior with a bay window and small balcony, reflecting its traditional and cosy interior.
  • What’s the Vibe? The Joiners Arms offers a traditional pub ambiance, with a plain, basic, and brightly lit décor. It features a few TVs for sports, a darts area, and old pictures and cigarette card displays that add character to the space. The pub was previously known as Dylans when it was an Irish bar but has since reverted to its original name and style.

What’s On Offer

  • Real Ales and Beverage Selection: The pub offers a selection of real ales, including Youngs Ordinary & Greene King IPA. 
  • Sports and Entertainment: Patrons can enjoy sports broadcasts on the TVs and engage in darts, contributing to a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit? The Joiners Arms is open from Monday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to Midnight, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Joiners Arms is a friendly, traditional pub with a focus on real ales and sports entertainment, set in a comfortable and inviting environment. It’s a spot well-suited for a casual visit, especially for those interested in a traditional pub experience in London.

Joiners Arms


The Fox & Firkin

Address: 316a, 316 Lewisham High St, London SE13 6JZ

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Fox & Firkin is situated in the heart of Lewisham, making it an accessible and prominent location for locals and visitors alike. The venue serves as a central hub in the community, known for its lively atmosphere.
  • What’s the Vibe? This venue is renowned for its lively and energetic vibe, characterised by its role as both a pub and a music venue. During the week, it offers a cosy, historic pub ambiance, which transforms into a more vibrant social scene on the weekends. The venue is decorated with vintage furniture and chandeliers, adding to its unique charm.

What’s On Offer

  • Food and Drink: The venue offers a selection of house beers crafted at the Firkin Brewery. For food, guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas from Freewheelin’ Pizza, available in the garden area, along with classic English dishes served at very reasonable prices.
  • Live Music and Events: The Fox & Firkin is a hotspot for live music, featuring a wide range of genres from reggae and dub to funk, soul, blues, and rock. The venue regularly hosts events, including gigs by both local and international artists, making it a staple in London’s small music venue scene.
  • Unique Features: One of the venue’s unique offerings is the “Firkin Express,” a restored 1950s Kent and East Sussex 1st class train carriage available for private hire. This vintage carriage, situated in their garden, offers a unique setting for private events. Additionally, the venue boasts a large garden, known as an urban oasis, which hosts the ‘Backstage Bar’ and provides a relaxing environment for guests.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit? The Fox & Firkin has varied opening hours. From Monday to Thursday, it opens from 15:00 to 23:00. On Fridays and Saturdays, the hours extend from 12:00 to 03:00, and on Sundays, it’s open from 12:00 to 00:00.

The Fox & Firkin in Lewisham is more than just a pub; it’s a vibrant music venue with a unique charm, offering a mix of live music, good food, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot in South London​​​​​​.

The Fox & Firkin


The Jolly Farmer

Address: 354 Lewisham High St, London SE13 6LE

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Jolly Farmer sits comfortably in the Lewisham area, a bustling part of London known for its vibrant community and local businesses.
  • What’s the Vibe? This pub is characterized by its classic “brewer’s rustic” interior, which includes faux wood beams, rough plastered walls, and a variety of banquette seating and small round metal framed tables. The atmosphere is further enhanced by leaded light glazed panels, old tins, sewing machines, and farm-themed murals, contributing to its cosy and traditional pub feel. It’s a spot that appeals to locals and visitors alike, offering a friendly and welcoming environment.

What’s On Offer

  • Real Ales and Hearty Food: The Jolly Farmer is renowned for its selection of real ales, some of which are sourced from local microbreweries. This, combined with a menu of hearty, traditional English pub food, makes it a go-to destination for those looking to enjoy classic British cuisine and drinks.
  • Family-Friendly Environment with Pub Games: The pub features a beer garden and various pub games, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Children and babies are welcome until 7 pm, making it a suitable choice for family outings.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit? The Jolly Farmer is open from Monday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 23:00 pm, and on Sunday from 11:00 am to 22:30 pm.

The Jolly Farmer in Lewisham is a traditional English pub that offers a warm, rustic atmosphere, a selection of real ales and hearty food, and a family-friendly environment. Its charm and character make it a notable spot in the Lewisham area for both locals and visitors.

The Jolly Farmer


The Anchor

Address: 165 Lewisham Rd, London, SE13 7PY

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Anchor is nestled in an accessible area surrounded by various restaurants and attractions, offering a convenient spot for locals and visitors alike.
  • What’s the Vibe? The Anchor in Lewisham is known for its friendly and family-oriented atmosphere. This English pub is especially welcoming to families with children during specific hours, providing a comfortable environment for family gatherings. It also caters to sports enthusiasts with its large screen for airing sporting events, creating a lively and engaging ambiance.

What’s On Offer

  • Family-Friendly Environment: The Anchor is distinguished for its family-friendly setting. It encourages family gatherings and ensures a pleasant experience for all ages during designated hours, making it a go-to venue for family outings.
  • Sports Screenings: Another key feature of The Anchor is its focus on sports. With a large screen dedicated to broadcasting sporting events, it appeals to sports fans looking to catch their favorite games in a sociable and dynamic setting.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit?
    • Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    • Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
    • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

The Anchor


Ladywell Tavern

Address: 80 Ladywell Rd, London, SE13 7HS

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? Ladywell Tavern is situated about 1.5 miles from Greenwich, nestled in the area of Ladywell.
  • What’s the Vibe? This venue exudes a traditional and casual pub atmosphere, highlighted by its original brickwork and a cosy log-burning fire. The ambiance is warm and inviting, suitable for a neighborhood gathering spot. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and serves as a relaxed locale for both locals and visitors.

What’s On Offer

  • Locally Sourced Craft Beer and Diverse Menu: Ladywell Tavern is celebrated for its wide selection of locally sourced craft beers. Additionally, it offers a diverse food menu that caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. The menu features items such as small plates, large plates, sides, and desserts, ensuring a comprehensive dining experience.
  • Events and Entertainment: The pub is not just about food and drink; it regularly hosts a variety of events. These include live music nights, acoustic sessions, quiz nights, and ‘Meet The Brewer’ events. There’s also an open mic night every Tuesday and a quiz night every Thursday, adding to the pub’s communal and interactive vibe.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit? Ladywell Tavern is open seven days a week. The pub operates from 12 PM to 11 PM from Monday to Sunday, with the kitchen accepting last orders at 9 PM from Monday to Saturday and at 6 PM on Sunday.

Ladywell Tavern


The Rising Sun

Address: 120 Loampit Vale, London, SE13 7SN

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Rising Sun is just 0.17 miles away from the Lewisham station, making it an easily accessible venue.
  • What’s the Vibe? This pub is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. It provides a comfortable and cosy environment, perfect for social gatherings. The pub has been appreciated for its clean and well-maintained premises, contributing to its appeal.

What’s On Offer

  • Outdoor Beer Garden and Sports Screenings: The Rising Sun boasts a large beer garden with ample seating, ideal for socialising in a relaxed outdoor setting. The pub is also equipped with big screens for sports enthusiasts, offering a great spot to catch live games.
  • Live Music and Bar Games: The venue hosts weekly live music, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, it offers bar games, including darts, for an engaging and entertaining experience.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit?:
    • Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    • Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
    • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:45 PM

The Rising Sun stands out as a cherished local haunt with its combination of traditional pub elements and contemporary offerings like live music and sports screenings. Its cosy and casual atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for groups and individuals alike, looking to enjoy a pint of beer in a classic English pub setting.

The Rising Sun


Elements Bar

Address: 207 Lee High Rd, Blackheath, London SE13 5PQ

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The bar is located in Lewisham, London, and provides a comfortable and stylish setting for its patrons.
  • What’s the Vibe? Elements Bar is known for its modern setting that also retains a touch of classic style. It’s a perfect place for an evening out, whether for an after-work drink or a weekend gathering. The venue is renowned for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

What’s On Offer

  • Cocktail Selection: Elements Bar boasts a wide range of cocktails, offering both classic and unique mixes. The bar runs a special promotion of “2 for £15” on all cocktails between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm, inviting guests to enjoy their exquisite drink selections.
  • Regular Events:
    • Raving Fridays: Every first Friday, 8:00 pm – 2:00 am.
    • Big People Party Night: Every second Friday, 8:00 pm – 2:00 am.
    • Explore the Elements: Every third Friday, 9:00 pm – 2:00 am.
    • Memories: Every last Friday, 9:00 pm – 3:00 am.
    • Jazz Vibes: Every last Sunday, 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
    • Life Drawing Class: Every 30th of the month, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit?
    • Monday to Wednesday: Closed
    • Thursday: 18:30 – 22:30
    • Friday & Saturday: 18:30 – 02:00
    • Sunday: Closed

Elements Bar requires visitors to be 18 years or older and offers both table reservations and private venue hire options. It’s a venue that not only provides a relaxing environment for socialising but also engages its patrons with a variety of events, from music nights to creative classes.

Elements Bar


Dacre Arms

Address: 11 Kingswood Pl, Blackheath, London SE13 5BU

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Dacre Arms is situated in a comfortable residential area, nestled between the upmarket Blackheath Village and Lee.
  • What’s the Vibe? Dacre Arms is an archetypal ‘locals’ pub, exuding charm reminiscent of a bygone era. Its interior, adorned with horse brasses, net curtains, and various knick-knacks, provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The pub is known for its traditional aesthetics, creating a tranquil oasis ideal for a relaxing conversation. It features a pleasant garden for outdoor seating and is a popular spot for both families and friends.

What’s On Offer

  • Ale Selection & Food: While the beer range is decent, it’s not extensive, focusing more on providing a select variety of ales. The pub doesn’t offer a full food menu but serves a range of salty snacks.
  • Unique Décor and Ambiance: One of the walls is famously adorned with piano music covers, adding to the unique décor of the venue. The pub has maintained its traditional look, including a variety of decorative items like toby jugs, copper plates, and old radios.
  • Quiz Nights: A notable feature of the Dacre Arms is its popular quiz night held every Sunday, attracting a good crowd.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit? The Dacre Arms is open seven days a week, from 12 PM to 11 PM.

The Dacre Arms stands out as a gem in the London pub scene, especially for those looking for a traditional pub experience with a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a quiet drink, to enjoy the quiz night, or simply to soak in the old-world charm, it offers a unique slice of London pub culture.

Dacre Arms


Bar Beach Grill

Address: Lindsay Court, Loampit Vale, London SE13 7LL

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? Bar Beach Grill is located in the vibrant area of Lewisham. This venue offers an easily accessible and inviting location for visitors.
  • What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at Bar Beach Grill is reminiscent of a beachside getaway. It’s known for its relaxed vibe, making it a suitable destination for casual gatherings as well as special occasions. The interior design and ambiance are crafted to bring a slice of the beach experience to the heart of London.

What’s On Offer

  • Grilled Delicacies: A standout feature of Bar Beach Grill is its focus on grilled foods. Their menu includes a variety of grilled meats and seafood, catering to a diverse palate. The grill items are especially popular, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.
  • Exclusive Brunch Menu: Bar Beach Grill offers a unique brunch experience with a variety of choices, including options for seafood lovers, vegetarians, and meat enthusiasts. Their brunch menu is designed to cater to both intimate settings and large parties, offering a versatile dining experience.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit?
    • Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
    • Sunday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Bar Beach Grill offers a unique beach-themed ambiance, diverse grilled menu, and accommodating brunch options. It’s a great choice for those seeking a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience in London.

Bar Beach Grill


The Fat Walrus

Address: 44 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6NP

The Basics: Location and Atmosphere

  • Where Is It? The Fat Walrus is located in New Cross, London, just 0.9 miles from Greenwich. It’s easily accessible and lies in a vibrant part of the city.
  • What’s the Vibe? This pub is known for its friendly and lively atmosphere. The interior offers comfortable booths and leather seating, enhanced by mood lighting. It’s a dog-friendly venue, making it a favorite among locals. The outside area includes a beer garden, perfect for al fresco dining, and it is equipped to handle the unpredictable London weather.

What’s On Offer

  • Special Cuisine by Chefs Sam and Alicja Bryant: The Fat Walrus features an exciting menu, especially known for its live fire cooking. The chefs, Sam and Alicja Bryant, are celebrated for their expertise in this culinary style, offering an eclectic menu that celebrates British cuisine.
  • Signature Sunday Roast and Diverse Menu: One of the highlights is the Sunday roast, which has become a favorite in the area. The menu also includes diverse options like smoked pork shoulder scrumpets, Nashville hot fried chicken, and mushroom birria tacos, catering to a wide range of tastes.

Practical Info

  • When Can You Visit?
    • Monday to Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    • Wednesday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
    • Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
    • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

The Fat Walrus offers a distinctive blend of a cosy atmosphere, innovative cuisine, and an inclusive vibe. It’s a place where you can enjoy a laid-back evening with friends or a lively weekend night out, complemented by a diverse menu that caters to various dietary preferences​​​​​​​​.

The Fat Walrus


Ready to Visit?

Lewisham, a vibrant area in London, offers a rich and diverse bar scene, perfect for those seeking a memorable night out. From the traditional Irish charm of the Joiners Arms to the lively music scene at The Fox & Firkin, Lewisham caters to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re after a cosy pub experience or a night of live music and entertainment, these bars in Lewisham promise an unforgettable experience in one of London’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.

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Why not explore the unique bars of Lewisham for yourself? Grab a pint at the Joiners Arms or enjoy a night of music at The Fox & Firkin. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts after your visit. Your reviews and experiences can help others discover the magic of Lewisham’s bar scene!

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