Ready for a pint in Merton? This London borough’s got a buzzing pub scene that’s sure to impress. From the award-winning Trafalgar to the sports-fan favourite Nelson Arms with its spacious terrace, there’s a spot for every mood. Prefer something more intimate? Check out the Suburban Bar & Lounge or the character-rich Kilkenny Tavern. And for those after a bit more action, the Pod Bar Wimbledon mixes great drinks with a lively atmosphere. So whether you’re after a cosy nook or a vibrant night out, Merton’s pubs and bars have you covered. Cheers!
The Nelson Arms
Address: 15 Merton High St, London SW19 1DF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Nelson Arms is conveniently situated between South Wimbledon and Colliers Wood Underground stations, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Nelson Arms is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, offering spacious and comfortable surroundings. The pub exudes a lively and fun ambiance, perfect for a relaxed evening out. It’s popular for its combination of contemporary and classic British dishes, along with a selection of beers and wines.
What’s On Offer:
- Extensive Beer and Wine Selection: The pub boasts an impressive selection of beers, ales, and wines, catering to a wide range of tastes. They regularly update their selection, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
- Special Menus: They offer freshly cooked pub food, including popular items like burgers, sourdough pizzas, and British classics.
- Sports Events: The Nelson Arms is a hotspot for sports fans, with multiple screens to watch different sports like football, rugby, and cricket. They also have a heated beer garden equipped with a TV.
- Live Music: The venue regularly hosts live music performances, making it a lively spot for entertainment. The pub also organises special events like Halloween Karaoke Night and hosts parties and celebrations, including Christmas parties.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Thurs 16:00-23:00, Fri 16:00-00:00, Sat 12:00-00:00, Sun 12:00-22:30.
The Nelson Arms is a versatile venue that combines traditional pub elements with modern entertainment, making it a unique spot in London for both dining and socialising.
Earl Spencer
Address: 260-262 Merton Rd, London SW18 5JL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Earl Spencer is conveniently situated just an eight-minute walk from Southfields Tube Station, making it an accessible spot for lunch, dinner, or drinks after work.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub is known for its traditional decor and warm ambiance. It has recently undergone a makeover, retaining its charm and character while adding modern comforts. The beer garden has also been refreshed, creating a serene outdoor area perfect for enjoying the sunshine.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Menu and Drinks: The Earl Spencer offers a varied menu that includes pub classics using local produce, like burgers, steaks, and pies. There’s also a selection for a tipsy brunch, a children’s menu, and light bite dishes. Their Sunday roasts are particularly popular. At the bar, a wide range of gins, wines, cocktails, and beers are available, including real ales and craft products from local breweries.
- Entertainment and Events: The pub hosts a weekly pub quiz every Sunday at 7pm and provides entertainment with live sports action across multiple TVs. On Saturday nights, guests can enjoy music. Expect live sports and brunches during the weekends.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Mondays to Saturday: 11am to 12am
- Sunday: 11am to 11pm
- Food is served daily from 12pm to 10pm.
The Earl Spencer offers a blend of traditional pub atmosphere with modern amenities, a diverse menu, and a variety of events and entertainment options. Whether for a casual meal, a Sunday roast, or an evening out with friends, it provides a welcoming environment in a convenient London location.
The Merton Apprentice
Address: The Apprentice Shop, Watermill Way Merton Abbey Mills, London SW19 2RD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Merton Apprentice is situated in a historic setting at Merton Abbey Mills, offering a unique experience in a scenic location.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue is known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy a relaxed and friendly setting. The outdoor seating adds to its charm, providing a perfect spot for socialising and enjoying the environment.
What’s On Offer
- Eclectic Drink Selection: A key feature of The Merton Apprentice is its eclectic mix of cocktails and local beers. It offers a range of options for different tastes, making it a popular spot for those looking to explore a variety of drinks.
- Varied Menu and Specialties: Alongside its drink offerings, The Merton Apprentice also boasts a varied food menu catering to diverse tastes. Notably, it includes options like German bratwurst, which has been highly praised by visitors.
- Ratings and Reviews: The venue has received a range of reviews, with many patrons appreciating its great location, affordable quality beer, and friendly service. It’s noted for good value and has been a pleasant discovery for many visitors.
- Accessibility and Features: The Merton Apprentice is also known for its accessibility and family-friendly environment. Features like live music, dog-friendly policies, and sports bar elements add to its appeal.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Every Day 12:00-23:00.
The Merton Apprentice in London is a versatile venue with a lot to offer, from its varied menu and drink selection to its relaxed atmosphere and historic location.
The William Morris Pub
Address: 20 Watermill Wy, London SW19 2RD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The William Morris Pub sits on the river Wandle in the historic Merton Abbey Mills area, offering a unique waterside pub experience.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub presents a cosy and inviting atmosphere, blending traditional charm with modern elements. It features a red brick interior and offers three large outdoor spaces, including a heated and covered pergola, perfect for a relaxing and warm ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Beverage Selection: The pub serves a wide range of beers, spirits, and wines, catering to various tastes. This extensive selection is one of its standout features, attracting both locals and visitors.
- Traditional Menu with a Modern Twist: The menu at The William Morris Pub includes classic pub favorites like Wagyu beef burgers and Sunday roasts. It also offers a great choice of small bites, making it ideal for both casual and hearty meals.
- Additional Features: The venue hosts weekly quizzes, live music, and shows major sporting events on TVs and a big screen. It’s also dog-friendly and offers a special service every Saturday where kids can engage in free arts and crafts activities while parents dine.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Thursday from 12 pm to 11 pm, extends its hours on Friday until midnight, and operates on Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm, making it accessible for both lunch and late-night visits.
The William Morris Pub is a charming spot that combines the best of traditional pub culture with modern amenities, offering a welcoming environment for a wide range of guests.
The Pig & Whistle
Address: 481 Merton Rd, London SW18 5LD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Pig & Whistle is located at 481 Merton Road, London SW18 5LD, England. This quintessential British pub, nestled in a vibrant and bustling area of London, offers a mix of traditional charm and modern flair.
- What’s the Vibe? Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, The Pig & Whistle provides a welcoming and cosy environment. It combines elements of a traditional pub with modern, suburban stylings, offering a touch of quirkiness. The venue is characterised by its diverse customer base, creating a lively and congenial atmosphere that’s appealing to both locals and tourists.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Range of Drinks: The pub features a fantastic range of beers, including local options like SlyBeast beer on tap. For those seeking something unique, there’s an array of South African sodas and a creative spritzer menu. The Pig & Whistle also prides itself on its wine selection and classic gin & tonics.
- South African Specialties: In terms of food, you can find South African national dishes like Bobotie, Boerewors Rolls, and even Zebra Steaks, alongside British classics such as Sunday Roasts and Sausage & Mash with homemade gravy.
- Family and Pet-Friendly: The Pig & Whistle is not just adult-friendly; it caters to families and pets as well. There’s a special kids’ menu with part of the proceeds going to charity, and a dog menu featuring homemade Peanut Butter & Oat Dog biscuits.
- Live Sports: The venue also serves as a home for the Wild Dogs Rugby Team and displays a commitment to sports, with multiple screens for viewing and sponsorship of sports teams.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Pig & Whistle is open seven days a week. From Monday to Saturday, the hours are 12:00 PM to 23:30 PM, and on Sunday, it’s open from 12:00 PM to 22:15 PM.
The Pig & Whistle is a delightful blend of traditional British pub culture and unique South African influences, offering a wide range of drinks, delicious food, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal with friends or a family outing.
The Old Frizzle
Address: 74-78 The Broadway, London SW19 1RQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Frizzle is situated in the vibrant area of The Broadway, providing a blend of traditional pub values and contemporary style.
- What’s the Vibe? The ambiance of The Old Frizzle is described as urban cool, adorned with fairy lights on the outside and featuring vintage style lampshades and old books inside. It offers a great atmosphere, especially for watching sports games, and is family-friendly, welcoming little ones until 8pm every day.
What’s On Offer
- Food: The pub serves a range of food options, including pub food, British cuisine, and roast dinners.
- Happy hour: Their food menu is complemented by an extensive drinks selection, including a variety of classic cocktails available during their Happy Hour, which runs Monday to Friday from 4-7pm and all night on Thursdays.
- Live Music and Entertainment: The Old Frizzle is known for its live music scene, showcasing South London’s talent with new local musicians playing every Friday and Saturday night. Additionally, the venue hosts a famous Sunday Pub quiz, adding to its lively and engaging atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 23:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 00:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 00:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 22:30 PM
Prince of Wales
Address: 98 Morden Rd, London SW19 3BP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Prince of Wales is situated very close to Morden Road station, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub has undergone refurbishments, contributing to its inviting and friendly atmosphere. It’s divided into distinct areas, including a lower lounge area, and features bright blue painted walls contrasting with dark woodwork and polished light floorboards. The setting is conducive to a range of activities, from enjoying live music to casual drinks.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drinks: The pub offers a variety of hot snacks available all day, along with a selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
- Live Music and Entertainment: One of the key highlights of the Prince of Wales is its live band performanceson the last Friday of each month. The venue is known for its well-set stage and good acoustics.
- Live Sports: For sports enthusiasts, the pub features Sky TV, making it a good spot to catch live sporting events.
- Outdoor Seating: There is a garden area, which enhances the ambiance, especially during good weather.
- Additional Features: The Prince of Wales is equipped with facilities like a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a car park for patrons’ convenience. It’s also family and dog-friendly, and has a smoking area.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub’s opening hours are Monday to Thursday from 17:00 to 22:00, Friday from 16:00 to 22:00, Saturday from 14:00 to 22:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 22:00.
Prince of Wales in Merton offers a comfortable and versatile setting for a range of activities, from enjoying live music to casual dining and drinks. Its friendly atmosphere, coupled with its unique offerings, makes it a notable spot in the area.
Park Tavern
Address: 212 Merton Rd, London SW18 5SW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Park Tavern is located in the heart of Southfields, South West London. This location is easily accessible and is a short walk from Southfields train station.
- What’s the Vibe? Park Tavern offers a convivial atmosphere blending traditional and modern elements. The interior features real fireplaces and stained glass windows, creating a warm and inviting environment. It has a sunny beer garden and a large courtyard, ideal for al fresco dining and socialising. The venue is known for its comfortable family-friendly setting, making it perfect for catching up with friends and family.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Drink Selection: Park Tavern boasts a 100% South African wine list, a wide selection of bottled beers, and cocktails.
- Seasonal South African Cuisine: The food at Park Tavern strongly focuses on South African flavors, with a wood-fired Braai (South African BBQ) at the heart of their cooking. Dishes like succulent Boerewors, flavorful burger patties, biltong, and Rib-Eye steaks are locally sourced and cooked on the open Braai, offering depth of flavor and tenderness. Their weekly specials feature Burger and Steak days, and they also offer an all-organic Sunday Sharing Roast menu.
- Events: It hosts various events, including Rugby screenings, live music, wine events, and a pub quiz.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Wednesday: 12pm – 10pm
- Thursday: 12pm – 11pm
- Friday – Saturday: 12pm – 12am
- Sunday: 12pm – 10pm (extending to 12am before a Bank Holiday) The kitchen has specific hours, notably being closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Park Tavern is a unique blend of traditional British pub culture with a strong South African influence, offering an array of experiences from cosy dining to lively events. It’s a destination that caters to a diverse crowd, including pet owners, as it is dog-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal, relax with a drink, or participate in a fun event, Park Tavern is an excellent choice in the Southfields area of London.
Rose & Crown
Address: 55 High St, London SW19 5BA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Rose & Crown is a traditional pub situated in a convenient and charming spot in Wimbledon, offering a classic British pub experience.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, characterised by its traditional charm. It’s a place where you can join a friendly community, enjoy a pint of beer at the bar, or have a relaxed family lunch in a cosy restaurant setting. The pub is known for its comfortable nooks, a sun-trap garden for outdoor dining, and an overall homey feel, making it an inviting spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Cuisine and Drinks: Rose & Crown is celebrated for its excellent British cuisine, offering a range of meals from brunch to dinner. The menu caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The pub is also renowned for its fine selection of beers and other beverages, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Besides its culinary offerings, Rose & Crown provides comfortable accommodations with 13 cosy rooms, perfect for different types of stays.
- Special Events: The venue also hosts special events like Christmas feasts and viewings of sports events like the Six Nations rugby matches, making it a versatile and engaging spot.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Rose & Crown is open daily from 8am to 11pm.
Rose & Crown stands out as a versatile and welcoming venue, offering a quintessential British pub experience with its excellent cuisine, comfortable accommodations, and a range of activities catering to different interests.
Fire Stables
Address: 27-29 Church Rd, London SW19 5DQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Fire Stables is nestled in a residential area between Wimbledon and the tennis grounds, offering a sense of seclusion while still being conveniently close to the bustling High Street of Wimbledon Village.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for an elegant evening out. With stone floors, exposed brick walls, and leather banquette seating, it provides a traditional British pub feel combined with modern dining. The interior is understated but solid and welcoming, ideal for settling in and enjoying the experience.
What’s On Offer
- Expertly Crafted Cocktails and Extensive Wine List: The venue is particularly famous for its cocktail crafting expertise and offers an extensive wine list. These features make it an ideal spot for those who appreciate fine drinks and a sophisticated bar experience.
- Modern Cuisine and Seafood Specialties: Fire Stables stands out for its innovative menu, showcasing modern cuisine with a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes, chicken, pork, steaks, and a focus on fish. This emphasis on seafood offers patrons a rare opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of fish dishes.
- Sunday Roasts and Dog-Friendly Environment: The venue is known for serving one of the best roasts in Wimbledon Village, especially on Sundays. It also welcomes dogs, making it a great choice for pet owners.
- Seasonal Events and Private Hire
Fire Stables hosts various seasonal events like Christmas parties and offers options for private hire, accommodating different types of gatherings and celebrations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Fire Stables is open 7 days a week. The opening hours are from 11 am to 11 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 11 am to 10:30 pm on Sundays. Food service is available from 12 pm to 10 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 12 pm to 9 pm on Sundays.
Fire Stables in Wimbledon Village offers a unique combination of a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, diverse modern cuisine, and a notable selection of drinks, making it a standout choice for various dining and social occasions.
Ready to Visit?
Embark on a delightful journey through Merton’s vibrant pub scene. This area boasts an array of pubs and bars, each with its unique charm and offerings. Notably, the Nelson Arms, a classic London pub, welcomes visitors with a cosy atmosphere and an extensive selection of beers and wines. Another highlight is the Earl Spencer, a charming gastro pub in Southfields, known for its diverse menu and global beer selection. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed evening or a lively night out, Merton’s pubs, including the likes of The Merton Apprentice and The William Morris Pub, cater to all preferences with their eclectic mix of traditional and modern styles, varied menus, and vibrant atmospheres.
Share the Love
Why not experience the best of Merton’s pub scene for yourself? Head over to one of these fantastic bars, like the Nelson Arms or Earl Spencer, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and encourage them to join you on this adventure. After your visit, we’d love to hear about your experiences – share your reviews and let others know about your favourite spots. Cheers to new discoveries and memorable evenings!