If you find yourself near Barnes Bridge Rail Station and in need of a tipple, you’re in luck! This charming part of London offers a delightful mix of cosy pubs and stylish bars, perfect for a relaxed evening out. Whether you’re after a riverside pint with a view or a chic cocktail in a more modern setting, the spots around Barnes Bridge have got you covered. So, take a stroll along the Thames and discover some of the best watering holes this side of the city.
The White Hart
Address: The Terrace, Barnes, SW13 0NR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The White Hart is located on The Terrace in Barnes, right on the banks of the River Thames. It’s a short walk from Barnes Bridge station, making it an easily accessible spot for both locals and visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of central London. The pub enjoys a picturesque riverside setting, perfect for a leisurely visit.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a cosy and traditional atmosphere with a touch of sophistication. The White Hart has retained much of its historic charm, with wooden panelling, an island bar, and even a roaring fireplace. The pub’s ambience is a blend of relaxed comfort and refined dining, appealing to those looking for a quiet drink or a hearty meal. During the warmer months, the riverside terrace becomes a lively spot, especially for those looking to soak in the stunning views of the Thames.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Menu: The White Hart prides itself on serving seasonal British cuisine. The head chef focuses on sustainability, ensuring that dishes highlight the best of local produce. Popular offerings include the classic Sunday roast, where diners can enjoy tender meats with all the traditional trimmings, as well as other favourites like fish and chips and the White Hart burger. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.
- Dog-Friendly Environment: The White Hart is also known for being one of the most dog-friendly pubs in Barnes. After a scenic walk along the river, patrons are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends along to enjoy some doggy treats and a refreshing canine “IPA” (water). The pub’s welcoming approach to pets makes it a favourite among local dog owners.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The White Hart is open from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Monday to Thursday, extending until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, the pub operates from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
This riverside pub combines historic charm with modern comforts, making it a standout choice for anyone visiting Barnes, whether you’re there for a relaxed pint, a Sunday roast, or just to enjoy the riverside views with your dog.
The Coach & Horses
Address: 27 Barnes High Street, London, SW13 9LW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Coach & Horses is situated on Barnes High Street, just a short walk from Barnes Bridge Station. This prime location places it in the heart of the picturesque Barnes village, a tranquil and affluent area in southwest London, known for its proximity to the River Thames and Barnes Common.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub boasts a charming and traditional atmosphere, blending the cosy feel of a local village pub with modern touches. The interior is warm and inviting, featuring a classic design with wooden furnishings and a log fire that makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing drink. The spacious beer garden, touted as the largest in Barnes, is a highlight, offering a pleasant outdoor setting for socialising, particularly in warmer months. It’s a family and dog-friendly venue, enhancing its welcoming, community-focused vibe.
What’s On Offer
- Burger Shack & Sunday Roasts: One of the standout offerings at The Coach & Horses is its Burger Shack, which serves a range of mouth-watering burgers, including options for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, the pub is famous for its Sunday roasts, which are served all day and include traditional British favourites that draw in locals and visitors alike.
- The Stables Private Room: For those looking to host an event, The Stables—a private room at the back of the pub—offers a fantastic venue. This space comes equipped with its own bar and a large projector screen, making it ideal for private parties, corporate meetings, or special occasions. The room’s doors open directly onto the garden, creating a versatile and appealing environment for gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Coach & Horses is open every day of the week. From Monday to Thursday, it operates from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until midnight, while on Sundays, the pub opens from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
The Bull’s Head
Address: 373 Lonsdale Road, Barnes, SW13 9PY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Bull’s Head is nestled in the charming riverside neighbourhood of Barnes in South West London. It’s ideally situated along the Thames, just a short stroll from Barnes Bridge Station, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors to unwind.
- What’s the Vibe? The Bull’s Head boasts a blend of traditional British pub charm with a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its illustrious musical heritage, this venue combines a friendly local pub vibe with the sophistication of a jazz club, creating a unique and welcoming ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Live Jazz Performances: A key highlight of The Bull’s Head is its renowned Jazz Room, which has hosted live music performances for over 60 years. This historic space has seen performances from big names in jazz, making it a significant venue in London’s music scene. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just looking for an evening of quality entertainment, the Jazz Room offers an intimate and memorable experience.
- Seasonal British Cuisine: The pub prides itself on offering a menu that showcases the best of British cuisine, with seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. From classic pub favourites to creative specials, the food is crafted to highlight the flavours of the season, making dining at The Bull’s Head a delightful experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Bull’s Head is open from Monday to Sunday, with opening hours generally from 11:00 AM to midnight, though it closes a bit earlier on Sundays at 11:00 PM. Food is served daily from 12:00 PM, with service ending at 10:00 PM on most days, except for Sundays when it concludes at 9:00 PM.
This iconic venue combines the best of British pub culture with a rich musical history, making it a must-visit spot in Barnes.
The Sun Inn
Address: 7 Church Road, Barnes, SW13 9HE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Sun Inn is situated in the picturesque area of Barnes, overlooking the serene village pond. The pub is nestled amongst historic cottages and narrow streets, just a short walk from Barnes Bridge railway station, making it easily accessible yet delightfully secluded.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Sun Inn is warm and inviting, embodying the charm of a traditional English pub. Housed in a Grade II listed building with 18th-century features, it blends historical elegance with a relaxed, community-focused environment. Whether you’re sitting by the fireside or enjoying the outdoors in the beer garden, the pub offers a cosy and friendly ambiance ideal for both casual visits and special gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Gastronomic Delights: The Sun Inn is renowned for its classic British pub menu, featuring a range of seasonal dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Sunday roast, a delectable steak night, or a light salad, the menu caters to all tastes, including vegetarian and vegan options. Their dessert offerings, such as the sticky toffee pudding, are also highly praised.
- Special Events & Offers: Regular events at The Sun Inn include quiz nights every Monday and themed nights like Steak Night, where you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak paired with a bottle of wine.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Sun Inn is open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
The Waterman’s Arms
Address: 375 Lonsdale Rd, London, SW13 9PY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Waterman’s Arms is nestled in the picturesque suburb of Barnes, South West London. It enjoys a stunning riverside location along the River Thames, making it a prime spot for those looking to enjoy serene views while dining or drinking. This location offers both tranquillity and charm, away from the bustle of central London, yet easily accessible for a leisurely escape.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Waterman’s Arms is a blend of modern gastropub comfort with a touch of rustic elegance. The recently renovated interior features wood-panelling and inviting dining rooms, creating a cosy environment perfect for a relaxed meal or a quiet drink. The venue exudes warmth and hospitality, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike, especially as the weather cools and patrons seek out comforting food and drink in a welcoming setting.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal & Thoughtful Cuisine: The Waterman’s Arms is particularly renowned for its food, which elevates traditional pub fare into something truly special. The kitchen, led by a talented chef, offers a menu that changes with the seasons, focusing on hearty, well-executed dishes like steaks, fish stews, and daily specials that showcase the best of local produce. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, the options are both varied and consistently praised for their quality and flavour.
- Sunday Lunch & Sharing Dishes: Sundays at The Waterman’s Arms are particularly popular, thanks to their renowned Sunday lunch offerings. The menu features a variety of sharing dishes, such as spit-roast chicken and lamb shoulder, perfect for a communal dining experience. These dishes are served alongside carefully prepared sides and desserts, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely Sunday afternoon with family or friends.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Tuesday – Wednesday: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Ready to Visit?
Barnes, a charming riverside area in southwest London, offers an enticing mix of traditional pubs and modern bars, perfect for a relaxed evening out. Nestled along the River Thames and close to Barnes Bridge Rail Station, this area is known for its picturesque setting and welcoming atmosphere. Among the standout venues are The White Hart, with its cosy riverside views and The Bull’s Head, a vibrant spot with a rich jazz history. Both establishments reflect the unique blend of history and contemporary charm that Barnes has to offer.
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Why not try one of these delightful bars on your next visit to Barnes? Share this article with friends who appreciate a good pub experience, and don’t forget to leave a review once you’ve soaked in the atmosphere at The White Hart or enjoyed some live jazz at The Bull’s Head!