Ready for a cheeky pint or a fancy cocktail in Richmond upon Thames? Look no further! Nestled along the river, this scenic borough boasts a variety of watering holes that promise more than just a good drink. From cosy, traditional pubs oozing with character to trendy bars with riverside views, Richmond’s nightlife scene is as diverse as it is vibrant. Whether you’re after a quiet evening with a craft ale or a night out with zesty cocktails, Richmond’s got you covered. So, let’s dive into the best spots where the drinks are chilled, and the atmosphere is as inviting as a warm British welcome!
The White Cross
Address: Riverside House, Water Ln, Richmond, TW9 1NR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This iconic riverside pub is situated by the River Thames, offering picturesque views and a historic setting that enhances its charm.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The White Cross is quintessentially British pub-style, with a warm and inviting ambiance. It’s known for its cosy environment, friendly service, and stunning riverside views, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- British Fare in a Unique Riverside Location: The White Cross prides itself on serving the best of British food, from lunch through to dinner, every day of the week. Their menu features traditional British dishes, real ales, and fine wines. The pub is especially famous for its Sunday roasts and offers an inviting outdoor seating area for enjoying the riverside location.
- Special Events: The venue is renowned for hosting special occasions and celebrations, adding a unique charm to events with its riverside setting.
- Toastie Shack: Additionally, they have a “Toastie Shack” offering hearty and delicious toasties, perfect for warming up during colder months.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The White Cross is open seven days a week, with operating hours from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Monday to Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Sundays.
Tap Tavern
Address: Princes St, Richmond, TW9 1ED
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tap Tavern is situated 1.6 miles from Richmond Park, providing a convenient location for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? Tap Tavern offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere, known for its friendly environment and a vibe that’s popular for after-work drinks as well as relaxed weekend gatherings. It’s described as a great place for catching up with friends, with its warm and relaxed ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Craft Beer Selection: Tap Tavern boasts an impressive selection of over 100 craft beers, with a 17 tap beer wall featuring a rotating selection from local and UK-based independent micro-breweries. Monthly specials include niche breweries from around the world, offering a variety of beer types like West Coast Pale Ales, Double IPAs, Milk Stouts, and more.
- Modern British Cuisine and More: Along with its extensive beer selection, the venue offers a menu specialising in bar bites, smoked and grilled items. Popular choices include Salt & Pepper Squid, Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders, Truffled Parmesan Fries, and a variety of burgers and other main dishes. The food is known for accommodating all dietary requirements, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:45 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:15 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:15 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:15 PM.
Tap Tavern has established itself as a local favorite in Richmond, providing a unique blend of an extensive beer selection, quality food, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a place that caters to a wide range of tastes, perfect for casual gatherings, and offers a welcoming ambiance for both locals and visitors.
The Old Ship
Address: 3 King St, Richmond, TW9 1ND
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Ship is in the heart of Richmond High Street, offering easy access to the river and a short walk to Richmond Park.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional British pub exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, combining historic charm with contemporary touches. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, known for its friendly service and comfortable setting.
What’s On Offer:
- Seasonal British Classics: The Old Ship takes pride in serving locally sourced, freshly made food. The menu features seasonal British classics that cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Live Sports and Events: The pub is a go-to venue for watching live sports, with facilities to show major games in football, rugby, cricket, and more. It’s also known for hosting special occasions and celebrations, offering a dedicated Upper Deck for private parties.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? The Old Ship is open daily. From Monday to Thursday, it operates from 10:00 AM to 23:00 PM, on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 00:00 AM, and on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 23:00 PM.
- Food Service Times: Meals are served from 12:00 PM to 22:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 12:00 PM to 21:00 PM on Sundays.
The Old Ship stands out for its combination of traditional pub charm and modern amenities, offering a cosy place for meals, drinks, and social gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a Sunday roast, watch a game, or celebrate a special occasion, The Old Ship caters to a variety of needs and preferences.
The Marlborough
Address: 46 Friars Stile Rd, Richmond TW10 6NQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Marlborough is conveniently situated a short distance from Richmond Park, making it a great spot to relax after exploring the park.
- What’s the Vibe? The Marlborough offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It features comfy leather sofas and armchairs, tasteful décor, and a handsome dining room. The pub is known for attracting a local crowd and provides a relaxed environment whether you’re there for a meal or just drinks.
What’s On Offer
- Exceptional Cuisine and Drinks: The Marlborough is renowned for its fresh, seasonal British food, catering to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. They offer a menu filled with British classics and innovative dishes. The pub is particularly noted for its delicious Sunday roasts, featuring options for vegetarians and vegans as well. The pub also boasts a wide selection of ales, craft beers, and an extensive wine list.
- Events and Garden: The pub hosts various events, including the ‘Rather Rotund Quiz Of The Year’ and ‘Burns Night’. Additionally, it features one of Richmond’s most impressive beer gardens, equipped with patio heaters and sun loungers, perfect for any season.
- Dog-Friendly: The venue is dog-friendly and even offers a special menu for dogs, including treats like steak kidney and liver pies and doggy ice cream!
- Private Events: The Marlborough caters to private events and parties, offering various spaces suitable for different types of gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM – Midnight
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
The Marlborough is more than just a pub; it’s a destination where excellent food, a great selection of drinks, and a friendly atmosphere come together to create a delightful experience for visitors and locals alike.
Richmond Vault
Address: 5 Hill St, London, Richmond TW9 1SX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Richmond Vault is located beneath two Georgian buildings in Richmond Upon Thames’ town centre. This basement venue provides a getaway from the bustling city life above.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at Richmond Vault is cosy and atmospheric, characterised by a labyrinth of nooks ideal for drinks and dining. The interior is split over several levels with arches and passageways, adding to its uniqueness. Curved skylights allow natural light to filter in, creating an inviting ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Beer and Wine Collection: The Vault boasts an impressive selection of beers, including local and international craft brews, lagers, and ales. Knowledgeable staff are available to assist in choosing the perfect beer to match your taste. Additionally, they offer a wide range of wines and spirits.
- Happy Hour: Happy hours are available from Tuesday to Friday between 5pm and 6pm.
- Inventive Menu: The food menu is a step above typical pub offerings, with items like ribs marinated in cider sauce, spicy chorizo mussels with chips, and stone-baked goat’s cheese pizza. The homemade tiramisu is particularly noteworthy, offering a delightful dessert option.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Tuesday – Thursday: 5pm – 11pm
- Friday – Saturday: 12pm – 1am
- Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
- Monday: Closed
Richmond Vault is more than just a dining location; it’s a venue for various events, including DJ nights, live music performances, and can also be hired for private functions like parties or corporate events. The mix of its unique underground setting, extensive drink selection, and quality food offerings make it a standout destination in Richmond.
The Sun Inn
Address: 17 Parkshot, Richmond TW9 2RG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Sun Inn is a traditional, family-run pub nestled in Richmond, a stone’s throw away from Twickenham, making it an ideal spot for rugby enthusiasts and locals alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a warm and cosy atmosphere characterised by its dark wooden interior and stained glass windows. The outdoor area, surrounded by greenery, provides a serene environment on a quiet Richmond back street. It’s known for a lively ambiance, especially during rugby games, balancing the energy of sports with the comfort of a traditional British pub.
What’s On Offer
- Home-Cooked Food and Drinks: The Sun Inn is renowned for its hearty home-cooked food, offering a range of delicious dishes. They also serve a variety of drinks, including fresh cask ale and a selection of Fuller’s Brewery beers like Discovery, ESB, London Pride, and Seafarers, each with unique flavors and tasting notes.
- Live Sports and Rugby Connection: Being close to Twickenham, the pub is a hotspot for rugby fans, frequently visited by both players and supporters. It offers live sports broadcasting on TV, making it a go-to venue for watching major rugby matches and other sports events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Tuesday: 12:00 – 22:00
- Wednesday – Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00
The Sun Inn stands out as a charming traditional pub with a distinct rugby theme, offering a unique blend of sports enthusiasm and culinary delights. Its location and offerings make it an attractive spot for both local patrons and sports fans.
The Victoria Inn
Address: 78 Hill Rise, Richmond TW10 6UB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This charming pub, celebrated as Richmond’s smallest, is nestled in a quaint spot close to Richmond Park and the River, making it a convenient and scenic destination.
- What’s the Vibe? The ambiance of The Victoria Inn is that of a traditional and friendly local pub. It features a cosy atmosphere with glowing fires, dark oak beams, and architectural charm. The pub is known for its welcoming environment, making it a favored spot among locals and visitors alike.
What’s On Offer
- Cask Marque Certified Ales: One of the standout features of The Victoria Inn is its selection of Cask Marque certified ales. This certification is a testament to the quality of their ales, making it a prime spot for ale enthusiasts.
- Secret Patio Garden: Another unique aspect of The Victoria Inn is its secret patio garden. This hidden gem provides a quaint outdoor seating area with a covered section and heaters, offering a lovely setting for drinks and socialising in any weather.
Practical Info
When Can You Visit? The Victoria Inn welcomes guests all week, with opening hours from 12:00 to 22:00 every day.
The pub’s proximity to Richmond Park and various attractions adds to its appeal. While primarily known for its drinks, visitors also appreciate the friendly service and the traditional pub experience The Victoria Inn offers. The combination of its excellent location, unique features like the secret garden, and its reputation for good quality ales makes The Victoria Inn a must-visit venue in Richmond.
The Angel & Crown
Address: Church Ct, Richmond TW9 1JL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Angel & Crown is a historic pub nestled in the heart of Richmond, Surrey, just 1.6 miles from Richmond Park.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue boasts a warm and cosy atmosphere, blending 400 years of history with modern flair. It’s known for its comfortable setting that includes an open fireplace, creating a snug retreat especially in winter. The pub is a fusion of British and Brazilian styles, offering a unique dining and social experience.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Culinary Experience: The Angel & Crown offers a blend of traditional British pub food with a South American twist, attributed to the skills of their award-winning chef. Menu highlights include smoked chicken croquettes & aiöli, cheese bread rolls & guava chutney, and vegan scampi & tartare sauce. The Roast Beef Pie and Brazilian dishes have been particularly praised by patrons.
- Events and Music: Regular events like open mic nights, weekly quizzes, and live music performances add to the pub’s charm. These events create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere, attracting a mix of people and ages, which contributes to the pub’s reputation as a community-centric spot.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 10:00 – 23:30
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 – 22:30
- Friday: 10:00 – 23:30
- Saturday: 10:00 – 23:30
- Sunday: 12:00 – 21:00.
The Angel & Crown in Richmond offers a distinctive blend of historical charm and modern culinary flair, making it a notable venue in the area. Its focus on quality food, engaging events, and a cosy atmosphere contributes to its appeal as a destination for both locals and visitors.
The White Swan
Address: 26 Old Palace Ln, Richmond TW9 1PG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in a picturesque setting near Richmond town centre, The White Swan is only 1.8 miles from Richmond Park. Its location combines the accessibility of being near the town centre with the quaint charm of a more secluded spot.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue is known for its cosy and welcoming ambiance, offering a traditional British pub experience. It’s a place where the historical charm blends with a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for various occasions, from casual outings to special events.
What’s On Offer
- Award-Winning Sunday Roasts: The White Swan prides itself on its culinary offerings, especially its award-winning Sunday roasts.
- Diverse Food and Drink Menu: Alongside its famous roasts, the venue offers a range of meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes, catering to diverse palates. Their menu is complemented by a good selection of wines and beers, including some notable brands like Landlord.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The White Swan is open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially for larger groups or weekend visits, as the pub can get quite busy.
Red Cow
Address: 59 Sheen Rd, Richmond TW9 1YJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This historic venue has been a part of the Richmond landscape for over 200 years, serving as a cornerstone of the local community. It’s well-positioned in an area that was once marshland, home to cattle grazing, including a prized red cow which inspired the inn’s name.
- What’s the Vibe? The Red Cow offers a classic British pub experience, blending traditional charm with modern comforts. The interior boasts Victorian painted glass panels behind the bar, maintaining its historical ambiance. The venue is popular among both locals and visitors, known for its welcoming atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a range of activities from sports viewing to live music.
What’s On Offer
- Special Menu and Cuisine: The pub features a unique culinary offering with its Heng Heng kitchen, serving Cambodian & Thai Cuisine. This provides a taste of Asia in the heart of Richmond, showcasing a diverse range of flavors and dishes.
- Regular Events: Regular events like quiz nights every Tuesday and live music performances enhance the pub’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Accommodation: Additionally, The Red Cow offers accommodation options with tastefully furnished ensuite bedrooms, including twin, double, and family rooms, each with its own separate entrance from the bar.
Practical Info
- Visiting Times:
- Monday and Tuesday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Wednesday to Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 23:00
Ready to Visit?
Richmond upon Thames, a picturesque borough along the river, offers a delightful mix of traditional pubs and trendy bars, each with its unique charm and selection of drinks. Notable mentions include The White Cross, famous for its riverside views and traditional British fare, and Tap Tavern, renowned for its extensive craft beer selection and cosy atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening or a lively night out, Richmond’s diverse and vibrant nightlife scene has something for everyone.
Share the Love
Why not give one of these fabulous Richmond bars a try? Whether it’s the riverside charm of The White Cross or the craft beer haven of Tap Tavern, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and let everyone know about your experience with a review after your visit. Cheers to unforgettable nights in Richmond!