Heading down to Borough and fancy a pint or a fancy cocktail? You’re in luck! Nestled around the bustling Borough Tube station, you’ll find a treasure trove of bars and pubs that promise a good time. Whether you’re after a cosy pub with ancient beams and real ale or a sleek bar where mixologists conjure up the latest concoctions, Borough has it all. This guide is your ticket to the best spots where locals and visitors alike unwind after a long day or kickstart a night out. So, grab your mates and let’s dive into the heart of Borough’s vibrant nightlife. Cheers to an unforgettable evening!
The Trinity
Address: 202-206 Borough High St, London, SE1 1JX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Trinity is situated on Borough High Street in London, a vibrant area known for its dynamic blend of history, culture, and modern urban living. Its location in the Borough neighborhood places it within easy reach of local landmarks, making it an accessible spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Trinity offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, blending traditional pub charm with contemporary elegance. It provides a cosy environment that’s perfect for casual dining, social gatherings, or simply enjoying a drink. The interior design balances classic features with modern touches, creating a welcoming space for all occasions.
What’s On Offer
- Exceptional Culinary Experience: The Trinity stands out for its exceptional culinary offerings, with a menu curated by Head Chef Peter Collier and his team. From lunch and dinner to snacks, the pub serves a variety of dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from hand-picked suppliers. The menu features a range of options, from small plates like crispy pork baos to Fuller’s classics, including pies and Frontier-batter fish and chips.
- Dynamic Event Schedule: The Trinity is known for hosting a variety of events and activities catering to diverse interests. The venue regularly updates its schedule to include seasonal updates, special offers, and events in the area, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting happening for patrons to enjoy.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open daily, with specific hours for general operation and food service. You can visit from Monday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 23:00 PM, and on Sunday, 12:00 PM to 21:00 PM. Food service hours vary slightly, generally starting from 12:00 PM with different closing times throughout the week.
The George
Address: 75 Borough High St, London, SE1 1NH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The George is a historic pub located in the heart of Southwark. This venue, rich in history, stands as the last surviving galleried inn in the city. It’s conveniently situated a brief walk from the bustling Borough Market and is near iconic landmarks such as The Shard and London Bridge, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The George is a blend of historical charm and contemporary hospitality. With its origins dating back to the 17th century, the pub offers a cosy, welcoming environment that’s perfect for a casual drink, a hearty meal, or simply soaking in the historical ambiance of London. The pub’s claim to fame includes a mention in Charles Dickens’s novel “Little Dorrit,” highlighting its longstanding significance in London’s cultural landscape.
What’s On Offer
- Sunday Roast: One of The George’s standout offerings is its traditional Sunday roast. Guests can choose from a selection of roasts, including 28-day aged sirloin of beef, roasted half chicken, or nut roast wellington, making it a popular weekend destination for families and friends seeking the quintessential British dining experience.
- Craft Beers & Classic Cocktails: The George prides itself on its selection of premium beers and crafted cocktails. With offerings like the Level Head Session IPA and innovative cocktails such as the Blackberry Tom Collins, the pub caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a pint or a sophisticated cocktail, The George has something to suit every palate.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:30am – 11:00pm
- Thursday: 11:30am – 12:00am
- Friday to Saturday: 11:00am – 12:00am
- Sunday: 12:00pm – 11:00pm
This venue, with its rich history, varied offerings, and prime location, represents a unique slice of London’s pub culture, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s historical and culinary delights.
The Gladstone Arms
Address: 64 Lant Street, London, SE1 1QN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Gladstone Arms is nestled in Borough, Southwark, London, a prime location just off Borough High Street and close to London Bridge. This family-run pub, known affectionately as “The Glad,” has a rich history dating back to the nineteenth century, with a rebuild in the 1920s. Its proximity to Borough tube station makes it an accessible gem in London’s vibrant pub scene.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Gladstone Arms is intimate and friendly, offering a blend of live music, comedy, and other entertainment. With an intimate beer garden/roof terrace and an upstairs lounge area available for private hire, it presents a cosy setting that fosters a sense of community. The venue is known for its live music sessions, particularly in genres like folk, blues, pop, and electronica, held every Tuesday and Sunday.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer, Real Ales & Anglo-Indian Food: An ever-changing selection of ales and craft beers from local breweries, including around 13 beers on tap, caters to beer enthusiasts. The food menu features homemade Anglo-Indian cuisine, marrying British classics with Indian flavors. Highlights include the Chicken Tikka Masala pie and Anglo-Indian Sunday roasts.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Regular gigs on Sunday and Tuesday evenings are a staple, with free entry but an option to contribute to the artists. The Gladstone Arms also hosts comedy nights and open mic sessions, making it a vibrant spot for entertainment near London Bridge.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open Monday to Thursday from 12pm to 11pm, Friday to Saturday from 12pm to 12am, and Sunday from 12pm to 10:30pm. The kitchen operates from 12-3pm & 5:30-10pm, offering lunch and dinner options.
This cosy, community-oriented pub with its unique blend of British and Indian culinary delights, craft beers, and a lively entertainment schedule offers an inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Wheatsheaf
Address: 6 Stoney Street, Borough, London, SE1 9AA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Wheatsheaf is nestled right in the heart of Borough Market, London’s premier food market, offering a convenient retreat just a short walk from London Bridge. This location places it as a central hub in one of the most vibrant foodie areas of London.
- What’s the Vibe? Boasting an epic pub atmosphere, The Wheatsheaf combines rustic charm with a lively, welcoming ambiance. It’s a place where the love for juicy burgers, cheesy pizzas, and craft beers come together under one roof, making it the go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a genuine pub experience in the bustling market area.
What’s On Offer
- DOUGHP Craft Pizza: A standout feature of The Wheatsheaf is its DOUGHP Craft Pizza, offering a range of hot, juicy, and slightly cheesy pizzas that promise to be an unforgettable part of your visit. This offering emphasises their commitment to quality pub grub that pairs perfectly with their selection of drinks.
- Burger Shack: Another significant offering is the Burger Shack, where guests can enjoy tantalizing burgers served with loaded fries. The Burger Shack at The Wheatsheaf is all about relishing the moment with some real nice buns, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00 – 00:00
- Friday: 11:00 – 00:00
- Saturday: 10:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 11:00 – 22:00
- Food service times slightly differ, generally starting an hour after opening and ending an hour before closing.
The Ship
Address: 68 Borough Rd, London, SE1 1DX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship is nestled on Borough Road, a lively area in South London known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history. It’s a pub that stands on the traditional values of hospitality and community, making it a local favorite.
- What’s the Vibe? With a warm and inviting atmosphere, The Ship has undergone a complete refurbishment, offering a cosy seating arrangement and an unrivaled beer garden. It’s the perfect backdrop for enjoying a refreshing drink with friends, embodying a blend of tradition and modernity that caters to all.
What’s On Offer
- Reda’s — A Taste Of Lebanon: The Ship introduces a unique culinary experience with Reda’s, a cosy spot offering the authentic flavors of Lebanon right in the heart of Southwark. Led by the skilled head chef, Reda, a native of Lebanon, the menu is a delightful journey through Middle Eastern cuisine, featuring irresistible mezzes and mouthwatering grilled meats.
- Live Music: The Ship elevates weekends with live music on Fridays and Saturdays, creating a vibrant backdrop for after-work drinks and celebrations. Additionally, every Sunday, the pub transforms into a haven for traditional Irish music from 3pm to 5pm, providing the ultimate wind-down session and a slice of Irish charm in London.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Ship welcomes guests all week, with opening hours from 12:00pm to 11:00pm Monday through Thursday, and extended hours on Friday and Saturday from 12:00pm to 12:00am. Sundays also see the doors open from 12:00pm to 11:00pm.
This detailed overview captures the essence and offerings of The Ship, a venue that combines traditional pub values with modern experiences, from its unique dining options to its engaging live music events.
Ready to Visit?
Exploring Borough’s vibrant nightlife is an adventure with its array of bars and pubs, each offering a unique experience. The Trinity and The George stand out with their mix of traditional charm and contemporary flair. The Trinity, nestled on Borough High Street, delights with its exceptional culinary offerings and cosy atmosphere, perfect for any social gathering. Meanwhile, The George, a historic pub near Borough Market, is famous for its Sunday roast and wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, inviting guests into a world where history meets modern-day hospitality. Whether you’re in for a quiet pint or a lively night out, Borough’s welcoming doors promise an unforgettable experience.
Share the Love
Feeling intrigued? Dip your toes into Borough’s eclectic bar scene by visiting either The Trinity or The George. Bring your friends along for the ride and immerse yourselves in the rich atmosphere and delightful offerings of these spots. Don’t forget to share your adventures and spread the word about your experiences. We’d love to hear your review after you’ve visited—your shared moments help keep the community vibrant and welcoming for everyone. Cheers to creating and sharing memorable nights out!