If you’re near Elephant & Castle Station and fancy a drink, you’re in luck! This vibrant area is brimming with a mix of quirky pubs and stylish bars, each with its own charm. Whether you’re after a classic pint in a cosy corner or a craft cocktail with a bit of flair, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind. Let’s dive into some of the best watering holes this eclectic part of London has to offer!
The Albert Arms
Address: 1 Gladstone Street, Elephant and Castle, SE1 6EY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the heart of Southwark, The Albert Arms is tucked away on the corner of Gladstone Street and Garden Row, not far from the bustling Elephant and Castle. It’s ideally positioned for those exploring nearby attractions like the Imperial War Museum, the London Eye, or Borough Market.
- What’s the Vibe? The Albert Arms offers a charming blend of the traditional and the modern. Housed in a Victorian building, the pub’s exterior is classic, with a white façade and inviting outdoor seating. Inside, the ambiance is cosy yet lively, with exposed brick walls, modern light fixtures, and framed photos adding a contemporary touch to the classic pub atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a quick drink or a leisurely meal, the environment is both welcoming and relaxed.
What’s On Offer
- Gastro Pub Delights: The Albert Arms is renowned for its high-quality, locally sourced food. The menu features Modern European twists on British pub classics, including favourites like pan-fried sea trout, stuffed rabbit leg, and a variety of indulgent roasts with all the trimmings. Their Sunday roast, in particular, is a highlight, drawing in locals and visitors alike.
- Rotating Ales & Extensive Wine List: In addition to its excellent food, The Albert Arms boasts a well-curated selection of drinks. You’ll find a range of traditional cask ales and draught beers rotating regularly, alongside an impressive wine list that leans towards Old World selections. Whether you’re after a pint or a glass of wine to complement your meal, the pub has you covered.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Albert Arms is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 PM until they run out of roasts, typically around 9:00 PM. The pub is closed on Mondays.
The Elephant and Castle
Address: 119 Newington Causeway, Elephant and Castle, SE1 6BN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Elephant and Castle pub is located in the heart of the Elephant and Castle area in Southwark, London. It’s situated on Newington Causeway, close to the bustling Elephant and Castle roundabout and the Tube station.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub boasts a blend of historic charm and modern quirkiness. As part of the Antic chain, the interior is eclectic, featuring salvaged furniture, mismatched decor, and even some oddities like 1960s shoes on the walls. Despite its trendy touches, the atmosphere remains welcoming and unpretentious, attracting a mix of local residents and visitors. The outdoor beer garden offers a casual spot to enjoy views of the surrounding area.
What’s On Offer
- Unique Beers & Drinks: The Elephant and Castle pub is known for its interesting selection of beverages. It features five hand pumps with a rotating selection of craft beers, including two house beers from the Volden Brewery, alongside other unique and local brews. Cider enthusiasts will also find a variety of options to choose from.
- Street Food: While the pub doesn’t have a kitchen, it compensates by regularly offering street food in the beer garden.
- Events: The pub also hosts live performances, making it a lively spot for an evening out. The events are well-attended and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the place.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM Monday through Wednesday, extends its hours until 1:00 AM on Thursdays, and stays open until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, it operates from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM.
This pub is a great choice for those looking to experience a piece of local history with a modern twist, offering a comfortable and lively setting in the ever-changing Elephant and Castle area.
The Prince of Wales
Address: 51 St George’s Road, London, SE1 6ER
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Prince of Wales is located on St George’s Road in the vibrant Southwark area of London, just a short walk from Elephant & Castle tube station. This central location makes it an accessible and convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a traditional British charm. It’s a popular spot for both casual diners and those looking for a friendly local to enjoy a pint. The interior has a cosy, unpretentious feel, making it perfect for everything from a quiet meal to a lively gathering. The pub is also known for its friendly staff, who contribute to the overall inviting ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Great Food & Drink: The Prince of Wales is celebrated for its hearty pub fare, which includes classic British dishes alongside some modern options. The menu isn’t overly extensive but offers something for everyone, including vegan and gluten-free choices. The portions are generous, and the food is consistently praised for its quality, making it a top choice for a satisfying meal in the area.
- Private Events & Sports Viewing: The pub is also a great venue for hosting private events. It has a dedicated area that can be reserved for special occasions, such as birthday parties, where the staff go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. Additionally, it’s a sports-friendly pub with live football matches shown on big screens, creating a lively atmosphere for sports fans.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Thurs 12:00-23:30, Fri & Sat 12:00-00:00, Sun 12:00-23:00.
The Rosy Hue
Address: 6 Ash Avenue, Elephant Park, SE17 1GQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Rosy Hue is located in the vibrant Elephant Park development, within the Elephant and Castle area of London. This neighbourhood has been undergoing significant regeneration, and the pub is nestled in a modern, urban setting that is easily accessible by public transport.
- What’s the Vibe? The Rosy Hue is a blend of the old and new, offering a traditional pub atmosphere with modern amenities. The decor combines timeless fixtures, reclaimed furniture, and dark leather accents, creating a cosy and authentic environment. The front area is dedicated to socialising with dining and drinking spaces, while a lively area “behind the arch” offers sports viewings, live music, and pub quizzes. The pub also features a heated terrace, perfect for year-round outdoor dining.
What’s On Offer
- British Seasonal Menu: The Rosy Hue prides itself on serving a menu packed with British seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for classic pub favourites or something more contemporary, the menu has a variety of options. The pub also offers a selection of craft beers, local wines, and signature cocktails, making it a go-to spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
- Live Events & Entertainment: This pub is not just about food and drink—it’s also a hub for entertainment. Every Friday and Saturday night, you can enjoy live music, while Sundays are reserved for their popular pub quiz. The venue also shows major sports events, providing a vibrant backdrop for fans to gather and enjoy the games.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Rosy Hue is open from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM Monday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the pub extends its hours until midnight, and on Sundays, it opens earlier at 11:00 AM, closing again at 11:00 PM.
This pub offers a charming combination of traditional pub elements and modern conveniences, making it a must-visit in the Elephant and Castle area. Whether you’re there for a casual drink, a hearty meal, or some weekend entertainment, The Rosy Hue has something to offer everyone.
Spit & Sawdust
Address: 21 Bartholomew Street, London, SE1 4AL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the heart of Southwark, just a short walk from Elephant & Castle and Borough tube stations, Spit & Sawdust is nestled in a vibrant area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. The pub is easily accessible and conveniently close to major London landmarks, making it an ideal spot for locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? Spit & Sawdust exudes a laid-back, trendy vibe with a cool, unpretentious atmosphere. The venue is known for its eclectic crowd, offering a relaxed setting where you can easily feel at home. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual drink or planning a night out with friends, the pub’s welcoming environment is enhanced by its diverse crowd, great music, and a warm, rustic interior that feels both cosy and contemporary.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer Selection: Spit & Sawdust prides itself on having one of the most extensive ranges of craft beers in the SE1 area. With a focus on quality and variety, the pub offers a rotating selection of local brews that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, there’s always a unique pint to enjoy.
- Weekly Events & Retro Games: The pub is not just about great drinks; it also hosts a variety of events throughout the week. Highlights include a lively pub quiz every Tuesday and ‘Disco Saturdays’ with DJ Domzilla spinning tracks late into the night. Additionally, Spit & Sawdust is a haven for nostalgia lovers, featuring a shuffleboard table and an arcade machine loaded with over 32,000 retro games, making it perfect for a fun-filled night out.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from 4 PM to 11 PM Monday through Thursday, extends its hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and is open from 12 PM to 11 PM on Sundays. The kitchen operates slightly different hours, starting service from 5 PM on weekdays and from 1 PM on weekends.
Ready to Visit?
Elephant & Castle is a lively area brimming with a diverse array of pubs and bars, each offering its own unique charm. From the traditional yet modern ambiance of The Albert Arms, known for its exquisite Sunday roast and rotating ales, to the quirky, eclectic vibe of The Elephant and Castle pub with its craft beers and live events, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a cosy pint or a craft cocktail, this area has you covered.
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Why not pop into one of these fantastic bars, like The Albert Arms or The Elephant and Castle, next time you’re in the area? Don’t forget to share this guide with your friends and leave a review after your visit to spread the word!