Looking for a great pint or a cheeky cocktail near Kennington Tube? You’re in luck! This area is buzzing with cosy pubs, stylish bars, and plenty of charm. Whether you fancy a classic boozer with real ales or a trendy spot for craft cocktails, Kennington’s got something for every vibe. Let’s dive into the best watering holes this corner of London has to offer!
The Old Red Lion
Address: 42 Kennington Park Road, London, SE11 4RS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Kennington, The Old Red Lion is conveniently located just across the road from Kennington Tube station, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a Grade II listed building with a Tudor-style exterior, the pub exudes traditional British charm. Inside, you’ll find wooden beams, low ceilings, and a central island bar, creating a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The décor is eclectic, featuring vintage touches and quirky furnishings, offering patrons a comfortable and homely environment.
What’s On Offer
- Classic Pub Fare: The Old Red Lion serves a variety of classic British dishes, including their renowned Sunday roasts with succulent cuts of meat, vegetarian wellington, crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, giant Yorkshire puddings, and rich gravy. They also offer sides like cheesy cauliflower cheese and pigs in blankets, ensuring a hearty dining experience.
- Quiz Night: The pub hosts a popular quiz night, providing a fun and engaging evening for guests.
- Happy Hour: Additionally, they offer a selection of well-kept ales and house cocktails, with promotions such as £4.50 pints and wine during happy hour, and 2-for-£14 cocktails, enhancing the social atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- The Old Red Lion operates during the following hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Thursday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- The kitchen serves food:
- Monday to Wednesday: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- The Old Red Lion operates during the following hours:
The White Bear
Address: 138 Kennington Park Road, London, SE11 4DJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Kennington, The White Bear is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Kennington Underground Station and close to the Oval Cricket Ground.
- What’s the Vibe? Established in 1780, this historic pub exudes a blend of traditional charm and modern design. Adorned with eclectic art and featuring its original wooden bar, The White Bear offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, complete with a roaring fire in the Snug for added warmth and a relaxed atmosphere. The venue is also ideal for alfresco dining in its spacious outdoor seating area, especially during warmer days.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Cuisine: The White Bear prides itself on serving freshly prepared British pub classics, including succulent Sunday roasts with seasonal trimmings and excellent vegan specials. Their menus celebrate the freshest ingredients, such as wild garlic and Yorkshire rhubarb, sourced from top British suppliers.
- White Bear Theatre: For theatre enthusiasts, the pub houses the White Bear Theatre upstairs, showcasing new and unique manuscripts that cater to culture aficionados. The theatre has a reputation for innovative productions and has featured stars like Emily Watson.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00
- Food is served daily from 12:00 to 21:30.
The King’s Arms
Address: 98 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 4XD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The King’s Arms is situated on the corner of Kennington Lane and Chester Way, less than 300 yards from Kennington Tube station, making it easily accessible by public transport.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional pub offers a deceptively spacious interior adorned with multiple TV screens and a pool table, creating a lively yet cosy atmosphere. To the rear, there’s an attractive, well-stocked garden with ample seating, providing a pleasant outdoor space for patrons.
What’s On Offer
- Live Sports Broadcasts: The pub features multiple TV screens, making it an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts to enjoy live broadcasts in a communal setting.
- Home-Cooked Meals: From Thursday to Saturday, The King’s Arms serves home-cooked food, with traditional roast lunches available on Sundays, offering a hearty dining experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub operates from noon to 11:00 pm Monday to Thursday, extends its hours until 1:00 am on Friday and Saturday, and is open from noon to 11:00 pm on Sunday.
The Black Prince
Address: 6 Black Prince Road, Kennington, SE11 6HS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in Kennington, The Black Prince is conveniently located near central London landmarks.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a traditional British charm with its cosy interior and welcoming atmosphere. It’s known for its friendly staff and serves as a comfortable spot for patrons seeking a classic pub experience.
What’s On Offer
- Hearty British Fare: The Black Prince offers a menu featuring traditional British dishes. Notable options include their Sunday roasts, with choices like topside of beef, belly of pork, and lamb shank, all served with roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.
- Burger Specials: The pub is renowned for its burgers, such as the bacon cheeseburger and buttermilk chicken burger, each accompanied by rosemary fries. These are prepared to order, ensuring freshness and quality.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Friday: 4:00 pm till late
- Saturday: 12:00 pm till late
- Sunday: 12:00 pm till late
The Prince of Wales
Address: Cleaver Square, Kennington, London SE11 4EA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the picturesque Cleaver Square in Kennington, The Prince of Wales enjoys a serene setting amidst Georgian architecture, offering a tranquil retreat from the city’s bustle.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional independent pub exudes a cosy, country-like atmosphere with eclectic artwork adorning its recently renovated interior. Its warm and welcoming environment makes it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
What’s On Offer
- Delicious Food Menu: The pub serves a variety of dishes, including an 8 oz beef burger with Monterey Jack cheese and smoked bacon, and a Moving Mountain vegan burger.
- Sunday Roasts: On Sundays, patrons can enjoy traditional roasts served with seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes, red wine jus, and Yorkshire pudding.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 3 pm – 11 pm
- Friday: 3 pm – 11 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm – 11 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm
- The kitchen serves food at these times:
- Tuesday: 5 pm – 9 pm
- Wednesday to Friday: 5 pm – 9:30 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm – 9:30 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm – 7 pm
Ready to Visit?
Kennington is a vibrant area with a fantastic selection of pubs and bars, each offering its unique charm. From the cosy, Tudor-style Old Red Lion, known for its quiz nights and hearty Sunday roasts, to the historic White Bear with its mix of classic British dishes and a theatre showcasing innovative performances, there’s something to suit every mood. Whether you’re after a pint, a cocktail, or a delicious meal, Kennington’s pubs are ready to impress.
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Why not pop into one of these brilliant local pubs, like The Old Red Lion or The White Bear, and experience their charm for yourself? Share this article with your friends and don’t forget to leave a review after your visit to let others know about your experience!