Just a stone’s throw from Southwark Tube, you’ll find a delightful mix of watering holes that cater to every taste. Whether you’re after a historic pub with tales to tell, a trendy spot for craft cocktails, or a cosy corner to unwind, Southwark’s got you covered. From classic British boozers to modern bars with flair, this area is brimming with places to raise a glass. So, whether you’re catching up with mates, enjoying a date night, or simply exploring, here’s a quick guide to the best bars and pubs near Southwark Tube.
The Lord Clyde
Address: 27 Clennam St, London, SE1 1ER
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked away on Clennam Street in Southwark, The Lord Clyde is a short stroll from Borough Market, The Shard, and London Bridge station. Its discreet location offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
- What’s the Vibe? A quintessential London boozer, The Lord Clyde exudes historic charm with its richly tiled Edwardian façade and preserved interiors. Inside, you’ll find wood-panelled walls, vintage mirrors, and a cosy atmosphere that harks back to early 20th-century pub design.
What’s On Offer
- Pieminister Pies & Pub Classics: The pub’s culinary highlight is its selection of Pieminister pies, served with creamy mash, minty mushy peas, and rich red wine and onion gravy. Options include beef steak and Stilton, chicken with ham and leek, and a vegan jackfruit pie.
- Live Sports & Weekly Events: Equipped with multiple screens, The Lord Clyde broadcasts major sporting events, including Premier League and Champions League matches. Weekly events like “Mixr Mondays” offer double reward points, while “Board Games Tuesday” provides a relaxed evening with classic games.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday–Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Food is served daily from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Circe’s Rooftop Waterloo
Address: Mercury House, 117 Waterloo Road, London SE1 8UL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Perched atop Mercury House, Circe’s Rooftop is a hidden gem just a short stroll from Waterloo Station. Despite the bustling surroundings, this rooftop oasis offers a serene escape with panoramic views of London’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like The Shard.
- What’s the Vibe? Inspired by the enchantress of Greek mythology, Circe’s exudes a mythical charm combined with Mediterranean flair. The venue boasts a blend of open-air terraces and covered, heated areas, making it a year-round destination. With its vibrant décor, ambient lighting, and lively atmosphere, it’s perfect for both relaxed afternoons and spirited evenings.
What’s On Offer
- Mediterranean-Inspired Menu: Circe’s offers a delectable array of Mediterranean small plates and sharing platters. Highlights include lamb kofte flatbreads, tiger prawns on focaccia, and the mezze board featuring baba ghanoush, red pepper hummus, and falafel. Their seasonal menus ensure fresh and flavourful options throughout the year.
- Signature Cocktails & Events: The cocktail menu is both inventive and enticing, with creations like “Perse’s Picante” and “Peach for the Stars”. Regular events such as the “Witching Hour” offer 2-for-1 cocktails and 3-for-2 small plates on weekdays from 3pm to 7pm. Additionally, themed bottomless brunches and seasonal festivities keep the calendar lively.
- Booking: While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or special occasions.
- Private Hire: The venue offers various spaces for private hire, accommodating events from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 3pm – 1am
- Thursday to Saturday: 12pm – 2am
- Sunday: 12pm – 1am
- Food is served until 10pm daily.
The Gladstone Arms
Address: 64 Lant Street, London, SE1 1QN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on a quiet side street just a short stroll from Borough Underground station, The Gladstone Arms – affectionately known as “The Glad” – is a hidden gem in Southwark. Its proximity to London Bridge and Borough Market makes it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This intimate, family-run pub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With its candlelit tables, cosy interiors, and a small roof terrace, it offers a relaxed setting ideal for casual drinks, hearty meals, or enjoying live music. The pub’s rich history and community spirit add to its unique charm.
What’s On Offer
- Anglo-Indian Cuisine: The Gladstone Arms stands out with its Anglo-Indian menu, blending British pub classics with Indian flavours. Signature dishes include the Chicken Tikka Masala Pie and Sunday roasts featuring Railway Lamb Chops or Butter Chicken Supreme, served with Bombay potatoes and homemade Yorkshire puddings.
- Live Music & Events: A hub for live music enthusiasts, The Glad hosts free gigs every Tuesday and Sunday, showcasing genres from folk and blues to pop and electronica. Additionally, it offers comedy nights and open mic sessions, fostering a vibrant local arts scene.
- Facilities & Accessibility: The pub features a downstairs bar, an upstairs lounge, and a small roof terrace. It’s wheelchair accessible, with ground-level toilets (note: not fully equipped for disabled access). Well-behaved children are welcome until 8:00 PM.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Kitchen Hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM & 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
The Fountain & Ink
Address: 52–54 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9LX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of London’s South Bank, The Fountain & Ink is just a short walk from cultural landmarks like the National Theatre, the BFI Film Theatre, and the Southbank Centre. It’s easily accessible from Southwark, Waterloo, and Blackfriars stations.
- What’s the Vibe? This modern British pub offers a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, featuring an airy interior with large street-facing windows, exposed ventilation, and a mix of booth and bench seating. It’s a favourite for after-work drinks, casual dining, and weekend gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Menu & Sunday Roasts: The kitchen focuses on seasonal British fare, offering dishes like smash burgers, fish and chips, and a variety of small plates. Sundays are dedicated to hearty roasts, including beef sirloin, Suffolk chicken crown, and a mushroom and lentil Wellington for vegetarians.
- Craft Beers & Cocktails: The bar boasts an extensive selection of craft beers on draught, complemented by a range of bottled and canned options. The cocktail menu features classics like the Espresso Martini and Aperol Spritz, alongside a curated wine list.
- Private Hire Options: The venue offers versatile spaces for private events:
- The Dining Room: Seats up to 25 guests, ideal for intimate dinners.
- The Snug: Accommodates up to 70 standing guests, perfect for larger gatherings.
- Full Venue Hire: Available for events up to 180 guests, complete with a private bar and sound
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Tuesday: 11:00–23:00
- Wednesday: 11:00–00:00
- Thursday: 11:00–01:00
- Friday–Saturday: 11:00–00:00
- Sunday: 12:00–22:30
The Southwark Tap
Address: 46 Druid Street, London, SE1 2EZ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled within a railway arch on Druid Street in Bermondsey, The Southwark Tap is a short stroll from London Bridge station. It’s one of the first stops along the renowned Bermondsey Beer Mile, making it a prime destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
- What’s the Vibe? The taproom boasts a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with the brewery’s equipment visible at the rear, offering patrons a glimpse into the brewing process. The setting combines industrial charm with cosy seating, creating an inviting space for both casual drinkers and beer aficionados.
What’s On Offer
- Cask & Keg Beers: The Southwark Tap specialises in traditionally brewed cask ales, featuring six handpumps that serve the brewery’s regular offerings like Bermondsey Best, Harvard, and London Pale Ale, alongside seasonal and one-off brews. Additionally, a selection of beers is available on gravity dispense and KeyKeg taps.
- Food-Friendly Policy: While the taproom doesn’t serve food, patrons are encouraged to bring their own or order in. The nearby Maltby Street Market offers a variety of culinary delights, making it convenient to pair your chosen beer with delicious eats.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Monday & Wednesday: Closed
Ready to Visit?
Southwark’s vibrant pub scene offers something for everyone, from rooftop cocktails to classic pints in heritage surroundings. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of The Lord Clyde, the Mediterranean flair of Circe’s Rooftop, or the musical heart of The Gladstone Arms, this central London neighbourhood has no shortage of memorable spots to raise a glass. Perfectly placed near Borough Market, Waterloo, and the South Bank, it’s a brilliant area to explore on foot with friends or colleagues in tow.
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