Ready for a pint in Southwark? This vibrant area, nestled along the Thames, is a treasure trove of eclectic bars and cosy pubs. From historic inns that whisper tales of old London to trendy, modern spots that bubble with energy, Southwark’s nightlife scene is as diverse as its history. Whether you’re after a craft beer in a quirky brewery, a sophisticated cocktail in a chic lounge, or just a classic ale in a traditional pub, this district has got your evenings sorted. Let’s dive into the best spots where the drinks are as fantastic as the atmosphere!
The Southwark Tavern
Address: 22 Southwark St, Greater, London SE1 1TU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Southwark Tavern is situated in a prime location near Borough Market, just a short walk from London Bridge station. The area is rich in cultural heritage, close to landmarks like the Golden Hinde, the Shard, and HMS Belfast.
- What’s the Vibe? This historic Victorian pub exudes a blend of traditional charm and contemporary style. Known for its Victorian tiled frontage and ornate leaded windows, the interior combines period features with modern touches. The building, dating back to the 1800s, was originally a debtor’s prison, and its old cells have been transformed into cozy booths. The atmosphere is a mix of relaxed and leisurely vibes, popular among local workers, residents, and tourists.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Selection of Ales and Spirits: The Southwark Tavern boasts a wide range of ales and spirits. Its drinks menu is explorative, catering to a variety of tastes. The pub’s setting is ideal for enjoying these offerings in a comfortable and unique environment.
- Underground Cellar Bar for Events: A distinctive feature of this venue is its underground cellar bar. The space is used for hosting various events and private parties, adding to the tavern’s charm and appeal.
- Vegetarian Options: The pub serves a variety of food including options for vegetarians.
- Quiz Nights: Regular events like Quiz Tuesdays add to the lively spirit of the tavern.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
The Ship
Address: 68 Borough Rd, London SE1 1DX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship is situated in Southwark, a vibrant area known for its lively atmosphere and rich history, with this being a popular local pub.
- What’s the Vibe? The Ship offers a warm and welcoming environment, fostering a sense of community and hospitality. With its commitment to traditional values, it’s a place where both new and regular patrons can enjoy a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This pub is particularly recognized for its cosy ambiance and lively music nights.
What’s On Offer
- Eclectic Menu and Creative Cocktails: The Ship prides itself on offering a wide range of drinks, including a diverse selection of beers and cask ales, complemented by an array of creative cocktails. This makes it an ideal spot for both beer enthusiasts and cocktail lovers.
- Live Music and Themed Nights: The Ship is known for its engaging events and live music sessions. For instance, they host Irish Trad Sessions on Sundays, where patrons can enjoy soulful Irish tunes, and Live Music Every Thursday, offering a musical journey that adds to the lively atmosphere of the pub.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Ship is a destination for those who appreciate a traditional pub experience with modern twists, including a varied beverage menu and vibrant live music events.
The Sheaf
Address: 24a Southwark St, London SE1 1RQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Sheaf is an underground bar located in the vaulted cellars of the Hop Exchange, not far from Borough Market, and surrounded by a rich density of pubs and eateries.
- What’s the Vibe? The Sheaf has a unique and engaging atmosphere, characterised by its cellar location which gives it a distinctive, almost historical feel. The venue is known for its lively ambiance, particularly suited for serious drinking and social gatherings. The interior is equipped with long tables catering to large groups, and the bar is decorated with framed photos of regulars from the old Wheatsheaf, adding a personal touch to its decor. It’s a spot that combines the thrill of craft ale culture with the excitement of sports, thanks to the TVs lining the walls for big games and the availability of dartboards for entertainment.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers and Spirits: One of The Sheaf’s standout features is its extensive range of craft beers, cask ales, and artisanal spirits. The bar prides itself on offering a diverse selection, with eight or nine different cask ales readily available, appealing to beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
- Food Menu: The Sheaf also boasts an impressive food menu, receiving particular praise for items like its burgers and club sandwiches. The menu is a blend of traditional and modern dishes, crafted to complement the wide beverage selection. The innovative approach to pub food is one of the aspects that makes The Sheaf stand out.
- Special Events and Offers: The Sheaf regularly hosts special events and offers. For instance, they have a 2-for-1 lunch deal and a Cocktail Happy Hour, making it a great spot for both day and evening outings. They also have plans for an outdoor area, ‘Sheaf in the Yard’, enhancing its appeal during warmer months.
- Location Benefits: The bar’s location near iconic London spots like Borough Market and The Shard makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the city.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday & Tuesday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday: 12 Noon – 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 12 Noon – 12 Midnight
- Sunday: 12 Noon – 10.30 PM
The Sheaf offers a unique blend of traditional pub culture with a modern twist, making it an appealing destination for a variety of occasions, from casual drinks with friends to exploring the vibrant culture of London.
The Kings Arms
Address: 65 Newcomen St, London SE1 1YT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Kings Arms is nestled in Borough’s vibrant neighborhood in London.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue offers a classic, cosy ambiance, ideal for pub lunches, date nights, and after-work drinks. It’s a hidden gem known for its classic British charm.
What’s On Offer
- Cask Conditioned Ale: The Kings Arms prides itself on a selection of multi-award-winning ales, featuring regulars and locally brewed offerings.
- Pub Classics: The menu includes home-cooked British classics and famous thick-cut sandwiches, with ingredients sourced locally, including meat from Smithfields Market and vegetables and cheese from Borough Market.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, and on Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm. The kitchen operates from 12 pm to 3 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm on weekdays, with all-day service on Fridays and Sundays.
The Rose
Address: 123 Snowfields, London SE1 3ST
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Rose is a short distance from iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, nestled in the Southwark neighborhood.
- What’s the Vibe? The Rose has an atmosphere that combines traditional and contemporary elements. Described as dim, candlelit, and atmospheric, it features an intricate oak parquet floor, copper-topped surfaces, elegant chandeliers, and an impressive backbar. The pub’s ambiance is welcoming and cosy, making it a great spot for both casual and intimate gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Contemporary Dishes: The Rose boasts a vibrant menu with contemporary dishes, catering to a variety of dietary preferences including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The pub is particularly known for its “Bermondsey Parmo,” a signature dish.
- Beverages: Additionally, it offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, ensuring a diverse drinking experience.
- Distinctive Pub Features: The venue is not just about food and drinks; it’s also about the experience. It’s equipped with what’s possibly London’s smallest beer garden, mainly serving as a space for smokers. The pub also has an open-plan kitchen, adding to the overall ambiance with its pleasant aromas.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Rose is open every day of the week, from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
The Rose stands out as a modern pub that successfully merges traditional aesthetics with contemporary offerings. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a casual meal, a cosy drink, or just to experience the unique atmosphere, The Rose offers an experience that combines the best of both worlds.
The Miller
Address: 96 Snowsfields, London SE1 3SS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Miller is conveniently situated near Borough High Street and London Bridge, making it easily accessible for visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Miller offers a lively and eclectic atmosphere, catering to a younger crowd with its vibrant nightlife. Its unique blend of live music, comedy nights, and art performances gives it a distinct and energetic vibe. The pub is also known for its outdoor seating and full bar, adding to its welcoming and spirited ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer Selection: A notable feature of The Miller is its impressive selection of craft beers. This includes a range of London-brewed beers and a variety of ales and ciders, catering to the tastes of beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
- Live Music and Comedy Nights: The Miller is particularly celebrated for its entertaining live music and comedy nights. These events contribute significantly to the pub’s dynamic and engaging environment, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Practical Info
When Can You Visit?
- Bar Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12pm – 11pm
- Friday: 12pm – 1am
- Saturday: 4pm – 1am
- Kitchen Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
- Saturday: 4pm – 10pm
- Sunday: Closed
The Miller in London stands out with its unique combination of live events, craft beers, and an energetic atmosphere. Its central location and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an unconventional pub experience in London.
Katzenjammers
Address: The Hop Exchange, 24 Southwark St, London SE1 1TY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Katzenjammers is conveniently located near London Bridge, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? Katzenjammers offers a lively, communal atmosphere that mirrors the traditional German bierkellers. It features a simple yet appealing design with communal tables, fostering a social and vibrant environment. The venue spans two floors, with each offering a unique experience. In terms of food, the downstairs area is more focused on sausages, including vegetarian options, while the upstairs section provides a broader range of classic German dishes like pretzels and schnitzel.
What’s On Offer
- Authentic German Beer and Cuisine: One of the venue’s standout aspects is its extensive selection of German beers, both draught and bottled, along with traditional German and Austrian wines and a variety of schnapps. The culinary highlight includes classic German dishes, sourced fresh from Bavaria, ensuring an authentic taste experience.
- Live Music and Themed Events: On many nights Katzenjammers hosts live music and themed events, enhancing the authentic Bavarian feel. Notably, the venue features Oom-Pah bands, offering a genuine slice of Bavarian culture through music.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Bierkeller & Restaurant (Upstairs):
- Monday – Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 12 PM – 12 Midnight
- Sunday: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
- K2 Bierhall (Downstairs):
- Thursday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 5 PM – 12 Midnight
- Bierkeller & Restaurant (Upstairs):
Katzenjammers in London offers a unique Bavarian experience with its extensive selection of German beers and traditional cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and lively music events. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a hearty meal or to experience a lively German bierkeller ambiance, Katzenjammers stands out as a top choice.
The Old Kings Head
Address: King’s Head Yard, London SE1 1NA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old King’s Head is ideally situated near London Bridge Station, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
- What’s the Vibe? The Old King’s Head offers a traditional London pub experience, set in an alleyway off a busy high road. It’s characterized by its down-to-earth, old-fashioned atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a good atmosphere in a small, traditional setting. The pub becomes quite lively, especially on evenings and weekends, often with people spilling out into the alleyway. It’s known for being a proper London boozer with a historic feel.
What’s On Offer
- Ale Selection and Traditional Pub Food: The pub boasts a good selection of ales, including Harveys of Sussex & St Austell Tribute, alongside lagers, fine wine, and traditional pub food. The food offerings are described as good value traditional meals, fitting the classic pub fare.
- Entertainment and Function Room: The Old King’s Head provides entertainment with sports shown on large screen TVs and quiz & fruit machines. The venue also offers a function room free of charge for quiz nights, private parties, and meetings, subject to the number of attendees.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Fri 10:30-23:00, Sat 10:30-22:30, Sun 10:30-23:00.
The Old King’s Head is a quintessential London pub offering a traditional experience with a selection of ales and pub food, set in a lively and historic atmosphere. It’s a great place for both locals and tourists to enjoy an authentic taste of London’s pub culture.
Miraflores
Address: 60 Southwark St, London SE1 1UN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Miraflores is located near Borough tube station, making it convenient for public transport users.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at Miraflores is electric, offering a slice of South American culture in London. It boasts an exciting and vibrant ambiance, characterised by its contemporary decor. The venue provides a Peruvian paradise-like experience, where guests can dine, drink, and dance in a setting that echoes the coolest parts of Peru. This blend of traditional and modern elements creates a unique and inviting atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Peruvian Cuisine: Miraflores prides itself on its Peruvian cuisine, offering a diverse range of dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Peru. The food is known for its healthiness and deliciousness, featuring a variety of traditional Peruvian ingredients and cooking styles. Visitors often praise the restaurant for its authentic and tasty dishes.
- Innovative Cocktails and Bar Experience: The cocktail menu at Miraflores is another highlight. It offers exquisite and innovative drinks that perfectly complement the spicy and aromatic Peruvian dishes. The bar and lounge area provides a great spot for relaxing and enjoying these unique beverages, adding to the overall South American experience.
- Additional Features: Miraflores offers several features like reservations, seating, serves alcohol, accepts credit cards, table service, takeaway, outdoor seating, wheelchair accessibility, a full bar with wine and beer, and is dog friendly. This makes it a versatile spot suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a casual lunch, a business meeting, or a lively evening out.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? From Monday to Thursday, it opens at 12:00 PM and closes at 22:00. On Fridays and Saturdays, the hours extend from 12:00 PM to 03:00 AM, offering a longer experience into the early hours. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.
Miraflores stands out for its blend of traditional and modern Peruvian cuisine, its lively atmosphere, and its unique cocktail offerings. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to experience the flavors and culture of Peru in the heart of London.
Bar Douro
Address: 35B, Arch, 85B Southwark Bridge Rd, London SE1 0NQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled under a railway arch, Bar Douro is a gem in the bustling area of London Bridge. The venue is part of the Flat Iron Square development, known for its quality food and drink offerings.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue is characterised by its authentic Portuguese decor, creating an intimate and stylish setting. The presence of a marble bar and traditional Portuguese elements contribute to a cosy yet sophisticated atmosphere. The occasional rumble of trains overhead adds a unique touch to the dining experience.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Wine List and Signature Dishes: A highlight of Bar Douro is its extensive selection of Portuguese wines, perfectly curated to complement the food. Among their signature offerings is the crab rice, a dish akin to risotto with a tomato base, lemon undertones, and topped with delicate white crab.
- Authentic Portuguese Cuisine: Bar Douro prides itself on its traditional Portuguese dishes. The menu features a variety of small plates, including favorites like garlic prawns, smoked Portuguese sausage croquettes, and the renowned onglet steak with confit egg. The combination of flavors and presentation of dishes reflects a modern twist on classic Portuguese fare.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Every day 12:00-22:00.
Bar Douro is a fantastic choice for a range of occasions, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, catching up with friends, a romantic date night, or enjoying drinks with light bites. Its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the London Bridge area is well-deserved, offering a blend of convenience, excellent food, and an inviting atmosphere.
Ready to Visit?
Southwark, a vibrant district along the Thames, offers a rich tapestry of nightlife options, blending historic charm with modern flair. Among the standout venues, The Southwark Tavern and The Ship are particularly noteworthy. The Southwark Tavern, with its extensive selection of ales and an underground cellar bar, exudes historical charm. The Ship, on the other hand, is known for its lively atmosphere, creative cocktails, and craft beers, making it an ideal spot for socialising and enjoying themed nights. Both establishments reflect the eclectic and dynamic spirit of Southwark’s bar scene.
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Why not experience the unique charm of Southwark’s bars for yourself? Head over to The Southwark Tavern or The Ship for an unforgettable evening. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and let everyone know about your experience. We’d love to hear your reviews after your visit!