Ready to explore the vibrant drinking scene around the Imperial War Museum? From cosy traditional pubs with a rich history to modern bars serving up live entertainment, this area has something for everyone. Whether you’re after a quiet pint in a snug corner or a lively night out with friends, the bars and pubs near the Imperial War Museum won’t disappoint. Let’s dive into the best spots where you can raise a glass and soak in the atmosphere!
The Crown & Cushion
Address: 133-135 Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7HR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Crown & Cushion is located in Lambeth, London, near Waterloo and just a short walk from Lambeth North tube station. Its central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring the area.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a traditional and friendly atmosphere, often described as a hidden gem in London. It combines the charm of a classic English pub with a welcoming ambiance, making it a popular spot for both casual drinks and social gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Menu: One of the standout features of The Crown & Cushion is its diverse menu, offering a mix of Thai and traditional English cuisine. Patrons can enjoy a range of dishes from spicy Thai curries to classic pub favourites, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Live Sports: The pub is well-known for its live sports screenings, making it a favourite spot for sports enthusiasts.
- Beer Garden: Additionally, it boasts a large beer garden, perfect for enjoying a drink outdoors during the warmer months. This combination of live sports and an inviting outdoor space enhances the overall pub experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Hercules
Address: 2 Kennington Road, London, SE1 7BL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Hercules is situated on Kennington Road, conveniently close to South Bank and Lambeth North, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a traditional atmosphere with a modern twist, drawing on the rich history of Lambeth’s entertainment past and providing a warm, welcoming environment.
What’s On Offer
- Refined Pub Classics: The menu features a variety of classic pub dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
- Private Events: The Hercules caters for various private events, including business meetings, weddings, and birthdays, with dedicated function rooms available.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from 09:00 to 23:30 Monday to Thursday, 09:00 to 00:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and 09:00 to 23:00 on Sundays. Food is served until 21:30 on weekdays, until 22:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 21:00 on Sundays.
The Albert Arms
Address: 1 Gladstone Street, Elephant and Castle, SE1 6EY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Albert Arms is located in the vibrant area of Elephant and Castle, South London. It is easily accessible and situated just a five-minute walk from Elephant and Castle tube station.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a welcoming and homely atmosphere with a touch of elegance. The Albert Arms aims to be a community hub, combining a friendly environment with professional service. It’s a place where you can enjoy a relaxed meal or a fun evening out with friends, featuring a cosy interior and a small courtyard for outdoor seating.
What’s On Offer
- Exceptional Food & Drinks: The Albert Arms is renowned for its emphasis on local, seasonal, and delectable food. Their menu includes fresh, British produce prepared with care, catering to various dietary preferences including vegetarian and vegan options. Highlights include their acclaimed Sunday roast, featuring Yorkshire puddings as large as your head, and a delightful selection of desserts like sticky toffee pudding. They also boast an impressive wine list and a range of traditional cask ales and draught beers.
- Monthly Quiz Nights: A standout feature at The Albert Arms is their monthly quiz nights, held on the first Wednesday of each month. These evenings are popular and free to enter, providing a fun and engaging activity for groups of friends or family. It’s advisable to book in advance to secure a table due to its popularity.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Sunday: 12:00 pm until the roasts run out
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 situated in the heart of Elephant & Castle, London, making it easily accessible via the nearby Elephant & Castle tube station. The pub’s location is convenient for those visiting local attractions such as the Imperial War Museum.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, characterised by its traditional British charm. The interior is cosy with classic pub decor, making it an inviting spot for both locals and tourists. The friendly and attentive staff further enhance the relaxed and comfortable vibe, creating a homely feel that encourages patrons to linger.
What’s On Offer
- Authentic British Cuisine: The Prince of Wales is renowned for its delicious British and Irish fare. Signature dishes include traditional fish and chips, hearty Sunday roasts, and mouth-watering burgers. The menu caters to various dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. The generous portions and quality of food have earned the pub rave reviews from visitors.
- Entertainment & Events: The pub frequently hosts events that cater to diverse interests. From live music performances to quiz nights, there is always something happening to engage guests. This adds a lively and dynamic aspect to the venue, making it a popular choice for evening entertainment and social gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
This blend of traditional cuisine, engaging events, and a welcoming atmosphere makes The Prince of Wales a standout destination in London.
The Flowers of the Forest
Address: 14 Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7QX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Flowers of the Forest is located on Westminster Bridge Road, just a short walk from Lambeth North Underground Station. Its proximity to key landmarks like the Imperial War Museum make it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists exploring the Southwark area.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a traditional and cosy atmosphere with a distinct Irish theme. It’s known for its friendly and welcoming environment, featuring a beer garden and a relaxed setting that includes multi-sport screens and a pool table. The pub attracts a mix of regulars and visitors, creating a comfortable and laid-back ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Grub: The Flowers of the Forest serves a variety of traditional pub food. Patrons can enjoy hearty meals that complement their drinks, with favourites such as fish and chips and other British classics making up the menu.
- Entertainment & Sports: The pub is equipped with large screen TVs showing Sky Sports, making it a popular spot for sports enthusiasts. Regular events include Irish music nights, adding to the lively and convivial atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Ready to Visit?
The area around the Imperial War Museum in London offers a diverse and vibrant drinking scene, with options ranging from traditional pubs with rich histories to modern bars with live entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint in a cosy corner or a lively night out with friends, the bars and pubs in this locale will not disappoint. Notable spots include The Crown & Cushion, known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse menu, and The Hercules, which offers a refined take on pub classics and caters to private events.
Share the Love
Why not give one of these fantastic bars a try? Whether it’s The Crown & Cushion’s eclectic menu or The Hercules’ elegant pub dishes, you’re sure to find a favourite. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and leave a review once you’ve visited!