Ready for a tipple by the Thames? If you’re hopping off at the Battersea Power Station Clipper Stop, you’re in for a treat. This area is buzzing with some of the coolest bars and pubs, each offering a unique vibe and a spectacular view of the iconic power station. Whether you’re in the mood for craft beers, bespoke cocktails, or just a good old pint, there’s a spot with your name on it. So, grab your mates and explore the best drinking dens Battersea has to offer—cheers to a night you won’t forget!
The Battersea Barge
Address: Nine Elms Ln, Nine Elms, London, SW11 8PZ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Battersea Barge is moored on the Thames in London’s Nine Elms area, close to Battersea Power Station and Vauxhall. This unique location places it within London’s largest regeneration zone, surrounded by new residential and business developments. It’s accessible by bus routes 156, 344, and 436, and there is also a Santander cycle station directly outside.
- What’s the Vibe? This floating venue boasts a cosy, intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for private events and casual visits alike. The atmosphere is particularly vibrant during live entertainment nights, featuring musical, comedy, and cabaret acts, which highlight the barge’s unique charm and character.
What’s On Offer
- Live Entertainment: The Battersea Barge is renowned for its eclectic range of events including live music, cabaret shows, and comedy nights.
- Private Events: It serves as a memorable venue for private parties, weddings, and corporate gatherings, offering a distinct backdrop with the Thames and the city skyline.
- Dining & Drinks: Guests can enjoy a varied menu that features both classic and innovative dishes, accommodating all from dinner dates to group gatherings. The barge is a cashless venue, enhancing the convenience for guests as they enjoy the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Battersea Barge is open from Wednesday to Sunday, with operating hours from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and extending until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for dining and special events to secure a spot. Note that the venue is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The Mason’s Arms
Address: 169 Battersea Park Rd, Nine Elms, London, SW8 4BT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Mason’s Arms is situated right next to Battersea Park in the vibrant neighbourhood of Battersea, within a historic 19th Century Grade II listed building that has been thoughtfully restored.
- What’s the Vibe? It offers a traditional yet modern pub atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a laid-back setting. The venue is known for its welcoming and cosy ambiance, combining classic pub elements with contemporary touches.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Culinary Delights: The pub features a varied menu that caters to all tastes, including British classics like fish and chips and Sunday roasts, alongside contemporary world dishes and options for vegans and vegetarians. Their food is noted for its quality and freshness, prepared by a skilled head chef and his team.
- Craft Beer & Events: A standout feature is its extensive selection of craft beers, with 23 different draughts and casks to choose from. The Mason’s Arms is also a hub for beer enthusiasts, hosting regular events such as Tap Takeovers and Brewery Battles. This complements its dynamic social calendar that includes pub quizzes and live music, making it a lively spot for entertainment.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open daily from 12:00 PM to 23:00 PM, except on Sundays when it closes at 22:30. Food service times vary slightly, typically ending half an hour before closing.
Duchess Belle
Address: 101 Battersea Park Rd, Nine Elms, London, SW8 4DX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Duchess Belle is located in the vibrant area of Battersea, opposite the iconic Battersea Power Station and close to the Battersea Park and Dogs & Cats Home. This central location is well-connected, with the nearest train station being Battersea Park, just a short walk away.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere with its historically rich decor featuring bevelled mirrors, a rococo tiled ceiling, and lavish floral and butterfly adornments. It provides a welcoming environment for a diverse crowd, including families and pet owners, making it a community hub in Battersea.
What’s On Offer
- Food & Drink: Duchess Belle serves a mix of traditional British pub grub with an American twist. Menu highlights include homemade smashed beef burgers, buffalo wings, and classic fish & chips. The pub offers a range of draught ales, spirits, wines, and cocktails, making it suitable for casual dining or enjoying drinks with friends.
- Live Sports: The venue hosts a variety of events, including live sports screenings on UHD screens, which cover a range of sports from football and cricket to NFL and MLB.
- Private Hire: It’s also equipped for private functions such as weddings, birthdays, and corporate events, with a private hire space that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from 9 AM to 11 PM on Mondays to Wednesdays, until midnight on Thursdays to Saturdays, and from 10 AM to 11 PM on Sundays.
The Duchess Belle stands out not only for its strategic location and beautiful interiors but also for its commitment to providing a welcoming and versatile space suitable for a variety of events and casual visits. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a meal, watch a game, or host a celebration, it offers a dynamic setting catered to diverse needs.
The Magic Garden
Address: 231 Battersea Park Rd, London, SW11 4L
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Magic Garden is located in Battersea, South West London, just by the scenic Battersea Park. It’s easily accessible and situated in a vibrant, artistic area of the city.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a festival-like atmosphere, often described as a “festival in a pub”. The venue features eclectic decor with a spacious garden that’s both inviting and lively. On weekends, it transforms into a bustling hub of music and dance, with an array of festival bands and top DJs.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music: The Magic Garden is renowned for its vibrant music scene. It hosts a variety of events ranging from jazz, blues, and world music performances to DJ nights that feature genres like funk, Balkan, reggae, and ska. Regular events like the “Blues Jam” and themed music nights such as “Reach Up Disco Wonderland” showcase the diversity of entertainment on offer.
- Food & Drink: The pub offers a comforting and varied menu that includes Sunday roasts, brunch options, and creative cocktails. Special culinary events, like the hearty “Sunday Cure” complete with roasts and Bloody Marys, make it a popular weekend destination.
- Cosy Daytime Environment: Additionally, the venue is committed to providing a cosy daytime environment with cappuccinos and free WiFi, ideal for relaxing or working during the week.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 10:30 AM to Midnight
- Tuesday: 3:00 PM to Midnight
- Friday & Saturday: 10:30 AM to 2:30 AM
The Magic Garden not only serves as a lively locale for music and dining, but also as a community hotspot where arts and festivities meet everyday comfort. Whether you’re there for a vibrant night out or a relaxing afternoon, it offers something for everyone.
Control Room B
Address: Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London, SW11 8BZ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Control Room B is nestled within the iconic Grade II listed Battersea Power Station, located along Circus Road Upper Ground Turbine Hall B in London. It’s part of a larger redevelopment project that has rejuvenated this historic area with new shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at Control Room B is a tribute to the mid-20th century and the industrial era, blending a brutalist aesthetic with modern design elements. The space features original control desks and switchgear, providing a unique and immersive setting that harks back to its origins as a genuine power control room.
What’s On Offer
- Electrifying Cocktails in a Historic Setting: Control Room B offers a signature menu of cocktails inspired by the historical and industrial context of the venue. Drinks are served in unique containers, such as miniature Battersea Power Station vessels and stylish stainless steel martini glasses, making for a distinctive drinking experience.
- Escape The Power Cut: This venue hosts an exciting escape room-style experience titled “Escape The Power Cut,” where guests can engage in a thrilling adventure set amongst the historic control panels and dials of Battersea Power Station.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Control Room B is open Monday to Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Thursday from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 01:00 AM, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Ready to Visit?
Battersea is a vibrant area of London that is continuously evolving and has become a hotspot for nightlife, especially around the iconic Battersea Power Station. Among the popular destinations, The Battersea Barge and The Mason’s Arms stand out. The Battersea Barge offers a unique experience with its location moored on the Thames, providing a cosy vibe and hosting a variety of live entertainment, from music to cabaret. Alternatively, The Mason’s Arms presents a more traditional pub atmosphere with a modern twist, featuring an extensive selection of craft beers and regular events like pub quizzes and live music, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening.
Share the Love
Next time you’re planning a night out, why not check out The Battersea Barge or The Mason’s Arms? Gather your mates, soak in the unique atmospheres, and enjoy what these wonderful venues have to offer. If you enjoy your visit, don’t forget to share this article with friends and leave a review to spread the word about your fantastic experiences. Cheers to memorable nights by the Thames!