Ready for a cheeky pint in Wandsworth? This vibrant London borough is brimming with top-notch bars and cosy pubs that cater to all tastes. From trendy taprooms showcasing local brews to traditional pubs with roaring fires and hearty grub, Wandsworth offers a diverse nightlife scene. Whether you’re after a relaxed evening with mates or a lively night out, Wandsworth’s bars and pubs are sure to impress. So, pull up a stool, and let’s dive into the best spots this area has to offer – Wandsworth’s nightlife is calling your name!
The Alma
Address: 499 Old York Rd, London SW18 1TF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This traditional British Victorian pub is a prominent landmark in the heart of Wandsworth Town, easily accessible via Wandsworth Town Station and close to both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports. Car parking is available nearby.
- What’s the Vibe? The Alma is celebrated for its blend of historic charm and modern comforts, featuring original Victorian architecture alongside contemporary interiors. It’s renowned for creating an electric atmosphere, especially on match days, with its iconic sports pub vibes. The venue is also well-known for its original green tiles and cosy, inviting ambiance, making it a quintessential British pub experience.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Drinks: The Alma takes pride in its extensive selection of drinks including local real ales, craft beers, and classic cocktails. For wine enthusiasts, there’s a premium wine cellar list to complement the dining experience.
- British Cuisine: The pub’s dining room serves seasonal British dishes made with fresh ingredients, highlighted by their Butchers Block featuring premium cut steaks.
- Special Events: It’s a popular venue for various events, from birthday celebrations and weddings to business meetings, with dedicated spaces like The Bramford Room and The Semi Private Conservatory available for private hire. The venue is also a hotspot for watching live sports, particularly rugby, with an emphasis on creating a memorable experience during events like the Six Nations Championships.
- Accommodation: The Alma is not just a pub but also a hotel, boasting 31 beautifully designed boutique bedrooms, providing a unique “home away from home” experience.
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 11 pm, Sunday from 11 am to 10:30 pm.
- Food Service Times: Breakfast is served Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm, lunch every day from 11 am to 4 pm, and dinner Monday to Saturday from 4 pm to 10 pm. The venue is famous for its Sunday Roast, available from 12 pm to 9 pm.
Spread Eagle
Address: 69 Wandsworth High St, London SW18 2PT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This historic venue, first built in the 17th century and rebuilt by the Victorians, is situated in the heart of Wandsworth, South West London, offering a glimpse into London’s rich pub culture.
- What’s the Vibe? The Spread Eagle is renowned for its traditional British pub ambiance, characterised by deep browns, burgundies, and brass decor. It combines the charm of an old London pub with modern comforts, creating a cosy and sociable atmosphere. Its interior is inviting with features like a cosy fireplace, making it ideal for relaxed gatherings. The pub’s atmosphere is further enriched by live music events and the spirit of togetherness during festive seasons and sporting events.
What’s On Offer
- Wide Beer Selection: A key feature of Spread Eagle is its extensive selection of beers and ales, including local and international options.
- Pub Fare: The pub also prides itself on its food, offering traditional British dishes made with the finest ingredients. The Sunday roast, in particular, is a highlight, celebrated for its taste and quality.
- Regular Events: Spread Eagle hosts various events, including the Six Nations Rugby viewings and poetry and spoken word open mic nights.
- Boutique Rooms: Additionally, the venue boasts 21 boutique hotel rooms, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, perfect for visitors seeking a unique stay in London.
Practical Info
When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – Midnight
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – Midnight
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
The Ship
Address: 41 Jews Row, London SW18 1TB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship is a renowned pub situated in South-West London, near the River Thames. It’s a convenient spot for both locals and visitors, with easy access from Wandsworth Town station.
- What’s the Vibe? The Ship offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, blending traditional British pub charm with a modern touch. It features a cosy interior with a central fireplace, perfect for intimate gatherings, and a vibrant outdoor area, ideal for enjoying riverside views. The venue is known for its live music and quiz nights, adding to its lively and entertaining ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Riverside Terrace and Outdoor Barbecues: One of the standout features of The Ship is its picturesque riverside terrace. It’s a perfect setting for enjoying outdoor barbecues, especially in finer weather. The Doolali Bar on the terrace offers a great selection of food and drinks, adding to the relaxed and enjoyable outdoor experience.
- Diverse Menu: The Ship boasts a menu full of British classics, including gourmet burgers, Sunday roasts, and oysters. Their specials change daily, featuring ingredients like oxtail or halibut.
- Special Events: They also host various events, such as the New Year’s Eve Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, making it a versatile venue for different occasions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
The Ship stands out as a multifaceted venue, offering a mix of traditional pub elements, exciting events, and a beautiful riverside location. Its diverse offerings, from cosy indoor dining to vibrant outdoor spaces, make it suitable for a wide range of occasions, whether it’s a casual meet-up with friends, a family dinner, or a special celebration.
The Cat’s Back
Address: 86-88 Point Pleasant, London SW18 1PP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This pub is situated in Wandsworth, close to the Thames and Wandsworth Park in South West London, offering a laid-back atmosphere in a modern setting.
- What’s the Vibe? The Cat’s Back offers a cosy and inviting ambiance. Its quirky, vintage decor complements the historical character of the venue, creating a unique and welcoming environment. The pub is split into three distinct areas: the main bar area, The Lion’s Den upstairs with a pool table, and a partially covered beer garden.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Drink Selection: The Cat’s Back is renowned for its wide range of drinks, including Harveys ales and beers, and a selection of other popular beers like Birra Moretti, Budweiser, Camden Hells Lager, and Guinness Draught. This variety caters to different tastes and preferences, making it a haven for beer enthusiasts.
- Food: In addition to drinks, the pub features Latin food offerings from Streat Arepas, including arepas, tacos, nachos, empanadas, enchiladas, and churros, as well as a popular Sunday roast.
- Events: Regular events like quiz nights and live music enhance the pub’s vibrant atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 17:00 – 23:00
- Wednesday – Thursday: 16:00 – 00:00
- Friday: 16:00 – 01:00
- Saturday: 14:00 – 01:00
- Sunday: 13:00 – 22:00
- Food Served:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 19:00 – 21:00
- Thursday – Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 13:00 – 15:00
- Opening Hours:
This venue is a blend of traditional charm and modern convenience, making it an ideal spot for casual drinks, special occasions, or simply enjoying a day out with friends and family. With its eclectic decor, diverse drink options, and engaging events, The Cat’s Back certainly stands out as a distinctive spot in London’s pub scene.
The Old Sergeant
Address: 104 Garratt Ln, London SW18 4DJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Sergeant is a traditional English pub located in Wandsworth, London, known for its great service and warm, inviting atmosphere.
- What’s the Vibe? The Old Sergeant is characterised by its friendly and welcoming environment. It’s a place where the team goes the extra mile to ensure everyone feels included, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Beer Selection and Gourmet Pub Food: The pub boasts a wide selection of local and international beers. This is complemented by a menu offering classic pub fare with a gourmet twist, catering to a variety of tastes.
- Community Focus and Event Hosting: The Old Sergeant stands out for its commitment to community events and charity support. It also features a spacious area and a function room that hosts a range of events, including intimate wedding receptions, murder mystery evenings, Christenings, and birthday parties.
- Customer Feedback: The pub has received generally positive reviews for its atmosphere, service, and food. The overall experience at The Old Sergeant, especially its friendly service and warm ambiance, has been highly appreciated by visitors.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM.
- Kitchen Open:
- Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
- Opening Hours:
The Grapes
Address: 39 Fairfield St, London SW18 1DX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Grapes is situated in Wandsworth, a bustling area known for its lively atmosphere.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional pub offers a cosy and intimate environment. It’s located on the busy Wandsworth one-way system and features a heated patio and a spacious lawned beer garden, providing a relaxing escape from the urban hustle.
What’s On Offer
- Drinks and Dining: As a traditional pub, The Grapes offers a selection of beers, including Young’s Bitter and Special. The pub serves food during limited hours (Mon-Fri 12:30-14:00) and provides a range of bar snacks.
- Live Music and Entertainment: The Grapes is notable for its live music events, including performances by bands and tribute acts. These events typically occur once to twice a month, with karaoke sessions also being a regular feature. It also includes facilities like Sky TV for sports enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Thurs 11:00-23:00, Fri 11:00-00:00, Sat 12:00-23:00, Sun 12:00-22:30.
The Grapes stands out for its classic pub feel, friendly atmosphere, and enjoyable live music events, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors in Wandsworth.
Ready to Visit?
Wandsworth, a lively borough in London, offers a rich and varied nightlife with its array of bars and pubs. Whether you’re in the mood for a trendy taproom or a traditional pub with a cosy fireplace, Wandsworth has it all. Notable mentions include The Alma, known for its Victorian architecture and extensive drinks selection, and Spread Eagle, celebrated for its friendly atmosphere and diverse range of beers. These spots are perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a more vibrant night out, showcasing the best of Wandsworth’s nightlife.
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Fancy a night out in Wandsworth? Why not try one of the fantastic bars mentioned, like The Alma or Spread Eagle? Share this article with your friends and plan your next outing. And don’t forget, once you’ve experienced the charm of Wandsworth’s bars, share your review and spread the word about these great spots!