Looking to sip a pint or a cocktail fit for royalty? Well, you’re in luck! Just a stone’s throw from the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, you’ll find some of London’s most charming bars and pubs. Whether you’re after a classic British pub experience or a swanky cocktail bar, this area has it all. So, pull up a stool and enjoy a drink with a side of history—after all, it’s not every day you get to drink in the shadow of the Queen’s (or now the King’s) home!
Bbar
Address: 43 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Bbar is located just moments away from Buckingham Palace, nestled in the heart of Victoria, London. This prime location is perfect for both tourists and locals, offering easy access to some of London’s most iconic attractions, including the Queen’s Gallery and the Royal Mews, both just a minute’s walk away.
- What’s the Vibe? Bbar exudes a stylish yet cosy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for various occasions, whether it’s a pre-theatre meal, a casual drink, or a special celebration. The venue features elegant décor and is situated beneath London’s largest living wall, creating a vibrant and refreshing ambiance amidst the bustling city.
What’s On Offer
- Creative Cocktails & Signature Dishes: Bbar is renowned for its creative cocktails crafted by resident mixologists. These drinks are perfectly complemented by a menu that offers a mix of classic and modern dishes. Highlights include the parmesan-crumbed chicken schnitzel and the ‘Son of a Gun’ burger, catering to both traditional and adventurous palates.
- Live Mix Sessions and DJ Sets: Adding to the lively atmosphere, Bbar hosts live mix sessions and DJ sets throughout the week. This makes it not just a dining destination but also a hub for vibrant nightlife, where you can enjoy great music alongside your meal or cocktails.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Sat 12:00-23:00, Sun 12:00-20:30.
Buckingham Arms
Address: 62 Petty France, London, SW1H 9EU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the heart of Westminster, Buckingham Arms is just a short walk from Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, making it an ideal spot for both tourists and locals.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a traditional London experience with a cosy, welcoming atmosphere, featuring classic decor and a friendly ambiance perfect for a relaxing drink or meal.
What’s On Offer
- Real Ales & Craft Beers: Known for its extensive selection, Buckingham Arms is a haven for beer enthusiasts, boasting a variety of real ales and craft beers that have earned it a place in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for decades.
- Sunday Roast: The pub is celebrated for its Sunday roast, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a classic British meal in a traditional setting.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 23:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 22:30.
The Cask & Glass
Address: 39-41 Palace Street, London, SW1 5HN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Victoria, The Cask & Glass is located just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of Victoria Station. This quaint pub sits slightly hidden behind a modern office development, offering a surprising oasis amidst the surrounding urban landscape.
- What’s the Vibe? The Cask & Glass exudes a warm, traditional English pub atmosphere, with a cosy, intimate setting that feels like stepping back in time. The interior is small and charming, decorated with hanging baskets outside and a collection of framed caricatures inside. It’s a no-frills establishment known for its friendly, chatty regulars and welcoming vibe.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Ales: The pub prides itself on serving a fine selection of traditional ales, including Spitfire, Kent’s Best, and Master Brew. These are drawn from Shepherd Neame’s range, ensuring a genuine taste of English brewing heritage.
- No-Fuss Pub Experience: This is a place for those who appreciate a simple and authentic pub experience. There are no fruit machines or loud distractions here, just good conversation and a homely feel. The pub also offers light snacks and sandwiches, perfect for a quick bite during a visit.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from 11 am to 11 pm Monday to Friday, and from 12 pm to 8 pm on Saturdays. Note that food service is limited to lunchtime hours from Monday to Friday, between 12 pm and 2:30 pm.
The Leopard Room
Address: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Leopard Room is located within the Rubens at the Palace Hotel, directly opposite the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace. Its prime position in the heart of Victoria makes it easily accessible, with Victoria Station just a short walk away.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere in The Leopard Room is one of old-world elegance combined with modern luxury. The venue is known for its rich, moody interiors, featuring dark wood-panelled walls, plush leather seating, and a striking leopard print carpet that inspired its name. The space exudes a sophisticated and intimate charm, perfect for those seeking a refined yet cosy experience. Live jazz music, often performed in the evenings, adds to the vibrant and classy ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Gastronomic Delights: The Freemasons Arms boasts a menu filled with a variety of dishes, including scrumptious Sunday roasts, freshly prepared mains, and classic pub favorites. The talented chefs ensure a tempting selection catering to diverse tastes.
- Alfresco Dining & Drinks: The pub has a lovely garden area, perfect for outdoor dining and socialising in good weather. While they don’t take bookings for outside tables, guests are welcome to walk in and check availability in the beer garden.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Albert
Address: 52 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0NP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Albert is situated in the heart of Victoria, London, on Victoria Street. This area is a bustling part of Westminster, with notable landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament just a short walk away. The pub stands out amidst modern office buildings, maintaining its historical charm as one of the few structures in the area that survived World War II.
- What’s the Vibe? The Albert exudes a quintessential British pub atmosphere with a rich historical feel. The interior is adorned with dark wooden features, royal memorabilia, and a striking gold-trim ceiling, reflecting its Victorian heritage. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a cosy yet lively environment, especially during peak hours. The pub’s traditional decor is complemented by a dedicated gallery celebrating past Prime Ministers, adding a touch of British political history to the ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Pub Food: The Albert offers a menu packed with classic British dishes, including favourites like fish and chips, pies, and a renowned Sunday roast. They cater to various dietary preferences, providing vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The pub is also known for its well-kept ales and a solid, though unadventurous, beer selection, making it a reliable choice for those seeking traditional pub fare.
- Royal & Historical Decor: A unique feature of The Albert is its interior, heavily adorned with royal paraphernalia. The pub’s decor is steeped in history, with Victorian-era elements and a bespoke clock that crowns the bar. The etched glass windows, famous for their intricate and sometimes cheeky designs, are also a talking point for visitors. This blend of history and character makes The Albert a distinctive venue in the area.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Albert is open daily from 8:00 AM to midnight, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays when it closes at 10:30 PM.
This Grade II-listed pub offers a quintessentially British experience, blending historical charm with a welcoming, modern service, making it a must-visit when in Victoria.
Ready to Visit?
Nestled near Buckingham Palace, this area offers a delightful blend of historic charm and modern luxury. From cosy traditional pubs like The Cask & Glass, where you can enjoy a pint of ale in a quaint setting, to the stylish Bbar, renowned for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere, there’s something to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing or seeking a lively night out, these bars and pubs provide the perfect setting just a stone’s throw from some of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Share the Love
Why not try one of these charming spots for yourself? Visit Bbar for a creative cocktail or relax at The Cask & Glass with a traditional ale. Don’t forget to share this guide with friends and leave a review after your visit to let others know about your experience!