Craving a pint in the heart of London’s political power hub? Our guide to the best bars and pubs in Westminster is your ticket to a top-notch tipple! Westminster isn’t just about Big Ben and Westminster Abbey; it’s brimming with cosy pubs and chic bars. From historic taverns where politicians debate over ales to sleek rooftop bars with stunning views of the Thames, there’s a spot for every taste. Whether you’re after a post-sightseeing pint or a sophisticated cocktail evening, Westminster’s nightlife scene is as diverse as its history. Get ready to explore the charming, spirited side of this iconic district!
St Stephen’s Tavern
Address: 10 Bridge St, London SW1A 2JJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? St Stephen’s Tavern sits in the heart of Westminster, boasting an unrivaled view of Big Ben and a close proximity to the Houses of Parliament.
- What’s the Vibe? The tavern offers a warm and friendly atmosphere in a traditional setting. It has been a meeting place for many notable figures over the years, including prime ministers. The interior reflects its Victorian heritage, creating an authentic and inviting ambiance for both locals and tourists.
What’s On Offer
- Exclusive House Ale and Award-Winning Badger Beers: St Stephen’s Tavern is known for its exclusive house ale, named after the pub itself. Additionally, it offers a selection of award-winning Badger Beers from Dorset, catering to the tastes of ale enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
- Traditional British Cuisine and Sunday Roasts: The pub serves traditional British pub food, with a special highlight being the Sunday Roast. The roast features 28-day aged West Country beef, served with seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, and homemade gravy.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Opening Times:
- Monday to Saturday: 10am – 10.30pm
- Sunday: 10am – 9.30pm Food Service Times:
- Monday to Sunday: 10am – 9pm
St Stephen’s Tavern combines historical charm with modern hospitality, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic British pub experience in the heart of London.
Morpeth Arms
Address: 58 Millbank, London SW1P 4RW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on the North Bank of the River Thames, Morpeth Arms is a historic pub, a short walk away from Westminster, Vauxhall, and Pimlico tube stations. The venue is opposite the conspicuous MI6 building and near Tate Britain, making it a notable spot for locals and tourists alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The Morpeth Arms offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and traditional pub ambiance. It boasts a vintage bar area and is known for its ‘Haunted Vaults’ and the ‘Spying Room’ with views of the Thames and the MI6 building. The atmosphere is imbued with tales of history and intrigue, making it an ideal location for those seeking an experience beyond the usual pub visit.
What’s On Offer
- Unique ‘Spooks’ Basement Bar: One of the key features of the Morpeth Arms is its ‘Spooks’ basement bar, which includes holding cells that once housed prisoners from the nearby Millbank Prison. These cells are now a part of the pub’s lore, contributing to its haunted reputation. Visitors can view these cells through a live “ghost cam” feed, adding a spooky twist to the pub experience.
- The Spying Room: Another significant feature is the Spying Room, located upstairs. It offers stunning views of the River Thames and the MI6 building, and is frequently used for private events and celebrations. The room is also known for its thematic connection to spies and espionage, adding an element of excitement and intrigue.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours are from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Monday to Saturday, and from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM on Sunday. The food service is available until 9:00 PM every day.
The Morpeth Arms is a venue that combines history, mystery, and the traditional charm of a London pub.
Blue Boar Pub
Address: 45 Tothill St, London SW1H 9LQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Blue Boar Pub is located at 45 Tothill Street, London SW1H 9LQ, in the iconic Westminster area.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a modern twist on the classic London public house, characterised by a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. It’s a blend of classic British charm and a modern, forward-thinking approach.
What’s On Offer
- Special Menu: The menu, crafted by Chef Sally Abé, showcases British pub dining with top British ingredients from her favorite producers. It’s a mix of comforting dishes that reflect the best of British Pub dining.
- Awards and Recognition: Blue Boar Pub has won several awards, including ‘Best Pub & Bar in Greater London’ at The National Pub & Bar Awards 2022 and the ‘One to watch’ Award 2022, Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open daily, offering meals and drinks throughout the day and evening.
The Barley Mow
Address: 104 Horseferry Rd, London SW1P 2EE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Barley Mow is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from both the Houses of Parliament and Victoria Station, with the nearest tube being St. James Park. This location places it in the heart of London, making it easily accessible and close to significant landmarks.
- What’s the Vibe? As a traditional English pub, The Barley Mow offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a place where a mix of government department employees, local business people, and the vibrant South Westminster community gather. The pub features a relaxed space with polished wooden floors and straightforward dark-wood furniture, creating a cosy and unfussy environment. It’s well-known for its range of cask conditioned ales, draught and bottled lagers, and wines from around the world.
What’s On Offer
- Cuisine: The menu at The Barley Mow includes traditional British pub food with classics such as fish and chips, homemade burgers, and pies.
- Drinks: The pub also offers a wide selection of cask conditioned ales, draught and bottled lagers, and a range of wines. Every wine except sparkling varieties on the ten-strong wine list is priced at £20 a bottle, and there’s a notable selection of London gins among other spirits.
- Live Music: The Barley Mow hosts live music events on Fridays from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM and Sundays from 3 PM to 5 PM.
- Private Events: Additionally, it features a first-floor bar and restaurant area available for private hire, ideal for various events such as private parties, celebrations, meetings, or special occasions like Christmas parties. The space can accommodate up to 60 seated or 110 standing guests and offers personalised dining options for events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Barley Mow is a traditional English pub with a rich selection of drinks and classic British fare, combined with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering regular live music events and facilities for private gatherings.
bbar
Address: 43 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0PP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? bbar is situated in the heart of Victoria, London, directly opposite Buckingham Palace. It’s a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant nestled beneath the city’s largest Living Wall, which is replanted with over 6,000 herbaceous plants.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue offers a unique atmosphere combining modern twists with classic elements. It features live mix sessions and DJ sets throughout the week, creating a lively and contemporary ambiance. The décor complements its international menu, making it an ideal spot for both casual dining and special celebrations.
What’s On Offer
- Cocktail Masterclass: The venue provides a unique experience through its Cocktail Masterclass. This allows guests to learn the art of cocktail making, led by their resident mixologists. It’s an interactive and fun experience, ideal for groups, with the added bonus of tasting the creations afterwards.
- South African-Inspired Tea: bbar offers an Afternoon Tea experience with a South African twist. This includes freshly-baked scones, cakes, pastries, and savory options like mini bunny chow. It’s a relaxed take on the British pastime, with a full range of teas and the option to add a bitters for an extra dimension.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? bbar’s opening hours are Monday to Friday from 12pm to 10.30pm (with the kitchen closing at 10.30pm and the bar at 11pm), and on Sundays from 12pm to 8pm (kitchen and bar closing at 8pm and 8.30pm respectively).
bbar offers a blend of lively atmosphere, unique culinary experiences, and engaging activities, making it a standout venue in London’s Victoria area.
The Old Shades
Address: 37 Whitehall, London SW1A 2BX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Shades sits in the heart of Westminster, just off Trafalgar Square. This Grade II listed traditional pub has been a staple of London’s pub scene since 1898.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub provides a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Its historic charm combined with a sophisticated touch caters to both casual and formal gatherings. The venue is characterised by a characterful bar and dining area, serving as an ideal spot for experiencing a classic British pub environment.
What’s On Offer
- British Pub Food & Drinks: The Old Shades specialises in classic British pub food, including crispy beer-battered fish and chips, homemade pies, and seasonal specials. The pub also offers a diverse range of beverages, from quality British ales to a wide selection of the finest world wines and premium spirits.
- Special Events & Services: The pub is known for its traditional Sunday Lunch, an essential part of British culture, offering some of the best Sunday roasts around Westminster and Trafalgar Square. Additionally, it hosts festive events, including Christmas celebrations, and provides services like Young’s On Tap app for a streamlined ordering experience at the table.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The general opening hours are from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 12:00 PM to 21:00 PM on Sundays. Food service is available from 12:00 PM to 22:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 12:00 PM to 20:00 PM on Sundays.
Patrons of The Old Shades often praise its great food, exceptional service, and the unique experience it offers, such as the occasional magic performance by staff. The venue stands out for its warm, friendly, and attractive setting, offering a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Whitehall.
Buckingham Arms
Address: 62 Petty France, London SW1H 9EU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Buckingham Arms is situated in the heart of Westminster, a mere two-minute walk from The Mall and St James Park station. It’s an ideal spot for a meal or drink after witnessing the famous changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.
- What’s the Vibe? The Buckingham Arms offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere amid the hustle and bustle of Central London. It exudes traditional charm with a selection of real ales and craft beers, wooden paneling, and a cosy fireplace, creating a quintessentially British pub experience.
What’s On Offer
- Real Ales and Craft Beers: Buckingham Arms takes pride in its selection of real ales and craft beers. It stands out as one of only five pubs featured in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for over 47 years, showcasing its commitment to quality and tradition in its beverages.
- British Pub Classics and Seasonal Menus: The pub offers a wide range of British pub classics and seasonal dishes. From juicy burgers and classic fish and chips to traditional Sunday roasts, the menu caters to various tastes. The menu features starters like pork & bacon sausage roll, main courses such as Guinness braised beef shin and mushroom pie, and desserts including sticky toffee pudding.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Food Service Times:
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Opening Hours:
This traditional British pub, located near iconic landmarks, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for both locals and tourists, offering an authentic London pub experience with its extensive menu and fine selection of ales.
The Marquis Of Westminster
Address: 50 Warwick Way, Pimlico, London SW1V 1RY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Marquis Of Westminster is situated in the heart of London, offering easy access for those visiting the area or locals looking for a cosy spot after work. The pub’s proximity to London Victoria and Pimlico stations makes it an ideal location for dinner and drinks following a day of sightseeing or a busy workday in Westminster.
- What’s the Vibe? Described as Pimlico’s village pub, The Marquis Of Westminster is a traditional British pub but with a contemporary twist. The venue encompasses a ground floor pub, a first-floor restaurant, and a basement bar available for private hire. It’s a blend of the traditional pub environment with modern dining, providing a welcoming atmosphere for various occasions, whether it’s a casual visit for a drink or a formal dinner.
What’s On Offer
- Signature Drinks and Infused Gin: The bar at The Marquis Of Westminster offers a range of carefully curated cocktails and a signature gin that is skillfully infused on-site. The drink selections are made to surprise and delight patrons, ensuring there’s something for everyone. This includes everything from a refreshing pint to their regularly changing infused gin.
- Eclectic Menu with a Twist: The Marquis Of Westminster prides itself on its gastropub food menu that includes classic pub favorites but with unique twists. Freshly prepared every day, the menu caters to various tastes, with brunch and traditional English roasts available on weekends. The head chef, Florentin Balas, has designed the menu focusing on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients.
- Family-friendly & Accessible: The Marquis Of Westminster also provides facilities such as baby changing, wheelchair access, and Wi-Fi. It is family-friendly, with children welcome until 9pm daily, and highchairs are available if needed.
Practical Info
When Can You Visit?
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Food Serving Times
- Daily: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Brass Monkey
Address: 250 Vauxhall Bridge Rd, London SW1V 1AU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Brass Monkey sits in the Westminster area of London, a stone’s throw away from major attractions and transport links.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub boasts a unique and vibrant atmosphere, accommodating all ages and groups. Whether you’re looking for a spot to relax, a place for a date, or a venue to enjoy drinks after work, Brass Monkey offers a welcoming and diverse environment. It’s particularly noted for its proximity to theaters like Wicked and Hamilton, making it a popular pre-theatre dining choice.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Menu and Drink Selection: Brass Monkey is known for its extensive range of beers, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. The rotating craft beer tap is a highlight, offering a new selection every week. The food menu includes a variety of options like burgers, bagels, salads, classic fish & chips, and the highly recommended Halloumi chips.
- Venue for Events: Apart from its regular offerings, Brass Monkey also provides facilities for private events and functions. The pub has a capacity of 120 and features amenities like outdoor space, in-house AV, and catering services. This makes it suitable for a range of events, from casual gatherings to more formal occasions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? From Monday to Tuesday, it’s open from 4 pm to 11 pm. On Wednesday to Friday, the doors open earlier at 12 pm and close at 11 pm, while on Saturday, it extends until 11:30 pm. Note that the pub is closed on Sundays.
- Food Service Times: Food is served until 10 pm every day the pub is open, offering plenty of time to enjoy a meal whether for lunch or dinner.
Brass Monkey stands out as a cosy, friendly pub in the heart of London, offering a diverse menu, extensive drink options, and the flexibility to host various events. Its location near Victoria Station and major London theaters adds to its appeal, making it an excellent choice for different occasions and audiences.
The Duke of York
Address: Duke of York, 130-134 Victoria St, London SW1E 5LA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Duke of York is situated in the heart of London, offering easy access to notable landmarks. It’s within walking distance from Victoria Station and close to Buckingham Palace.
- What’s the Vibe? This historic pub is known for its sophisticated ambiance and friendly staff. It has a cosy dining area upstairs and offers a comfortable setting for both locals and tourists.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Drink Selection: The Duke of York boasts a variety of beers brewed by Samuel Smith’s at the Old Brewery in Tadcaster, Yorkshire, established in 1758. They serve Cask Old Brewery Bitter from oak casks in the pub cellar and offer a range of natural ingredient beers.
- British Cuisine with a Twist: The menu features classic pub dishes along with some lighter options, showcasing traditional British cuisine with contemporary influences. Popular choices include fish & chips and steak and ale pie. It’s worth noting that the dining area is upstairs, and it’s primarily an order-at-the-bar service.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM. The kitchen operates until 9:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and until 6:00 PM on Sundays.
Ready to Visit?
Westminster, the heart of London’s political landscape, offers more than just iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. It’s a district rich in diverse nightlife, boasting an array of cosy pubs and chic bars. Notable mentions include St Stephen’s Tavern, a historical pub with a Victorian touch and an exclusive house ale, and Morpeth Arms, known for its ‘Spooks’ basement bar and ghostly tales. Whether you’re looking for a traditional British pub experience or a modern, lively bar, Westminster’s vibrant scene caters to all preferences, blending history with contemporary charm.
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Why not dive into the spirited side of Westminster by visiting one of these unique bars? Whether it’s the historical allure of St Stephen’s Tavern or the intriguing ‘Spooks’ bar at Morpeth Arms, there’s an experience waiting for you. Share this article with your friends and plan your next outing. And don’t forget, once you’ve soaked up the atmosphere and sampled the drinks, share your review with us. Your adventure in the heart of London awaits!