Ready for a pint after exploring the fascinating history of London’s transport? Lucky you, because the area around the London Transport Museum is teeming with fantastic bars and pubs! Whether you’re after a cosy corner for a craft ale or a chic spot for cocktails, Covent Garden has it all. From historic watering holes to trendy bars with a buzzing vibe, you’ll find the perfect place to park yourself for a drink. Let’s dive in and discover the best spots nearby!
The White Lion
Address: 24 James Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8NS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, The White Lion stands at the corner of James Street and Floral Street, just a short walk from Covent Garden Tube Station.
- What’s the Vibe? This historic pub, dating back to the early 1700s, exudes traditional English charm with its cosy interior featuring wooden beams, low lighting, and a welcoming fireplace. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, attracting a mix of locals and tourists alike.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Fare: The White Lion offers a menu of classic pub dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Specialities include hearty pies – such as steak and ale or chicken and mushroom – and traditional fish and chips served with mushy peas and tartar sauce.
- Eclectic Range of Real Ales: Renowned for its diverse selection of real ales, The White Lion provides a variety of traditional English ales and ciders, complemented by a selection of wines and spirits. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 11:30 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Punch & Judy
Address: 40 The Market, London, WC2E 8RF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, the Punch & Judy pub overlooks the bustling market square, offering patrons a central spot amidst the area’s vibrant activity.
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a Grade II listed building dating back to 1787, the pub retains much of its original stonework, exuding historic charm. Its balcony provides a superb view of the street performers below, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Fare: The Punch & Judy serves a selection of traditional British dishes, including hearty pies and fish & chips, designed to deliver a quintessential pub experience.
- Dog-Friendly Environment: Proud to be a dog-friendly establishment, the pub welcomes patrons to bring along their four-legged friends, ensuring a pleasant visit for all.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
- Sunday: 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
- Food is served until 10:00 pm each day.
Bow Street Tavern
Address: 37 Bow Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7AU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, directly opposite the Royal Opera House, the Bow Street Tavern is easily accessible from Covent Garden Tube Station.
- What’s the Vibe? Steeped in history dating back to 1763, the tavern exudes traditional British charm with its classic décor and historical artefacts. The multi-level establishment offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere, featuring a rooftop terrace and a dedicated gin bar, providing a unique setting for patrons.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Fare: The menu focuses on British classics, including cider-battered fish and chips and steak and ale pies. Sundays feature magnificent roasts with all the traditional trimmings and big, fluffy Yorkshire puddings.
- Extensive Gin Selection: The Bow Street Tavern takes gin seriously, offering over 30 varieties, each served with hand-selected garnishes and tonic.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11 am – 12 am
- Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm
Coach & Horses
Address: 42 Wellington Street, London, WC2E 7BD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, the Coach & Horses is conveniently located near landmarks such as the Royal Opera House and the Theatre Royal, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional pub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, characterised by its classic décor and friendly staff. Known for its Irish influence, it attracts a diverse mix of patrons, including regulars, tourists, and theatre-goers, all contributing to its lively yet cosy environment.
What’s On Offer
- Renowned Guinness: The Coach & Horses takes pride in serving what many consider the best pint of Guinness in London, a claim supported by numerous patrons.
- Delicious Salt Beef Sandwiches: Complementing their excellent beer selection, the pub offers mouth-watering salt beef sandwiches, praised for their quality and flavour.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub operates from 11:00 to 23:00, Monday to Saturday, and from 12:00 to 22:30 on Sundays.
The Marquess of Anglesey
Address: 39 Bow Street, London, WC2E 7AU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, the Marquess of Anglesey is conveniently located near the Royal Opera House and various West End theatres, making it an ideal spot for pre- or post-theatre gatherings.
- What’s the Vibe? This historic pub spans three floors, each offering a distinct ambiance. The ground floor exudes traditional British pub charm with dark wood furnishings and leather seating. The first-floor lounge provides a comfortable dining experience with views over Covent Garden. The highlight is the roof terrace, featuring a retractable roof and windows, offering panoramic views of the Covent Garden skyline and Theatreland, perfect for all-weather enjoyment.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Fare: The Marquess of Anglesey is renowned for its menu of British pub classics, including their signature Young’s beer-battered fish and chips, hearty pies, and succulent Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring a variety of choices for all patrons.
- Extensive Drink Selection: The pub offers a wide range of beverages, from cask ales and cold beers to an impressive selection of wines from around the world. Additionally, expertly crafted classic cocktails are available, catering to diverse tastes.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Thurs 10:00-23:00; Fri & Sat 10:00-00:00; Sun 11:00-23:00.
Ready to Visit?
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, the area surrounding the London Transport Museum offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and buzzing social spots. With its charming cobbled streets, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination to enjoy a drink after a day of exploration. Bars like The White Lion, with its traditional charm and hearty British fare, or The Punch & Judy, offering a unique balcony view over the bustling market square, ensure there’s a spot for every mood.
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Why not treat yourself to a pint or a cocktail at one of these fantastic Covent Garden pubs? Share this article with friends planning a visit, and don’t forget to leave a review of your experience—it might just inspire someone else’s next great night out!