Oh, Trafalgar Square! It’s not just about lions and fountains; it’s also a gateway to some of the most inviting bars and pubs in London. Whether you’re after a cosy nook to sip your pint or a lively spot to clink glasses with mates, the area around Trafalgar Square has got you covered. From historic pubs steeped in stories to chic bars serving up innovative cocktails, there’s a watering hole for every taste. So, let’s dive into the heart of London’s social scene and explore the best bars and pubs that make Trafalgar Square not just a tourist attraction, but a hub of conviviality and cheer. Cheers to that!
The Admiralty
Address: 66 Trafalgar Sq, St. James’s, London, WC2N 5DS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Admiralty is located in the heart of Trafalgar Square, offering a prime viewing spot of Nelson’s Column. It’s known for its distinctive British naval charm, providing a unique ambiance that’s both historic and inviting.
- What’s the Vibe? Step inside The Admiralty, and you’ll find yourself on the decks of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. This Fuller’s pub is designed to transport you back in time, featuring a decor that’s reflective of Britain’s proud naval heritage. It’s the perfect blend of history, tradition, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional, Hearty Pies: The Admiralty prides itself on its selection of traditional British pies, filled to the brim with hearty ingredients and served with all the trimmings. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic meat pie or something a bit more seasonal, their well-rounded menu promises something for every palate.
- Private Events & Celebrations: Looking for a venue with character for your next event? The Admiralty offers unique spaces for private hire, including the Admiral’s Cabin and the Gun Deck, making it a memorable location for anything from birthday celebrations to corporate events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open seven days a week, The Admiralty welcomes guests from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (or 10:00 PM on Sundays), with food served throughout the day until 9:00 PM.
The Rooftop
Address: 7th Floor, 2 Spring Gardens, St. James’s, London, SW1A 2TS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Rooftop is nestled in the heart of London, perched on the 7th floor of The Trafalgar St. James, boasting unmatched views over Trafalgar Square and the city’s skyline. This high-flying oasis is a stone’s throw from cultural landmarks such as the National Gallery and Buckingham Palace.
- What’s the Vibe? Offering a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere, The Rooftop is acclaimed for its panoramic views and elegant setting. Whether you’re dining alfresco or enjoying a cocktail, the venue promises a unique blend of comfort and luxury, complemented by seasonal European-inspired dishes and an extensive drinks selection.
What’s On Offer
- Tipple Tea: The Rooftop introduces a creative twist on the traditional afternoon tea with its famous Tipple Tea. Served every Friday to Sunday, guests can indulge in a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and scones, alongside bubbles and unique cocktails, making for a memorable experience.
- Asian-Inspired Cuisine: Revel in an Asian-inspired menu that includes a fusion of cuisines and signature cocktails designed to enhance your dining experience. The menu features a variety of grilled dishes, small plates, soups, salads, and plant-based options, with crowd favorites like gyozas, bao buns, and crispy squid.
- Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dining in The Gallery for spectacular views or The Deck for a sun-drenched conservatory experience
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday & Tuesday: 12pm to 11pm
- Wednesday & Thursday: 12pm to 12am
- Friday: 12pm to 12:30am
- Saturday: 12pm to 12:30am
- Sunday: 12pm to 11pm
Whether you’re seeking a spot for a special occasion, a leisurely afternoon tea with a twist, or simply a drink with an unparalleled view, The Rooftop offers an exquisite backdrop for any outing in London.
Theodore Bullfrog
Address: 26-30 John Adam Street, London, Greater London, WC2N 6HL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Theodore Bullfrog is nestled just off the main streets, a short distance from Charing Cross station, making it an accessible gem in the heart of central London. This prime location places it conveniently between Charing Cross and Embankment stations, ensuring it’s easy to reach for both locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? It’s a traditional British pub that exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for after-work drinks, cosy dinners, or weekend gatherings. The venue prides itself on its proper pub fare that’s quintessentially British, from beer-battered fish and chips to succulent burgers, served within a setting that combines the best of traditional pub hospitality with a lively, social vibe.
What’s On Offer
- Great British Pub Food: The Theodore Bullfrog offers a delightful array of British classics, ranging from meat-packed pies and crispy Young’s beer-battered fish and chips to smaller plates and sharing boards ideal for groups. The menu is a celebration of British culinary traditions, making it a hit among those looking for a genuine pub dining experience.
- Six Nations: The pub showcases live rugby action during the Six Nations, making it a go-to spot for sports fans.
- Private Hire: The Villiers Room upstairs is perfect for private hire, accommodating up to 80 people for meetings, drinks parties, or special events, all backed by a skilled team to ensure your event runs smoothly.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open seven days a week, with operating hours from 11:00 to 23:00 Monday through Saturday, and from 12:00 to 22:30 on Sunday. Food service runs from 12:00 to 21:00 on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 12:00 to 20:00 on Sundays.
The Marquis
Address: 51-52 Chandos Pl, London, WC2N 4HS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Marquis is nestled in the heart of Central London, a stone’s throw away from iconic landmarks such as Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, and Soho. This venue is steeped in history, with its building dating back to the reign of Charles II, and has been a hotspot for various famous personalities throughout the ages, including Charles Dickens.
- What’s the Vibe? With a warm and inviting atmosphere, The Marquis stands out for its love of vinyl records and regular live music, making it a magnet for record lovers and those looking for a lively night out. Its upstairs bar and dining area offer a cosy spot for home-cooked meals, further enhanced by its recognition as one of the top 15 pubs in London by TripAdvisor in October 2022.
What’s On Offer
- A Record Lover’s Hotspot: The charismatic manager, Tommy, has turned The Marquis into a haven for vinyl enthusiasts, boasting a vast collection of records, live music events, and cameo appearances in films like ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ and ‘Last Christmas’.
- Delightful British Pub Menu: Their commitment to serving freshly prepared, quality British pub fare is evident, with a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Their food policy centers on homemade, cooked-to-order meals using consistent, quality suppliers.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub opens its doors from Monday to Thursday between 12:00 pm and 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am, and on Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
This venue is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic British pub experience, combining historical charm with a vibrant atmosphere and a rich offering of food and music.
The Ship & Shovell
Address: 2 Craven Passage, London, WC2N 5NF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship & Shovell is snugly situated in a distinctive location on the western side of Charing Cross mainline station. Tucked within a small alleyway, Craven Passage, this unique venue stands out due to its two parts being located on either side of the alley, connected only by an underground tunnel.
- What’s the Vibe? As one of London’s most characterful pubs, it offers a friendly and inviting atmosphere, rich in history and traditional charm. This classic London ale house is a local favourite for both business folk and tourists, known for its maritime-themed décor and cosily appointed interiors.
What’s On Offer
- Exclusive Beers: The Ship & Shovell is celebrated for its exclusive selection of Badger Beers, a product of Hall & Woodhouse in Dorset. These include seasonal brews like Equinox and Outland Peach Lager, with Equinox being a balanced ale with hints of honeycomb.
- Historic Charm: The pub’s unique feature of being divided into two separate buildings across an alleyway adds an intriguing aspect to its charm. This setup, along with the connection via an underground tunnel, not only fascinates visitors but also contributes to the pub’s cosy and intimate atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Ship & Shovell welcomes guests from Monday to Saturday, 11:30 am to 11 pm. Food service is available from Monday to Friday, 12 pm to 3:30 pm, and on Saturdays until 4 pm.
This unique establishment, with its remarkable split design and rich selection of beers and pub fare, stands as a testament to London’s vibrant pub culture and its capacity to preserve tradition while welcoming guests with open arms.
Ready to Visit?
Trafalgar Square is not just a landmark but the epicentre of London’s bustling social scene, surrounded by a variety of bars and pubs that cater to all tastes. From The Admiralty, with its historic naval theme and British pies, to The Rooftop, offering stunning city views and an Asian-inspired menu, there’s a spot for every mood and occasion. These venues highlight London’s rich pub culture, blending history, culinary delights, and innovative cocktails in settings that range from the cosily traditional to the elegantly contemporary.
Share the Love
Feeling intrigued by the charm of Trafalgar Square’s best bars? We encourage you to venture out to one of these inviting spots, such as The Admiralty or The Rooftop, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family, inviting them to explore these gems with you. And once you’ve experienced the warmth and hospitality firsthand, we’d love for you to share a review of your visit, spreading the word about these must-visit destinations in the heart of London. Cheers to making memories!