Heading to Westminster and fancy a tipple? You’re in luck! Nestled around Westminster Tube, there’s a treasure trove of bars and pubs just waiting to be discovered. From historic pubs oozing with charm to sleek, modern bars with stunning views of iconic landmarks, this area is a goldmine for thirsty explorers. Whether you’re after a cosy corner for a quiet pint or a vibrant spot to kick off a night out, Westminster’s got you covered. So, grab your mates and dive into the heart of London’s buzzing bar scene – you won’t be disappointed!
The Red Lion
Address: 48 Parliament Street, London, SW1A 2NH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Red Lion is nestled in the heart of London’s political hub, Westminster. This historic venue, a Grade II listed public house, is conveniently situated near key landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and is just a short distance from Number 10 Downing Street.
- What’s the Vibe? The Red Lion boasts a traditional and politically-charged atmosphere, reflecting its history of hosting the political elite for centuries. The venue spans three floors, including a dining area and a historic basement bar, and is known for its ambiance reminiscent of a Victorian Gin Palace.
What’s On Offer
- Refined Pub Classics: The Red Lion offers a menu featuring refined pub classics, all crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. The culinary experience is a blend of tradition and quality, perfect for those seeking a taste of classic British fare.
- Private Events & Diverse Spaces: The venue is not just about dining; it also caters to private events ranging from business meetings to weddings. With function rooms available, The Red Lion can accommodate a variety of occasions in its uniquely historic setting.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? From Monday to Saturday, the hours are 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday, it’s open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The food serving times are slightly different, typically starting half an hour after opening and ending an hour before closing.
The Red Lion offers a unique blend of historical significance, traditional British cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a notable destination in the heart of London’s political district.
Westminster Arms
Address: 9 & 10 Storey’s Gate, London SW1P 3AT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Westminster Arms is a historic pub nestled in the heart of political London, just a short distance from the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. This makes it a prime spot for politicians, journalists, tourists, and locals alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere of the Westminster Arms is described as charismatic and bustling, often filled with a diverse crowd ranging from civil servants to celebrities. It has a traditional English pub ambiance, with wood paneling and a convivial setting, making it a popular haunt for those looking for a genuine London pub experience.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Kentish Cask Ales & International Lagers: The pub boasts a wide selection of traditional Kentish cask ales, distinctive international lagers, and a variety of wines. This is complemented by the relaxed atmosphere of Storey’s Wine Bar located in the basement.
- Dining Options & Function Room: There’s a 40-cover Queen Anne dining room upstairs serving meals, and the venue also offers the option to hire a function room for events, capable of accommodating up to 60 people. This makes it a suitable location for various gatherings, from birthday parties to business meetings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Monday from 12:00-22:00, Tuesday to Friday from 12:00-23:00, Saturday from 12:00-18:00, and it’s closed on Sundays.
The Westminster Arms stands out for its central location in political London, its traditional pub ambiance, and its range of offerings from drinks to dining and event hosting. It’s a venue that encapsulates the essence of a classic London pub experience.
The Old Star
Address: 66 Broadway, London SW1H 0DB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Star is situated in Westminster, London. It’s conveniently located about 0.3 miles from Westminster Abbey, making it a central and accessible spot in the city.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue has a contemporary decor, which offers a stylish yet welcoming ambiance. It’s a corner pub that combines modern aesthetics with the charm of a traditional British pub. It’s suitable for a variety of guests, including families and pet owners, and also offers disabled facilities.
What’s On Offer
- Special Deals & Happy Hour: The Old Star features a happy hour from 7pm until close from Thursday to Sunday. They offer a range of deals, including the option to enjoy 3 small plates and a bottle of house wine for £25. Additionally, they have a selection of low and no-alcohol options for those preferring non-alcoholic beverages.
- Food & Drink: The pub offers a diverse menu including light bites, vegan options, and traditional pub food like fish and chips. It caters to a variety of dietary needs, with vegetarian-friendly options available. The atmosphere during meal times is cosy and convivial, ideal for lunch, dinner, or brunch.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? From Monday to Thursday, it operates from 11:00am to 11:30pm, and on Friday and Saturday, it’s open from 11:00am to 11:00pm. On Sunday, the hours are 11:30am to 8:30pm.
The Old Star in Westminster provides a mix of traditional pub atmosphere with contemporary touches, offering a range of food and drink options in a central London location. It’s a good spot for both casual visits and special occasions, with facilities to cater to a wide range of needs.
St Stephen’s Tavern
Address: 10 Bridge Street, Westminster, London, SW1A 2JR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? St Stephen’s Tavern is a historic and iconic venue in the heart of Westminster, offering an unmatched view of Big Ben.
- What’s the Vibe? The tavern exudes a warm and friendly ambiance, steeped in history. Since 1875, it has been a traditional pub where notable figures, including prime ministers, have frequented. The atmosphere combines the grandeur of late Victorian design with a cosy and welcoming pub environment. The interior features ornate mirrors, woodwork, and a striking bar area, enhancing its historic charm.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Fare & Award-Winning Beers: St Stephen’s Tavern is known for its traditional pub food and a selection of award-winning Badger Beers from Dorset. The menu includes classic British dishes like fish and chips, and the Sunday Roast is a particular highlight, featuring freshly roasted 28-day aged West Country beef.
- Historic Features & Division Bell: One of the most unique aspects of St Stephen’s Tavern is the presence of the original division bell, historically used to alert Members of Parliament to return for voting. The bell, restored in 2003, adds to the pub’s unique character and political significance.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 10:30 pm, and on Sunday from 10 am to 9:30 pm. Food service is available every day from 10 am to 9 pm.
St Stephen’s Tavern, with its rich history and traditional offerings, presents a unique experience, combining the essence of British political history with the comfort of a classic pub. Whether it’s for a meal, a drink, or to soak in the historical atmosphere, it offers a memorable visit in the heart of London.
Two Chairmen
Address: 39 Dartmouth Street, Westminster, London, SW1H 9BP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Two Chairmen is nestled in the heart of London, adjacent to St James’s Park. This historical pub is ideally located within walking distance of several of London’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
- What’s the Vibe? The Two Chairmen offers a charming and traditional English pub experience. It features original beams and leaded windows, reflecting its 18th-century heritage. The pub is known for its welcoming atmosphere, suitable for families and dog-friendly, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or drink in a cosy, historical setting.
What’s On Offer
- Beers: The Two Chairmen takes pride in its premium beer selection, including specialties like Level Head Session IPA and Flint Eye Dry Hopped Lager. These beers are steeped in history, offering a taste that has been refined over centuries.
- Classic Cocktails: The pub introduces a range of new cocktails, with the Blackberry Tom Collins being a refreshing choice.
- Delicious Food: They are also known for serving classic British dishes, with fish and chips being a particular highlight. The menu caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and non-gluten options.
- Events: The Two Chairmen also hosts a variety of events and offers function rooms for hire, suitable for different occasions like meetings and birthday parties.
- Gift Cards: Additionally, they provide Greene King gift cards, which can be a unique gift option for those who enjoy the pub experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00pm – 11:00pm
- Friday: 12:00pm – 11:30pm
- Saturday: 12:00pm – 7:00pm
- Sunday: Closed
- Opening Hours:
Ready to Visit?
Westminster, with its array of bars and pubs, is a haven for anyone looking to indulge in a drink or two. Among these, The Red Lion, a Grade II listed public house, stands out with its Victorian Gin Palace ambiance and refined pub classics. Another notable mention is The Westminster Arms, famous for its charismatic vibe and selection of traditional Kentish cask ales and international lagers. These establishments, set amidst London’s political hub, offer a perfect blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, making them ideal spots for both casual visitors and discerning patrons.
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Why not venture out to one of these delightful Westminster bars? Whether you choose the historical allure of The Red Lion or the bustling atmosphere of The Westminster Arms, your visit is bound to be memorable. Share this article with your friends, and don’t forget to drop a review of your experience. Your insights could be the guide for someone else’s next adventure in London’s vibrant bar scene!