Balham? Not only is it home to the yummy mummy, walls of independent shops and the brunch-keen come the weekend, it's also home to a top roster of bars and pubs. Looking to grab a drink in this charming South London suburb and sip on cocktails, pints and more? Then we've got the recommendations for you. We've found you romantic wine bars for when date night comes around, cosy pubs with history, and casual cocktail bars, perfect for sitting in the sun.
Located 30 seconds from Balham train and tube station, the ground floor bar of The Exhibit is perfect for a after work drinks. Large leather sofas help you relax while catching up with friends. Or perch on one of the stools and watch the world go by. Soak up the spring sun on the large terrace or get the last of the rays at the back of the newly decked garden.
If Victorian interiors and casual drinks are right up your alley, The Grove is a Balham boozer for you. Get cosy with friends in a booth or settle in for dinner as this locals favourite brings you a gastropub feel with a tequila edge..
The Bedford is a lively bar boasting a fresh seasonal menu alongside burgers, pizzas and a great selection of cocktails for less than a tenner. What's more, they host a regular lineup of events, from weekly live music and comedy nights to yoga or dance classes.
Decked in a enticing navy and giving you gastropub with a smart, slick style, The Cyclist is perfect for the dinner guest hoping for an evening of seasonal dishes, along with the afternoon drinker hoping for a selection of classic cocktails.
A right gem of a cocktail bar is waiting to be unearthed on Bedford Hill. Lost & Found is a friendly, funky bar rife with live music, fun-time vibes and cocktails that'll knock your socks off. Stop by sometime soon for a minty fresh Red Haired Mojito, a sweet and velvety Candy Bar or bring your mates and share an Alice in Wonderland a blend laced with Stolichanaya Vodka served in a top hat!
So you're not after whacky cocktails, and you're most definitely not after strobe lighting on the dancefloor? Then why not a laid-back bar in Balham that has pub written all over it. Join The Regent for foosball, relaxed seating, comfy dining and pints aplenty.
This gorgeous Balham pub is the perfect spot for an after work drink in London. With comfy seats, great drink selections and a lively atmosphere it's a great haunt for you and your mates. And if hefty portions of slow-roasted meats are more your thing, it also happens to serve one of the best Sunday lunches in London.
For those of you on the hunt for Balham bars, Megan's on the Hill is a great choice. Not only does this Mediterranean-inspired all-day eatery flaunt a beautiful conservatory and fairy-lit features, but also has a delicious range of cocktails, smoothies or juices.
A pub, bar and event space all in one, Balham Bowls Club is a real winner. The expansive boozer promises multiple rooms of drinking and dining space, with a cosy, traditional atmosphere - alongside one of the best beer gardens in the area.
They show live sports, host regular fun events and they're even dog-friendly. As well as a cracking choice of drinks, you can expect dishes like corn-fed chicken breast, fish and chips or Sunday roasts.
Searching for a bar with a difference? Then be sure to check out Betto Tapas & Cocktails. This oh-so-chic hotspot not only whips up a glorious selection of Spanish plates to share with loved ones, but it's also fronting an epic cocktail menu made by expert mixologists.
