No matter what type of night you're looking for in London you can find it in New Cross, one of London's best independent music hubs. Enjoy some of the best bars in London for cocktails, beer and music to kick off a great night out without, along with pizza spots and chill pubs. There's an eclectic mix to choose from, with big chains and quirky independent bars providing friendly vibes and top DJs. Check 'em all out here.
Last edited by Marcus Sanigar
Last updated on 4th December 2025
The Hobgoblin is a cheap and cheerful student magnet because of its cheap drinks prices, friendly staff and relaxed vibe. A traditional British pub through and through, the venue is overflowing oozes charm with a spacious beer garden for bustling summer BBQs.
Well-known around these parts for its packed live music calendar, New Cross Inn serves up great food and tasty tipples along with brilliant bands seven days a week. From 6pm every day, you can secure your spot for the gig in the main bar or retreat to the comfort of the booths downstairs.
Whatever brings you through the door, you'll find all the ice cold lagers, ales, worldly wines and spirits you want from a traditional London boozer. Feeling peckish, the £8 pizza menu will soon see to that.
Sylva is a hidden gem nestled at Folkestone Gardens, just a short walk from Deptford and New Cross. This vibrant, casual restaurant brings a deep love for fresh ingredients to every plate, with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes made fresh in-house.
With a focus on sustainability, Sylva collaborates with local businesses and uses second-class produce to create mouthwatering, seasonally inspired meals.
A haven for locals looking to escape the rowdy students in nearby bars and pubs, Royal Albert creates a more chilled atmosphere with its cosy dark red sofas, fairy lights, antique furniture and scattered taxidermy. Great craft beers and real ales are offered up, as well as traditional British dishes and regular film and quiz nights.
The Amersham Arms fluently blends all the great grub and chilled atmosphere of a traditional boozer with a cutting edge live music and comedy venue. It even has its own art gallery located above it, and holds a cult status with many South Londoners.
