Cosy Pubs In London

As the season of layers and pubs with fires creeps up on us, so too does our desire for a stiff drink. Lucky for you? These cosy London pubs have that and so much more. Read our round-up of some of the city's best winter pubs, featuring all your cold-weather cures, from snuggly sofas and Sunday roasts to fresh pints of ale and warming cocktails.

The Most Cosy Pubs London Has To Offer

Last edited by Lauren Cole

Last updated on 27th September 2024




Holly Bush

One of the most famous cosy pubs in North London, Holly Bush is a Hampstead staple after autumn and winter strolls across the Heath. Interiors here are traditional to match the historical setting, complete with vintage furnishings and a roaring open fire. Their CAMRA Good Beer Guide feature and locally sourced British grub, from Sunday roasts to pork chop and more, is just another indication of their dedication to old-fashioned pub-keeping.

The Cross Keys

For over 300 years, The Cross Keys has been a timeless favourite in Chelsea and one of the cosiest pubs in London, offering top-notch seasonal grub and booze, as well as an open fire. Their menu is all about farm-fresh goodness, with a mix of inventive bites and pub classics like Cornish mussels, chicken supreme, and Chateaubriand steak. And to wash it all down, they've got award-winning ales, craft beers, wines, and some fancy cocktails, too.

The Clapham North Pub

The Clapham North Pub is one of the cosiest boozers this side of the river, flaunting bare-brick walls and fireplaces, leather booth seating and plenty of intimate nooks. While you're there, make sure to check out the fabulous cocktails and craft beers, which go all to well with the selection of small plates like lamb shoulder tacos and beer-glazed chicken wings. Topping it off? Nostalgic British desserts like apple crumble and Eton mess.

The Cutty Sark

There's nothing quite like staring out over the choppy, open water while you're snug as a bug inside - and that's exactly what Greenwich's The Cutty Sark has in store. Having sat on the banks of the Thames for over two centuries, it's the perfect place for views of the river, a vintage feel and draught beers brewed right here in London. This is what a historical, Georgian free house is all about.

The Three Compasses

Pining for a pub with board games that's also as cosy as they come? An ideal location that doesn't ask too much from you, only that you chill out and have a top ol' time? Then you'd better make a move to Dalston. From pop-up kitchen residencies to a mighty selection of activities, you're going to want to stay bolted to the booth tables at The Three Compasses for the night.

Catford Bridge Tavern

A beloved local boozer, The Catford Bridge Tavern is a must-visit if you're on the hunt for a cosy South London pub. With classic features, cask ales and a menu of delicious Caribbean cuisine, there's nowhere better to snuggle up this winter - especially when you check out those booths or get a seat near the fire.

The White Horse

The 4 O'clock Club and 2 other offers

One of the best places in Peckham whether you're looking for a few pints or a big night out, The White Horse is here to sort you for Mondo Sando sandwiches, drinks and excellent tunes - balancing an old-school look with a modern vibe. Head over to the Rye-side spot and let them prove to you why they're known as one of London's cosiest pubs since they started serving the people of SE15 in the early 1800s.

Rose & Crown

Head to Stoke Newington for a traditional English boozer with a warming fireplace and original features, including giant bay windows and warm wood panelling, set inside a Grade II listed building. The Rose and Crown serves classic British mains like Sunday roasts, fish'n'chips and juicy burgers, alongside real ale, fine whisky and a great selection of wines. Sign us up.

Bow St Tavern

Established in 1763 and around for the founding of the Bow Street Runners - often considered to be the first British police force - Bow St Tavern has seen its fair share of history. Today, nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, this cosy pub offers a police box entrance for a Tardis feel, fires, and a traditional look. Head on over and tuck into classic British meals with tipples from their extensive collection, or sip on a few craft beers sourced from local breweries. 

Duke Of York

Soak up the history at the Duke of York, one of Haggerston's oldest pubs with cosy, traditional interiors and a lively atmosphere all week long. Settle down with one of their renowned Sunday roasts, or try out other tasty dishes such as flat iron steaks, beer-battered haddock and crispy halloumi fries. There's an extensive choice of craft beers on offer here too.

The Canonbury

A gorgeous neighbourhood pub that's been around since the early 1700s, The Canonbury is a staple of its namesake earlier - serving all the local beers and real ales you'd expect from a proper, British boozer. But that's not all, as with a log burner waiting for you, alongside a choice of grilled steaks and burgers or rack of hogget, they're really helping you make a night of it.

The Cadogan Arms

Cosy pubs in West London? The Cadogan Arms is found at the epicentre of Chelsea's King's Road and has been serving the local community for two centuries. This gastro haven is as gorgeous as they come, with ornate and warming wooden features throughout - as well as fireplaces, feather garlands and more for a unique touch.

On the menu though? Dishes like pork cheek curry and venison pie to warm the cockles, all with provenance and seasonality at their heart.

Jack Horner

Snuggle up under warm, glowing light fixtures among wooden furnishings and cosy booths at The Jack Horner, a relaxed boozer on Tottenham Court Road. After wandering around the heart of London, refuel at this charming pub and soak up its atmosphere. You'll find a large range of craft beers, ales and spirits to drink, alongside a stellar menu boasting nibbles like Marmite roast potatoes or Laverstoke Park Farm buffalomi fries, served with sriracha aioli, as well as sensational roasts come Sunday.

The Mayflower

Not only does The Mayflower have history on its side (over 400 years of it) but this cosy Rotherhithe pub is a perfect example of cosy. Think flickering candles and original features galore inside, with a cobbled streetside setting making it feel all the more traditional. Better yet, the upstairs restaurant for munching British classics has views of the river - perfect for enjoying the oldest pub along the Thames.

George IV

🃏 Kid's Table Every Sunday 🃏 and 2 other offers

Channel your inner Chiswick at this darling of a boozer. Infamous for its gastro fare and kitsch innards, this cosy pub in London is a gem for those simply looking to hunker down for the evening. Whether you're enjoying one of their board games or lapping up an ale by candlelight, The George IV is a real treat complete with fireplaces, live music and comedy nights.

Red Lion, Barnes

On the hunt for a super cosy boozer to put your feet up in? Then Red Lion in Barnes is the haunt for you. Decked out with large, arching stained glass windows, dark wooden pillars and a roaring log fire, it's the ultimate location for a pint of beer paired with a warming Sunday roast. You'll also be able to gobble up an array of other classics, such as Cumberland sausages served with chilli and maple roasted squash mash, plus chicken and leek pie. 

The Mitre

Located near Fulham Broadway, The Mitre is a real gem of a family-run gastropub. The boozer boasts a cosy feel with both traditional and modern touches, as well as a roaring wood burner. The food here is all about celebrating the best of British produce, with dishes like beer battered line caught haddock, Cotswold chicken caesar salad, and West Country lamb chop with crispy potato terrine stealing the show. And let's not forget their killer lineup of ales, beers, and wines.

Mason's Arms

Oozing charm and warmth, Mason's Arms is a pretty pub only a short walk from Battersea Park Station. Cosy up on a navy leather sofa, take in the quirky decor (think hanging plants, pillars and old-fashioned, framed photos) and make yourself at home. You'll be spoilt for choice with its sandwich selection, boasting an array of fillings such as beer-battered haddock fingers and tartare sauce, served between two slices of fresh, malted bloomer. As for roasts, you can expect a droolworthy sirloin of Owton's beef or a tasty nut affair served with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire puddings.

Balham Bowls Club

Just off Balham High Road, Balham Bowls Club (or the BBC) is a former bowls club turned pub and event space. Yet, it's still packed with all that bowls memorabilia and old-school charm - making it a prime place for autumn and winter drinks. You can also pull up a seat to tuck into beef and bone marrow burgers, as well as Cumberland sausages with mash and gravy.

Scarsdale Tavern

🎶 Live Music 🎶 and 3 other offers

Scarsdale Tavern is a super cosy pub nestled within a Kensington residential area, away from the noise of the bustling high street. Only a short walk from Holland Park, it's the perfect destination for a warming meal after soaking up the sights - complete with a fireplaces to cuddle up in front of. Devour dishes like Sri Lankan sweet potato and green bean curry, or a Chalcroft Farm beef burger served with triple-cooked chips as part of a mouthwatering internationally-inspired menu.

The Speaker, London

For those of you feeling the chill this winter, warm up at charming Victoria pub The Speaker, one of the best cosy pubs in London. While surrounded by wooden panelled walls, glistening chandeliers and retro artwork, delve into the fabulous range of real ales and beers or catch some live sport.

The Market Porter

Fish & Chips and a Pint for just £18.50! -

The most cosy pubs in London Bridge? The Market Porter has to be right up there, thanks to a crackling open fire, distinctive tartan carpets, and wood panelling and bookshelves lining the walls of its nooks and crannies. The charming boozer has a dining room that overlooks Borough Market and 12 pumps serving real ale from across the UK, alongside a menu of British pub classics to match.

The Owl and Pussycat

You can't get much cosier than your classic, East End boozer. A fond favourite in the heart of Shoreditch hipsters, those looking to ignore the neon lights of the local clubs can take to The Owl and Pussycat for more laid-back surroundings. From draught beer to cosy sofas and vintage interiors, it's a chilled-out but boozy ride. 

The Dove

One of the most cosy pubs in East London, The Dove is a staple found in Broadway Market, pouring a large range of Belgian, European and world beers, alongside 6 guest ales British craft breweries. A traditional venue that feels oh-so snug with booth tables and a neighbourhood spirit, it's been a much-loved, family-run pub for over 30 years - so you're really in good hands.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese dates all the way back to the 16th century, giving this historical Fleet Street venue a historical and romantic feel; think hidden rooms, wooden beams, fireplaces, old paintings and photography, and Samuel Smith's brewery ale. Better yet? It's also a chop house, renowned for the finest cuts of meat and the famous Ye Olde Steak & Kidney Pudding.

The French House

Any mention of cosy pubs in Central London wouldn't be complete without The French House, a Soho institution embracing a no-tech rule and favouring wine over beer. It was a regular stomping ground for Bohemians, writers, artists and more, including Brendan Behan, who wrote large portions of The Quare Fellow here, and Dylan Thomas, who once left the manuscript of Under Milk Wood behind by accident - cementing itself in the history books.

Queen's Head

This Victorian pub might be small and quaint in size but they're big on spirit, combining a beer mat-covered wall with traditional games and a seasonally rotating drinks list showcasing lesser-known beers and the finest individuality from local breweries. Food includes Mr. Barrick's pork pies, cured meats by Crown & Queue, and fine cheeses by Neal's Yard Dairy, while entertainment comes in the form of Thursday night piano sessions and monthly three-piece jazz performances.