Cosy London Pubs

Bounding about Battersea this chilly evening in London? Then let's get you warmed right up. From stunning views of the park itself and their own private hire rooms, to traditional architecture, gastro goodies and beer by the bucket load, it's more refined, but that doesn't make it any less cosy. 

Pubs in London which can offer something unique are always a huge draw, which probably explains why The Narrow Boat is one of Islington’s most prized hidden gems. Found directly on the fringes of Regent’s Canal, this is one serene and welcoming riverside retreat made for drinks with friends or dinner with family. Grab a chair overlooking the water and pick out something from their extensive cask ale and world wine list.

Occupying a prized location that overlooks the starting point of the Oxford - Cambridge boat race, you’ll struggle to find a more idyllic gastropub than The Duke’s Head of Putney. The pub is based in a Grade II listed Victorian building, with 150 years of stories to tell. Cosy up in the Coxswain dining room - with its unrivalled views of the river - and settle in, there’s a rota of live music, comedy shows and movie nights to look forward to at this serene Putney favourite.

A popular choice amongst locals in Islington, the team behind The Castle on Pentonville Road perfectly combines amazing food, ice-cold drinks and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The bartenders and talented line-up of chefs work well together, offering a traditional gastro pub culinary experience that's capable of competing with the best. To help wash down fresh fish & chips, condiment filled burgers and perfectly cooked steaks, their selection of craft beers, fine wines and potent spirits will definitely leave you in a state of bliss, teetering on the edge of a food-induced coma.

Fox & Anchor whisks you back to the late Victorian era with its grand mahogany, etched glass and heavy brass furnishings. Historic and cosy, it’s the ideal spot to chew the fat with a couple of mates while you get to grips with the fantastic choice of good quality cask ales and craft spirits, with a menu of seasonal British food on offer for those easily tempted to dine out.

Offering lovely hospitality and front-row views of the river, The Old Ship has been keeping Hammersmith locals well fed and watered since way back in 1722. Come by today and you’ll find a contemporary and welcoming pub at the top of its game, with hearty pub grub cooked up in the kitchen and an extensive drinks menu featuring a good range of Young’s ales.

Dating way back to 1780, The White Cross is an historic and legendary Richmond watering hole offering one of the best riverside spots in the whole of London. Open from 10am to serve lovely, home-cooked pub grub throughout the day, there’s also a cracking spread of great ales and wines on offer for those just looking for a tipple before heading home. Come for a beautiful Sunday lunch, to watch the rugby on the big screen or stopping by after a walk; dogs are more than welcome.

Somewhere between a classic pub and a contemporary boozer, the Joker of Penton Street is a cosy Angel hangout where you'll find a kitchen ruled by pop-up street food residencies and plenty of craft beers behind the bar. With a rosta of live entertainment in the form of comedy, music and DJs, there's always something going down here. 

Continually rated as one of the finest pubs in the city, The Gun sets a cosy vibe with its roaring open fires, inviting armchairs and Grade II-listed grandeur. Tuck into some fine gastro delights on the menu and marvel at views that look out across the river towards Canary Wharf.

Niggling for a cosy pub nook in the heart of Homerton? Grab your beau, or best friends, as we've just the juice joint. A corker of a boozer thanks to their vintage trinkets, retro furniture and ambient atmosphere, Jackdaw and Star is just the destination to get your thoughts in check, be that over a bevvie, or guzzling from their grand selection of pub grub.

Channel your inner Chiswick at this darling of a boozer. Infamous for its gastro fare and kitsch innards, this cosy London pub 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 in the city.

Proving a lovely change from the usual pub formula of dark, dingy and slightly smelly, The Crown has opted for a far preferable fresh aesthetic. Light and airy, dotted with charming wee knick-knacks and oh-so inviting; spending a lot of time at The Crown is almost inevitable!

The Ten Bells is a Spitalfields legend, but less is perhaps known about its secretive cocktail bar upstairs. Cosy and inviting from the get-go, sit yourself down at one of their vintage Chesterfields and inspect a menu of signature shorty cocktails to die for. Small but perfectly formed, drinks at this east London gem are devised by the celebrated bartender, Jerome Slesinski.

The East Hill pub offers Wandsworth's weary locals a warm spot to relax and recalibrate in after a long week at work. Grab a pint of craft beer and sink into one of their softer-than-soft armchairs by the crackling fire. Amplifying this homely atmosphere, the team of chefs have created a menu of hearty British recipes, composed using only the finest ingredients available. Think seasoned steaks, fresh fish & chips and piping hot pipes that explode with flavour as soon as they touch the tongue.

Dally on up to Islington for one of London's cosiest boozers. A newly decorated haven brimming with vintage paneling and typography to adore, you won't only be enjoying the innards. Settle down and tuck into woodfired pizzas, burgers and more alongside a simple cocktail list and darling roster of wine.

Boasting no shortage of comfy sofa areas as well as an eclectic mix of old and new interiors, The Alice is a snug retreat from the 100mph nature of the streets outside. There’s a mix of seasonal dishes and classic pub favourites, a chatty atmosphere and a lovely spread of classic cocktails that start at a reasonable price.

The term 'all-encompassing' is over-used, but not in these quarters. A pub, entertainment space, ale brewery and gin distillery wrapped up in one inviting package, The Four Thieves strives to ensure that it's cherished homely vibe isn't ever compromised. Head to the heated gin yard and linger a little while.

So you've got a penchant for fine London craft beer, but you're looking for a cosy Islington pub that's got the goods? Then we've got the pub for you. From their own microbrewery to board games and candlelight a-plenty, this North London nook is a great way to waste away the evening in the city. 

It’s hard to think of a more perfectly placed pub than The Queen’s - situated just a few yards away from Primrose Hill. There’s a terrace space where you can drink and dine, while inside the focus is on setting up a cosy ambience with lots of charisma; there’s a real fire, 5 cask ales on tap and a great menu of freshly produced and seasonal British grub on the menu.

Located down a quiet(ish) side street in the heart of Chelsea, we challenge you not to fall in love with The Surprise from the moment you step inside. Here lies a bright and airy boozer fitted with sofas, fireplaces and lots of quirky artworks, where you’ll likely find yourself whiling away the hours with a good quality pint of real ale or something from their ever-changing, constantly-updated menu of comfort food.

A haven for regulars and visitors to the beautiful green spaces at nearby Richmond Park and Putney Heath, The King’s Head is a Roehampton gem where family, friends and pets alike are more than welcome. Brimming with cosy and inviting vibes, there’s a spacious garden and a tasty blend of pub classic fare and superb drinks.

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 street food swell can take to the Owl and Pussycat for more laid-back tidings. From draught beer to cosy sofas and vintage interiors, chill out and enjoy the boozy ride. 

Grandly proportioned - but with the warm and welcoming feel of a trusted gastropub - The Trafalgar Arms is a home-from-home in the heart of Tooting. With a focus on the finer things and plenty of inviting spaces to enjoy them in, the kitchen team use the finest local ingredients to prepare fresh and artisanal food, with boozy options in the form of delicious wines and exquisite cocktails if you’re just stopping in for a quick one after work.

A homely, cosy favourite for Putney’s locals, the Coat & Badge is an inviting spot tucked away from the high street. Laurel hedges enclose a delightful garden space for when the sun is out, while inside there’s a vibrant feel and a fireplace to warm yourself around on a cold winter’s night. There’s plenty to drink and an indulgent menu of pub favourites on the menu if you’re staying for food.

Pining for a pub in London with board games? 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 haste to Dalston. From pop-up kitchen residencies to a mighty selection of board games, you're going to want to stay bolted to the table for the night.

Ideal for those lazy weekends or perhaps a frivolous drink after work, the Morpeth Arms acts as a metropolitan sanctuary, offering escape from the constantly bustling world outside. Regal by nature and bursting with opulent decorations, it's the food and drinks menu that really appeals to the area's busy crowds. The bar showcases the very best that London's brewers have to offer, while the chef dabbles in traditional recipes, plating up delectable catch-of-the-day treats and serving succulent cuts of seasoned meat. Grab a craft pint, enjoy some delicious British dishes and sink deep into one of the softer-than-soft vintage armchairs.  

You probably wouldn’t go looking for a cosy pub slap bang in the middle of Mayfair, but that’s exactly where The Windmill lies. A snug, friendly boozer where award-winning pies and a beautiful range of cask ales and wines are a speciality, there’s even a hidden rooftop terrace to escape to when the sun is shining.

With a healthy fascination in all things stage related, the Curtains Up pub could not have been better placed, sitting atop the cosy Baron's Court Theatre. Like all warm and welcoming pubs, the kitchen serves a range of hearty, British gastro-pub treats - think rib-eye steaks, light fish & chips and succulent burgers fit to burst with flavoursome condiments - and the bar is stocked full of the most popular craft beers, wines and international spirits. Perfect for pre-show dinners and post-show drinks, unwind in one of their cosy armchairs and watch the hours flout effortlessly by.

The Colton Arms is the perfect place to relax and while the hours away. The intimate little pub lets the conversation flow, and the pints are free-flowing from the friendly bar staff. And should you feel a bit peckish, their kitchen can supply you with a number of hearty, seasonal British dishes.

The Catford Constitutional Club brings vintage charm to a grand old building at the centre of the community. It’s a beloved local with a unique character; interiors feature vaulted ceilings, chandeliers and - legend has it - haunted toilets. Retire to CCC to sample their sumptuous mix of ciders and ales or come for some traditional British comfort food, with a popular roast dinner served on Sundays.

Whether you're feeling the pinch of a hangover or the blistering British weather, there's one boozer in Fulham that does cosy pubbing just right. Join Duke on the Green in the leafy Parsons Green suburbs for a charming and cosy afternoon down the pub. 

Stately opulence is the name of the game at this firm favourite. Located on the site of the former Law Courts of the Bank of England, this is your place for melt in the mouth pies and a solid pint of ale, and the setting? It doesn’t get much cosier.

Those of you headed to Mile End look like you could use a drink and cosy night in the boozer; and that's where The Victoria comes in. Head on down for a classic and welcoming evening of craft beer, cocktails and British bites aplenty. 

If anyone knows how to do a cosy pub in London, it's Geronimo, so how does their Shepherds Bush offering fare? On the scale of one to cosy? Pretty darn well! Decorated with classic awnings and autumnal colours, tucking in from the wind and the rain has never felt better than at a pub like The Bull.

Sitting on the banks of the Thames, The Bull's Head in Barnes is a quaint pub that offers both amazing live music and a traditional, atmospheric pub experience. With a beautiful bar stocked full of all your favourite craft beers, fine wines and delectable spirits, the entire venue is brought to life by the bright furnishings, detailed armchairs and wonderful smattering of characterful antiques. Think mouth-watering burgers, piping hot pies and perfectly cooked steaks. 

A delightful drinking space, The Union Tavern is the ideal spot at which to hide from the elements in the winter months. Serving an ever-so-tempting variety of craft beers, alongside a rich and flavoursome menu of classic pub dishes, The Union Tavern ticks every box of winter pubs in London.

A firm favourite in Richmond, The Orange Tree is a cosy London pub with a cutesy, botanical stance. Head on down for rustic gastro pub meals and floral interiors alongside a top roster of pints and rugby screenings. 

Nestled in the heart of the city’s Leadenhall Market, Old Tom’s caters for craft beer lovers in a snug space fitted with 19th century wall tiles and bundles of charm. Find yourself a corner and watch the stresses of a long day melt away here, with that excellent choice of craft beer matched with a strong range of gin and whisky as well as some tasty cheese and charcuterie sharing board options.

Sitting pretty between Clapham South and Balham tube stations, The Grove is about as classic as London boozers come. Steeped in Victorian architecture, The Grove is a charming pub where you can tuck into hearty British gastronomy, sink into rustic chesterfield sofas and even knock back some bespoke tipples at their well kept secret dedicated Cox bar. 

If you're looking for a cosy winter East London pub, look no further than The Jugged Hare in Shoreditch. Serving an incredible selection of game and meat, the pub has an old-fashioned vibe with taxidermy lining the walls and a huge cabinet filled with red wine bottles for you to choose your favourite.

Full to the brim with rustic charm, it's The Old Queen's Head 'Sunday Socials' that earn it a place on the hotlist. Ease into a relaxing afternoon of roast dinners, Bloody Marys, board games and a good ole browse of the papers. Take in some live music or even have a go yourself with free use of the karaoke room.

Tucked away in the heart of Mayfair, Iron Duke is a homely London pub serving up real ales alongside delicious pub grub. It's a particularly family-friendly hangout, and there's a charming private dining room they call the 'Boot Room' complete with an open fire and stately lounging chairs.

The Porchester is a cosy pub in the heart of Notting Hill. With brightly coloured beams connecting the floors to the ceiling and a handful of bright seats spread across the venue, the entire pub is balanced by simple, wooden floors and a similarly plain bar. Of course, as with most metropolitan pubs, the food and drink served here is of the highest standards. Alongside the collection of cask ales and craft beers, the venue's talented chefs have curated a food menu of traditional recipes and gastro pub treats. Snuggle up by the fire with your favourite pint, and watch as the hours drift effortlessly by. 

It’s right around the corner from one of North London’s busiest stations, yet The Duchess of Kent remains one of Angel’s best kept secrets. Discover it for yourself and relish that cosy, familiar local set-up, with excellent ales on tap and a modern wine list that is fresh and exciting. Come along, play some board games and relax, all the footy is on the TV and a tasty brunch and Sunday roast spread is served up come the weekends.

A cosy boozer, in the heart of Trafalgar Square? Yes siree, this is The Admiralty; a spectacular three-floored hangout based on HMS Victory. Our focus rests with the subterranean ‘gun deck’, which offers a dreamy pie, pint and the chance to escape the tourist trap and uncover something entirely different.

This charmingly personal local in Maida Vale offers top quality in all quarters. Food is excellent and sourced from local suppliers, craft beer options are vast and the wine list has been carefully selected to match the food on your plate. Everybody’s really friendly, and the first floor private room is ready to host functions for up to 120 guests.

Fitted out with giant maypoles, wicker masks, brass icons and straw bears, the Hand of Glory is a colourful tribute to the fabric of British folk culture. It’s a must if you’re big on cider; independent brewers are to thank for the mulled and spiced pints on offer here. There’s Bloody Marys, a list of Seven Deadly Gins and hearty comfort food from an award-winning chef too.

A gorgeous local pub close to The Thames, this is a great spot for lazy lunches or get togethers with friends where you can hire the private barn for your own party. Brimming with traditionalism, a great selection of cask ales, exposed brick work in abundance and a fire, The Cross is a dapper den for all sorts of Sunday evening schmoozing.