Best Pubs In South London

South London; in its heyday famous for keeping London's dark side a secret and its Shakespearian sense of debauchery; today the perfect place for a pint in a pub. Becoming known as the new East London because of its unflux of "Bright Young Things" yet retaining its sense of tradition, you can just as easily find a refurbished gastro-pub with eclectic interior design here as you can a good old boozer where you can bring your dog and everyone knows the landlord's name. So jump on the Northern Line and head down South for some of London's best pubs.

Last edited by Marcus Sanigar

Last updated on 4th December 2025




The Duke's Head Putney

Situated on the banks of the Thames, right beside the starting point of London's famous boat race, there's a gem of a gastropub well worth seeking out. The Duke's Head is based in a Grade II listed Victorian building, with a rich history and stories to tell dating back over 150 years. This versatile boozer puts on an impressive rota of events in the week - we're talking speed-dating, live music and comedy nights - and it's a good place to chill with evening drinks and a hearty roast dinner on Sundays.

Richard The First

With a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful furnishings, the Richard I is a tranquil pub in South London that offers locals and visitors in Greenwich a spot to recharge and relax. The bar is stocked full of an amazing range of craft beers and real ales, while the venue's chefs have worked tirelessly to offer a hearty menu of traditional gastro pub treats. Think delicious burgers, seasoned steaks and warming roast dinners. 

The White Hart Barnes

If you're looking for a smashing pub in Barnes you'll have plenty of choice, but one of our tips is the White Hart. For starters there are great views to be had of the river in their outside terrace, but there's also bags of Tudor charm inside and staff that always make your stay a pleasure. Check out their world-class wine list or unique cask ale taps, or head upstairs to their dining room where three-course feasts and traditional British comfort food is served.

The Cutty Sark

Looking for a pub with great views in south east London? It's lucky you found us. The Cutty Sark is a mighty impressive boozer, steeped in history and offering a stunning landscape that features the waterfront and the Canary Wharf skyline to boot. Perfect for a couple of chilled drinks after work right the way up to a fully-fledged party in their private dining room, it's time to check out this versatile and friendly local for yourself.

The Old Nun's Head

Dough Hands Pizza

Nestled on the green streets of Nunhead, close to Peckham Rye station, The Old Nun's Head is a family pub that's steeped in history. This buzzing destination is both cosy and spacious, decked out in traditional wooden furnishings and boating a roaring fireplace.

Their bar is well-stocked with local ales and wines from all over the world, and they host a revolving selection of kitchen pop-ups to keep you fuelled.

Watson's General Telegraph

WGT is a mighty impressive boozer catering for the people of SE22. With a huge selection of constantly rotating craft beers on tap it's the place to be for a decent pint, and the vinyl-only music policy offers something a little different to your typical playlist. There's a lovely array of pub grub spanning everything from vegan-friendly bites to chorizo burgers, and a stunning and spacious beer garden which keeps the sun for most of the day.

The Dog and Fox

A glorious gastropub in the heart of Wimbledon Village, the Dog & Fox is a venue with its finger in many pies. Stop by for some hearty pub grub - the pub serves quintessential British favourites and a killer Sunday Roast - drop in for a swift half of Young's cask ale or hang around and soak in the sunshine in the relaxing beer garden; this one really does have it all.

The Riverside

The Riverside is an oasis of calm on the edges of the Thames, hidden away as part of the St. George Wharf complex in Vauxhall. The outside terrace is an absolute winner, with room for up to 200 to soak in the views and enjoy a few drinks all year round. The bar comes stocked with continental lagers, Young's award-winning cask ales, an extensive wine choice and luscious cocktails, and there's lots of interesting and tasty food choices if you fancy sticking around to eat out.

Half Moon

Since undergoing a huge refurbishment job after a flood of biblical proportions ripped through it in 2013, this South London pub near Brixton has remade itself into one of the loveliest pubs in the area. With a old fashioned main bar and modern dining area, as well as two garden spaces in the front and back, it's got a little something for everyone. 

Old Ship Richmond

Richmond is fast becoming London's beer garden capital; bolstering this reputation further is the work of the Old Ship. Beautifully decorated as a classic British pub, their deep mahogany furnishings and quaint antiques spread across the venue adds a distinct rustic feel to things here. Despite a bar stock full of all your favourite drinks, and menu bursting with flavour and flair, the real gem is the beer garden. It boasts a number of flat screen TVs, serene furniture and a terrace that offers stunning views of the entire town of Richmond. 

The Signal Pub

The Signal in Forest Hill is what every local should be - a long line of pumps, freshly made pub grub and a mix of quiet corners and large communal tables. The menu is more traditional with a twist, serving up hot honey chicken, fish burgers, and pork and Guinness sausage and mash.

The pride and joy, the pumps, deliver a thirst-quenching selection of ciders, ales and premium lagers while the wine list has much more to wet your whistle.  

The Alexandra

The heart and soul of sports in Clapham, The Alexandra is the perfect spot to catch all the live action while sippin' on some of London's finest beer. Decorated with wooden features like exposed beams and barrel tables, this traditional and stylish drinking den is perfect for kicking back, enjoying classic pub grub, and playing a game at Clapham Darts Club upstairs.

The Phoenix

Situated halfway between Stockwell and Clapham North, The Phoenix is a modern, trendy pub with cosy interiors and a spacious beer garden that's perfect for the summer months - complete with a mural on the brick wall. Whether you're here to watch live sport, take part in their weekly pub quiz or drag karaoke sessions or just for a few pints, you'll be looked after by their friendly team. And if you're feeling peckish, check out their Indian-British fusion menu, featuring everything from bangers and mash to chicken tikka skewers.

The Antelope

You'll find The Antelope on Tooting Broadway's bustling Mitcham Road, in a historic building that was originally opened by Barclays in the 1800s. There's always a welcoming atmosphere, with traditional interiors that feature simple wooden furnishings, painted brick walls and comfy patterned sofas.

Whether you're sipping pints inside or in the beer garden, there's a scrumptious food menu to get stuck into as well. Think spicy fried chicken burgers, truffle and parmesan fries or sumptuous Sunday roasts.

The Sun

The Sun, located just a short walk from Camberwell's bustling high street, is a stylish, family-friendly pub offering a welcoming atmosphere. The large bar area, split-level restaurant, and two beautiful beer gardens create the perfect space to unwind.

The skilled kitchen team serves a delightful menu of modern British pub food, including seasonal dishes and classic Sunday roasts. The vibrant outdoor gardens and cosy interior make The Sun the ideal spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a hearty meal with loved ones.

The Pilgrim Pub

The Pilgrim Pub is your quintessential British pub, offering the perfect mix of great food, refreshing drinks, and relaxed vibes. Whether you're stopping by for a casual drink or planning to spend the evening, this Oval pub has it all.

Enjoy the classic wooden interiors or head outdoors to one of their two beer gardens, where you can sip on craft beers or signature cocktails while enjoying the BBQ and live music. With a variety of tasty food options, from burgers to £2.50 tacos, this pub delivers a perfect hangout experience with something for everyone.

The East Hill

Sitting just south of the river, The East Hill pub offers South London's weary locals a quaint spot to relax, unwind and recharge in. Styled as a cosy home away from home, their soft armchairs and vintage sofas seem to have a force of attraction on all who walk through their doors. Amplifying the 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.

The King's Arms

Situated close to Waterloo station, The King's Arms is a charming pub that provides a traditional British boozer atmosphere with some sophisticated touches. Expect rustic interiors with wooden beams and furniture, as well as vintage posters lining the walls.

They've won Pub of the Year on multiple occasions, thanks to a great selection of rotating beers and eight pumps of real ale. Hungry? then check out their delicious Thai menu, which features butterfly prawns, peanut chicken skewers, panang curry and more.

The Mayflower

The Mayflower is cosy English pub inspired by the 17th-century ship that took English pilgrims to the New World. Based in Rotherhithe in South East London, the pub is based next to the famous ship's original mooring point and offers Londoners a warming, traditional pub experience. Serving a variety of craft beers, real ales and a selection of delicious gastropub classic dishes, this pub is perfect for those lazy Sundays with the family. 

New Cross Inn

The New Inn lives and breathes music, putting on live shows seven nights a week. Whether there's an up-and-comer or touring band in town, the bar serves up all kinds of ales, ciders, cocktails and spirits from 6pm.

If you prefer to listen in comfort rather than the most pit, the Stocks Bar is where it's at. Take a pew in its plush booths and soak up the atmosphere over a pint or two.

The Trafalgar Arms

Nestled 5 minutes away from Tooting Broadway is The Trafalgar, a wonderfully inviting home-from-home with grand proportions but welcoming vibes. The kitchen team use the finest local ingredients to prepare fresh and artisanal plates, perfectly complemented by a bar staff who work with delicious wines, exquisite cocktails and the best beers around. The venue is a private party specialist, and The Hut is an alfresco space in the front garden that's perfect for the summertime.

The Green Man

Despite having been a favourite for London's Highwaymen in centuries gone by, the Green Man in Putney Heath is now a warm, welcoming venue in South London. The pub serves a range of hearty gastro pub food, including grilled British steaks, catch of the day specials and homely roast dinners come Sunday. The bar is stocked full with everything you'd expect to find in a traditional British pub; some of the city's most famous breweries have their finest craft beers and flavoursome real ales on show.

Elephant & Castle

Established in 1765, The Elephant & Castle is a vibrant and historic destination for socialising. Whether you're enjoying a quiet pint with friends or dancing the night away in their basement room, this pub offers something for everyone.

They broadcast major sports events, so it's a prime location for catching the latest football or rugby matches. The welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for every occasion, from casual drinks to special celebrations.

The White Cross

The White Cross is an historic and legendary pub right on the edge of the Thames. A popular Richmond watering hole since way back in 1869, take in these calming views of the water while you nurse one of their great ales or sit down to some food from their seasonal, regularly rotating menu. Food is served from 10am and throughout the day, all the rugby is shown on the big screen and dogs are more than welcome, so it's a great spot to drop by on your way home from a walk.

The Crown, Battersea

Lunch Special and 1 other offer

A staple of Battersea, The Crown is a welcoming boozer that's filled with homely furnishings. Sink into their plush leather booths and watch live sports on their TV screens, surrounded by exposed brickwork and rustic wooden furnishings.

There's also a charming outdoor terrace, where you can sip craft beer, cask ales and local gins in the sun. If you're feeling peckish, they also serve a range of tasty smash burgers and loaded fries.

Spread Eagle

Get down to Croydon for a true pie and ale experience. Not only are their taps filled with delicious beer, their kitchen supplies some of the finest homemade pies you can get – as well as loads of other dishes, should you not be a fan of pies. The Grade II listed building also plays host to a playhouse that showcases the best in theatre, comedy and film.

The Devonshire

Steeped in history and boasting one of the best outdoor spaces in south London, The Devonshire is a cracker of a pub on Balham High Road. They've a passion for great drinks and carry an extensive range of ales, craft beers, spirits and wines, while the kitchen team are busy cooking up beautiful pies, roasts at the weekends and BBQ'd treats served in the garden come the summertime.

Crown & Anchor Brixton

Crown & Anchor is the South London pub that you need to discover. Hidden away along Brixton Road, this seriously trendy boozer is killing it in the booze department. Think delicious craft beers from local and micro-breweries, plus lip-smacking British cuisine.

The Rose and Crown

Dating back to the early 1600s, The Rose and Crown is the oldest member of the Young's family of pubs. Doubling up as a cosy hotel, the bar is stocked full of real ales and craft beers, the kitchen uses the finest British ingredients to offer a range of seasonal gastro pub dishes. Dog friendly and perfect for those lazy weekends with the family, this South London pub is sure to please. 

The White Horse Brixton

Located on Brixton Hill, The White Horse is a charming, friendly boozer that promises relaxed interiors and a sunny beer garden. They boast a welcoming vibe seven days a week, in a space decorated with pretty lants, colourful artwork and simple wooden furnishings.

Feeling peckish? They serve fresh, homemade food here, ranging from kidney bean and and halloumi burgers to tiger prawn spaghetti or steak ciabatta with caramelised onion.

The Crooked Billet

One of Wimbledon's finest institutions, the Crooked Billet has fed and watered South London's hungry people since 1881. Nestled on the corner of Wimbledon Common, it offers guests a cosy spot to curl up by the fire or soak up as much sunshine as possible. Crucially, there selection of locally brewed, carefully crafted beers and ales, and food menu composed of fresh fish and succulent meat dishes continues to draw in foodies from all over South London. 

Mason's Arms

🃏 Kid's Table Every Sunday 🃏 and 1 other offer

If you find yourself wandering around Battersea Park looking for a cosy boozer to have a crisp pint or two in, then hit up Mason's Arms. This quaint spot is full of charm, thanks to its towering white pillars, old-fashioned paintings and wooden detailing. Its menu features an array of moreish dishes like beer-battered haddock, served with triple-cooked chips, or small plates such as stick brisket or truffled mac 'n' cheese croquettes. The desserts are not to be missed either - the warm chocolate brownie has definitely caught our eye.

The Thieves

Hosting great comedy nights, cabaret performances, live music and DJs, The Thieves is a wonderfully weird place for a jolly night out. This multi-storey adult playground is packed full of games too, from retro arcade machines to RC racing and pool tables.

Whether you're heading down for a themed brunch or just a casual bite to eat, you can count on kitchen residents Balans to prepare a delicious feast - from sharing boards to Sunday roasts. Plus, there's a gorgeous, leafy beer garden that's perfect for alfresco drinks.

The Garden Shed

If you're searching for the perfect pub in South London, The Garden Shed in Wimbledon is the place to be. This charming local pub offers everything you need for a casual day or night out: delicious homemade pizzas, hearty burgers, and shareable platters, all served in a relaxed environment.

Catch all the latest sporting events on their multiple screens or unwind in one of the three spacious garden areas during the summer months. 

Hagen & Hyde

Located on the bustling Balham High Street, Hagen & Hyde is a friendly pub that promises both an expansive beer garden and a cosy interior - making it the ideal drinking destination all year round. They serve a wide range of beers and cocktails, as well as scrumptious handmade pizzas from Yard Sale Pizza.

This is a great choice for after-work pints or weekend boozing, and come Friday and Saturday nights you'll find plenty of people on the dancefloor. Plus, they show live sports on a regular basis, and they host weekly quizzes too.

St John’s Tavern

If you're looking for a South London boozer with oodles of character and craft pints to boot, St John's Tavern has you covered. Fronting bottomless pizza every Monday and £1 wings on Wednesdays, you know you'll leave fed and watered without breaking the bank.

The Old Bank, Sutton

The Old Bank in Sutton is the friendliest watering hole around with an outdoor TV, so you can soak up all the live sports action in their roomy beer garden al fresco. With Sky Sports and TNT Sports beamed on HD screens, you'll always stay in the game. Plus, while you're there, you can also take on a friendly match of pool or darts for some extra fun. Feeling peckish? The menu offers up all sorts of pub favourites like zesty baked onion bhaji bites and hearty beef and pork lasagna accompanied by garlic bread.

The Herne Tavern

With its classic pub charm and welcoming vibe, The Herne Tavern is a beloved local in Dulwich, offering a little something for everyone. The traditional pub setting boasts wooden panelling and leather sofas, with real fireplaces adding to the homely feel.

It's a place where families can enjoy hearty meals, especially the standout Sunday roast, while the kids engage in fun activities. Whether you're popping in for a quick drink or planning a special event in the pub's converted barn, this tavern's relaxed atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit.

King's Head Roehampton

Tucked between the beautiful green spaces of Richmond Park and Putney Heath, The King's Head in Roehampton is an historic pub that dates back to the 17th century. Steeped in history but also offering a contemporary, modern feel, this is a social hub with plenty of cosy vibes come the winter and a spacious garden for a few chilled drinks in the summer. Food is focused on great pub classics with a modern edge and the drinks menu features excellent Young's ales and a superb wine list; go check it out!

The Crown Tavern

Winter Set Menu

Found in the heart of Lee, The Crown Tavern is well worth the long-ish journey. This is a friendly and welcoming place where you'll feel right at home before you've even had the chance to properly explore the beautiful outdoor terrace. A selection of cask ales, world-class wines and refreshing long drinks offers something for all tastes, and there's a pub grub menu featuring all kinds of crowd-pleasing and inventive modern plates.

The Elm Tree Surbiton

Cocktail Happy Hour and 2 other offers

Situated on Surbiton High Street, The Elm Tree is a bustling boozer that promises great quality food and drink. The welcoming space is decorated with red leather booths, lots of pretty plants and rustic wooden walls, as well as five large TV screens showing live sport.

They serve Guinness fresh from original Irish taps, as well as hearty plates like chicken and leek pie, Thai green curry and smoked baby back pork ribs. Plus, they host regular live music sessions too.

The Alma Wandsworth

Nestled in the heart of Wandsworth, the Alma is a hotel pub that's established a reputation for plating up South London's foodies a stunning culinary experience. The pubs sleek, opulent hotel appearance clashes wonderfully with the traditional vibe given off by the dark brown, mahogany bar. Crucially, their chefs have been busy cooking up a storm and adding a few slight tweaks to an otherwise classic selection of pub food; from their American burgers with peanut butter to their ale-battered cod, expect to be amazed by their delicious, quirky creations.

Clock House Tavern

Clock House Tavern in Peckham is a beautiful pub filled with natural light, adorned with lush hanging foliage and deep forest green décor, all enhanced by cosy, modern lighting.

With two inviting floors to explore, it features a Sunday menu that's hard to resist, attracting guests with its delicious roasts. Savour tasty offerings like crispy lamb belly, and flavorful vegetarian Wellingtons, and treat yourself to a cherry bakewell with a dollop of crème fraîche for dessert.

Elm Park Tavern

Located in Brixton, Elm Park Tavern is a friendly neighbourhood pub that promises a welcoming atmosphere and traditional wooden decor. They offer a wide variety of craft beer, as well as hearty gastro fare, and dogs are welcome here too.

Tuck into the likes of jerk pork belly, crispy chicken burgers or cheesy fries with a spicy twist - and be sure to check out their roasts too. Plus, they host a brilliant quiz night on Sundays.

The Rosendale

This South London pub features not one, but three outdoor areas for summertime sun lounging and winter snuggling. Offering a mouthwatering menu of classic pub grub and an ample menu of international wines, classic cocktails and quality beer, its a sure win. 

The Old Brewery

In need of a pub with a bit of history and culture? Allow us to introduce The Old Brewery - the quirky Young's boozer located just yards from the legendary Cutty Sark. Housed within the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, it's a trusty place where fresh and seasonal British comfort food is expertly matched with a wide choice of locally-brewed craft beers and distilled spirits. Soak in the atmosphere of their impressive dining room or head for the great outdoors; they've also got an expansive outdoor terrace!

Catford Bridge Tavern

One of the best pubs in South London, this cosy spot on Catford Bridge offers a little something for everyon. From weekly pub quiz nights, open mic events, a working fireplace and some delicious British-Caribbean eats, there's a reason the locals love it so much.

The Tooting Tavern

Pizza & Drink Offer and 8 other offers

The Tooting Tavern is the ultimate local hangout and a must-visit when you're in the neighbourhood. It's got something for everyone: a wide variety of beers, a killer cocktail list, top-notch wines, and a rotating selection of craft beers and cask ales. There's plenty of space for all, so snag a comfy couch for a chill session, unwind after a long day, catch the game on TV, have a fun night out with friends, or bring the whole family - including your furry friends.

The Honor Oak

2-4-1 on all Laine Beers

Head down to The Honor Oak next time you are in South London and you'll find you next drinking den. A community-minded venue, they serve up a wonderful array of craft beers from local breweries, cask ales and fine wines. For food, they also offer a seasonal menu of British food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so no matter what time you walk in the doors, you are welcome.

The Abbeville

The Abbeville is one of South London's best-kept pub secrets, offering traditional charm with modern gastro flair. Whether you're after a pint and a snack, a long lunch, or a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, this cosy Clapham spot delivers.

You can sip on well-kept beers and wines, tuck into their much-loved Scotch egg with coronation mayo, or settle in for a delicious dinner. Big screens make it a great choice for sports fans, while the terrace and open fire create the perfect vibe all year round.

The Latchmere

Located in the heart of Battersea, The Latchmere is a traditional boozer that's full of charming, old-school decor. Think plush red leather booths, dark wooden furnishings and golden chandeliers, as well as a sunny beer garden.

Whether you're after a few cocktails with friends or a sumptuous Sunday roast, there's something for everyone here. On the menu, expect everything from crispy chicken burgers to lamb shawarma or baked camembert.

The Avalon

Nestled on Balham Hill, The Avalon is a cracking local boozer that boasts one of the very best beer gardens around. Not only can you relax in this leafy paradise, but the interiors are pretty stunning too - blending chic, modern elements with rustic touches like exposed brick walls and the roaring fireplace.

Choose from a wide variety of beers and cocktails at the bar, paired with plenty of scrumptious dishes. Think portobello mushroom pizzas, sticky Korean chicken bao, beef brisket burgers and so much more - as well as sumptuous Sunday roasts.

The Woodman

A quint country-style pub in the heart of Battersea, the Woodman has made a name for itself in South London for its hearty British foods, real ale and cosy setting. Whether you're craving a pint and plate of fish and chips or a full-blown Sunday roast, this is a cute hideaway that's sure to cater. 

The Tommyfield

Named after the historic market that birthed Britain's first fish and chip shop, The Tommyfield in Oval is a modern British gastropub with charm, heritage, and a serious love for quality food. From sustainably sourced fish and perfectly cooked steaks to free-range Sunday roasts and standout vegan dishes, the menu is all about comforting classics with a thoughtful twist.

Beyond the dining, The Tommyfield is home to Always Be Comedy, one of London's top stand-up nights, hosting big names like Romesh Ranganathan, Katherine Ryan, and Jack Whitehall in its private Master Room. And if you're staying over, the six boutique bedrooms upstairs offer luxe touches like Egyptian cotton sheets, Nespresso machines, and blackout blinds - ideal for a stylish night in the capital.

The Bolingbroke

Named after Henry St. John, the first Viscount Bolingbroke who lived in Battersea, The Bolingbroke is a stylish pub on Northcote Road. Expect colourful interiors and lots of plants across the bar and dining room, as well as traditional wooden furniture.

Whether you're more into cask ale, lager or wine, there's something for everyone here. As for the food menu, we're talking pan-roasted plaice, portobello mushroom burgers and some seriously great Sunday roasts.