Walking around Borough Market without a smile is an impossible feat – the aroma of delicious delicacies along with the vibrant atmosphere give you a sensory overload that leaves no room for frowns.
But once you’ve sampled your way through this gastronomic wonderland, you might find yourself asking, “Where can I quench my thirst?”
Well, wonder no more, because we’ve got you covered. Join us as we unveil the very best Borough Market pubs, where the drinks flow as smoothly as the Thames and the laughter is as abundant as the flavours.
Bunch of Grapes
Media from bunchofgrapesse1
Location: 2 St Thomas St, London SE1 1LY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7403 2070
The Bunch of Grapes wears its 200-year-old legacy like a badge of honour. Inside, you’ll feel the weight of time in every wooden beam and worn-in stool.
Plus, if you have a penchant for ales, you’re in for a treat. The Bunch of Grapes proudly serves Young’s classic ales, a name synonymous with quality. From their signature bitter to the rich, malty stout, there’s a brew for every taste bud here.
The Market Porter
Media from themarketporter
Location: 9 Stoney St, London SE1 9AA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 2495
During the summer months, this charming establishment is adorned with vibrant flowers, both inside and outside. It’s a sight to behold, drawing in patrons like bees to nectar.
And for movie buffs, here’s a fun titbit: The Market Porter made a cameo appearance in the Harry Potter film, “The Prisoner of Azkaban”, masquerading as the Third Hand Book Emporium.
Anyway, the Market Porter takes its liquid offerings very seriously, with a rotating selection of over 10 types of ales and craft beers on tap. And yes, you guessed it, they do serve pints of Porter too.
Southwark Tavern
Media from southwarktavern
Location: 22 Southwark St, Greater, London SE1 1TU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7403 0257
The age-old adage holds here. Situated right in the heart of Borough Market, this pub enjoys a prime location. After a stroll through the market’s culinary wonders, what could be better than savouring a hearty meal or a refreshing pint just steps away?
Their menu is a culinary tour de force, showcasing the best of British and international flavours. From succulent burgers to artisanal cheeses, their dishes are a testament to the art of pub cuisine.
The George Inn
Media from livinglondonhistory
Location: 75 Borough High St, London SE1 1NH, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 2056
Travel back to the 17th century, and you’d find Charles Dickens himself sipping coffee within these very walls when The George Inn was a coffee house. The echoes of literary greatness still linger, as it even makes an appearance in Dickens’ novel “Little Dorrit”.
And the best part? The George Inn is practically a stone’s throw away from the Borough Market entrance. So, when you’re done exploring the market’s culinary delights, you can pop over to this captivating pub in just one minute, pint in hand.
The Rake
Media from rake_bar
Location: Borough Market, 14A Winchester Walk, London SE1 9AG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 0557
This pub doesn’t believe in sprawling expanses; instead, it cradles its patrons in an atmosphere where every nook and cranny counts. It’s almost like entering a secret beer enthusiast’s lair, and if you’re a true aficionado, you’re in for a treat.
Speaking of beer, oh, the beer! The Rake has curated a beer selection that will make your taste buds do a merry dance. While it leans towards American-style craft beer, this establishment prides itself on offering one of the finest assortments of brews in all of Borough Market.
They even have a steadfast ethos – “no crap on tap”. So, if you’re on a quest for quality suds, this is your pilgrimage site.
The Globe Tavern
Media from theglobese1
Location: 8 Bedale St, London SE1 9AL, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 0043
If you’ve ever found yourself experiencing a sense of déjà vu, you may have witnessed this charming establishment on the silver screen. That’s right, this pub has played a starring role as the setting for Bridget Jones’s upstairs apartment in the beloved movie series.
But let’s not forget the true heart and soul of The Globe Tavern – the libations that flow within its walls. Here, you’ll have your taste buds tantalised by an impressive selection of beers and ales, both local and from afar.
The Bridge Tap
Media from thebridgetap.london
Location: 32 Borough High St, London SE1 1XU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7378 9999
While other pubs in Borough Market exude a traditional charm, The Bridge Tap marches to the beat of its drum. Embracing a more contemporary vibe, this pub caters to the discerning tastes of craft beer enthusiasts.
But that’s not all, The Bridge Tap knows how to bring the excitement of live sports to the forefront. Picture a bustling atmosphere, especially on Saturday afternoons when the football crowd descends upon this pub.
The Wheatsheaf
Media from wheatsheaf_pub
Location: 6 Stoney St, London SE1 9AA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3040 7186
With a history dating back to the 1770s, The Wheatsheaf carries an air of timelessness that adds to its allure. Inside, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, where wooden beams, cosy nooks, and a crackling fireplace create an ambience that whispers stories of the past.
But the charms of The Wheatsheaf extend beyond its interior walls. Inside, you’ll discover a small beer garden, thoughtfully equipped with heaters to ensure year-round enjoyment.
And here’s a delightful surprise: an eye-catching addition in the form of a campervan, proudly parked as if frozen in time.
The Anchor Bankside
Media from anchorbankside
Location: 34 Park St, London SE1 9EF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 1577
With a remarkable legacy spanning over 800 years, the Anchor Bankside stands as an enduring symbol of London’s riverside heritage.
Fast forward to more recent times, and the Anchor Bankside takes on a silver screen allure, as it played a supporting role in the blockbuster film Mission Impossible, with none other than Tom Cruise gracing its storied space.
The Barrowboy and Banker
Media from barrowboybanker
Location: 6-8 Borough High St, London SE1 9QQ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7403 5415
Location, as they say, is everything. And The Barrow Boy and Banker certainly nails it in that department. Situated just a stone’s throw away from London Bridge station, it’s a convenient stop for both locals and visitors alike.
What’s more, if you’re lucky enough to snag a seat in their recently renovated dining room, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of Southwark Cathedral – the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.
Now, let’s talk drinks, shall we? As ardent fans of Fuller’s Brewery, we can’t help but sing their praises. A pint of Fuller’s Frontier lager, with its crisp and refreshing taste, is a must-try and arguably one of the finest pints you’ll find in London.
Katzenjammers
Media from katzenjammersbierkeller
Location: The Hop Exchange, 24 Southwark St, London SE1 1TY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7234 0835
Calling itself London’s hippest Bierkeller, Katzenjammers is a true Borough Market standout. Here, you’ll find yourself in a beer hall that oozes with character and a hearty “pah” (as in oompah, of course).
And of course, we can’t forget the brews. Katzenjammers boasts an impressive selection of German beers, both on tap and in bottles. From crisp and refreshing pilsners to rich and malty bocks, they’ve got your taste buds covered.
Lastly, let’s not overlook the food. Katzenjammers takes pride in its authentic German cuisine. Picture platters of succulent sausages, crispy schnitzels, and pretzels that could double as headgear.
The Old Thameside Inn
Media from thamesideinn
Location: Pickfords Wharf, Clink St, London SE1 9DG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7403 4243
Before it became a beloved watering hole, The Old Thameside Inn had quite a fascinating past. Dating back to the 16th century, it served as a spice warehouse on Pickford’s Wharf docks.
And if that’s not intriguing enough, the original Clink Prison was located just behind the pub, adding a dash of historical spice to your pint.
But, of course, we can’t forget the essentials: the drinks and the food. The Old Thameside Inn prides itself on a well-curated selection of beers, ales, and ciders. They’ve got something to quench every thirst, from craft brew aficionados to those seeking a crisp cider.
Boot & Flogger
Media from davysoflondon
Location: 10-20 Redcross Way, London SE1 1TA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 1184
Picture a quaint corner in Borough Market, where a sign with an old-school phone number, “JHn. Davy Free Vintner” hangs above. It’s like stepping into a time machine, with an inviting door and Peter Common’s friendly voice greeting you as you enter this cosy spot.
And what about drinks? Well, Boot & Flogger keeps it simple yet classy. They offer affordable French red or white wine by the glass, a dozen half-bottles, and a special list of fancy reds and large bottles of claret.
Gladstone Arms
Media from thegladpub
Location: 64 Lant St, London SE1 1QN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 3529
Back in 2016, this beloved pub faced the dreaded wrecking ball of a property developer. It seemed like the end of an era. But guess what? The community rallied, and the Gladstone was declared a valuable asset to the neighbourhood.
Now, if you’re a regular, don’t worry – the live music scene you love is still going strong. It’s a big part of what makes Gladstone special.
And even if you’ve never graced the Gladstone with your presence before, stepping inside will evoke a sense of déjà vu. It’s that kind of place where you instantly feel at home as if you’ve been here many times before.
The Miller
Media from themiller.se1
Location: 96 Snowsfields, London SE1 3SS, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 2690
If you’re into those watery ‘lite’ beers that barely make a blip on your taste buds, The Miller isn’t your spot. They’re all about hearty British brews that pack a flavorful punch.
Think Hop Back Brewery’s Crop Circle and Everards Tiger – top-notch real ales. And trust the bar staff here; they’re not just folks behind the counter – they’re true beer aficionados who won’t stand for anything less than a perfect pint.
Lord Clyde
Media from lordclydeborough
Location: 27 Clennam St, London SE1 1ER, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7407 5643
This pub has a cool connection to Truman’s Brewery, and you can see it in the pub sign and an old-fashioned mirror inside that talks about their ales.
Even though Truman’s is history, Lord Clyde keeps the spirit alive with a great selection of ales, including Young’s, London Pride, and Adnams.
Now, when it comes to prices, they won’t break the bank, but they might not match the 1/6d pale ale from back in 1966 when England last won the World Cup. You’ll spot an old price list as a fun reminder of those days.
Mondo Beer and Pizza
Media from mondobeerpizza
Location: Arch 232 Bank End, London SE1 9FJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3551 1298
Imagine stepping into Mondo Beer and Pizza in the heart of Borough Market – it’s a craft beer haven brought to you by the folks from Battersea’s Mondo Beer.
These beer aficionados have curated an impressive lineup, from the hoppy delights of Dennis Hopper IPA to the intriguingly named Phantasm of the Hopera (yes, they’ve got a knack for beer puns).
But hold on, there’s a twist to this pizza joint – they’re not just about beer. You can also sip on some fantastic cocktails here. Just a word of advice, though, when you’re in a pizza place, asking for a “margarita” might lead to some interesting choices!
