What could be better than spending an eve in one of London’s cosiest pubs…
Since winter is fast approaching, lazy days spent in the sun next to the BBQ are being replaced with cosy nights in spent at our favourite British tradition- the pub. Here are some of our top picks that are ideal for sitting by the fire and adopting a home away from home…
The Cross Keys
1 Lawrence Street London, United Kingdom
The Cross Keys in Chelsea is the perfect place to hide away in the long dark nights of autumn. It also holds the title of being Chelsea’s oldest pub and continues it’s 300 year old history with pride. However unlike a traditional pub, the Cross Keyes has a distinctly upmarket vibe to it. The cuisine offers a delicious culinary experience, led by a Michelin Star-trained chef Oliver Marlowe. The Kitchen is open! They incorporate a seasonal menu and their autumn one is one well worth sampling! As well as a wonderful, history and great food the Cross Keyes has an impressive décor and it’s undeniable cosy and a great place to kick back with some really good food in a place where the vibe is unpretentious and without a doubt cosy.
Visit their website for more information
The Lock Tavern
35 Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AJ
The Lock Tavern is actually a great pub all year round and it’s in the perfect location if you live in North London. Sandwiched in-between Camden Town and Chalk Farm, opposite the entrance to Camden Stable’s lies The Lock Tavern. This pub is very popular with locals and you can see why. They have a wonderful (heated) garden with a bunch of tables and booths squashed together all amongst the glow of fairy lights making it the ultimate cosy haven. They also have inside seating which consists of two floors, the floor upstairs complete with a balcony and the interior is often used to house a number of live gigs from up and coming bands. Coupled with decent price drinks and pie mash it couldn’t be a better way to relax and enjoy a cold autumn evening in a place where the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Visit their website for more information
Waxy O’Connors
14-16 Rupert Street, London, W1D 6DD
Now this place sometimes gets a mixed review but you cannot deny, no matter how busy it may get it really is the greatest, cosiest Irish pubs in central London. There are two branches (the other called Waxy O Connor’s little Sister, that place is good too!) but the branch I’m referring to is the one situated right in the centre of Piccadilly Circus. Tucked off on a side street just past M & M world is this gem. The ambience of Waxy O Connor’s is always electric, it’s always brimming with customers, especially on Friday and Saturday and it’s easy to see why. Even though the drinks are slightly on the pricey side (for a central London pub you’re looking at similar price anyway) the vibe you get at Waxy’s is not on the same level as any other pub. Firstly, it’s huge, and almost feels like a maze with stairs leading up, down, around, there are hundreds of cosy corners in this pub just waiting to be found.
Also, the décor is magnificent, wooden panelled walls, tiled floors, hanging lanterns and Celtic stencil designs- there’s no denying that this is an Irish pub. However, it wouldn’t be right if the huge tree that is situated in the middle wasn’t mentioned. Spiralling upwards into the ceiling with winding branches it adds even more character to this already colourful pub. Additionally at Christmas time this pub is has such wonderful decorations and tucked up next to the fire place with a pint of Guinness – it doesn’t get much better than that.
Visit their website for more information
The Fox and the Firkin
316 Lewisham High St. Lewisham London SE13 6JZ
The Fox and the Firkin is a personal favourite and has a slightly different atmosphere compared to other places, yet it’s well worth a visit. Again they have a lovely garden area complete with bunting and lights but the inside is wild and wonderful also. (Also, as a side note this pub is well worth visiting around Halloween, they have some great seasonal décor) In fact the décor seems to change quite frequently so it’s constantly keeping punters on their toes. Another great aspect about this is that it’s in Lewisham. ‘Lewisham!?’ I hear you cry. People tend to get nervous when you suggest pubs that are outside of zone 1 but it is well worth the travel. Plus Lewisham is so easily accessible by either, train, DLR or bus so there’s no excuses. The atmosphere is chill and the drinks are a damn sight cheaper from anything you’ll see in central. People tend to just do their own thing and it’s one of those pubs where you’re left to your own devices which is a nice change. Only disclaimer would be that they often have music events or special theme nights so it’s always worth checking on their website for the latest information to avoid having to pay for entry when you get there.
Visit their website for more information
The Kenton
38 Kenton Road, London,E9 7AB
Another pub that’s well loved by locals, this pub in Homerton is incredibly cosy and has a relaxed vibe. A Norwegian-run, award-winning and friendly Freehouse, the Kenton is a neighbourhood-pub that offers great wines, lagers, craft beers, and ales. Also their Sunday roast is legendary! Although the huge comfy sofas inside are great, they also have a fabulous beer garden complete with winter blankets, perfect for snuggling up in the winter time. (as well as being environmentally friendly) Even better if you’re a dog lover, your dog is welcome at the Kenton. The prices at the Kenton are also very reasonable considering the high quality food and drink that they’re offering. A totally underrated gem and well worth a visit anytime of the year but due it’s comfy furniture and friendly staff it is without doubt is a cosy heaven complete with cheap beer. What more could you ask for?
Visit their website for more information
