The area around London Bridge is a bit of a mishmash when it comes to places to drink – but put any preconceptions you have aside before you go to Nine Lives.

Rather than the sleek glass windows and corporate environment you’d expect to find so near to the station, you’re greeted with jungle palms, hanging plants and warm light as you enter this underground drinking haven.

It’s a neighbourhood hangout in a neighbourhood that few people can afford to actually live in – luckily for everyone though, it’s an easy jaunt from London Bridge – a short walk that takes you from the bright lights and heady heights of The Shard to a much quieter part of the area.

First Impressions

Nine Lives pride themselves on having thought about every little detail – and the result is a chic hangout that has firmly established itself as one of London Bridge’s go-to bars and one of the best cocktail bars in London.

These guys are fussy and it shows – the cocktail menu is designed by Sweet & Chilli – one of the world’s leading drinks agencies (who also happen to own the bar).

The music (a toe-tappingly good mix of seventies funk and soul during my visit) pumped out on a sound system that used to belong to the now closed Cargo nightclub around the corner.

All that before you get to the interior – an Insta-friendly amalgamation of tropical plants, rattan and cosy seats.

Read Next: The Best Bars in London Bridge

Cocktails

In-house creations such as the fabulous Aiko – a pleasingly tart blend of St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Fino sherry, plum, grapefruit bitters and prosecco are showcased on the first page of the cocktail menu.

The rest of the menu is cleverly organised by spirit – with three different takes on each classic cocktail – the classic, the bar’s own take on the cocktail and a version created by a guest bartender.

Take the Whisky Sour for example – well-known, simple enough to make but when you order the special “Up in Smoke” created by guest consultant Karen Grill, the use of both Glenfiddich and peaty rich Lagavulin elevates the standard classic into something sublime.

Of course, there’s nothing to turn your nose up with the standard classics either – it takes skill to do them well and skill is something that the bartenders at Nine Lives have a lot of.

Atmosphere

Nine Lives is no secret – word of the subterranean drinking den with stellar tunes has spread like wildfire (who doesn’t love the smug thrill of telling another Londoner about this cool little place you’ve found that just so happens to be your new favourite hangout?) – so much so that it was a squeeze to find the two of us a spot on a Tuesday night. A Tuesday.

Turns out that while I’ve been busy sipping my cocoa and doing my knitting #standardtuesday – some rather savvy people have been going out and having a few cheeky cocktails instead. Who knew?

It’s pleasantly buzzy, without being stifling – though the bartender warned us to book ahead at the weekends as it does tend to get very busy.

PS: There’s also a cool outdoor drinking terrace for the warmer months.

Practical Information and Map

Address: 8 Holyrood Street, SE1 2EL

Website

Telephone: 0207 407 8226

Read More London Bridge & London Bar Guides

• The Best Bars in London
• The London Bridge Area Guide
• Bars in London Bridge for Your Little Black Book

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The post Nine Lives Bar, London Bridge: A Cool Neighbourhood Drinking Spot Serving Stellar Cocktails appeared first on London x London.

The area around London Bridge is packed with restaurants and fabulous food markets. Only question is… where do you start? 

There’s no shortage of exceptional eateries – from laidback haunts like Elliots to Michelin-starred delights in the form of Korean-inspired tasting menus at Solip, and traditional tacos like you’ve not experienced them before at Santo Remedio, you’re in for a treat. 

Oh, and that’s before we even mention the sky-high dining option in The Shard (and a hint for how to eat there on the cheap). 

This guide walks you through 24 of the best restaurants in London Bridge plus five food hotspots in the area. Let’s go.

Best Restaurants in London Bridge 

Santo Remedio

Santo Remedio is a restaurant we love. That’s because they do more than just serve up cooking to turn a profit. They’re actually proponents of traditional Mexican cooking styles that are in danger of being lost. 

Yep, that’s right. The cooking styles they use have been declared an ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ by UNESCO. 

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves though. You’ll recognise most of what you’re eating, molés and tacos predominantly, but you’ll notice that the flavours in these things are distinct and unique – like no other Mexican food you’ve tried in London we’re willing to wager. 

Padella

Prepare to do a double take at the prices on this menu – in a good way. 

In a city that’s not afraid to charge double digits for cereal, incredible pasta from £9 (yes, you read that right) is a serious delight. Even Padella’s more lavish options like ravioli with ricotta and sage butter are gentle on the wallet, making this place more than worthy of a spot on our London Bridge food guide.

As you’d probably expect, great food + great prices = serious popularity. Seats at Padella are in high demand. What’s more, they don’t take bookings, so be prepared for a wait. Get there after 7.30pm and your chances of snagging a table for that evening are pretty much nil. 

The good news is that once they take your name and number and put you on the waiting list, you’re free to go for a pint at a good pub nearby and come back when your table is ready. 

El Pastor

If you’ve ever been to Mexico (or spent as much time obsessing over Mexican food as we have), you’ll know all about the deliciousness that is a perfectly prepared taco or quesadilla.

Want to savour some authentic Mexican flavours? Pay a visit to El Pastor – London Bridge’s resident  Mexican taqueria.

After ten years living in Mexico City, the owners decided to bring delicious Mexican food to the heart of London Bridge. They do it using traditional techniques and specialist taco cornflower to get the flavours as close to their Mexican origin as possible. 

There’s a mouthwatering selection of tacos and quesadillas. Can’t make a decision? They also do share plates so you can sample a few dishes.

We’re all about the delicious Cochinita Pibil, a Yucatan classic that’s almost too good to share.

Jose 

Step off of lively Bermondsey Street and into a Barcelona-esque tapas bar, Jose and it turns out, you don’t even need to cross the Channel to sample some amazing Spanish delights.

As you sit down at the super-stylish bar (no reservations here – it’s walk-in only), a menu full of Spanish classics appears. Think patatas bravas, Jamon Iberico and deep-fried baby squid. Yum.

It comes as no surprise that head chef Jose Pizarro was inspired by his hometown of Barcelona when opening this place – you can see the passion through and through.

The result is an amazing, authentic eatery that is one of our favourite places to eat in the neighbourhood and one we find ourselves returning to often.

Flour & Grape 

The Fabulous Flour & Grape features a simple offering: great pasta and great wine. And c’mon, that is a pretty excellent pairing.

This bustling Bermondsey Street restaurant is famous for handcrafted pasta. If you’re used to the pre-bagged stuff you buy from the supermarket – prepare your tastebuds. Here, the emphasis is on fresh, simple food where the quality of the produce speaks for itself.

This philosophy comes to a head in a really nice monkfish linguine they do, super simple and super fresh, and one we recommend you order. 

What’s the only thing that’s better than delicious, fresh pasta? Fresh pasta paired with amazing Italian wine, of course. 

Make sure you get at least a glass or two. If you’re not confident doing your own pairing, the wait staff will be more than happy to help out. 

Oh, and be warned. This is another spot that gets busy. 

Read Next: Exploring Bermondsey Street

Elliot’s 

We get pretty tired of people turning their noses up at British cooking. If you’re the kind of person who’s unimpressed with what this country has to offer, you probably haven’t eaten enough of it, or you probably haven’t eaten at Elliot’s. 

This restaurant seems to us the epitome of a London Bridge restaurant: cool and hip, unpretentious and doing the kind of laid-back, fun cooking that puts a smile on your face. 

Elliot’s as we’ve said elsewhere in our guides, do this well. Our top pick from their menu are these little cheese puffs. Order a plate for sure (you’ll probably be back for seconds) and try out their mini pizzas. 

Make sure you get a bottle of something nice to go with it all. The wine is all pretty contemporary – don’t expect any classic vintages – but the waiting staff know all about it and will point you in the right direction. 

Tapas Brindisa 

Because you can never have enough tapas, right?

Another of our favourite eateries near London Bridge, Tapas Brindisa is tucked away in Borough Market. Because you can never have enough tapas, right? 

When it opened in 2004, it was the first traditional, no-reservations tapas bar in London. Today, everyone’s taking up the example they set, and these folks are still going strong in their original Borough Market location.

It’s no wonder – their simple commitment to delicious food (and sherry) keeps you returning again and again – preferably in the company of good friends, to enjoy a little too much cheese and Jamon, and maybe a little too much sherry to boot.

Read Next: The Borough Market Restaurant Guide

Bar Douro 

Yet another destination on the culinary adventure that is London Bridge is the Portuguese-inspired Bar Douro.

It has all the ingredients (pun intended) for a perfect Portuguese meal. Firstly, there’s the gorgeous decor complete with blue tiles – very Pinterest-worthy.

Then there’s the amazing food, of course. Drawing on his Portuguese heritage, owner Max Graham has created a menu that pays homage to the best tastes of his homeland in classic dishes like a delectable octopus with sweet potato.

None of it, though, would make an exceptional Portuguese meal without some fabulous wine to accompany. There’s plenty on offer at Bar Douro – much of it from the region of Douro that gives the bar its name. 

The place itself is made up of a cute and cosy thirty-seat bar area, but bigger groups can dine in the wine cellar. Count us in for that.

Bancone

Bancone shot to popularity in London during the craze of making pasta and serving it cheap. 

Padella and Flower & Grape are two more places in this guide that fit that bill, but Bancone got some serious recognition for their food, sweeping up a Bib Gourmand award for great-value cooking from the Michelin man. 

The London Bridge version is their second restaurant. The perks of eating at this place are that you won’t have to battle the queues of the original location. You will still get great cooking, and great wine at a price that’s so reasonable it almost feels like stealing. 

Casa do Frango 

If the mention of ‘piri piri chicken’ makes you think ‘Nandos’, we need to talk. 

Hey, we love the occasional cheeky Nandos as much as the rest of the UK – but you really need to experience the magic that is real Portuguese piri piri chicken.

We’re talking slow-roasted over wood charcoal with a closely-guarded secret blend of spices. Let us guess, your mouth is watering, right? If so, you’d better head over to Casa do Frango.

It doesn’t get much better than the Algarvian delights this place has on offer. The piri piri chicken is unmissable, obviously, but there’s even more to try as well. This includes amazing Portuguese wine (of course) and Portuguese tarts (of course). Not to mention a ‘Grammable interior and buzzy atmosphere. 

You can thank us later.

Champor Champor 

This quirky spot describes itself as ‘a total dining experience.’ And, we’re happy to report – it’s not just a hipster marketing slogan.

Serving up traditional Malay and Thai dishes, you can’t talk about Champor Champor without first mentioning the stellar food. It really is very delicious.

The cooking alone would have us coming back time and again, however, there’s even more to it. From the friendly service to the beautiful, handpicked decor, the place is unique without trying too hard.

The menu changes often, and while you might miss your soon-to-be-established faves occasionally – there is always something new and amazing to discover in its place. Book ahead. 

Lobos

Have you ever chatted with your co-workers about running away and setting up your own business? Well, that’s exactly what happened for the team behind Lobos Tapas.

After seven years of working together, the ‘dream team’ decided it was high time to set up their own venture. And boy are we glad they did.

The result is a fabulous tapas bar in the arches next to Borough Market, inspired by their love of wine, food, Spain and London – all great things in our book.

The food is excellent, and with an open bar and kitchen area you can even watch it being expertly prepared. It’s all good, but the Iberico Pork Selection is pretty much to die for.

What’s more, because of the stylish design of the place (and plenty of low light) if you’re looking for a fabulous place to take that special someone, you really can’t go wrong here. 

Ting at The Shard 

If you’re after a show-stopping restaurant, it doesn’t get much better than Ting at the Shard.

Located inside one of London’s most iconic buildings, the emphasis here is on glamour and luxury. 

Even still, however, there’s a warmth about it. It’s perhaps no surprise given its name is inspired by the Chinese word for ‘living room’.

On offer is an incredible British/Asian fusion menu, all served up in eyeshot of some of London’s most spectacular views. 

If you’re looking to treat yourself or someone else to dinner in London Bridge – this is sure to be a winner.

We’ll let you in on a secret: if you want to try what’s on offer, but don’t want all those alarming Monzo notifications that come with it, they do a three-course ‘experience menu’ from half five to half six Monday to Thursday. It’s only £85. 

Casse Croute 

Despite our cross-Channel rivalry, even us Londoners have to admit the French know a thing or two about food. And by that we mean that French food is totally and utterly divine.

If you’re looking to sample authentic French fare in the British capital, you’d better make for Casse Croute. When we’re in the mood for French dining, this is one of our top go-to places.

The menu here is proudly French – and we don’t mean just the food on offer, which changes regularly. 

No, the menu is literally written in French – so you’d better whip out Google Translate, or just take a chance. Everything is delicious, so you’re unlikely to be disappointed.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper French meal without a delicious vin – the wine list here is as great as you’d expect, so don’t forget to order a glass (or a bottle).

Bar Tozino 

Underneath the iconic arches of Maltby Street you’ll find Bar Tozino, a humble little tapas bar that’s well on its way to becoming an icon of its own.

We love a bar that makes you forget the outside world for a while, and Bar Tozino is that kind of place. Think dimly lit lighting, hardwood furniture and no small amount of Spanish charm.

While London is full of places offering all kinds of crazy and complicated dishes, Bar Tozino keeps things simple. Wine, and jamon.

What more do you need, really? Add in some decent company and you’ve got the recipe for a great evening if you ask us. Or any of the fans of this picturesque little Bermondsey bar and tapas joint.

Read Next: Why You Need to Visit Maltby Street Market

The Coal Shed 

Meat, fish, fire. One thing is for sure – The Coal Shed is straight to the point, serving up uncomplicated yet delicious dishes – dishes of meat and fish cooked over the fire, of course.

When it comes to preparing amazing food, the Coal Shed doesn’t rely on an abundance of flavours or ingredients. Instead, it allows the quality of their hand-selected steak and seafood to shine through.

The result is some of the best steak you’ll ever eat in your life (fact) as well as absolutely scrumptious seafood as well.

The menu changes often to take advantage of the season’s best produce, so don’t be fooled into thinking the choices might get repetitive.

Their midday menu is one of the best lunches in London Bridge, offering up great flavour and value for money. They’re also a great choice if you’re off to the theatre nearby.

Boro Bistro

Earning points for style alone, this restaurant sits in a pretty location underneath Southwark Cathedral. Modern French cuisine is served up at Boro Bistro – think Parisian-style tapas and hefty burgers that wouldn’t look too out of place in an upmarket American joint.

The smoked pulled pork with tomato and mixed leaf salad in a toasted brioche bun is a prime example of that. So is the fact that they’ve got a monster menu of craft brews to choose from. 

Mouthwatering dishes paired with a generous array of craft beer? Boro Bistro was always going to be a winner with us.

Flat Iron

It feels like a lifetime ago since Flat Iron went viral on TikTok – but don’t let that put you off. No London Bridge food guide would be complete without it.

Apart from a cheeky cheeseburger, there’s only one main on the menu – steak – and when a restaurant is brave enough to only boast one dish, you know it’s gotta be good. 

Luckily, Flat Iron lives up to the hype: the steak is delicious, the service is exemplary, and the sides are divine. Go for the dripping-cooked chips and the mash and you’ll be very, very pleased.

Oh, and the complimentary ice cream only helps to sweeten the deal.

Fish!

Nestled on the edge of Borough Market, it’s hard to miss the pretty glass exterior of Fish! Since opening in 1999 their philosophy has remained simple – they serve up great seafood cooked right before your eyes. 

The fish comes directly from Jarvis the Fishmonger, who’s a little bit of a legend within the food industry in London – he’s responsible for some of the tastiest fish at many of the capital’s restaurants.

Anything on the menu is guaranteed to be fresh and delicious, though the dressed crab with sourdough and mayonnaise is a worthy winner. Our top tip, if the weather is nice, grab your meal to go and take it down to the river nearby for a view of the city with your meal.

Trivet

Holder of one Michelin star and home to some pretty sublime cooking, allow us to introduce Trivet. The restaurant was founded by an ex-head chef and ex-head sommelier of none other than Heston’s Fat Duck. 

They don’t bring any of his food theatre to the table but they do bring an attention to detail and a love of artful cooking that’s sometimes so pretty you don’t want to touch it. Don’t be silly, dig in. This cooking is some of the best in the area. 

On that note, you should be aware that getting a table here is not easy. You’ll pretty much need to book ahead every time. Just remember, there’s a reason for that.  

Wright Brothers  

There are plenty of good places to grab seafood dinners in the London Bridge area. Few of them will serve you as well as Wright Brothers does though. 

The fish they serve here is exquisitely fresh. They have a specialist team of buyers whose job it is to pick up the newest catch’s finest and get it to the kitchen on time for service. 

What the chefs create out of these ingredients has never let us down before and we doubt you’ll have anything but the same experience. 

There’s this Moules Marinière on their menu that we pretty much can’t keep away from, but branch out a bit if you fancy. Oh, and make sure you get some oysters. They dress them in some very creative styles – the Japanese dressing? Bellissimo. 

Rambutan

One of the best Sri Lankan restaurants in London is Rambutan. It’s the debut restaurant by Sri Lankan cookbook author, Cynthia Shanmugalingam and since opening, has fast become a mainstay of dining in the area. 

Expect to feast on the rich and slightly sour curries of Tamil in northern Sri Lanka, deliciously prepared seafood dishes that use top-quality British produce, and to wash it down with the bar’s signature cocktails: Banana Negroni anyone?

The atmosphere is relaxed and the place is usually packed with excited diners – a mood that seems to rub off on us every time we visit. 

Solip

If you’re after some truly exquisite food, you should get yourself a table at Solip. The restaurant blends European fine dining with Korean techniques, ingredients and flavours in some pretty spectacular ways. 

Stunning plates of lamb served with doenjang and wild garlic, kimchi fried crab and courgette flowers. Daikon Tarte Tatin!

All meals served here are done as tasting menus (which also fully cater to vegetarians), so know that you’re getting yourself in for an experience and prepare for the fact it’s one you’re likely to keep with you for a long time.

Burger and Beyond

Not all the places in London Bridge have to be about sampling up-market takes on foreign cuisines. There’s also room for the humble burger, well, there would be if you could call the burgers at Burger and Beyond humble. 

They’re simply bursting with flavour, much of it coming from the dry-aged beef they make their patties with. Then there’s the marrownaise (yes, bone marrow mayonnaise) they spread on the buns. 

Oh, and the monster portions of pimped-out tater tots and spiked iced teas. Yep, none of it’s humble. It is though, absolutely killer.  

More Food Hotspots in London Bridge 

Food markets in London Bridge are kind of legendary. Of course there’s the ultra-iconic Borough Market, but there’s even more if you’re looking for a great place to eat in London Bridge.

Borough Market 

If you’ve got a food-loving bone in your body, chances are you’ve heard a thing or two about Borough Market. 

It’s an absolute London institution with an incredible history. With origins that can be traced back to the 12th century, it’s been the go-to for retail and wholesale food for literally centuries.

Even after all this time, what’s on offer is still delighting Londoners. As well as picking up some amazing ingredients for your own dishes, there’s also plenty of ready-made deliciousness on offer.

From the Levantine-inspired dishes of Arabica Kitchen to the British classic of a scotch egg served up at Scotchtails, there’s pretty much no better place if you’re looking for delicious things to eat in the area.

Read our Borough Market Guide

Flat Iron Square 

Life around London Bridge can get pretty hectic, so it’s nice to have a spot to stop and feel some quirky London community spirit. 

That’s what’s on offer at Flat Iron Square, the self-declared “loveliest cultural hub” in London.

First and foremost it’s a street food market, meaning it’s one of the best spots for affordable and delicious food near London Bridge. There’s a great selection of stalls, like the amazing Tatami Ramen (no prizes for guessing what’s on offer there).

There’s more than just great food, however. There are also frequent live events including music and performance art, and there are also a number of pop-up bars too.

Read our guide to visiting Flat Iron Square

Vinegar Yard 

If you love the vibes at funky Flat Iron Square then you’re sure to be thrilled at their sister market, Vinegar Yard.

Not far away, this space has been converted into another fabulous food/drink/more market. Amongst the sea of tasty offerings, we’ve got to admit we’re kind of obsessed with the Indian-inspired burgers at Baba G’s.

While you enjoy your food, chances are you’ll be able to catch some live music, or at least just soak in the buzzing atmosphere.

It’s also just two minutes from the tube and train stops, making it a great choice if you’re looking for restaurants near London Bridge station.

London Bridge Farmer’s Market

It seems the entire world has gone a little mad for farmer’s markets, and London Bridge is no exception. 

Held every Tuesday between 9am and 2pm, you’ll find the London Bridge Farmer’s Market at Memorial Arch Square.

While this is a great place to shop for fruit and veg, there are also plenty of food stalls if you’re not keen on the “DIY” route.

You can always grab a bite to eat – we recommend ‘I love Moussaka’ (indeed we do) – and sit yourself down for a picnic in the park.

Although some traders accept card, we recommend bringing some cash so there are no food-related disappointments or mad dashes to a cash machine.

Mercato Metropolitano 

If there’s one thing we know about London, it’s that a building doesn’t stay crumbling and disused for long. It’s only a matter of time before a dynamic Londoner cooks up something amazing to fill it with.

In the case of an old paper factory on Newington Causeway, that amazing thing is Mercato Metropolitano.

This venture saw the factory converted into an amazing space offering food stalls, microbreweries, distilleries and more. 

The food on offer here is described as “glocal” – globally inspired, locally sourced. The result is amazing flavours from all over the world and a food court with more choice than you probably want.

As well as food, Mercato Metropolitano also hosts regular events from live music concerts to cooking classes. 

It is a bit further away from London Bridge (a 10-minute walk) than some of the other spots in this guide, but it is worth the effort.

London Bridge Restaurant Guide: Map 

The post The 24 Best Restaurants in London Bridge appeared first on London x London.

We’re about to commit London blasphemy with our next words. Forget about Borough Market, Maltby Street Market is the foodie market that we’re LOVING these days.

It’s not the biggest market, but what it lacks in size makes up for glorious food in food. A tightly curated set of some of the city’s best street food vendors is all it takes to make your tastebuds sing.

You’ll find it in Bermondsey, an up-and-coming area in southeast London – an area that gets livelier week on week.

This is in no small part thanks to Maltby Street and Bermondsey’s epic Beer Mile, which is packed with craft breweries with a few indie distilleries thrown in for good measure.

Want a few words of advice (warning: you’re going to get them whether you want them or not). If you’re going to Maltby Street, go very, very hungry.

Here’s why. 

Why Should I Visit Maltby Street Market? What’s the Big Deal Anyway?

Frequenting London’s food markets is pretty much a city-wide obsession, for both visitors and locals to the capital. 

There’s nothing we love more than waking up at the weekend and planning our day around gorging on some of the city’s tastiest (and most affordable) dishes.

Unleashing your inner Jamie Oliver and heading off in search of fantastical ingredients delights Londoners and we’re guessing that you’re no exception either.

Add in a healthy mix of street food stalls, delectable restaurants, and a festive atmosphere, and there are few better ways to spend a weekend.

Of all of London’s markets, Maltby Street Market is one of our favourites. If you love to make or eat delicious food (and really, who doesn’t) – you just can’t miss it.

You will have heard of Borough Market, London’s most famous food market. We love it too, but even for experienced Londoners, the crowds can be pretty overwhelming. So too can be the choice of weird and wonderful produce.

So imagine a version of Borough Market that focuses on street food stalls, has a super-cute location and only has (on a good day) a fraction of the crowds. That would sound pretty dreamy right? Welcome to Maltby Street Market.

It’s the kind of market where you’re rubbing shoulders with other Londoners – rather than every tourist in the city.

Plus, there are fewer food stalls than at Borough (if you’ve ever been struck with the crippling indecision of trying to work out which of 900 food stalls to eat from, you can only understand why this is a good thing) – but no less quality. Sounding good?

We also love the look of the Maltby Street Market, also known as Ropewalk Market. Nestled next to the Victorian railway arches, it’s got a quirky yet beautiful look that’s very London.

Read Next: The Best Food Markets in London

Top Stalls 

Duck Frites

Duck Frites is fast becoming a regular sight as a pop-up on the street food scene around London but one place you’ll find them regularly is Maltby Street Market. 

Their offerings consist of sumptuous duck-based delights. That’s everything from fires cooked in duck fat to duck breast arancini, those same duck-fat chips with raclette topping, duck-egg quiche, duck wraps and cassoulets – get the picture? 

We always end up remarking that the food is so good that it could have been served up on a small plate at some fancy wine bar somewhere and you wouldn’t know the difference.

The duck arancini are the epitome of that – make sure you try them. 

La Pepiá

When you see a really big queue around a fairly humble red marquee tent, chances are you’ve found La Pepiá.

This Maltby Street Market favourite is a Venezuelan street food kitchen serving up Arepas that are truly to die for.

For an extra London edge, go for the brightly-coloured rainbow Arepas – buns coloured with things like beetroot and spinach – they look great on the ‘gram.

There’s also a hidden meaning behind the brightly coloured Venezuelan classics. Owner Joel Ferrera pioneered them out of a desire to spread positivity about Venezuela, after fleeing the economic crisis in 2016.

As if you needed anything more to love about this Maltby Street fave, they also do plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, and all ingredients are gluten-free.

Gyoza Guys

Gyoza Guys’ dumplings are so delicious that they’ve had to introduce a “no sharing” rule to stop disputes. It’s no wonder… one taste of these mouth-watering gyoza and you’ll certainly be wanting to keep them all to yourself.

They’re classic gyoza with a bit of a twist, employing delicious sauces and sides to take these dumplings to the next level. You can even get them as a bento box with side salad and pickled veg to make a full meal. 

If gyoza aren’t your thing (shock horror), then perhaps you can be tempted by some alternatives like pho, bibimbap or bun cha salad.

Degchi 

Anyone looking for a vegan option in the market should head straight for Degchi. They market themselves as a Biryani Bar – something you’ll see written pride of place across the front of their stand. 

They serve boxes of biryani in portions that can only be described as generous considering the reasonable price. You’re going to make your meat-eating friends jealous, no doubt, but lucky for them there are a couple meat options too. 

What they also have here that we can’t get enough of is a good cup of chai. It’s a bit of a habit of ours to pick one up as soon as we arrive and sip it as we browse the other stands deciding what to eat. 

The Beef Steaks

It’s a steak sandwich, but it’s no ordinary steak sandwich on offer from The Beef Steaks.

Founder Alex Pashby has taken the idea of the humble steak sandwich and turned it gourmet, using only the best cuts of meat and delectable herbs and sauces.

The result is the quality you’d expect from a restaurant… at prices you’d expect from a street market stall. Yep, carnivores will love this one – and so will your wallet.

It’s not just the steak that’s quality is impeccable – the hand-cut, never-frozen chips are also delish. If you want to skip the sandwich you can have your steak and chimichurri sauce served over a portion of these fries. Believe us, it’s d-lish. 

Crepes a La Carte 

Another one of our Maltby Street faves (and one you’ll find dotted around other street food hotspots) is Crepes a La Carte. They began life in Camden Market, the project of Eva and Thomas, two friends from Brittany and have become a regular face around London.  

You’ve got a mix of savoury and sweet to choose from, with items on the menu shifting with the seasons. We’ve got a special memory of a taleggio cheese and Parma ham variety we ate in Victoria Park once that kind of stole our hearts.

We will say that while these savoury varieties do absolutely hit the spot, you can’t beat one of their classic lemon and sugars for dessert after a stomach-busting tour of the best of the rest. 

Amen Ethiopian  

Who knew London had a little Ethiopian gem hidden within Maltby Street Market? We did. And now you do, too. You’re welcome.

At Amen Ethiopian you’ll be watching hearty meets spicy with sautéed meat, vegetables, and lentils all cooked in giant woks before your eyes. 

Spice lovers will get a kick out of the cooking here, as will anyone with an appreciation for slow-cooked, stewed to perfection meats. Mop it up with a slice of Kocho bread for an explosion of flavour.

The brand actually began life on brick lane, before bouncing across to Portobello Road and finally finding a home at Maltby Street. They’re really growing in popularity too. These days you’ll be able to catch them on the festival circuit during the summer months. 

Moon Cheese Toasties 

Since the departure of The Cheese Truck (more on that below) there’s been a toastie-shaped hole in the heart of Maltby Street Market. That hole has recently been filled by the gooey delights of Moon Cheese Toasties. 

They’re cooked on a plancha right in front of you and the smells that come off will have your stomach rumbling. That said, the high point of the whole process is probably watching them cut the sarnies in two, cheese running out everywhere. 

They do have some (kinda) light options but we say jump right in at the deep end with the ham ‘n’ cheese – they stuff it right out with more types of cheese than we could count. It’s a filler, but a hell of a good one. 

La Criolla

Head to La Criolla to indulge in a Spanish-style empanada or two (or three). They knock up savoury and sweet fillings and envelop them in flaky pastry that would raise the eyebrows of even the most austere French baker. The result? A veritable melt-in-the mouth parcel of dreams.

The brand has been going since owner Gustavo decided to sack off a career in the high-pressure kitchens of London’s elite restaurants to focus on combining techniques and flavours he learnt on travels in South America with his Galician heritage. 

We love the simple Caprese option (tomato and cheese), but if we’re feeling spicy the jalapeno beef one goes down a treat. You should also try one of the sweet varieties, just because – the caramel empanada is our recommendation.

Banh Mi Nen 

There’s nothing like a banh mi to make the bedrock of a good day of street food eatin’. The legendary Viet sandwich is pretty much made for this setting, and at Banh Mi Nen they know how to make it hit extra hard. 

The paté that is the backbone of any good banh mi is done extra funky here and they top it off with a couple things that cheekily push what the sandwich can do – one of those being a topping of fried chicken (eek!) 

They do have the regular roast meats if you’re more of a traditionalist, but don’t be shy to branch out. These folk know what they’re doing. 

The Cheese Truck

This one is a bit of a wild card. The Cheese Truck used to be a permanent fixture at Maltby Street Market but they’ve since outgrown these humble beginnings to open The Cheese Bar in Camden and The Cheese Barge in Paddington – both excellent by the way. 

The truck where it all began now travels the country (and even lands as far off as Dubai and Abu Dhabi) dishing out the toasties they’re famous for, and from time to time will pop back to Maltby Street for old times sake. 

They’re undoubtedly at the forefront of toastie excellence, and if they’re on site when you are, don’t miss them. We’d offer a recommendation but really, it’s all great so just go for what takes your fancy. 

Should you want to keep track of when they’ll be coming around, you can find more info in their Instagram.  

Maltby Street’s Restaurants 

Bar Tozino

Step out of the hustle and bustle of South East London and into a tucked-away Spanish bodega. Bar Tozino oozes charm and charisma, and as you’d expect, offers exceptional wine and mouth-wateringly good jamón. 

The other tapas bites they offer change on a regular basis and are presented on a clipboard menu, penned-out in biro and felt tip. You should order a few bits and bobs but let’s reiterate, you’re here for the wines and meats. 

They manage to get in some really obscure bottles from independent vineyards all over the world. Last time we were here we were sipping on a red all the way from Japan. They were also serving up some excellent fuet – a type of cured Spanish sausage we had to order a second portion of. 

40 Maltby Street

It’s not easy to stand out amongst dozens of street food stalls and restaurants, but 40 Maltby Street achieves it.

We’d like to make a recommendation for you – but there’s literally no menu here. The meals on offer are made up and scribbled on the chalkboard depending on what ingredients are available daily. The result is an ever-changing but always awesome menu that’s full of surprises.

They’re also seriously into their wine (you’d expect so – it’s in the warehouse of Gergovie Wines), so you can expect a fabulous list that pairs beautifully with the food. 

There’s just one catch. They don’t take bookings, so you’ll have to turn up and hope for the best. At least if you don’t get in you’ll have plenty more food options to choose from. 

Poulet 

Poulet has done a fine job of turning their railway-arch home into a bohemian paradise. Gone are the usual exposed-bricks and pared-back interiors you’d likely find at other similar spots. They’ve gone for something slightly more, umm, over the top. 

The eccentric interior plays home to what’s part wine and cocktail bar and part rotisserie restaurant – it’s also home to drag shows and burlesque nights that get the whole 3000 sq ft venue swinging. 

We should mention that their rotisserie chicken is pretty excellent, and the kind of thing you should have on the table even to pick at with friends even if drinking is the focus of the night. 

Practical Tips and Information

Address: Maltby Street, London NW1 2DB

Opening hours: Maltby Street Market is only open on Fridays and weekends: Friday 5:30pm – 9pm, Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm

How to get there: The easiest way to get to the market is by the tube or bus. The Maltby Street Market’s nearest tube stations are London Bridge (10 minutes’ walk) and Bermondsey (11 minutes’ walk).

Maltby Street: Map

The post Maltby Street Market – Bermondsey’s Brilliant Food Market appeared first on London x London.

London is a haven for foodies, from street food vendors to classically styled restaurants, there’s never a lack of things to indulge in.

But, it has to be said that Borough Market is one of the best places to find some delicious food. Though the market is known for its market stalls selling tasty snacks, the area’s restaurants deserve a whole lotta love too.

There are outposts of some of the city’s favourite eateries: Bancone, Berenjak and Padella notwithstanding. There’s also some great local spots like the unbeatable Rambutan and one of our favourite spots of them all, Elliot’s. 

But enough talk, let’s get to eating – the question is: where?

The Best Restaurants in Borough Market

Parillan

Parillan makes it into our guide for being not only one of the best restaurants in this neck of the woods but one of our favourite places for Spanish food full stop.  

The chefs work true magic in this place, largely off a wood-fire grill with some superb quality seafood. You should come with a group so you can share some plates and sample as much as possible. Don’t pass up on the mussels, and order either the monkfish or the lemon sole if you can. 

All this should be washed down with something from their wine collection. Don’t overlook the Cava, it’s a great accompaniment to the seafood – but be warned, it can slip down a little too easily…

El Pastor

Just under the London Bridge railway arches is El Pastor. This lively Mexican joint is full of fresh and vibrant flavours that will light your mouth up and delight your taste buds.

They make all the taco shells out of specialist Mexican corn to give it an authentic flavour and source all their ingredients from local farmers to ensure the air-miles are kept low and the produce is fresh. 

The menu is full of traditional dishes inspired by the many taquerias of Mexico. If you visit, you simply must try out the signature tacos which always turn out to be the highlight of every visit. 

Also, make sure to try out the fish tacos for a very different flavour that is just as satisfying.

Padella

Want some of the best pasta that all of London has to offer? Then you simply cannot do better than Padella – we’re huge fans.

If you can, try to sit at one of the kitchen counter seats, which will allow you to watch the expert chefs at work, so you can see your food prepared right in front of you. This makes every bite all the more delicious, knowing the love and artistry that went into it all.

We recommend the ravioli with ricotta and sage butter, though anything from the menu promises great value. 

It’s that value that’s what draws so many people in. If you can control yourself you can feasibly eat a bowl of pasta with a glass of vino on the side and all for under £15. Not bad for some of the most highly rated food in the capital…

Rambutan

There was a period (and there probably still is) where you walked into anyone’s London kitchen and you’d probably find an Ottolenghi cookbook. Well, there’s a new kid on the block now. 

It comes in the form of Rambutan, a Sri Lankan restaurant that’s been taking the London dining world by storm. It opened off the back of a near cult following of the cookbook of the same name by chef/author Cynthia Shanmugalingam. 

You’ll be dining on many dishes you’ll find in the book, presented in simple one-page-menu form with sharing in mind. Things change regularly but if you’re lucky enough to be booked in when the tamarind prawn curry is on the menu, don’t miss out on it. 

Flat Iron

If you want to eat food in a truly vibrant and immense location, then you can’t do much better than Flat Iron in Borough Market.

This favourite eatery of ours is located in an interestingly curved ex-industrial building that gives the whole restaurant a vast sense of space. 

The menu is centred around their steak – and for good reason. It’s perfectly juicy, and the sides (get the beef-dripping chips) are divine.

The restaurant was founded in 2012 on the principle of providing reasonably priced steaks to the people, and that principle lives on. You can eat a meal for two here without breaking the bank, making it a great spot for date night. 

Berenjak 

You may have heard this name before. You may have even had the misfortune of being turned away from their original Soho branch for lack of available seating – there’s no shame, we’ve been there too.

If you did get in, you’ll know that you’re in for more of a feast than a regular old dinner, and with some of the best cooking London has to offer. The cooking is Persian and follows the lead of Tehran’s street food scene. 

You’ll be eating hefty kebabs, putting away alarming amounts of seriously delicious meze and leaving with your sides splitting. You’ll also be itching to come back for more. 

Lobos Meat & Tapas

There’s nothing better than some great tapas. A medley of small dishes to snack on and fill your mouth with thousands of interesting and mind-blowing flavour combinations. If that’s what you’re after, then Lobos Meat & Tapas is the place for you.

Though the restaurant itself may seem quite small, the menu makes up for it. Remember to order the Padron peppers and the patatas bravas, and you won’t go too far wrong.

They also have a great menu of ‘meat tapas’ – heartier dishes made to share. Iberico pork features heavily throughout and shines on every dish. If you want to try a bit of all of that, go for the Iberico Pork Selection, a tasting platter of all the best bits.  

BAO Borough

BAO have become a bit of a mainstay on the London dining scene but their Borough restaurant is not to be overlooked. 

This excellent Asian-fusion restaurant draws on the late-night izakaya bars of Japan and has some really creative dishes on their menu – food that’s t sure to get you excited and goes very well with a few too many hi-balls. 

The classics are of course the fluffy bao buns with an array of deliciously meaty (and a few veggie) fillings but you should order a portion of the Taiwanese Fried Chicken and definitely a skewer or two.

If you want a truly fun experience, you can even rent out the private Karaoke room to chow down on delicious food and drinks while enjoying some hilarious karaoke with friends. 

Bancone 

Lots of popular restaurants choose Borough Market to open their second location. With all the great food around, it is a safe bet. Not that Bancone needed a safe bet though…

They’ve got one of the longest waiting lists in the city for their original Covent Garden location. That’s thanks in part to the Michelin Bib Gourmand award they were given for top-quality, great-value cooking. 

The same quality and value can be found at their Borough location, though without such massive waits for a table. 

The food is Italian, mainly pasta that’s made fresh and doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg. Once you’ve tried it you’ll be wondering how all the other Italian restaurants in this city can get away with charging so much for food that’s often not half as good as it is here.  

Elliot’s

When visiting London, many people choose to dine on food from all across the world, and while that is definitely a great idea, we also feel that there are many British restaurants out there that don’t get nearly as much attention as they truly deserve.

Elliot’s is one of them. This incredible eatery takes some staple British dishes and maximises their potential to the absolute limit – the Middlewhite pork chop, sage, lemon & brown butter being a case in point.

They also do these excellent cheese puffs, part of a small plates menu that’s well worth nibbling through with a glass of wine if you just need something to round off an afternoon of eating your way through Borough Market. 

If you want classic British food like you’ve never tasted before, then you definitely should give it a try.

Wright Brothers Oyster & Porter House

This excellent restaurant is perfect if you want to experience high-quality seafood at a level that you’ll be hard-pressed to get elsewhere – it’s, in our books, one of the best restaurants in the area.

Easily some of the highlight dishes are the dressed crab, which has a delightful blend of taste and texture that is totally unrivalled by other similar restaurants, as well as the beef and oyster pie which creates an interesting twist on the classic British pie.

In fact, oysters are the top things on the menu here, and the chefs certainly know how to bring out the best in what can often be a tricky ingredient.

Tapas Brindisa London Bridge

Tapas Brindisa has become a very popular destination amongst tapas super-fans, so much so that the restaurant has also opened a number of other branches across the city. However, the London Bridge location, just short of Borough Market, is easily our favourite location. 

The food served in Tapas Brindisa is truly incredible, and you must make a point of tasting the delicious gambas al ajillo – the classic prawns in garlic oil, done here to perfection. 

Though, if you’re ever at a loss for what to eat, simply ask your waiter, and they’ll be more than happy to make some recommendations for you. 

The same goes for the wine, which is what you’ll also want to make sure you order. The selection of Spanish wines they have on offer is second to none and must be sampled in abundance

Casa Do Frango

We’d be remiss to not mention Casa do Frango in our guide. This fantastic eatery serves up some great, authentic southern Portuguese cooking that’s great for a sharing meal with friends.  

The chicken dishes in this restaurant are simply divine – with Piri-Piri flavours that put Nandos right to shame, and beautifully tender meat that falls off the bone.

You’ll also be charmed by the restaurant itself. The space is light and airy and hung all around with potted plants that give it a very sunny European feel, even on the bleakest of London days. 

Applebee’s Fish

Applebee’s Fish is one you don’t want to miss. They’ve been running since the late 90s with a stand in Borough Market and a really charming, and very stylish restaurant just on the edge of it. 

The first thing you’ll notice about the food here is just how fresh the fish is. They source it on the day and it tells. To do this they work closely with their fishermen suppliers and have used these relationships to ensure that their produce is all sustainably sourced. 

Whether you’re picking your way through perfectly grilled scallops (and you should be at Applebee’s) or tucking into whole crabs, you won’t be let down by the food here. 

Arabica Bar And Kitchen

Arabica actually started out as a small stall trading spices and creating delicious Middle Eastern dishes. Clearly it proved to be immensely popular and successful, as the stall soon branched out into a full-fledged restaurant, and one you don’t want to miss. 

The amazing blend of spices across all of the dishes on the Arabica menu easily brings out the best in everything they cook. 

What to order? Honestly, go wild and pick a few items from the mezze menu – just make sure you include the lamb hummus. 

You’ll also want to ensure there are a few kebabs on the table too. They do a Chicken and Pistachio Shish that’s in the rankings for our death-row meal. Yes, it’s that good. 

Hawksmoor Borough

There are few restaurants in London better suited for cooking delicious steaks than Hawksmoor Borough. 

This steak-centric spot is one of our favourite steakhouses in the capital. All of the beef served is locally sourced from within Britain, which leads to some truly delicious and juicy steaks the likes of which you’ve never tasted before. 

They also work closely with their farmers to ensure that all the beef is sustainably sourced, so there’s (almost) no guilt for chowing down on a big hunk of beef. 

Steaks are tantalising as anything here, often coming dry aged, but make sure to grab a couple of starters (the bone marrow on toast for us please) and sides – they’re paired well to bring out the flavours even more. 

The cocktails list is equally impressive – go for the classic mojito and you will not be disappointed. 

Oh, and while we’re at it they do a seriously good sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Ok, Hawskmoor is just great across the board. Can you tell we’re fans?

The Borough Market Kitchen

If you can’t quite decide which cuisine you’re feeling, head on down to the Borough Market Kitchen, food court of the market, and try out a few different things.

Grab a table with a bunch of friends, and peruse the local food delights and various stalls that populate the area.

Our top picks? We definitely recommend checking out vendors such as Elpiniki – they specialise in truly delectable Goat Kofta Pitas which ooze flavour with every bite and make for a perfect and fulfilling lunch. 

Borough Market

This one is obviously a bit of a no-brainer, even if it isn’t a restaurant at all. The market is one of the best places to eat in London. It attracts the hungry masses and food obsessed in their thousands. 

If you want our advice, kick things off with a bit of shellfish from Richard Haward’s Oysters to freshen the tongue, then stop by La Tua Pasta for something more filling. 

Comptoir Gourmand will serve you well for a bite of something sweet to round off your meal but to really get to the bottom of this place you’ll want to read our Borough Market Guide. 

Map 

The post 18 Brilliant Borough Market Restaurants for Outrageously Good Eats appeared first on London x London.

Borough Market is hands down one of our favourite places to visit in London. We’ve been shopping here for years and even now, we discover something new every time.

But what’s the big deal? London isn’t short on a market or two – and it certainly isn’t short on amazing food markets either. Why is Borough Market the one that people flock to during their London itinerary?

Quite simply, there aren’t any other markets that offer the same range, diversity and quality of food in the capital.

Delicatessens, grocers, butchers, fishmongers, cheesemongers – you name it, Borough Market has it. Add to that a broad collection of street food vendors selling gourmet dishes from around the globe and you start to get the idea.

Don’t just take our word for it. Check out this handy guide and go and explore it yourself. Oh and scroll down to the bottom for the history behind the place and a magical Harry Potter Tour of the area. 

The Borough Market Food Guide: Street Food + Food Stalls You Need to Try

We said that Borough Market has some pretty incredible food stalls. You could go every day for a month and still not eat your way around the full collection. Don’t miss these Borough Market food picks.

Bread Ahead

Britain is a little obsessed with the art of baking, as anyone who’s seen the Great British Bake Off would attest.

Britain is a little obsessed with the art of baking, as anyone who’s seen the Great British Bake Off would attest.

If you’d like to learn how to conjure up amazing breads, pastries and cakes, then you’ll love Bread Ahead at Borough Market.

As well as selling a great selection of treats including freshly baked bread and pastries, you can also participate in a range of different classes. Whether you’re a total novice or secret pastry star, there’s bound to be something to teach you a few new tricks.

Applebee’s Fishbox

Part of the reason we love Borough Market is that the traders here never let you down on their use of fresh, quality ingredients. Let’s take Applebee’s Fishbox for example. They buy fish on the day and turn them into a tantalising menu of seafood wraps with things like prawn or Cajun fish as a filling. 

If you want to push the boat out even further they have a brick-and-mortar restaurant just on the edge of the market where you can find a menu of excellent seafood changing on a daily basis and served in a more sit-down-and-order-a-bottle-of-wine environment. 

The French Comte

Good-natured rivalry aside, you’ve got to admit that our neighbours across the Channel know a thing or two about producing fine food.

Just one look at the delicious variety of cheeses, spreads and preserves at the French Comte is sure to get your mouth watering.

Their cancoillotte is particularly indulgent – it’s a gooey cheese with tastes including garlic, walnuts and champagne. Champagne in cheese? Yes, please.

Bianca Mora

We have no shame in admitting just how much we love cheese. We also love someone who can get so niche with their knowledge of the good stuff that they shock even us. We regularly find that someone at Bianca Mora. 

The booth trades in the cheeses of northern Italy. What’s more they only source their produce from small, independent farms so what you get is reminiscent of the lumps of taleggio or pecorino you picked up on your last trip to the boot-shaped nation. 

You can also find some truly top-notch balsamic vinegar here, and we’d be loath to leave without snapping up a bottle of their Italian organic wine. 

Change Please

All the walking and sensory overload might leave you feeling in need of a bit of energy. You can find it at the bottom of a coffee cup from Change Please. You’ll also get a healthy dose of happiness with it. 

That’s because Change Please is not your regular coffee stand. They’re a charity that puts all their profits into helping people experiencing homelessness. What’s more, they actually train homeless people to become baristas, providing them with a mobile cart and all the other equipment they need to make some money and get back on their feet. 

Good vibes aside, the coffee is great. They also do a very mean hot chocolate. 

Gastronomica

There are many amazing producers of fine foods, but often the difficulty is finding out about them. Gastronomica has been introducing artisan producers for almost 20 years, to great success.

Working with producers all over Italy, owner Marco Vineis has helped introduce Londoners (and visitors) to many of the best tastes of authentic Italian recipes.

There’s an ever-changing selection with our favourites including many types of mustard, charcuterie meats, cheeses, jams, olive oils and balsamic vinegar.

Kappacasein

You’ve got to love a comforting cheese toastie – and it’s a whole bunch better when it’s made with mouth-wateringly delicious local cheese.

This is what’s on offer at Kappacasein. From their Borough Market stall, they sell cheese toasties made from their fragrant and bitey Ogleshield cheese, which is handmade in their Bermondsey dairy.

If toasties aren’t your thing, then they also serve up delicious Swiss raclette – potatoes, gherkins and pickled onions generously smothered in cheese. Yum.

Richard Haward’s Oysters

The Haward family has been in the oyster business for more than 200 years, so you could say that Richard Haward knows a thing or two about shucking oysters.

He’s also an expert at sourcing the freshest and most flavoursome oysters – especially from the warm waters around Salcott Creek.

You can buy the oysters by the one or by the dozen to take away, or take a seat and enjoy a chilled glass of prosecco while you see what all the fuss is about.

La Tua Pasta

Pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, especially so because it’s lovingly handmade and then served up while it’s fresh and ultra-delicious.

That’s what is on offer at La Tua Pasta, a popular Borough Market food stall since 2006. Their hand-crafted tortellini and ravioli have been a huge hit – with both Londoners and food critics, with the stall given dozens of awards.

So, whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just enjoy an indulgent meal, pick up some delicious, fresh and preservative-free pasta.

Shellseekers

This market stall is an example of turning your hobby into a true moneymaker – but it’s a bit different than the usual story!

Owner Darren Brown had the idea for Shellseekers when doing some hobby diving off the Devon coast. Eventually, the business grew and today he’s well-known for his ethically caught and delectable fresh seafood.

Much of it is still caught by dive-loving Darren.

Olivier’s Bakery

Get ready to give in to your sweet tooth the moment you take in the amazing smells wafting out of Olivier’s Bakery stall at Borough Market.

Selling a mouth-watering variety of cakes, pastries and sweets, Olivier’s Bakery is a real icon of the market, and definitely one of the most unmissable stalls.

We particularly love the buttery and delicious croissants, while the baked bread is a more savoury treat.

The Ginger Pig

The farm-to-plate ethos has been all the rage for a while now, and London local the Ginger Pig was one of the first to pioneer the movement.

With an old-school approach to butchery, the Ginger Pig sources fresh and sustainable meat from producers all over the UK, including the owner’s own farm in North Yorkshire.

As well as cuts of all different types of meat, there are also a few other favourites. We particularly love the delicious sausage rolls.

Bao Borough

For the fluffiest bao buns in London, head to Bao Borough and order the exclusive chicken nugget bao – it’s weird but it works. Trust us.

If you want something a little more authentic, opt for a beef short rib or a mouth-watering curry cheese bao. You can’t really go wrong here as anything on the Taiwanese street food-inspired menu impresses.

The best part? You can also indulge in some late-night karaoke at Bao. Once you’ve chowed down, grab a tipple and head to one of the karaoke rooms and unleash your inner diva. 

Comptoir Gourmand

Another French gem at Borough Market is Comptoir Gourmand, serving up delicate bakes and pastries.

Starting out as a family bakery in Bermondsey, Head pastry chef Sebastien Wind quickly brought Comptoir Gourmand to the market. Here you can try a traditional mille-feuille, flaky croissants, and even a sweet chouquette (although, you’ll definitely scoff a couple of these).

Head to Borough Market between Friday and Sunday to get your mitts on some of these delicious treats.

The History of Borough Market

It’s hard to believe but it is thought that Borough Market has been operating for more than 1,000 years in London.

Yep, Londoners have been buying their produce from the market for over a millennium.

It hasn’t always been in its current location, however. Borough Market’s history first began near London Bridge – a sensible location as it was, at the time, the only bridge across the river providing entrance into London.

As a result, merchants lined the bridge selling goods to those who lived near the city, as well as those just travelling through.

We don’t know exactly when the market first appeared, but we do know that it was first mentioned in a text describing political struggles in 1014. Therefore, we know it’s at least a thousand years old – but it could be even older.

The popularity and size of the market grew and it started to attract the chagrin of other, more official markets. It’s believed that at this time there were actually two markets operating. They both moved several times, with the larger of the two settling near Guildable Manor, in an area known today as Southwark.

The market remained so popular that many people bypassed the markets of central London to visit Southwark, frustrating London’s traders. As a result, in the 1270s, a law was passed banning Londoners from travelling to Southwark to purchase produce.

This dimmed the popularity of the market but certainly didn’t extinguish it, and in the 15th century, the restriction was lifted.

In 1550, King Edward VI was given control of all markets in Southwark, and the market traded quite happily for a time.

During this period, a number of regulations were placed on the traders in the hope of “keeping the order”. Merchants were – in theory – required to obtain permits, and there were various hygiene and other standards to uphold.

Still many “rogue traders” sold their goods without permits, and the butchers apparently caused particular problems. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was not uncommon for live animals to escape and dash down the market lane.

Despite the attempts to keep things orderly, the size and popularity of the market caused many problems. In particular, locals complained about the traffic jams caused by the market, with so many people making their way to buy and sell goods.

In 1754 it was ordered (by an Act of Parliament) that the market be closed, however, it was swiftly re-opened in 1756 in Rochester Yard on land bought by the traders. This location was brilliantly located close to the wharf, meaning that its new location was an overwhelming success.

For a time, Borough Market was mainly known for selling wholesale food to various businesses around London and wider England. However, gradually that industry began to decline, and by the 1970s, the wholesale trade was almost non-existent.

Slowly, the focus turned to retail business. In 1998, there was a three-day food fair that delighted foodies (before they were called foodies). It would prove to be the beginning of a new era for Borough Market.

Since that time, Borough Food Market has continued to grow in popularity. It has become a truly legendary destination for those who love good food.

What About The Market’s Harry Potter Connections?

Every Harry Potter fan knows that the much-loved story is closely linked to London. There are Harry Potter filming locations all over London, including at Borough Market!

Why not take yourself on an impromptu Borough Market Harry Potter tour, after you’ve tried some delicious food?

The first Harry Potter landmark to find is the Leaky Cauldron, the Wizarding World’s favourite pub. The entryway to the pub in the second film onwards was actually that of the flower shop Chez Michele (now a Mexican restaurant by Borough Market).

You’ll find it in the market near the overhead railway arch, at number 7 Stoney Street (postcode SE1).

The second is the Third Hand Emporium, the second-hand bookstore where Harry meets Gilderoy Lockhart in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

The building is actually home to the Market Porter Pub, so you can finish off your mini-tour with a pint (no butterbeer, unfortunately). It’s at 9 Stoney Street, so very close to Chez Michele.

Read More: A Self-Guided Walk of Harry Potter Filming Locations in London

Practical Information: Need to Know

Location 

Borough Market is located in Southwark, with the official entrance at 8 Southwark Street (postcode SE1 1TL). It is easily reached from all over London, being close to attractions such as the London Bridge.

The closest tube stations are London Bridge and Southwark.

Opening Hours

Borough Market’s opening times are generally as follows:

• Monday to Friday: 10am – 5pm (The market also opens on selected Bank Holidays, so check ahead before you go)
• Saturday: 9am – 5pm
• Sunday: 10am – 4pm

Around Christmas time, Borough Market hours do change a little. They tend to close for three days over Christmas and New Year but things change on a year-by-year basis. Check here for the most up-to-date information.

Borough Market Map

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London Bridge is a charming mishmash of great bars, cool markets, coffee shops and (of course) The Shard. But what about good old-fashioned pubs? Well, it has plenty of those too.

Here are the best pubs in the area for a swift drink after work, or a long lazy afternoon by the river..

The Best London Bridge Pubs

The Horniman at Hays

Everyone knows that Britain is famous for its tea and its pubs – so a pub in an old tea warehouse is about as British as it gets.

We’re talking about the Horniman at Hays, owned by Nicholson.

The building dates back to the 17th century, when it was an esteemed tea dealer’s factory. It was eventually tastefully converted into a pub, preserving many of the character-filled elements such as a beautiful big antique clock.

They have a classic British pub menu that has options from fresh salads to hearty burgers. That said, we’re intrigued by their pulled duck croquettes and apple & blackberry crumble.

There’s also beer and a generous selection of whiskey and gin to choose from at this cool riverside boozer which is the perfect stop-off when you’re exploring London Bridge’s many attractions.

Read Next: Cool Things to do in London Bridge

The George

Visiting a historic pub is on just about everybody’s London bucket list, and it doesn’t get much more historic than the Grade I listed pub, The George Inn. 

It is the last galleried coaching inn in London, having hosted guests including Charles Dickens. Indeed, the great Victorian writer mentions the pub in his novel Little Dorrit!

So how old is it? Well, that’s a bit of a loaded question. Although the current building was built in 1677, it replaced an older pub that was destroyed in a fire. No one knows exactly how old that pub was, except that it was already on a map of the area created in 1543.

Eventually, the invention of trains stymied business at The George. In fact, rumour has it that the former landlord haunts the pub, still infuriated at those modern trains!

The food and beer are good, especially the chicken sharer – and they also have a separate gluten-free menu. However, the main draw here is the fantastic history, which you’ll feel as soon as you enter. 

Gladstone Arms

If you’re looking for a friendly, family-run pub in the heart of busy London Bridge, you’ll love the Gladstone Arms.

Despite its prized location so close to the station, it retains the feel of a local rather than the transient nature of many railway pubs.

We love the regular calendar of live music, which features everything from Scottish folk music to electronica twice a week on Tuesday and Sunday. In addition, there’s an awesome beer garden and roof terrace that’s perfect when the weather’s good.

There’s also a great menu serving Anglo-Indian fusion dishes, such as the scrumptious Tikka Masala Pie and wonderful Amritsari chicken pao.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a pub with a decent selection of beer. There’s an ever-changing list of local real ales and craft beers, as well as a range of wine and gin.

The Anchor Bankside

If you sink a pint in this charming pub, you’ll be joining a very long list of punters who’ve enjoyed a tipple at the Anchor Bankside.

After all, a pub has existed in this location for some 800 years – making it one of London’s oldest pubs. Although the current version dates back to 1676 when it was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London.

The venue is the last remaining riverside tavern leftover from the days when London Bridge was the heart of the theatre district in London, and actors would frequently drink there between shows.

Its wooden interior and riverside location also made it a hit with river pirates and smugglers, who would hide their bounty in its walls.

Today, it’s a friendly pub serving great pub food, with British classics including bangers and mash and steak pie, or for vegans, a pretty awesome pulled mushroom chilli. There’s also a wide range of drinks available, from real ales to martinis.

The Old Thameside Inn

This is London Bridge, so a pub with an outdoor dining space overlooking the Thames is always going to be a hit in our book.

The Old Thameside Inn certainly delivers, with plenty of seating outside as well as indoors for when it’s chilly or rainy.

A former spice warehouse dating back to the 16th century, the remains of the once glorious Winchester Palace are just behind the pub along with the original Clink Prison, which adds to the overall atmosphere.

A Nicholson Pub, it serves mostly real ales and lagers as well as a selection of wine and spirits. The menu is full of tried and tested classics like fish and chips and yummy desserts like sticky toffee pudding. Sit outside and gaze at the full-size replica of The Golden Hind, the ship that took Sir Francis Drake on his travels in the late 16th century.

The Mudlark

The charming Mudlark is awesome, thanks to its exceptional location and friendly ambience.

Located just a stone’s throw from the tube station, this is an ideal place to stop and enjoy some post-work drinks. There’s generous seating indoors under the beams, as well as an outdoor area that is particularly delightful in summer.

Another Nicholson pub, the beer selection includes their house lager as well as a selection of others, including craft beers.

The menu is packed full of homestyle British classic comfort food including two types of fish and chips, as well as a generous selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Check out the nourish bowl salad that is perfect for a warm spring or summer day.

The Woolpack

There’s nothing like a pub that welcomes our four-legged friends too, and the Woolpack goes to great lengths to welcome dogs and humans alike. 

In fact, it’s won several awards for the effort it’s put into making sure pooches feel just as welcome as their owners.

In addition, they have a cosy and welcoming beer garden that’s perfect for warmer weather, as well as a tasty menu that includes their signature Woolpack burger. They also do a mean full English breakfast for £10, but the cold meat sharing board is the one that really whets our appetite.

During the day, it’s a great stop for a casual bite, while at night it becomes quite the party hotspot. Whenever you go, you’re sure to have a great time – and probably meet some cute pups, too.

The Rake

There are plenty of old school boozers in London Bridge, but we love the Rake and its decidedly different approach.

When we say it’s cosy, we mean really cosy – after all, floor space comes at a premium in London! There’s a modest indoor area and bar, as well as a slightly more spacious (but certainly not palatial) beer garden out the back.

If you’re a beer drinker, then this is one of the best pubs around. It’s the absolute focus of The Rake, since it’s owned by Utobeer, beer specialists who started out with a stall in the nearby Borough Market.

You’ll find a dazzling selection of beer, with an emphasis on American craft beer. The menu is always changing and there’s only one rule, as expressed by the sign above the bar: “no crap on tap”. 

Eat before you arrive though, this pub focuses on perfect pints rather than gorgeous grub.

The Barrowboy & Banker

It’s a little more glitz and glamour than your usual London watering hole, so The Barrowboy & Banker is perfect for a special occasion.

Of course, sometimes that ‘special occasion’ is simply that you’re in the mood for a good pint.

This pub is inside an old bank, and even though the pub underwent an extensive renovation in late 2017, they kept many of the original features including some charming rustic bank vaults.

The renovation also saw an overhaul of their menu, although it still focuses on dishing up a great pie & pint. 

There are plenty of other goodies on offer though, including a stunning venison casserole and roasted sweet potatoes with rainbow chard, radicchio, and spiced puy lentil. Lovers of craft beer and gin will be spoiled for choice by the menu.

Best of all, most seats in the pub have a gorgeous view out over Southwark Cathedral. Not a bad view while you enjoy your beer!

Dean Swift

While some trends come and go in London, others stick around – take the concept of a “beer house”, for example.

Dating back from the 19th century, beer houses were informal haunts (often run out of a family home) serving up ales and lagers. Dean Swift is true to this style of venue.

They have a great selection of beer, with a particular emphasis on craft beers such as the hoppy London Brewing Co Upright Indian IPA. There’s also a number of handpicked wines available if that’s more your style.

As a great gastro pub, the tapas menu is stunning. From mini burgers to anchovy crostini, Valencian chorizo to perfect padron peppers (our absolute faves!)

MC & Sons

London has long been a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and that’s definitely what’s on offer at MC & Sons. In the English capital, you’ll find this traditional Irish boozer serving up a Thai menu and a selection of international beers.

Forget having a heavy steak pie to accompany your Guinness, MC & Sons menu is authentically Thai – specifically, from Chiang Mai in the country’s hilly north. The cuisine is particularly unique, and well-known for its finely balanced fresh flavours – with more than a bit of a spicy zing. One of their dishes has even become a Gousto meal!

The decor is all Ireland, however, with a moody wooden interior. The beer on tap is a bit of a blend, there’s Guinness (that goes without saying in an Irish pub), but there’s also the Thai offering, Singha. We love it.

The Globe Tavern

Nestled in the Borough Market, the Globe Tavern is a friendly place to rest your legs if they’re tired out from all that shopping.

The exterior of the building is Gothic and brooding, while things get much more airy and breezy once you step in through the door. The pub was recently renovated and is modern and stylish.

For a while it was believed to have been built on the site of Shakespeare’s “The Globe” theatre, hence its name. While that’s been debunked, the name stuck, and it does have at least one artistic claim to fame – it was the pub Bridget Jones lived above in Bridget Jones’ Diary.

This is a gastropub serving tasty British classics, and there’s also a good selection of beers on pump including the Borough Market Pale Ale, which is fitting.

The Market Porter

With colourful flowers cascading down its exterior, the Market Porter is one of the prettiest pubs in the area.

The pub is proudly British, offering up beer, cider and wine from classic labels like Guinness and Aspall Cider. There’s also a generous wine list, sourced from all over the world.

The food is particularly exceptional, offering British classics with a twist, like the mouthwatering grilled sea bass or the fancy take on the classic Scotch Egg.

Overlooking the Borough Market, you certainly feel like you’re a part of the fabric of London as you sink a pint in this London boozer.

Southwark Tavern

Southwark Tavern is another fail-safe pub you’ll find tucked away in Borough Market. 

The tavern’s hip take on a classic British pub is quirky without being eye-rollingly snooty – authentic dark wood is complemented by bright leather accents and a colourful bar.

The drinks menu of craft beers, high-quality wines, traditional cocktails, and cool softs pair perfectly with the cracking selection of pub grub on offer. While the Sunday roast menu, which includes a 21-day aged sirloin steak or a half-roast chicken and ALL the trimmings, is also a winner. 

Bunch of Grapes

A recent find, but slowly creeping up our list of favourite pubs in London is Young’s Bunch of Grapes. And not just because the outside is stunning, we swear.

Inside, the decor is dark and industrial, yet it still manages to feel cosy and inviting thanks to modern accessories and a selection of cool prints adorning the walls. 

Meanwhile, the cool beer garden is largely under cover, while offering superb views across the river and towards The Shard.

Sink into the olive velvet sofa with a cold bottle of beer and tuck into the tasty small plates on offer – we’ll be ordering the Cumberland and black pudding scotch egg and the truffle mac and cheese; thank you very much.

Arch 33

Arch 33 is part of the Southwark Quarter a short walk from London Bridge Station. As the name suggests, this awesome boozer is located in railway arches and home to the locally renowned Southwark Quarter quiz – “Never Gonna Quiz You Up” – every Tuesday evening.

Aside from that, Arch 33 prides itself on showing all the sports all the time on its big screens, while serving some of the best pints around.

The area lends itself perfectly to live music, with both DJ sets and stripped back live performances regularly taking place, while if you’re feeling hungry, there are street food vendors right outside to sate your rumbling belly.

St. Christopher’s Inn

St. Christopher is the patron saint of travellers, and you know you’ve fully arrived once you find St. Christopher’s Inn and its late license that keeps it open until at least 1am each night.

Its history dates back to the days when inns were stopping off places on coach routes for horse-drawn carriages and has transitioned to one of the area’s most vibrant boozers that also serves terrific food.

While retaining its authentic coaching inn charm, this cool pub has live music 7 nights a week from 11pm Sunday through Wednesday, and 8:30pm Thursday to Saturday. 

If you’re hungry, the food is hearty pub grub, with wings, burgers and pizzas on offer, along with a few mains. If you’re looking for the best thing on the menu, we recommend the Penang curry.

The Bridge Tap

Give us a tap room, and we are there. The Bridge Tap on Borough High Street is a great example of why we love tap rooms so much. 

With a cosier vibe than many tap rooms, they offer a wonderful array of cask ales and craft beers to suit any palette. Meanwhile, there’s more than 50 gins to choose from, and cocktails galore.

Sport fans are catered for, but its the food that really does it for us. Tacos, dough balls, wings, sharing boards, loaded fries, stone-baked pizza, incredible burgers and a few pub faves – whatever you fancy, you’ll find it here. 

If you can take on their Triple Threat burger, containing three sumptuous beef patties, triple bacon, triple burger cheese slices, and triple onion rings, coated in oozing cheese sauce, then you deserve a medal.

The Leather Exchange

As you might have guessed from the name, The Leather Exchange used to be London’s main leather market. Now repurposed as a quality London boozer, it sits a little off the beaten track and has two floors offering plenty of comfort.

Another pub that is happy to cater to sports fans, the music is carefully and lovingly curated. Alongside the range of beers that you’d expect to find in any decent pub, what really does it for us is the evening menu.

The maple sesame wings on a bed of fries are superb, and with all ingredients sourced from independent businesses, you can expect to enjoy the freshest produce with some of the tastiest dishes around.

The Miller

As much as we love the traditional boozer, we’re also huge advocates of independent ventures such as The Miller. 

Combining pub staples such as Moretti, Heineken, Orchard Thieves, and Guinness with local London breweries such as 5 Points, Hammerton and others, The Miller also considers themselves purveyors of fine cider.

Food is provided by Bunsmiths, with burgers designed to hit the spot for anyone, whatever your desires, and stunning wings, nachos, and sides. 

Upstairs, the Hoopla Impro comedy night runs every night in the theatre space, while they stay open until 1 am every Friday to allow you to throw shapes into the early hours with their roster of DJs.

London Bridge Pubs: Map 

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You must have seen that stunning galleon docked near London Bridge. You know, just on from Winchester Palace. That’s The Golden Hinde, a replica of the ship that Sir Francis Drake, England’s most famous seafarer (read: pirate) used to make his circumnavigation of the globe. 

There is, as with pretty much all these weird and wonderful things you can find in London, a fantastic story to go with it. It’s one that involves danger, political intrigue and an unhealthy amount of ambition. Let’s get stuck in.

Why Visit The Golden Hinde?

You should visit because the story behind this boat, or more specifically the boat that this one is a very accurate replica of, is up there with some of the best in history. And besides, where else are you going to see the inside of a 16th-century galleon? 

The History of The Golden Hinde 

The Back Story 

It’s the 1500s. Queen Elizabeth I is on the throne and war is brewing with the Spanish. The cause? Trade. Gold. Spice. Riches beyond your wildest imagination. 

All this had come about through the Age of Discovery, a period when European explorers, thanks to advancements in navigational technology and shipbuilding, went out into the world seeking new routes to the spice-rich regions of Asia and the gold-laden hills of the New World. 

England was late to the party, spurred into action by the vast wealth pouring into Spain and Portugal. It was a time of intense competition and it produced England’s most notable seafarer: Sir Francis Drake.

Drake’s Voyage 

Setting Out 

By 1577 England was now well in the game, but the nation still hadn’t completed a full circumnavigation of the globe. Not that circumnavigation was on their minds. They wanted to get rich. 

Queen Elizabeth got to devising a plan. She would partly sponsor a mission for a small fleet to pass through the Straights of Magellan in South America, and up the Pacific coast. 

The fleet of five ships set out from Portsmouth in 1577 under the ruse of taking a trading mission to Egypt so that Spain wouldn’t get wind of their real plan: to raid and pirate Spanish colonies in The New World. Among those was a ship called The Pelican that would go on to be very important to this story. 

The Crossing 

And now the going gets tough. The fleet made it across the Atlantic with no small amount of drama. Half way they ran out of water – something that would be a problem later in the voyage too – and Drake was forced to put down a mutiny and break down two ships to consolidate his force. 

Despite problems, the fleet made it to the Straights of Magellan and passed through them in a record 14 days, dodging whirlpools and shallow water only to run into a storm that destroyed one of the remaining ships and separated The Pelican from The Elizabeth. 

The latter ship returned to England but the Pelican Pressed on alone. It was here that Drake renamed the ship The Golden Hinde in honour of his patron, Sir Christopher Hatton, whose crest was a red deer, otherwise known as, you guessed it, a hind. 

On the Run 

With plenty of wind in his sail (literally and metaphorically) Drake made his way up the Pacific coast of the Americas raiding towns and ships he encountered along the way until he reached either California or Oregon (the correct location is highly disputed) and settled with some natives for a while to repair The Hinde and stock up. 

He now had a problem. The Spanish were after him for what he’d done in the south so he couldn’t really turn back the way he came. There was no Panama Canal back then, so Drake was faced with one choice, to cross the Pacific. 

This he did, ripping off a couple of local warlords in South East Asia and docking into port on the coast of Sierra Leone with only eight pints of water left for 56 men, before getting safely back to England with his booty three years after setting off.

To the Victor, the Spoils

Drake’s voyage put him in the history books. He became the third man to successfully circumnavigate the earth, though arguably the first to make it all the way round as previous missions ended in death for their captains long before the fleet made it home. 

He also became enormously rich, from one Spanish galleon alone he’d taken the equivalent of £480m in today’s money. Queen Elizabeth’s share of the treasure was enough to pay off the entire government’s debt and then some.  

The boat that made this all possible was docked in Deptford and never sailed again. Until now…

The Replica Ship 

The Elizabethans weren’t as hot on preservation as we are today. The original ship rotted away many many years ago. Some smart person though, had the idea to build a replica, and it’s not without a story of its own.  

The one you’ll see docked near London Bridge was built from plans and was the result of three years of research and construction. The fact that you see it docked is somewhat misleading, this ship has clocked up over 140,000 miles of sea travel, even circumnavigating the globe once herself. 

Her maiden voyage was in 1974, arriving in San Francisco about six months later on the 8th of May 1975. She spent several years there before sailing to Japan, and on home, in 1979. 

The Golden Hinde: Practical Information

Address: St Mary Overie’s Dock, Cathedral St, London SE1 9DE

Opening Times: 10 am – 6 pm daily

Tickets: £6 for adults and children over three, or £18 for a family of four.  

Website

The Golden Hinde: Map 

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The remnants of an ancient Roman mausoleum have been discovered at a dig site in London. As if that wasn’t fascinating enough, the find is particularly significant as it is the best-preserved and most-intact structure of its kind to be uncovered in Britain, ever. 

The discovery was made just a short walk from Borough Market and London Bridge at the Liberty of Southwark dig site where in February 2022 archaeologists unearthed a pair of Roman mosaic floor tiling – themselves some of the largest found in London in more than half a century. 

So, What’s the Story?

As to what happened to the structure, there’s speculation that it was likely torn down during London’s mediaeval period. What’s survived shows signs of having worn the weathers of time too. Its floor, decorated with a flower mosaic, sits on top of an older original in the same design, indicating that the floor had been raised or repaired. 

Archaeologists seem confident that when it did stand it would have been quite a sight to behold, likely climbing two stories up and decorated ornately – no doubt then that it would have served as final resting place for a family of very wealthy Romans. 

Funnily enough no human remains have been found in the tomb though over 100 coins have been discovered along with bits of pottery and tiles that would have once made up the roof (what kind of grave robbers made off with the bodies but left the cash?). 

There are plans in order for this site to be put on public display though no date has been fixed yet. Our guess is that it will be tied to the The Liberty of Southwark development, a site that’s clearly not ready to let go of its past – something we’re very pleased to see.

London’s New Roman Mausoleum: Practical Tips 

Open: TBA

Address: Address: 15 Southwark St, London SE1 1RQ

Website 

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Tucked away behind Southwark Cathedral and Borough Market in London Bridge, the ruins of Winchester Palace are a hint of the building’s former glory. 

We can’t tell you the number of times we’ve walked past the ruins of Winchester Palace, stopping to have a look and casually wondering about the history of the building. So we finally decided to find out. Turns out it’s pretty interesting. 

Although you might not know it looking at the ruins that exist today, Winchester Palace was once one of the grandest and most beautiful buildings in England.

History of Winchester Palace

Built in the 12th century, The Bishop of Winchester lived in the palace from 1140 to 1626. 

At the time it was founded by Bishop Henry de Blois, Winchester was the Saxon capital of the country and the bishop’s London palace was suitably lavish. It occupied a site of over ten acres – difficult as that is to imagine from the single remaining wall we see today. 

The section still standing is the remains of the 12th century Great Hall, complete with its later 14th-century rose window.

Powerful bishops would come and stay when passing through London and it even hosted some royal guests and at least one royal wedding reception – that of King James I of Scotland and Joan Beaufort. 

Alongside the palace itself, the grounds contained a brewery, theatres, grazing areas and even a private dock for journeys along the Thames. 

Alongside all this splendour and glory, a distinctly less savoury affair lurked in the background: the stews (brothels) licenced by the bishop that proliferated in the area. 

One such stew sat next to nearby Cross Bones Burial Ground, created for the burial of the prostitutes who, though licenced by the bishops, were not allowed to be buried on consecrated ground. 

The palace itself flourished for over 500 years, until in the 17th century it was divided up into low-cost housing.

In the early 1800s, fire ravaged the building and it was largely forgotten about. 

Eventually it was unearthed and entrusted to the care of Heritage England, and is now considered one of the last great remnants of mediaeval London.

The Liberty of the Clink

There’s one unanswered question bothing us here: How did a bishop end up functioning as the neighbourhood pimp? The answer ties many of the most important people of the day into a pretty shady deal. 

The clink first comes about when a liberty was granted to the Priory of Bermondsey in 1104. A liberty was essentially a bit of land controlled by the bishops, not policed by local law. 

In 1149 this liberty was sold to Henry of Blois, the Bishop of Winchester and resident of Winchester Palace, which is where this little chapter of history turns dark. Henry of Blois used some friends in high places to turn the Cink into a place of nefarious activity and get this: it was the king of England himself that licensed the illicit activities.

It’s not clear why King Henry II did what he did. Chances are he sagely saw prostitution as a problem that could not be eliminated, but could be controlled. If so, the Clink would’ve made the ideal spot for some kind of red light district as it was out of the City of London’s jurisdiction. 

The Clink became more famous than Winchester Palace itself, ladies of the night taking on the name Winchester geese. Many of these Winchester geese are the ones buried in Cross Bones Cemetary. 

Their names even coined a few phrases. Goose bumps may actually get its name for a slang reference to venereal disease caught from the Winchester geese. To be “bitten by a goose” meant the same. 

The Ruins of Winchester Palace: Practical Information and Map 

Address:  Winchester Palace, Pickfords Wharf, London SE1 9DN

Opening times: There are no opening times to Winchester Palace. You just walk by it on Clink Street, near the Golden Hinde ship. 

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London’s craft beer scene has exploded in the past decade – transforming itself from a niche market only sought out by aficionados to pretty much everywhere in the city.

Independent breweries have popped up all over London – much to the delight of the city’s beer drinkers and those in search of more offbeat things to do in London.

Bermondsey sits at the heart of that action. 

What started out as a couple of breweries has mushroomed into a cool collection of craft beer makers (and a gin distillery thrown in for good measure). And so Bermondsey Beer Mile was born.

What is the Bermondsey Beer Mile?

The Bermondsey Beer Mile is roughly a mile and a half long stretch of railway arches and warehouses containing over fifteen breweries and two gin distilleries.

The Bermondsey mile started small – first one brewery (The Kernel), then two, then six – these days it’s more like 19 (with a bit of contention).

It used to be that you could stage a bar crawl having a pint at each of the Bermondsey beer mile breweries and not end up dead.

Those days are gone (well, for all but the most seasoned drinkers anyway). So a word of advice – stick to the smaller measures or choose which breweries you’re going to tackle in advance rather than trying to work your way through all of them.

How do I Visit Bermondsey Beer Mile?

The best time to visit Bermondsey Beer Mile is on a Saturday when all of the breweries open their taprooms to the public. 

It’s a brilliant way to spend an afternoon – hopping from brewery to brewery and sampling the stellar craft beers on offer.

Some breweries also open on Friday evenings and Sundays but it varies a lot so you will need to check ahead.

Where Should I Start the Bermondsey Beer Mile?

You can start the beer mile at either end of the Bermondsey arches.

We prefer to start it with Southwark Brewing Company, which is closest to London Bridge Station (easy to get to by bus, tube and National Rail) as the breweries are closer together at this end and you can fill up with tasty food from Maltby Street Market before you go.

Read Next: Maltby Street – London’s Coolest Food Market?

As an added bonus, Fourpure, which is at the other end of the beer mile, opens until 8pm so you have plenty of time to get down there – if you have the stamina!

At the other end, you would start with Fourpure, which is close to South Bermondsey train station and Surrey Quays overground station.

Ok, so now you kind of know what to expect, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the different breweries. We’ve listed them working your way away from London Bridge and towards South Bermondsey – just reverse the order if you’re doing it the other way round.

Read Next: Cool Things to do in and Around London Bridge

Breweries on the Bermondsey Beer Mile

Southwark Brewing Company

Start the odyssey at Southwark Brewing Company – a craft brewery that largely focuses on cask ales. 

It’s very different to the crisp beers and lagers that pop up along the beer mile and a nice way to get going with something that really stands out. 

Try the Routemaster Red – a gentle red ale with a fruity and hoppy finish.

Address: 46 Druid Street, London SE1 2EZ

The Barrel Project

You’ll want to hit up The Barrel Project next. Experimental beers are brewed in a barrel-lined railway arch, with the company’s fruity efforts topping the vast selection.

Boasting 24 taps – many of these devoted to their own beers – and a cracking rotation of street food pop ups to pair with, this is one of our favourite spots on Bermondsey Beer Mile.

Address: 80 Druid St, London SE1 2HQ 

Hawkes Cidery & Taproom

Cider? In the beer mile? It’s true. 

Hawkes Cidery opened their taproom a couple of years ago and it’s been pulling in the crowds ever since. 

The first urban cidery in London, the ciders range from the excellent Urban Orchard cider to the Elephants on Ice winter cider which is nicely spiced to keep you warm during the colder months.

Address: 86-92 Druid St, Bermondsey, London SE1 2HQ

Billy Franks Craft Beer & Snack Shack

What started out as a tiny shop to grab bar snacks has transformed into one of the best places to drink on the Bermondsey Mile. 

Billy Franks do jerky really, really well, and in recent years have introduced a wide selection of craft beers to wash everything down with. 

Pop in, grab a beer or two and head outside to one of the tables for your next drink. Oh, and snag a bag of Vegan jerky to take away with you. Trust us.

Address: 104 Druid St, London SE1 2HQ

Hiver

Hiver is one of the more unusual Bermondsey breweries along the beer mile. Why? Their beers are made with a special ingredient… honey. 

Craft beer near London Bridge made using urban honey? Sign us up.

The honey is sourced from beekeepers in London and Sussex, with different varieties used in different beers to bring out individual flavours. Start with the golden, rich Honey Blonde and go from there.

Address: Arch 56 Stanworth Street, London, SE1 3NY.

Anspach & Hobday

One of the bigger names on the mile, Anspach & Hobday’s beers are unusual – but not as unusual as how they got started. The brewery was the first crowdfunded brewery in the UK.

The beers range from the standard (albeit very well done)  Porter and Pale Ale to some that sound too bizarre to work but somehow do. Mango & Chilli Gose anyone? It’s really busy, so you may end up having to stand outside.

Address: 118 Druid St, Bermondsey, London SE1 2HH

Gosnells Meadery Taproom

When you get to Gosnells it’s time to take a break from the beer. Here you’ll be drinking mead. That’s a very old school type of brew made from fermenting honey and mixing it with a bit of water for good measure. 

Gosnells are bringing the practice into the 21st century and doing so with 21st century values. They do all sorts to ensure the protection of the creatures that make mead possible: bees. That involves charity work, raising awareness and throwing gigs to get extra cash together. 

So what about the mead? It’s definitely worth a try, but you have been warned. The stuff is strong. Don’t be surprised if you find it going to your head faster than the other beverages you’ve put down on the mile. 

Address: Arch 72 Enid St, London SE16 3RA

BB No. (Brew By Numbers)

Brew by Numbers is always packed, a testament to their very drinkable beers. 

You know that things are serious when craft-beer success story Brewdog get behind a brewery, which is exactly what has happened with Brew by Numbers.

It can be a bit confusing at first – each beer is given a four-digit identifier. The first two numbers refer to the style of beer (i.e. witbier or farmhouse), while the second two mark the recipe. Don’t worry – all will become clear once you’re in there.

Address: 79 Enid Street, London SE16 3RA

Moor Beer Co.  

Moor has a pretty large choice of Keg and Cask pours. From the cask, the All Dayer 3.5% session IPA is probably a wise choice if you’re attempting to take a decent stab at the mile in one day. 

It is accompanied by a few traditional picks like Stout and a couple of wild cards including the Slovenia Hop – an ultra pale ale made with Slovenian hops.

On the keg side, there are the old faces: a London Lager and Pils as well as a couple of unusual takes – the B Moor Mosaic Porter for example.

Address: 71 Enid St, Bermondsey, London SE16 3RA

Cloudwater Brew Co.

Is it wrong to go to a brewery because its cans look so cool? 

We don’t care – the striking cans at Manchester brewery Cloudwater are pretty eye-catching. Luckily, they have the goods (or the beer) to back it up – the selection is small but good.

Keep an eye out for the Hoppy Little Lager – a refreshingly light drink that sits between an IPA and a lager. We can’t think of anything I’d rather be drinking on a hot summer’s day; especially as it’s only 3.9%.

Address: 73 Enid Street, London, SE16 3RA

Bianca Road Brew Co

Bianca Road Brew Co. founder Reese Woods took his inspiration for the beers created at this cool brewery from a cycling road trip he took from San Francisco to Miami in 2014.

The diverse range of brews at Bianca Road Brew Co. includes the LA Bloods, a Blood Orange IPA, the bright and zingy Long Play (perfectly refreshing for hot sunny days) the Tropicali – a tropical summer IPA and a nicely drinkable London Lager that’s long, crisp and delicious.

Address: 83 Enid St, Bermondsey, London SE16 3RA

Craft Beer Junction

Having successfully introduced 9 breweries into the UK market and distributing beers around the world, it’s safe to say that this is not Craft Beer Junction’s first rodeo. 

Their Bermondsey Mile shop offers some of the most exciting craft beers in the world right now, including the likes of Hidden Springs vanilla ale and Arkane Aleworks’ Fat Clouds offering. Try something new!

Address: 86 Enid St, London SE16 3RA

The Kernel

The Kernel was the first microbrewery to set up in Bermondsey (evidently, a rather brilliant decision) – founded by Evin O’Riordain, a cheesemonger turned craft brewer.

They’ve done so well that they no longer brew in their Bermondsey railway arch – that magic happens elsewhere – but the bottle room still opens each Saturday for you to buy a few of their beers (take away only).

Address: Arch 11, Dockley Road Industrial Estate, London SE16 3SF.

The Outpost

A.K.A Three Hills Brewing, The Outpost is up next on the Bermondsey Beer Mile. 

Small batches are the name of the game here. With the taproom home to 20 different taps, as well as impressive Aperol spritz and gin options available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Outpost has indoor and outdoor seating with plenty of board games and, if you’re feeling brave (read: 8 beers in), a piano to tinker about on.

Address: 7 Almond Rd, London SE16 3LR

Spartan

Taking over Partizan Brewing’s previous home (more on them later), Spartan’s tiny premises is almost entirely filled up with barrels and taps. Seating is outside only and shared with next door, but hey – you’re bound to be plenty of drinks in at this point, right?

Pale ales, lagers, fruity offerings – you’ll find a little bit of everything here. 

It’s also rumoured that the folks at Spartan often serve beer straight out of the brew tank, so if you like things fresh, make sure you head on over. 

Address: 8 Almond Rd, London SE16 3LR

EeBria

Although EeBria isn’t a brewery, it’s worth popping in there as they distribute a number of craft beers from independent breweries from across the UK. 

They bill themselves as an online marketplace for buying craft beers straight from producers (we know where we can stock up when we can’t make it to the beer mile then).

There are several draughts on tap and countless bottles to choose from – the selection changes constantly, pop in to see what they have on the day. There’s also a beer garden for catching a few rays when the sun is out.

15 Almond Rd, Bermondsey, London SE16 3LR

Partizan Brewing

Partizan’s been making fine craft beer from its (very small) microbrewery for a while now.

Partizan may be small but its beers are mighty good – which is why so many beer lovers cram into its standing-room-only space, snuggling themselves between kegs.

Founder Andy Smith cut his teeth at north London’s Redemption Brewing before starting Partizan in 2012. 

The beer ranges from traditional sips to more experimental flavours – the Brett IPA is a big favourite.

Address: 34 Raymouth Rd, Bermondsey, London SE16 2DB

Fourpure

Started by two brothers in 2013, Fourpure has gone from strength to strength since opening – mainly due to their focus and respect for the four core ingredients in beer – grain, yeast, hops and water.

The beers themselves range from easy-drinking beers such as the Session IPA and American Pale Ale to smaller batches of more experimental brews (We’re currently loving their Castaway, which cheekily bills itself as bringing Tahiti to Bermondsey in drinking form).

Address: 22 Bermondsey Trading Estate, Rotherhithe New Road, London SE16 3LL

Small Beer Taproom 

Historically Fourpure was always thought of as the final stop on the Bermondsey Beer Mile, that is until Small Beer came along. 

Originally they were just a brewery and therefore didn’t create any controversy. That all started when they opened their taprooms to the public and people started debating whether or not it should be considered the final stop. 

Small Beer actually specialises in low ABV beers – you won’t find anything on their taps above 3%. If you like to ease yourself out of a day’s drinking there’s no reason not to include this spot on your crawl. 

Address: 70-72 Verney Rd, London SE16 3DH

Don’t Miss the Distilleries in Bermondsey Either

Jensen’s Gin

Jensen’s Gin has been creating stellar gin in London since 2003 – remember those long gone days when small batch distilleries weren’t even a twinkle in London’s eye.

The Danish founder Christian Jensen just really wanted to drink some nice, really dry gin but the UK was too busy smashing Gordon’s to be doing that kind of thing, so he went off and made his own. 

At first the laws meant the gin had to be distilled by a larger distillery but they relocated to Bermondsey a couple of years ago and have been going strong ever since.

Address: 55 Stanworth St, London SE1 3NY

Practical Tips for Visiting the Bermondsey Beer Mile

• Wrap up warm in the winter. The arches are cool in more than one sense of the word during the chillier months.
• Don’t overdo it. Be sure to eat a good meal before you start and fuel up at lunchtime too. There are a growing number of food stalls and eateries popping up along the mile – you have plenty of choice.
• Saturday is the best day to visit, but some of the breweries open on Friday and Sunday. Check the opening times carefully though as they change at short notice (particularly in the winter months).

Bermondsey Beer Mile Map

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