Why South of the River Pubs Are the MVPs of Drinking Culture (And How to Find Them)
Let’s face it: finding the best pubs south of the river is like trying to choose the “best” Netflix show—there are so many options, you’ll either die of indecision or end up with a hangover from a 48-hour bender. But hey, at least you’ll be drinking great beer, right? Welcome to the holy grail of pub-hopping, where the pints are cold, the bar staff are salty, and the clientele is 90% people who still believe in “cheers and chat.”
If you’re tired of overpriced cocktails and generic craft beer, you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to spill the tea (or should we say, the ale) on the pints, pubs, and pub culture that’ll make you forget you ever paid £8 for a G&T.
1. The OGs: Timeless Pubs That Feel Like a Hug (Even When You’re Tired)
Old pubs have souls. Or at least, they have enough layers of paint and spilled beer to make you feel like you’re in a haunted Victorian novel. These are the places where the barman knows your order, your life story, and your ex’s Instagram handle. Here’s where to start:
- The Flask, SE1 – This is where you go when you need to feel like a Victorian aristocrat who’s secretly a detective. The menu has 20 different types of ale, and the barkeep will give you a side-eye if you order a beer without asking for a “proper glass.”
- The Prince of Wales, SE2 – A pub so old, it predates the concept of “Instagrammable.” The walls are covered in photos of people who probably died in the 1800s. Pro tip: Ask for the “hidden room”—it’s a back bar that’s 80% ghosts and 20% ghosts who still take cash.
Need to know more? Check out Make Your Own Beer for tips on how to craft your own ale like a Victorian inventor with a drinking problem.
2. The New Kids on the Block: Crafty Pubs That’ll Make You Forget Your Name
If you want to feel like you’re in a hipster’s dream (or nightmare), these pubs are your golden ticket. They serve beer that tastes like it’s been filtered through a philosophy degree and a Spotify playlist. The vibe here is “craft everything, but also craft your life choices.”
- The Whitechapel Bell, SE3 – This place is so trendy, the barista who makes your craft ale will probably ask you to rate your experience on a scale of 1 to “existential crisis.” The beer list is alphabetical, but the prices are alphabetical backwards (like, “B” is £12, “A” is £13).
- The Southbank Ale House, SE4 – A pub that’s 50% beer, 30% ambiance, and 20% “I’m not trying too hard.” They serve a beer called “Existential Crisis with a Side of Fries,” and the menu is 90% emojis. Yes, even the ale has a smiley face.
Feeling inspired? Head over to Custom Beer to design your own pub-ready brew that’ll make your friends question their life choices.
3. The Pub Survival Guide: How to Pick a Pub Like You Know What You’re Doing
Choosing a pub is like dating: you have to know your red flags (“no vegan sausages”) and your deal-breakers (“they serve lager from a can”). Here’s how to survive:
- Ask the locals. If the barista looks like they’ve seen a ghost, they’re probably hiding a secret speakeasy in the back.
- Check the beer list. If it’s called “The Pint That Will Haunt You,” you’ve found the right place.
- Look for the vibe. If the music is louder than your own thoughts, you’re in a club. If it’s quieter than your cat’s nap, you’re in a museum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Because You’re Not the First to Ask
1. “Are all these pubs open on a Tuesday?”
Most are, but some might be closed for “reasons.” Check their website or ask your barista if they’re “doing Tuesday things.”
2. “Can I bring my dog?”
Only if your dog isn’t a Chihuahua who yaps at ghosts. Some pubs have “pet-friendly” policies, others just want you to suffer alone.
3. “How do I know if a pub is good before I even step in?”
Look at the queue. If it’s a line of people holding empty glasses, you’re in luck. If it’s a line of people holding resumes, you’re at a networking event.
Still confused? Hit up Contact for personalized pub recommendations (and maybe a life coach).
The Final Toast: Pub Life Is a Journey, Not a Checklist
At the end of the day, the best pubs south of the river are the ones that make you feel like you’re part of a story you’ll tell for the rest of your life. Whether you’re sipping a £40 rare ale or just avoiding your ex on Tinder, these places are where memories are made. So go forth, drink responsibly, and remember:
“Every pub has a ghost. Every ghost has a story. And every story ends with a pint.”
Want to sell your own beer in these pubs? Dropt.beer can help you get your ale in the hands of thirsty Londoners. Cheers!
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