Eight Charming Pubs in Kensington

Eight Charming Pubs in Kensington

• Visiting London, Places To Eat, Area Guide, Top Picks

As with most areas of London (and the UK in general), you’re never very far away from a pub, and Kensington is no exception. But while the process of finding someone to pull you a pint might not be an issue in W8, it’s still worth being discerning when choosing your watering hole. You are in the Royals’ drinking ground, after all…

1. The Devonshire Arms

A firm neighbourhood favourite tucked away down Kensington’s quiet back streets, The Devonshire Arms offers wood panelling, exposedbrick and statement chandeliers alongside its impressive range of cask ales, craft beers, fine wines and artisan spirits. Front garden seating makes this a very popular choice for summer Pimm’s sessions, whereas the open fire keeps things nice and cosy inside during the colder months.

2. The Scarsdale Tavern

Set on a peaceful residential street of Victorian and Georgian houses, The Scarsdale couldn’t really ask for a more tranquil setting. Once you’ve passed through its quaint leafy frontage, you won’t be let down by the welcoming bar area, where a most impressive wine list will likely warrant a considerable portion of your attention.

3. Elephant and Castle

A local favourite historically popular with journalists, you’ll find newspaper front pages adorning the walls of the Elephant and Castle pub—and its location, away from all the hustle and bustle of Kensington High Street, makes it a perfect refuge for weary shoppers.

4. The Goat Tavern

For well over three centuries this historic drinking establishment has been serving thirsty Kensingtonians their favourite tipples, which alone makes the area’s oldest pub well worth a visit. Overlooking the entrance to Kensington Park Gardens and just a short walk from the Royal Albert Hall, its rustic, warm and comfortable interior makes it the perfect retreat after a Saturday afternoon stroll or some pre-show fortification.

5. The Builders Arms

You’ll suspect you’ve come across something special when you see the picturesque, flower-lined exterior of The Builders Arms—and you’d be right. Down to earth yet glamorous at the same time, the local village atmosphere in this comfortable Kensington pub is perfect for a quiet drink or a spot of traditional British pub grub with friends.

6. The Britannia

Thankfully, The Britannia’s recent renovations have been kind to this 200-year-old boozer, which is full of comfy leather armchairs and sofas to settle into amongst the mounted antlers and old-world charm.

7. Windsor Castle

Packed with historic touches (“This way to the Ladies’ Sherry Bar…”)amidst its lovingly preserved Victorian period interior, The Windsor Castle is the granddaddy of traditional pubs in Kensington, enticing enthusiastic locals and visitors alike with its calm and tranquil atmosphere, not to mention the raft of interesting real ales available.

8. Churchill Arms

No pub crawl in Kensington would be complete without a pit stop at the eccentric Churchill Arms, an Irish pub full of curiosities and Winston-related memorabilia. Rather incongruously, although you will have soon accepted such eccentricities, it also serves some pretty delicious Thai food.

Feature images © Scarsdale; Churchill Arms; The Goat Tavern; The Britannia