10 of the best Putney pubs and bars
10 of the best Putney pubs and bars
From eclectic cocktail bars to drinks right on the river, Putney pubs and bars are full of surprises.
Boasting an enviable riverside location, Putney has some cracking waterfront bars, cosy pubs and buzzy cocktail bars, plus a few of the best pub gardens in south west London. Whether you’re in search of a delicious Sunday roast or a night out on the town, Putney’s top pubs and bars are hard to beat.
1
Duke’s Head
One of the best Putney pubs with a fantastic riverfront location. For waterfront pints and a cracking atmosphere, join the crowds who spill out along the Thames at this Putney institution. The Duke’s Head is particularly popular on sunny weekends and is one of the most popular watering holes when Boat Race day comes to town. A great spot to stop for Sunday ales and a roast after a walk along the river, the Duke’s Head is located in a grand Victorian grade II listed building overlooking the Thames. From slow-cooked shack food to fancier pub classics, the pub serves hearty fare and guarantees a vibrant atmosphere during great sporting events – England rugby games and hard-fought river races alike.
2
Coat & Badge
Just moments from the shops of Putney High Street and close to some of Putney’s best restaurants, the Coat & Badge is one of the most convivial drinking spots in the area. With a beautiful courtyard garden flanked by laurel hedgerows, this Putney pub is a favourite with locals and is a cosy enclave with countryside vibes still right in the thick of the Putney action. The pub serves a wide range of ales together with a delicious seasonal menu. The quirky vintage-inspired interior décor adds to its attraction and come game day (football or rugby), the Coat & Badge atmosphere is hard to beat. Expect live music on most Friday nights and quiz night on Sundays.
3
Bricklayer’s Arms
One of the few independent pubs left in the area, the Bricklayer’s Arms is a self-proclaimed ‘proper pub’, which refrains from serving coffee or food, in lieu of focussing on its excellent choice of twelve real ales, including the full range of Timothy Taylor beers.
4
The Half Moon
Located on the Lower Richmond Road, the Half Moon is a Putney stalwart, which deftly balances cosy local pub vibes with being one of the best live music venues in south west London. Front of house, the long wooden bar serves cask ales and the hostelry has leather wingbacks and large tables perfect for leisurely Sundays with friends, while the studio at the back plays host to live musicians and bands every week of the year. The Half Moon is rooted in music history; playing host to U2’s first sellout UK concert, KD Lang’s first UK appearance and Kate Bush’s first public show. From local artists to touring tribute acts, comedy nights and film screenings, this pub always delivers a cracking night out.
5
Queen Adelaide
A local gem during summertime; wander over to Queen Adelaide for lunch after a day in Wandsworth Park. The pub is located just a few steps from the riverfront park and has a charming enclosed garden courtyard complete with a run of fairy-lit benches and beach hut-inspired seating where patrons can enjoy their drinks from day to evening with cushions and cosy throws in case the weather gets a little ‘British’.
6
Temperance
Across the river and a stone’s throw from the walled gardens of Fulham Palace, Temperance offers capacious areas to sit and enjoy some good pub grub and real ales. A hotspot for rugby and big sporting events, the atmosphere is bubbly and the pub is great for large groups.
7
The Boathouse
This riverside pub is characterised by its dedication to serving up yummy fresh seafood. Stop in mid-walk along the riverside and indulge in Devon crab, battered haddock or pan-roasted hake. Also a great one to think about for the annual Boat Race: its perfectly situated on the riverside for you to watch the rowers zoom past, and they often celebrate with special menus and pop up bars.
8
The Spencer Arms
Nestled by Putney Common, the Spencer Arms has recently reopened following refurbishment and is cosier and more welcoming than ever. Complete with gorgeous outdoor seating (where you can actually BYOB!) its a beloved and historic pub that has long been a favourite of the locals.
9
Spotted Horse
This Putney favourite’s USP is a hidden roof terrace! Located on Putney High Street and just a short walk from Putney station, they serve up an ever-changing seasonal menu using fresh and seasonal produce. On a sunny day climb up to the roof terrace to enjoy your drinks and nibbles in the sun and soak in the relaxed, carefree vibes.
10
The Jolly Gardeners
Looking for somewhere to watch the rugby? The Jolly Gardeners is the perfect place. With great screens at the bar, you’ll easily be sucked into the sporting fun. And if you get peckish, there’s a delicious evening set menu with choices of chicken schnitzel, spiced falafel burger and 8oz sirloin steak.
