The Antelope - Belgravia - Pub Reviews

The Antelope is a historic pub in Belgravia (22 Eaton Terrace, SW1W 8EZ) brimming with 19th-century charm and unpretentious character. Established in 1827 and now operated by Fuller’s Brewery, it exudes a quintessential British pub atmosphere with its elegant wood-panelled rooms, etched glass windows, and a fine island bar as the focal point. It’s a popular haunt for local residents and visitors alike, drawn by the well-kept ales, hearty food, and the pub’s timeless ambiance. Despite being located in one of London’s most affluent districts, the vibe here remains friendly and down-to-earth. The Antelope enjoys a strong customer rating (around ★★★★☆ 4/5), reflecting consistent praise for its atmosphere, food, and service. Opening hours are 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM on Sundays.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Antelope offers a cosy, traditional setting with a focus on good conversation and comfort. Notably, there is no on-site parking (typical for central London), so plan to arrive by public transport or on foot. You also won’t find the usual pub games here – no dartboard or pool table – and the pub largely eschews loud entertainment or big screens. In fact, The Antelope isn’t a dedicated sports bar at all; it keeps televisions silent and off most of the time, maintaining an environment oriented more toward relaxed socialising than rowdy match days. That said, they do make an exception for special sporting events: on key occasions like major rugby tournaments (e.g. the Six Nations), the staff will pull down a screen or turn on the TV so patrons can enjoy the game together. These instances are infrequent, but when they happen the pub fills with a lively, cheerful buzz of sports fans – a fun contrast to its normal laid-back feel.

Instead of games or weekly events, the entertainment centrepiece here is really the pub’s atmosphere and community. The Antelope has several snug, wood-panelled rooms (upstairs and downstairs), three of which can even be booked for private functions. An inviting real fireplace warms the interior on cold evenings, and on any given day you might see locals gathered in conversation or enjoying a quiet read by the hearth. There’s no dedicated beer garden, but in fair weather the pub often places a couple of small tables or barrels outside the front – perfect for those who want to sip a pint in the open air (albeit on the street). Overall, The Antelope emphasises a traditional pub experience over modern gimmicks. It’s the kind of place where good drink, good food, and good company are the main attractions – but rest assured, during those big rugby matches you’ll still find an appropriately spirited crowd sharing the excitement together.

Food on Offer

The Antelope serves up a menu of classic British pub fare that’s both comforting and satisfying. Think hearty staples like beer-battered fish and chips, richly filled pies, and juicy burgers – unpretentious comfort foods that hit the spot on a hungry afternoon. There are lighter options available too, such as fresh salads and seasonal specials, ensuring that most visitors will find something to their liking. One standout culinary offering here is the Sunday roast, which many patrons consider a must-try. On Sundays, the pub dishes out a traditional roast lunch (with your choice of succulent meat, or a nut roast for vegetarians) complete with all the trimmings. It’s been described by many as “comfort food at its best”. The portions are generous, the flavours hearty, and the presentation unpretentious – exactly what you’d hope for in a proper roast. In fact, the Sunday roasts tend to draw a crowd and can even sell out due to their popularity, so arriving on the earlier side (or booking ahead if possible) is wise if you’ve got your heart set on roast beef and Yorkshire pud.

No matter the day of the week, the quality of the food consistently earns praise. The chefs at The Antelope manage to deliver top-notch renditions of traditional pub dishes without turning the place into a trendy “gastropub.” You’ll taste the care in everything from the crispness of the fish batter to the richness of the gravy. It’s the kind of fare that pairs perfectly with a pint of ale. Prices for mains generally range in the mid-teens (around £12–£18 for a substantial dish), and considering the area and quality, that represents good value. Whether you’re in for a mid-week lunch, a casual dinner, or the famed Sunday roast, expect well-executed pub classics that deliver on comfort and flavour.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will be happy with the selection at The Antelope, which reflects a dedication to quality real ales. As a Fuller’s pub, it usually offers two regular house ales on tap – often the brewery’s flagship London Pride and Gale’s HSB – as reliable staples. These provide a familiar foundation for any traditional beer drinker. On top of that, The Antelope features three rotating guest ales at any given time. The guest taps change periodically and often include brews from local or regional breweries. In fact, it’s common to find a Dark Star beer or a seasonal Fuller’s craft brew among the rotation, along with other interesting ales from around the country. This means there’s almost always something new or unique to try, whether you fancy a hoppy IPA from a microbrewery or a malty stout as the weather turns cool.

Importantly, the pub takes great care of its beer. The cask ales here are maintained in prime condition – a fact noted by many CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) fans and reflected in the pub’s consistently good beer reviews. Every pint is poured properly, and the staff ensure lines are clean and the ale is fresh. If you’re not sure which beer to pick, just ask – the bartenders are quite knowledgeable about what’s on tap and happy to offer a recommendation or a small taste. And if beer isn’t your drink of choice, don’t worry: The Antelope’s bar is well-stocked with the usual range of lagers, wines, and spirits too. But it’s those well-kept ales that truly shine, underscoring the pub’s commitment to a great pint. From a perfectly poured London Pride to the latest guest ale debut, beer lovers are in for a treat at The Antelope.

Price Range & Value

By Belgravia standards, The Antelope is refreshingly mid-range (££) in price – a visit here won’t break the bank, especially given the quality on offer and the prime location. Drink prices are on par with the central London average. A pint of ale is usually around the £5–6 mark (of course, this can vary a bit depending on the brew), which is quite reasonable for this upscale neighbourhood. Main dishes on the food menu tend to range from roughly £12 up to £18 for the more substantial plates. For example, a classic fish and chips or a hearty steak-and-ale pie will fall in that range, and most patrons feel the portions and taste justify the cost. Lighter bites or sandwiches, if offered at lunchtime, come in a bit cheaper, while the Sunday roast (with all the fixings) offers great bang for your buck given the amount of food.

Value for money is a consistent theme in customer feedback. You get what you pay for – in a good way – as ingredients are fresh, meals are cooked properly, and pints are well looked-after. There aren’t a lot of gimmicks here or upsells; it’s honest pub pricing for an honest product. In an area like Belgravia (where many restaurants and bars cater to expense accounts or luxury budgets), The Antelope stands out for offering quality at a fair price point. A casual lunch or evening out here won’t feel like a rip-off at all. Also worth noting: service charge isn’t tacked onto your bill by default for orders at the bar, and tipping remains at your discretion (as is customary in UK pubs). All in all, enjoying a hearty meal plus a pint or two at The Antelope feels like money well spent – you’re paying for the atmosphere and quality, not just the posh postcode.

Customer Service

Another area where The Antelope shines is customer service. Walk into this pub and you’ll likely be greeted with a warm welcome – it’s the kind of place where the staff help set a genial, neighbourhood. tone. In fact, The Antelope consistently garners positive reviews for its friendly and attentive staff. Whether it’s the long-time manager behind the bar or the wait-staff running food to tables, the team here are known to be personable and efficient. Regulars often note the down-to-earth nature of the service; even though Belgravia can sometimes have an air of exclusivity, the pub’s staff make everyone feel like a local. Don’t be surprised if after a few visits they remember your name or your drink of choice.

The bartenders are quite knowledgeable about the beers on tap (and the wines and whiskeys too), so they can help you navigate the selections with ease. If you’re undecided, they’re happy to provide a recommendation tailored to your preferences – say, a malty ale for the newcomer to British beer or a crisp white wine to pair with your fish and chips. Guests also frequently commend the staff’s willingness to accommodate special requests. Need to tweak a dish for a dietary requirement? Want to sample a beer before committing to a full pint? Looking for a quieter corner to have a private chat? The team will do their best to sort it out for you.

Even during busy periods, service tends to remain efficient and good-humoured. Of course, on a packed Friday evening or when a big match is on TV, you might wait a few extra minutes at the bar – that’s normal. But the general consensus is that the staff handle crowds well, keeping queues moving and never losing their friendly touch. Empty glasses get cleared promptly, and it’s not uncommon to see staff checking on tables to ensure everyone’s happy. This combination of efficiency and genuine warmth leaves a strong impression. It’s clear that great service is a point of pride at The Antelope, and it contributes greatly to the pub’s welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.

Events & Special Nights

When it comes to events, The Antelope’s approach is relatively low-key. This isn’t a pub that has live music every weekend or a weekly quiz night – and that’s quite intentional. The pub leans into being a traditional, relaxed venue rather than an events-driven hotspot. There’s no dedicated stage or sound system for bands, and your typical weeknight here will be about chatting with friends over pints rather than karaoke or trivia contests. For many patrons, that’s part of the charm.

However, The Antelope isn’t completely devoid of special moments. Big sporting occasions do bring an uptick in energy. Notably, during major rugby or football tournaments, the pub will show select games on the TV (which is otherwise kept off) to allow locals to gather and cheer on their teams. For example, during the Six Nations rugby championship, you can expect a lively crowd of rugby enthusiasts clustering around the screen, pints in hand, giving the pub a buzzing atmosphere that contrasts its usual quietude. These events aren’t frequent – basically limited to the likes of important England games or finals – but when they happen, it feels like a special event night. There’s a convivial camaraderie as regulars and newcomers alike bond over the action, and the cheers (or groans) of sports fans fill the air.

Beyond sports, The Antelope doesn’t have regular ticketed events or theme nights. You won’t find a DJ night, comedy show, or band night on the typical calendar. Once in a blue moon, the pub might host a private event or party (often using the upstairs function room or one of the snugs), but those are usually closed gatherings rather than public events. They have occasionally hosted informal community get-togethers – for instance, a local club’s social or a small charity fundraiser – which speaks to the pub’s role as a neighbourhood. hub. And if you keep an eye on their notice board or social media, you might catch wind of any one-off happenings (perhaps a special menu for a holiday, a themed night during a local festival, or a tasting event for a new beer).

In summary, The Antelope’s “events” are more about the organic social gatherings that occur there rather than scheduled entertainment. It’s a welcoming spot for a casual meetup any night of the week, and when something special is going on – like a big rugby match or a community celebration – the pub adapts and provides a delightful place to enjoy it. Those seeking a raucous nightlife or constant programmed events might look elsewhere, but if you appreciate a pub that is steady and laid-back most of the time, you’ll find The Antelope fits that bill perfectly. And when the occasional big night does happen, it makes it all the more memorable in these familiar, cosy surroundings.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Step through the doors of The Antelope and you’re immediately struck by a sense of historic charm and warmth. The interior retains many Victoriana features: dark wood-panelled walls, a gleaming ornate bar in the centre, and even etched glass detailing that hints at the pub’s long heritage. On cooler days, a real log fireplace in one corner adds both literal and figurative warmth, with its crackling logs and golden glow. The decor also includes nods to the pub’s local character – for instance, you’ll notice vintage rugby and football team photos adorning the walls, and one wall is dedicated to the pub’s very own cricket team (charmingly named “The Antelopians”). These touches give the space a lived-in, community feel, as if generations of stories are embedded in the very woodwork.

Despite the elegant period details, the vibe is far from stuffy. The Antelope manages to be comfortable and unpretentious, the kind of place where anyone can feel at home. The usual soundscape is a gentle hum of conversation – the clink of pint glasses and a murmur of chat among contented patrons. It never gets too loud; people are generally respectful, and there’s no blaring music to shout over (background music, if any, is kept at a low volume). This makes it an ideal spot for actual conversation. The clientele is a mix: you’ll often find an older crowd of locals who have been coming for years, exchanging news at the bar, alongside a sprinkling of young professionals from the area unwinding after work. On weekends, you might see families stopping in for lunch (kids are welcome in the daytime), and it’s not unusual to find a well-behaved dog or two curled up at their owners’ feet – the pub is dog-friendly, adding to the homely atmosphere. This diversity of patrons adds to the inclusive feel; whether you’re a Belgravia resident or a traveller discovering the place for the first time, you won’t feel out of place.

The layout of The Antelope contributes to its cosiness. It isn’t a vast, open-plan pub, but rather a series of interconnected rooms and nooks. There’s the main bar area with stools (perfect for a solo visitor to chat with the bartender or other pub-goers), plus additional snug rooms both on the ground floor and upstairs that provide more intimate seating options. These smaller rooms can feel like a homey parlour, great for a group of friends who want a corner to themselves. The upstairs area and the downstairs snug are sometimes reserved for private gatherings, but when open, they offer extra elbow room on busy nights. Overall capacity isn’t huge, so at peak times (say, a Friday evening or right after a nearby event lets out) the pub can fill up and seating becomes a bit scarce. Regulars know to arrive early to snag their favourite spot by the fire or a window. Still, even when full, the atmosphere tends to be jovial rather than overwhelming – it’s a friendly crowd that packs in here, not a rowdy bunch.

Given that The Antelope occupies a building dating back to the 1800s, it does a decent job of accommodating patrons with accessibility needs. The main entrance has step-free access (there’s either no step or a very small threshold), meaning wheelchair users or those with strollers can get inside without much trouble. The entire ground-floor pub area is on one level, so once inside, you can navigate to the bar and main seating areas without dealing with stairs. The pub isn’t particularly spacious, so on a crowded day moving through with a wheelchair might require a bit of patience and polite navigation, but the staff and other patrons are typically happy to make way – it’s that kind of considerate atmosphere. There is a WC on the ground floor; while not an official accessible toilet, it’s moderately sized – if you have specific needs, it could be worth calling ahead to confirm the setup. Unfortunately, the upstairs rooms are only accessible by stairs, as the building does not have an elevator/lift. So any events or seating up there won’t be reachable for those who can’t do stairs. The same goes for the downstairs snug if it requires stepping down (though if it’s just a sunken room a step or two down, staff could assist).

Other comfort factors: The pub is fully non-smoking inside (as all UK pubs are these days), and for smokers, there’s typically a spot outside where it’s allowed. In the warmer months, that outdoor seating out front becomes a lovely perch – there might be a bench or a high-top table on the pavement where you can watch the world of Belgravia pass by. It’s not a proper beer garden, but it’s pleasant, especially surrounded by the hanging flower baskets that The Antelope is known for. The building’s thick walls and the air conditioning (yes, it’s got air conditioning, a bonus on hot days) keep it comfortable in summer, while the fireplace and heating do the job in winter. Overall, the pub does a commendable job balancing its historic character with modern comfort. The atmosphere is warm and inviting to all, and the staff are quick to help if you require any special accommodations. From the moment you walk in, you get the sense of a true community pub – one that’s proud of its heritage but welcoming to each new face that comes through the door.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Situated in the heart of Belgravia, The Antelope benefits from a fantastic location that’s both upscale and convenient. Eaton Terrace is a leafy, residential street, so the pub enjoys a relatively peaceful setting given its central London locale. However, just around the corner (literally a 2-minute walk) is Sloane Square, a bustling hub of shops, theatres, and transport links. In fact, Sloane Square Underground Station (on the Circle and District lines) is only about 200 meters from the pub – practically a stone’s throw – making The Antelope extremely easy to reach via the Tube. If you’re coming from elsewhere in London, several bus routes also service the Sloane Square area and King’s Road, and London Victoria station (for National Rail trains, the Victoria, District & Circle tube lines, and coaches) is roughly a 10-minute walk away (about 900m). In short, whether you’re a local or a visitor, getting here is straightforward. Driving is less advisable; street parking in Belgravia is limited and often reserved for residents, and there’s no pub car park. Those who do drive might find a paid parking garage in the vicinity, but given the excellent public transport options, it’s easiest to leave the car behind.

Nearby attractions: One of the perks of The Antelope’s location is how much there is to do and see in the surrounding area. For culture lovers, the renowned Royal Court Theatre is located on Sloane Square, basically around the corner from the pub. It’s famous for showcasing new plays and cutting-edge theatre – a visit to the Royal Court paired with pre- or post-show drinks at The Antelope makes for a delightful evening out. Also in Sloane Square (and its immediate environs) you’ll find boutiques, high-end shops, and department stores. The King’s Road begins at Sloane Square, stretching through Chelsea with a plethora of fashion retailers, cafés, and galleries – it’s a historic shopping street known for its role in the ’60s cultural scene, and still a great place to browse and stroll. Just a short walk south of the pub is Elizabeth Street, a picture-perfect street lined with patisseries, luxury chocolate shops, and independent boutiques (an Instagram favourite, especially when the shops put up seasonal floral displays).

For a bit of art and history, you could walk about 7–10 minutes to the Saatchi Gallery, which is located in Duke of York’s Square (just off King’s Road). The gallery features contemporary art exhibits and is free to enter. The surrounding Duke of York’s Square also has restaurants and often a weekend food market – worth checking out if you’re around on a Saturday. If you’re interested in local architecture, Belgravia is famous for its elegant terraces and garden squares – Eaton Square and Chester Square (where author Mary Shelley once lived) are very close by and showcase the grand white-stucco buildings the area is known for. It’s a lovely, affluent neighbourhood. to wander around in daylight, with little mews streets and hidden corners that feel a world away from the hustle of the city.

Major London landmarks are not far either. Buckingham Palace and the expansive greenery of Hyde Park (or the adjacent Kensington Gardens) are about a mile to the north – roughly a 20-minute walk or a quick bus ride. Heading east from the pub, in about 15–20 minutes on foot, you could reach Westminster Cathedral (near Victoria) or slightly further, the Westminster area with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament (a bit beyond walking distance, but a short tube ride from Sloane Square). For a different kind of experience, the Chelsea Physic Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Britain, is about a mile to the south-west, nestled along the Thames – a hidden gem for plant lovers and a peaceful spot to visit on a nice day.

One thing to note: despite all these attractions, once you step onto Eaton Terrace where The Antelope is, the ambiance becomes calm and residential. That’s part of The Antelope’s charm – it feels like a neighbourhood. pub tucked away from the tourist throngs, even though it’s so close to major sites. This makes it an ideal meeting point or a mid-itinerary break. If you’re exploring Chelsea and Belgravia, you can pop in for a refreshing pint and a plate of food to recharge. And if you’re a local or work nearby, The Antelope is that welcoming bolthole to escape the city frenzy for a while. In summary, the pub’s location offers a perfect blend: off-the-beaten-path tranquillity combined with proximity to some of London’s best shopping, culture, and sightseeing. Whether you’re coming specifically to seek out this well-regarded pub or just stumbling upon it during a day out, you’ll appreciate its setting and the convenience of everything around it.

Overall Impression

The Antelope is, in many ways, a hidden gem that encapsulates what a great British pub should be. It seamlessly combines the heritage and charm of a historic tavern with the quality and service that modern pub-goers expect. In an area of London where many pubs have been gentrified into chic gastropubs or turned into trendy bars, The Antelope stands proudly traditional – and that authenticity is a big part of its appeal. Here you’ll find well-kept ales, hearty homemade food, a warm atmosphere, and friendly faces, all under one roof, just as you would have decades ago. It’s the kind of pub where the wood of the bar is worn smooth from years of elbows and pints, where there’s a story in every corner (if walls could talk!), yet it’s clean, well-maintained, and very much alive and kicking in 2025.

The consistently good reviews it receives for beer, food, and service are well-earned. Many patrons come once and end up becoming regulars, charmed by the experience. It’s easy to see why: The Antelope delivers that comforting “local pub” feel that can be surprisingly hard to find in the heart of a big city. Whether you’re popping in alone for a quick pint or settling in with friends for a long Sunday lunch, you’re treated to the same hospitality and quality. There’s also a sense that The Antelope is a community hub – not in an overtly busy or event-driven way, but in the subtle, important way a good pub knits into the fabric of its neighbourhood. It’s a place where neighbours run into each other, where the staff truly know their patrons, and where visitors can get a taste of real London pub culture away from the touristy pubs of central London.

Of course, like any establishment, it has its quirks and minor drawbacks. Because it stays true to its classic pub size and layout, it’s not the most spacious venue – on a packed evening you might find yourself standing shoulder-to-shoulder until a table frees up. It doesn’t have the flash of live music nights or a cutting-edge cocktail list, so those seeking a more flamboyant night out might pass it by. And if you require a huge beer garden or on-site parking, this isn’t the pub for that. But these aren’t so much flaws as they are trade-offs for The Antelope’s historical character and location. Most who come here understand that and embrace it – they’re here to enjoy a relaxed, convivial time in a beautiful old pub, and that’s exactly what’s delivered.

The Antelope is a delightful throwback that also manages to feel relevant. It proves that even in one of London’s most upscale districts, a pub can remain genuinely pubby – warm, welcoming, and unpretentious – yet offer high-quality food and drink that rival trendier spots. Whether you’re a beer aficionado eager to sample a well-kept cask ale, a foodie on the hunt for the perfect Sunday roast, or simply someone who enjoys a cosy atmosphere and a bit of history with their pint, The Antelope will not disappoint. It’s the kind of place you visit “just for one” and end up staying for three, simply because it’s hard to tear yourself away from the easy comfort it provides.