The Harp - Covent Garden - Pub Reviews

The Harp’s flower-adorned exterior on Chandos Place, Covent Garden. This historic pub’s charming frontage hints at the cosy, traditional atmosphere and real ale paradise within.

Atmosphere and Ambience

Stepping into The Harp is like walking into a bygone era of proper pub culture. Despite a narrow frontage and compact interior, the pub extends back further than it first appears, with a small upstairs room offering additional seating. The ground-floor bar area is cosy and often bustling – on busy evenings it can be standing room only, yet it manages to feel lively and welcoming rather than uncomfortably cramped. The décor stays true to tradition: dark wood fittings, vintage stained-glass windows, old portraits, and historic mirrors adorn the walls, evoking a classic Victorian pub vibe. In warmer weather, the big stained glass windows at the front can be opened wide, bringing in a breeze and connecting patrons to the street life outside. The Harp’s exterior is famously festooned with cascades of hanging flower baskets, making it an eye-catching oasis on the street and signalling the old-fashioned charm that lies within.

One defining aspect of The Harp’s atmosphere is what it doesn’t have. There are no blaring TVs or music here – in fact, a sign on the back door proudly declares it a “football-free zone,” emphasising that this pub is meant for conversation and camaraderie, not sports or noise. The only sounds you’re likely to hear are the pleasant buzz of conversation and the clink of pint glasses. This absence of electronic distractions creates a refreshing sanctuary for those seeking a traditional pub experience where you can actually chat with friends. Even musicians from nearby theatres (like the Opera House orchestra) have been known to duck in during intervals for a quick pint, enjoying the unpretentious vibe. In fact, The Harp draws a remarkably diverse clientele – city office workers, local shop staff, theatre artists, real ale aficionados, tourists in-the-know, and everyday regulars all rub shoulders here. The pub’s egalitarian spirit is frequently noted: whether you’re a suited professional or a “street sweeper,” you’ll be treated the same at the bar. This mix of people contributes to a convivial, authentic mood that many modern pubs struggle to replicate.

Do be aware that The Harp’s popularity means it can get extremely busy, especially during peak times (even weekday evenings often see it packed). It’s not uncommon to find the interior “absolutely rammed” at peak hours, with patrons cheerfully spilling outside. The pub accommodates overflow as best as possible: there is a very small pavement area out front and a little alleyway space out back (adjacent to historic Brydges Place) where customers can stand with their drinks. On a crowded night, you’ll see pints being enjoyed on the path outside – just don’t stray too far with your glass, as staff will politely remind you to stay within the allowed area. Despite the crowds, service remains remarkably quick and good-humoured (more on that below), and many regulars actually relish the lively atmosphere. If you prefer a quieter pint, consider visiting in the early afternoon or on a weekday when it’s slightly calmer; alternatively, head upstairs to the cosy lounge room when seats are available. The upstairs area provides a calmer nook (with a few tables and a carpeted, small sitting room) where you can enjoy your drink in a quieter setting away from the main bar’s bustle.

Accessibility: Owing to its historic, compact layout, The Harp is not the most easily accessible pub for those with mobility issues. The only restrooms are located upstairs, up a steep and narrow staircase, which could be problematic for patrons who find stairs difficult. The ground floor is narrow and can be tricky to navigate with a wheelchair, especially when crowded. There is no lift available to the upper floor. During off-peak times, a wheelchair might fit in the bar area, but at busy periods movement is very constrained. If accessibility is a concern, it may be worth visiting at a quieter time or enjoying a drink at the outdoor front area (weather permitting). However, the staff are quite helpful and would likely do their best to accommodate where possible. For most visitors, the ambience of The Harp – intimate, lively, and unapologetically traditional – is a major part of its appeal. It offers a rare slice of authentic pub atmosphere that’s increasingly hard to find in central London.

Beer Selection and Quality

Beer is the star of the show at The Harp. This pub has earned legendary status among beer lovers, thanks to its diverse and ever-rotating selection of real ales and ciders. The Harp was even described by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) as a “true gem” for beer aficionados, and it became the first pub in London to win CAMRA’s National Pub of the Year award (for 2010) – a testament to its outstanding beer quality and range. On any given day, you will find multiple hand-pulled cask ales on tap, usually around 8–10 real ales available at the bar, alongside a few craft ciders and perries. The line-up is thoughtfully curated and constantly changing. In fact, the countless beer tap badges displayed around the bar – relics from kegs past – hint at the oddities and curiosities that have been poured here over the years. Regular patrons love that even if you visit frequently, there’s often something new or rare to try.

The Harp’s ale selection strikes a balance between beloved classics and interesting guests. As a Fuller’s-owned pub (since 2014), you can usually count on finding at least one of Fuller’s own brews (such as a well-kept London Pride) on tap. However, The Harp is far from just a Fuller’s pub – it has retained its free-house spirit of adventure in its beer offerings. Beers from small independent and regional breweries across the UK feature prominently. One glance at the bar on a typical day might reveal a golden ale from a Yorkshire microbrewery next to a hoppy IPA from a London craft brewer, alongside a rich stout or a traditional bitter. This commitment to variety is part of what earned The Harp a reputation as “the pub of choice for beer connoisseurs” in central London. According to a London Evening Standard review, The Harp “offers an unrivalled selection of draught ales in the area” – often around 20 or so brews in rotation – and as a regular CAMRA award-winner, you can rest assured the beer quality is top-notch.

The Harp’s main bar, boasting numerous hand-pump handles and a ceiling lined with pump clip badges from past guest ales. This display is a hint of the vast range of real ales that have flowed through the taps, one of the many reasons CAMRA named The Harp a “true gem” of a pub.

Beer quality control at The Harp is excellent. The ales are kept and served in superb condition, which is crucial for cask beer. Cellarmanship is clearly a priority here – even finicky beer styles are well-kept, and pints are poured at the proper temperature and freshness. The pub has earned multiple accolades beyond the National Pub of the Year: for example, it’s a perennial fixture in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide and was London Cider Pub of the Year in 2011 (reflecting the quality of its cider selection as well). The Harp’s commitment to real cider and perry is relatively rare in central London pubs – you’ll typically find a few traditional ciders on draught alongside the beers, often sourced from respected cider makers around the country. Cider enthusiasts often cite The Harp as a haven, as it’s one of the few places in the West End you can reliably find proper farmhouse cider.

For those unsure what to try, The Harp’s knowledgeable staff are a major asset. The bar team here is famously passionate about their beer. Staff members are happy to offer a sample or make a recommendation, and they possess an impressive knowledge of the flavour profiles and brewing styles of the ales on tap. During the pub’s award-winning 2010 run, The Guardian noted that Harp bartenders were handing out tasting samples and giving taste advice with “all the authority of a master sommelier.” That tradition of expertise continues today – whether you’re a newcomer to British ales or a seasoned beer geek, the staff can guide you to something you’ll love. Don’t hesitate to tell them your preferences; they might suggest a crisp golden ale or a malty bitter depending on what you like. This personal touch turns a visit to The Harp into a mini beer adventure for the uninitiated and a reliable delight for ale connoisseurs.

Food: Traditional Bar Snacks

While The Harp is decidedly not a gastropub or food-led venue, it does offer a small selection of traditional bar snacks to complement your pint. Don’t come here expecting full meals or fancy gastro fare – the food menu is minimal, but it fits the classic pub vibe. Hearty snacks like sausage rolls and pork pies are typically available, providing a simple but satisfying accompaniment to your ale. In keeping with its old-school style, The Harp sources some of its snacks from quality suppliers and serves them in an unfussy way. For example, a signature offering is hot sausages from a local butcher, which are sometimes cooked on a small hotplate behind the bar and served in fresh baguette slices or baps. These juicy butcher’s sausages (when available) are a welcome sight if you’re peckish – essentially a butcher’s sausage sandwich that serves as perfect fuel for more beer. In fact, Condé Nast Traveller noted that, in a refreshing change from typical pub menus, “the Harp serves only butcher’s sausages in baps to eat” instead of a full fish-and-chips menu.

Aside from sausages, you’ll often find pork pies or the occasional scotch egg for sale – classic cold bar snacks that go well with a pint of ale. The Harp might also stock bags of crisps, nuts, and pork scratchings (“saltier, lardier pre-packaged pork products,” as one reviewer wryly put it). Don’t miss the traditional pickled eggs if you want the full vintage pub experience – some patrons have spotted jarred eggs behind the bar as well. All these snacks are reasonably priced and intended as simple beer accompaniments rather than stand-alone culinary attractions. Essentially, The Harp sticks to what it does best: beer. Food is an afterthought, but a charming one.

If you require a more substantial meal before or after visiting, there are plenty of restaurants and eateries in the Covent Garden area. Many Harp regulars treat it as a pre- or post-dinner stop for a pint, rather than dining there. However, if you’re enjoying a few beers and feel peckish, a warm sausage roll or pork pie from the bar will definitely hit the spot and enhance that classic British pub experience.

Prices and Value

For a pub of this calibre in central London, The Harp offers excellent value. As mentioned, most pints range roughly from £5 to £6 (occasionally a bit more for higher-strength or speciality brews). This is pretty standard for central London, but what you get at The Harp is consistently high quality beer – so patrons feel they get their money’s worth. A Londonist comparison noted that while a nearby chain pub might offer slightly cheaper beer, it would be “much poorer” in quality, whereas The Harp’s offerings are superb. Indeed, many drinkers are happy to pay a small premium (if any) for the well-kept ales here. One Google local guide review remarked that prices are “reasonable for central London,” with most pints about £5.50-£6, and noted The Harp is “a good value considering the impeccable quality of the beer.” Standard pub snacks like pork pies or sausage rolls generally cost just a few pounds each, keeping your overall spend quite affordable.

The Harp’s mid-range pricing and lack of a pricey food menu mean it remains an egalitarian hangout – it’s not an exclusive or upscale venue, despite its fame. There’s no table service or reservations; you just walk in and buy your drink at the bar, as in any traditional pub. Tipping is not expected (though feel free to drop some change in the tip jar if you’ve had great service). Also, note that The Harp accepts credit cards (including contactless payments) with no issue, which is convenient given the mostly standing service. Overall, visitors consistently feel that The Harp delivers high quality for a fair price, especially given its Covent Garden location – a part of town where pints can easily soar north of £7-8 at lesser pubs or tourist traps. Here, you’re paying for top-notch real ale in an atmospheric setting that’s hard to put a price on.

Customer Service

One aspect of The Harp that shines in countless reviews is the customer service. Despite how busy this tiny pub can get, the staff are repeatedly praised for being efficient, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. Many patrons express amazement at how the bartenders manage to serve such a large crowd so promptly while remaining cheerful. Even when the bar is packed several rows deep, the team has a system to keep orders flowing. Regulars note that the staff cope brilliantly under pressure – you might wait a little during the rush, but far less time than you would expect given the crowd, and you’ll likely be acknowledged with a smile or a friendly word when it’s your turn.

Crucially, the people pouring your pints at The Harp really know their beer. As discussed earlier, they can offer recommendations and tasting notes like experts. If you’re indecisive or curious, staff will often give you a small sip of an ale to try before you buy, a hospitality touch that beer enthusiasts greatly appreciate. The bartenders also keep a close eye on the cask ale quality – they’ll change a cask the moment it’s past its prime and can advise which beer is particularly fresh or popular that day. This kind of attentive, informed service reflects a true passion for the craft of beer serving.

Multiple visitors also highlight the warmth and friendliness of the Harp’s team. Even with very little space behind the bar, the staff manage to engage in quick banter and make customers feel welcome. They’re happy to chat about the beers, or even the history of the pub, when not swamped with orders. There’s a sense that many of the staff are long-timers who take pride in The Harp’s legacy (some possibly stayed on through the transition to Fuller’s ownership in 2014). The pub’s former landlady, Bridget “Binnie” Walsh, often credited the staff as “the backbone” of The Harp’s success, and that ethos of good service clearly lives on.

Another point to note: service style is at the bar (no table service), and given the crowd, it’s generally best to order in rounds to avoid repeated trips. The bar itself is quite small, so do have patience and polite manners – which, from all accounts, the staff reciprocate. Also, The Harp doesn’t take table bookings (it wouldn’t make sense in such a free-flowing, busy space), so just turn up and find a spot. If you require any help – say, carrying multiple drinks outside – the staff will often lend a hand if you ask. Overall, the customer service at The Harp is characterised by an old-school professionalism wrapped in genuine friendliness. It’s the kind of pub where the bartenders might quickly learn your “usual” after a few visits, and where even newcomers are treated like local regulars. This contributes enormously to the pub’s welcoming vibe.

Events and Special Features

The Harp is not an events-driven pub – you won’t find live music nights, pub quizzes, or karaoke here. In fact, the absence of such entertainment is part of its charm; The Harp sticks to being a “proper pub” and doesn’t need gimmicks to draw a crowd. That said, ale enthusiasts will find that there’s always something new happening on the beer front. The ever-changing beer line-up provides a dynamic experience for regular visitors. You might come in one week to find a tap takeover by a renowned regional brewery, and return the next week to discover a completely different set of guest ales. Tap takeovers do happen on occasion – for example, breweries like Titanic or Beavertown have hosted special nights where several of their beers feature on The Harp’s pumps for an evening. These events aren’t heavily advertised, but word-of-mouth among the ale community means they’re usually well-attended by those in the know. For an ale aficionado, a tap takeover at The Harp is a real treat, as it combines the pub’s great atmosphere with a mini beer festival vibe.

Aside from beer-centric events, The Harp doesn’t run much in the way of themed nights or promotions – no sports screenings, no DJs, and definitely no nightclub vibe. Quiet conversation and pints are the main draw. This makes The Harp a bit of a refuge in the West End, especially on weekends when other bars in the area might be blaring music or showing football. Here, you can actually talk to your friends. It’s worth noting that because of the pub’s limited space, standing outside is common practice and essentially an extension of the pub. On milder evenings, the path in front of The Harp becomes an informal beer garden of sorts, where patrons happily chat in the open air, pint in hand, under the glow of the old-fashioned hanging pub sign and the overflow of flowers above. There’s a wonderful authenticity in these impromptu outdoor gatherings – you feel like you’re part of the London pub tapestry, watching the city bustle by as you savoir a great beer.

One unique aspect: The Harp does have a small upstairs room that can be used for private gatherings or events. It’s not a large function room by any means (more like a parlour), but it is available for private hire or special occasions on a case-by-case basis. It can accommodate a modest group for an intimate event – say, a small birthday toast or a meeting of beer club friends. If you’re interested, you’d need to inquire with the management (likely well in advance, given how busy the pub is generally). This upstairs space, when not booked, doubles as the quieter seating area mentioned earlier.

In summary, The Harp’s “special events” are largely organic: the thrill of a new ale on tap, the spontaneous camaraderie of squeezing into a legendary pub on a Friday night, or the satisfaction of attending a tap takeover for a beloved brewery. It’s not a pub that needs entertainment bells and whistles – its very existence as a top-tier traditional ale house is the main event.

History and Awards

The Harp has a rich history and a trophy case of accolades that underscore its status as one of London’s finest pubs. The pub building itself has been around for quite some time – it was formerly known as The Welsh Harp until 1995. In that year, it was taken over by Bridget “Binnie” Walsh, an Irishwoman with a deep passion for real ale. Binnie Walsh initially ran The Harp as a tenant and later bought it, transforming the small Covent Garden pub into a real ale haven over the years through her personal dedication and character. Under her leadership, The Harp amassed numerous awards; most notably, in 2010 it achieved the ultimate accolade: CAMRA’s National Pub of the Year, beating out hundreds of pubs nationwide. This was a historic win – The Harp was the first London pub ever to earn the National Pub of the Year title. The announcement was made in early 2011, and it put The Harp firmly on the map for beer pilgrims. CAMRA praised it as a “true gem” and highlighted the pub’s mix of a cross-section of society united by a love of good ale.

Leading up to that national win, The Harp had already been recognised by local beer enthusiast groups. It was London Pub of the Year in 2008 as selected by the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood (SPBW), and after 2010 it has frequently been the West London CAMRA branch Pub of the Year (in fact, it won so often it often sat out of competition in alternate years to give others a chance!). In 2011, The Harp also took the title of London Cider Pub of the Year, reflecting its excellence in cider offerings as well. Even after Binnie Walsh decided to sell the pub to Fuller’s Brewery in 2014, the awards kept coming. Fuller’s, to their credit, maintained The Harp’s identity and quality – the brewery reportedly saw it as a crown jewel and wisely left its character intact (aside from perhaps a few Fuller’s branded touches and ensuring London Pride is on tap). The Harp continued to be a critical darling: for instance, it was awarded Best Pub in London by the Evening Standard in 2019 (and again in 2020 according to Fuller’s sources), a rare feat for such a small pub amid the capital’s vast pub landscape.

Additionally, The Harp is perennially listed in guides and lists of top pubs. It appears in virtually every edition of CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide. In late 2023, the Evening Standard included The Harp in its list of “The 50 Best Pubs in London,” placing it near the very top (ranked #5) and remarking on its magical appeal when you can find a bit of space inside. The write-up noted how The Harp’s reputation “draws them all – City account managers, street sweepers, artists and piss-artists”, even mentioning that members of the Royal Opera House orchestra pop in during intermissions. It highlighted the “countless beer tap badges” as a sign of the pub’s dedication to serving interesting brews, and quipped that it’s no surprise CAMRA loves the place. All this to say, The Harp’s fame is not just local but national (even international among beer travellers). Yet for all the acclaim, it remains humble at heart – a small, traditional pub that stays true to what it has always been.

It’s worth noting a bit about the character behind The Harp’s rise: Binnie Walsh herself became something of a legend in pub circles. Described as a real ale pioneer, she built The Harp’s identity over nearly two decades. By the time the pub won the national title, it had a 17-year reputation for quality under her guidance. When Fuller’s took over in 2014, many regulars were anxious whether The Harp would change. Fortunately, aside from adding Fuller’s branding on the pub sign, the new owners largely let The Harp run as before – even retaining much of the guest ale policy. Some observers note that the beer range narrowed slightly after the takeover (perhaps not quite the extensive free-house range of Binnie’s days), but The Harp still offers far more variety than a typical tied pub. In any case, Fuller’s stewardship hasn’t hurt the pub’s fortunes; if anything, they have ensured it continues to shine. For example, The Harp won Fuller’s own Griffin Trophy (an internal award for its pubs) and has been used as an example of excellence within the company. In 2020, the pub was lauded as the Evening Standard’s best pub for the second year running, confirming that even with changing times, The Harp hasn’t lost its touch.

Beyond awards, The Harp carries a bit of local history. It stands on Chandos Place, a street that has long been associated with pubs and theatres due to its proximity to the West End. The pub’s former name, The Welsh Harp, hints at historical roots (many pubs named “Harp” had Irish or Welsh connections; possibly it served a Welsh community or theme at one point). After Binnie Walsh’s tenure, the spirit of The Harp as a free-spirited alehouse endures. Ask a London pub enthusiast for a recommendation, and The Harp is very likely to be mentioned – it’s achieved an almost cult status among those “in the know.” Yet stumbling upon it as a casual visitor can feel like discovering a hidden gem, one with stained-glass windows and an old harp motif on the sign, where the past meets the present in perfect pints.

Conclusion: A Must-Visit London Pub

In a city where centuries-old pubs are increasingly turned into gastropubs or flashy bars, The Harp stands out as a true gem – a pub that celebrates everything wonderful about the traditional British pub experience. It’s often said that The Harp is a “proper pub”, and indeed it ticks all the boxes: a warm and bustling atmosphere, beautifully kept real ales, simple tasty bar snacks, friendly staff, and a mix of people from all walks of life coming together over a pint. There are no gimmicks here, no corporate feel or intrusive screens – just the happy noise of conversation and clinking glasses beneath walls lined with memories. It’s the kind of place where stories are swapped, pints are savoured, and time-honoured pub culture is alive and well.

Yes, it can be crowded, and yes, finding a seat might be a challenge – but consider that part of the authentic experience at a beloved local pub. Many fans will tell you that the buzz of a busy Harp is actually part of its charm. And if you catch it at a quieter moment, you’ll appreciate the cosy intimacy of the place even more. The Harp’s Covent Garden location also makes it a perfect pit-stop if you’re exploring central London – you’re minutes away from theatres, the National Gallery, and the bustle of the West End, yet inside The Harp you feel a world away from the tourist frenzy. Instead, you’re ensconced in a little haven where it’s all about the beer and the banter.

To sum up, The Harp is an essential visit for any beer lover passing through London, and a cherished haunt for locals who value quality and tradition. It’s rare to find a pub so richly decorated with awards yet so unpretentious in atmosphere – but The Harp manages that balance gracefully. Perhaps Time Out London put it best in a past review: “This isn’t just a great Covent Garden pub, it’s one of the best pubs in the country.” Whether you’re on a dedicated ale trail or simply looking for a memorable pub to experience British pub culture at its finest, The Harp will not disappoint. Raise a pint of well-kept bitter or cider in its narrow bar, strike up a friendly chat, and enjoy a slice of pub history and hospitality. The Harp is the kind of pub that reminds you why London’s pub scene is the best in the world – an absolute classic that leaves you already planning your next visit as you reluctantly head out the door.