The Ship - Southwark - Pub Reviews

The Ship is a historic pub at 68 Borough Road, London SE1 1DX, known for blending old-school character with a lively modern vibe. It’s a go-to spot for live music, sports on TV, and a unique Lebanese food menu that sets it apart. Opening hours run daily from noon – closing at 11:00 PM Monday through Thursday (and Sunday), and a bit later on weekends (open until midnight on Friday and Saturday). Now independently operated by True Pub Co (who took over in early 2023), The Ship reopened in June 2023 after an extensive refurbishment that breathed new life into its time-honoured walls. The result is a pub that embraces its long history while offering fresh amenities and atmosphere. Customers have responded warmly – The Ship currently enjoys roughly a 4.0/5 rating on popular review sites, with patrons praising its cosy atmosphere, great beer garden, and friendly service. (For those looking to get in touch, the pub’s phone number is 0203 924 6868, as listed on its website.)

Facilities & Entertainment

The Ship offers a cosy, well-appointed setting with a focus on communal enjoyment – whether that’s cheering on a big match or soaking up live music. Sports fans will appreciate that multiple TVs are mounted throughout the pub, routinely showing major sporting events. On a Saturday afternoon or mid-week evening, you might find crowds gathered for Premier League football, rugby Six Nations matches, or other big games, all broadcast with sound in the main bar area. The atmosphere during these live sports moments is lively and convivial, as local office workers and residents unite to support their teams. Importantly, the pub manages to balance the buzz without feeling like a rowdy sports bar – the layout naturally sections the space so that one corner can erupt in cheers for a goal while another group chats comfortably over pints. For those who prefer a quieter experience, the upstairs room is a calmer zone, often free from the TV noise, allowing patrons to converse or dine in peace even as a match unfolds downstairs.

One of The Ship’s standout features – especially rare in central London – is its lovely beer garden. Step through to the rear of the pub and you’ll find an outdoor oasis that True Pub Co lovingly revamped during the refurbishment. This beer garden is well-kept and surprisingly spacious, framed by greenery and comfortable bench seating. It feels worlds away from the busy Southwark streets out front. On a sunny day, it’s a serene retreat where you can bask in good weather with a cold pint or a cocktail in hand. Even in cooler months, the garden remains inviting; there are heaters and covered sections, making it usable almost year-round. It’s no exaggeration to say this is one of the more charming pub gardens in the Southwark area – a fact noted by many visitors and even highlighted by the owners as a key asset. The combination of sports inside and a tranquil garden outside means The Ship caters to different moods with ease.

In terms of other facilities, The Ship keeps things traditional and unfussy. You won’t find loud arcade machines or a row of modern dartboards here – in fact, there are no dartboards or pool tables on-site, a deliberate choice that leaves more room for seating and socialising. The entertainment focus is clearly on live events and conversation rather than pub games. That said, you might spot a deck of cards or a board game tucked on a shelf for casual use, as the pub encourages a friendly, communal vibe. For smokers, there’s a designated smoking area (part of the garden space) that’s kept tidy and welcoming, so patrons stepping out for a cigarette don’t feel like second-class citizens. Do note that, like most central London venues, The Ship has no on-site parking – it’s best reached by foot, bike, or public transport (more on that later). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the pub, handy for those who might be getting some work done over a pint or sharing their Instagram snaps of the beautiful beer garden. Additionally, The Ship is dog-friendly and even family-friendly. It’s not uncommon to see a well-behaved pup snoozing at their owner’s feet in the bar, or a family grabbing lunch together on a weekend afternoon. Kids are allowed during the day and early evening, especially in the dining areas upstairs, making this a pub that welcomes all members of the community. Overall, the facilities strike a balance between traditional pub comforts and modern hospitality needs – ensuring that whether you come for the game, the music, or just a quiet chat in the garden, you’ll find what you’re looking for at The Ship.

Food on Offer

One of the most unique draws of The Ship is its Lebanese-inspired menu, served under the banner of Reda’s Kitchen. In a city full of pubs serving fish and chips or burgers, The Ship sets itself apart by offering an authentic taste of Lebanon alongside your pint. This partnership with Reda’s Kitchen – a team of chefs specialising in Lebanese cuisine – means you can indulge in dishes that are bursting with Middle Eastern flavours right from your pub table. Think generous mezze platters for sharing, loaded with favourites like silky hummus, smoky baba ganoush, tabbouleh salad, stuffed vine leaves, and warm pita bread. The menu features plenty of grilled specialties as well: shish taouk (marinated grilled chicken skewers), juicy lamb kofta kebabs, and falafel that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Each dish showcases fresh ingredients and the warm, fragrant spices typical of Lebanese cooking – expect notes of garlic, lemon, parsley, and spices like cumin and sumac elevating each bite. It’s the kind of food that complements a cold beer surprisingly well, and it’s a point of pride for The Ship to offer something a bit different from the usual pub grub. (When True Pub Co first announced Reda’s Kitchen would be joining, they promised “a tantalising taste of Lebanon” for customers, and that promise has been fulfilled in delicious fashion.)

Importantly, the menu is inclusive and varied. While meat-eaters will salivate over the lamb and chicken dishes, vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty to love – from falafel wraps to grilled halloumi cheese, and hearty lentil salads. One popular recommendation from patrons is the grilled halloumi starter, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs, which goes down a treat as a snack with drinks. The portions are generally generous, reflecting the Middle Eastern spirit of hospitality, and ideal for sharing. You could easily make a meal of several small plates among friends, or opt for a more structured lunch or dinner with distinct courses. The Ship serves food both at lunchtime and in the evenings, making it a great spot for a midday refuel or a relaxed dinner. On Sundays, instead of the traditional British roast, many people come in for a long lazy lunch of Lebanese mezze and perhaps stay for the live music afterward – a different but delightful way to spend a Sunday at a pub. Prices for food are moderate and reasonable, especially given the quality and central London location. Starters and small plates generally range from about £5 to £7, and mains run around £10 to £15. For example, you might pay around £12 for a filling chicken shawarma platter with rice and salad, or about £6 for a generous portion of falafel with dips. The value is evident in the freshness and flavour; time and again, customers comment that the food “exceeds expectations for pub dining”. If you’re in a group, consider the sharing platters – not only are they economical, but they turn your visit into a communal feast, which feels very much in spirit with The Ship’s convivial atmosphere.

Beers on Tap

No pub experience is complete without a great drink in hand, and The Ship delivers with a solid line-up of beers and other beverages to quench your thirst. As an independent pub (not tied to a single brewery), The Ship has the freedom to offer a mix of beloved staples and interesting guest options. Beer enthusiasts, especially fans of British ales, will be pleased to find that cask-conditioned ale is taken seriously here. In fact, a CAMRA pub guide notes that Fuller’s London Pride is a regular fixture on the hand-pumps – a classic English ale that’s known and loved for its balanced, malty character. During my recent visit, I couldn’t resist a pint of London Pride, and I found it poured impeccably: a clear amber hue, a creamy head, and that fresh taste that tells you the lines are being kept clean and the casks well-conditioned. It’s clear the staff know how to keep their beer, and the pub’s commitment to quality pints is evident with every sip. Alongside the staple ale, there’s usually at least one rotating guest ale on tap. These guest beers often come from London’s vibrant craft brewing scene or other UK microbreweries, meaning there’s often something new to try each month. For instance, you might find a hoppy IPA from a trendy South London brewery like Five Points or Brixton Brewery one week, and perhaps a darker stout or a seasonal ale from a regional brewery the next. The rotation keeps the selection interesting for regulars and gives beer nerds a reason to check the taps often.

Beyond the ales, The Ship’s bar is stocked with popular lagers and ciders to cater to all tastes. Standard choices like Carlsberg, Peroni or Camden Hells might be available for those who prefer a crisp cold lager, and you can usually get a proper pint of Guinness as well – it is an Irish-managed pub now after all, and the Guinness here is poured with the classic two-part technique for a smooth finish. Cider drinkers might find a refreshing apple or pear cider on draught, particularly in summertime. In addition, True Pub Co has ensured an “impressive line-up of world beer favourites” in bottles or cans, so expect to see a few international brews (perhaps a Belgian wheat beer or a German Pilsner) in the fridge alongside the local stars. If beer isn’t your thing, The Ship has you covered with a full wine list and a range of spirits. A decent selection of red, white, and sparkling wines is on offer by the glass or bottle, and the back bar displays everything from gins and whiskeys to flavoured vodkas for mixing. The pub even leans into the cocktail trend: every Wednesday night is a 2-for-£15 cocktail special, where they mix up classics and house creations – a fun midweek draw for the after-work crowd or anyone who fancies a break from beer. Overall, drink prices are standard for central London: pints start around £5 (a bit more for stronger craft brews), and a glass of house wine is roughly £6. Cocktails at full price hover near £10 each (hence the appeal of the Wednesday deal). The consensus among patrons is that while The Ship’s drinks menu isn’t the length of a telephone directory, it’s well-chosen and well-maintained. You’ll find all the essentials for a great pub night, and likely a pleasant surprise or two on tap. If anything, a few ale aficionados have mused that they’d love to see an even wider selection (perhaps a dark porter in winter or a niche wheat beer in summer), but they also acknowledge that what is on offer is kept in excellent condition. At the end of the day, The Ship serves a pint you can trust – and that’s the hallmark of a good pub.

Price Range & Value

By London standards, The Ship falls into a comfortable mid-range price category – not the cheapest pub in town, but far from the most expensive, especially given its Zone 1 location and the quality of its offerings. Most visitors find that value for money is strong here. Let’s talk specifics: as mentioned, a standard pint of ale or lager comes in around the £5 mark, which is pretty normal for central London and actually a touch better than some nearby craft beer bars that might charge £6+ for a similar pour. The Lebanese food menu offers hearty portions at reasonable prices: many of the signature mains (like a chicken shawarma plate or a mixed grill) land in the £12-£15 range, which feels fair when the dishes are clearly made fresh and generously served. Lighter bites and starters sit around £5-£7, meaning you can assemble a tapas-style meal without breaking the bank. For example, two people sharing three or four mezze plates and each having a pint would likely come out to a bill well under what you’d pay at a more formal restaurant – and you’d be nicely full. There’s also no obligatory service charge added for food orders at the bar, which many patrons appreciate; it keeps things casual, and tipping is at your discretion based on how you found the service. If you dine at a table, standard practice might apply (some London pubs add an optional 12.5% service on seated dining bills, but at The Ship this doesn’t appear to be automatically done except for large groups).

When weighing the overall experience – quality of food and drink, portion sizes, atmosphere – most agree that The Ship gives you your money’s worth. Regulars will point out that you could easily spend the same or more at a generic chain pub and not get nearly as fresh or interesting a meal as you do here with Reda’s Kitchen’s fare. The drink specials add to the value as well. The Wednesday cocktail night (2 for £15) effectively brings mixology prices down to pub prices, which is a great deal if you’re into cocktails; it’s not often you find a well-made Espresso Martini or Negroni in London for the equivalent of £7.50 each. Occasionally, the pub runs other promotions – for instance, on big sports match days they might have a bucket of beers deal, or a discounted pitcher of beer for group tables – which can make a group outing more affordable. From an entertainment perspective, there’s no cover charge to enjoy the live music sessions or open mic nights, which means you’re getting free entertainment with your pint, another aspect of solid value. In summary, The Ship hits that sweet spot where price meets quality: you’re not paying a premium just for being in a central location, and you’re receiving good products and service for the prices you do pay. That goes a long way in building customer loyalty. Many reviews specifically mention that the pricing is fair – a crucial point when people are choosing their regular watering hole in an area with plenty of options. At The Ship, you walk away feeling content that a night out (or a weekend lunch) was money well spent.

Customer Service

Walk into The Ship and one of the first things you’ll likely notice is the warm welcome. Despite the pub’s recent change in management and spruced-up look, it has quickly re-established itself as a true local’s local – and that’s largely thanks to the people behind the bar. From the moment you step up to order, the staff are generally friendly, attentive, and happy to chat (provided it’s not too hectic at that moment). On my first visit after the refurbishment, I was greeted with a smile and the kind of easygoing banter that immediately makes you feel at home, even if you’re not a regular. There’s a palpable pride among the team in what The Ship offers, and they seem genuinely keen to share it – whether that means walking you through the Lebanese menu if you look unsure about what to try, or offering a little taster of the guest ale if you’re curious about it before committing to a pint. This kind of proactive, knowledgeable service stands out in an age where some pubs barely acknowledge you at the bar. Here, personalised service is part of the charm: the bartender might ask how your day’s going or remember what you drank last time if you’ve been in a few times. It’s the sort of touch that makes newcomers feel like they’ve joined a community rather than just a customer roll.

Despite being independently owned only since 2023, The Ship benefits from the True Pub Co’s ethos of putting hospitality first. The staff training appears to emphasise both efficiency and neighbourly warmth. During busy periods – say, the rush just before a big football match kicks off, or when a live band has the place packed – the crew manages to keep things moving briskly. You’ll see two or three bartenders coordinating orders with a quick rhythm, yet they rarely come off as harried or curt. If there’s a queue, it tends to dissipate quickly, and regulars will vouch that even on a heaving Friday night, getting a round in is pretty painless here compared to some pubs where you might be waving a tenner for ages. The floor staff (those clearing glasses and bringing food from the kitchen) are equally on the ball. Empty glasses don’t linger long on tables, and food orders come out in a reasonable time even when the pub is near capacity. What’s nice is that the service doesn’t drop off once you’ve got your order – staff often circle back to check if everything’s alright with your meal, or simply to collect empties and give you a chance to request another drink. It’s attentive without being intrusive.

The pub’s customer-centric attitude is reflected in feedback. In fact, one recent glowing review on The Ship’s website from a Sunday visitor gushed: “This place is absolutely gorgeous. Such lovely food, drinks and service.” The same patron went on to describe how they enjoyed a “lovely Sunday… listening to their amazing Irish trad band,” highlighting that the staff and atmosphere made the experience special. It’s clear that the team not only delivers good service, but does so in a way that enhances the enjoyment of whatever event or meal you’re there for. There’s also a sense that the staff have built connections with the community – many locals are on a first-name basis with the manager and bartenders, and newcomers find themselves drawn into friendly conversation. True Pub Co intended The Ship to be a community hub, and the staff foster that by treating everyone like a local. On occasion, you might even find the pub’s management (or the owners) mingling with patrons, keen to hear feedback or just share in the merriment – a sign of hands-on care that you don’t get everywhere. All told, The Ship’s customer service hits the mark for what a great pub should be: welcoming, efficient, and marked by genuine hospitality. It leaves an impression that keeps people coming back, which, in a city full of pubs, is a real achievement.

Events & Special Nights

True to its lively reputation, The Ship offers an array of events and themed nights that inject energy and fun into the weekly calendar. At the heart of it is live music, which has become something of a calling card for the pub. Every Thursday and Friday evening, around 8:30 PM, you can expect to find a band or solo artist setting up in the corner and kicking off the night with tunes. These aren’t background elevator music sets, either – we’re talking toe-tapping covers, upbeat folk sessions, or even the occasional DJ spinning feel-good tracks. The new owners have made it clear that live music is a priority (they teased the return of “captivating live performances” when they reopened), and they’ve delivered on that promise. The vibe on a Friday night at The Ship is electric: imagine a packed house clapping and singing along to a well-played classic rock anthem or an Irish folk song, drinks flowing, and not an unhappy face in the crowd. It’s the kind of atmosphere that’s infectious and draws people from the neighbourhood and beyond. In fact, the pub has even caught the attention of media like Time Out London, which featured The Ship’s revival in a write-up – noting the boost its entertainment line-up has given to the local scene.

One signature event that has quickly become a beloved tradition is the Irish Traditional Music Session on Sunday afternoons. Every Sunday around 3 PM, a group of musicians gathers – fiddles, guitars, maybe a bodhrán drum – and fills the pub with the soulful sounds of Irish trad music. It starts off your Sunday on a mellow note; you’ll see a mix of older Irish locals, curious young professionals, and occasional tourists all tapping their feet and enjoying the craic. The pub even keeps an acoustic guitar hanging on the wall, and it’s not unheard of for a local punter or two to join in for a song if they’re feeling inspired. These sessions are free to enjoy and really emphasise The Ship’s community spirit – it almost feels like a friendly jam in someone’s living room that everyone is invited to. By Sunday evening, you’ll have that warm, content feeling that only good music and a pint can bring, which is a lovely way to wrap up the week.

Aside from the regular weekly music slots, The Ship spices things up with special themed nights. One such staple has been the Open Mic Night on Mondays, which historically ran from about 7–10 PM. On these nights, the pub turned into a haven for local talent: poets, comedians, and singer-songwriters would take the small stage area and perform to an appreciative crowd. It’s the kind of night where you might witness a brilliant undiscovered musician or just enjoy the endearing courage of amateurs having a go. Recently, it appears the open mic night might be on a short hiatus (perhaps to tweak the format or due to scheduling changes), but there’s talk that it will return or be replaced by something similar, since it was quite a hit with the local creative crowd. Keep an eye on the pub’s event listings for updates – The Ship is good at announcing these things on their social media and chalkboard posters. Midweek also brings fun promotions: as mentioned, Wednesday is cocktail night with 2-for-£15 deals, which turns a typically quiet night into a bit of a party. You’ll see groups of friends toasting with Mojitos or Old Fashioneds, making the most of the midweek break. Occasionally, the pub has put on themed quiz nights or trivia events, especially when there’s a charity tie-in or a big occasion (like a special Christmas quiz, for instance). While it’s not a weekly fixture, don’t be surprised to find a Tuesday trivia night pop up occasionally, complete with punny team names and small prizes – it’s another way The Ship engages the community.

And of course, we can’t forget the big sports events. While the pub shows matches regularly, certain events turn into special nights (or afternoons) of their own. Think World Cup football matches, the Euros, or the Six Nations rugby – when these are on, The Ship sometimes ups the ante by setting up a larger screen or projector and creating a stadium-like atmosphere in the pub. They’ll often have drink specials during these games (like discounted pints of an appropriate beer – say, Guinness during an Ireland rugby match) and the place will be decorated with flags or team colours. The energy is fantastic, with strangers high-fiving after goals and a general camaraderie that embodies why watching sport in a pub is so enjoyable. The combination of these diverse events – music, open mics, themed nights, and sports – draws a wonderfully mixed crowd. You might see a table of quiz aficionados next to a group of students pre-gaming before the live band, or regulars who come every Sunday for the trad session mingling at the bar with football fans on a derby day. The Ship manages to be many things to many people throughout the week, and that’s a testament to its inclusive approach. There’s always something on the calendar to look forward to, ensuring that no two visits are exactly the same. Whether you’re after a raucous Friday night with live rock music, a contemplative open mic Monday to discover new talent, or a nail-biting Saturday watching the cup final, The Ship has you covered.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Stepping inside The Ship, you immediately feel the blend of historic charm and contemporary comfort that the refurbishment in 2023 achieved. The layout is that of a classic Victorian London pub – long and narrow with wood-panelled walls, a handsome bar along one side, and a mixture of high stools and comfy banquette seating. During the revamp, the designers were careful to preserve the soul of the place. Many original features remain or have been sympathetically restored: from the textured glass panes that separate “The Snug” area, to the dark wood bar that has likely served pints for generations. In fact, the back bar is an eye-catching feature – True Pub Co rebuilt it using reclaimed wood from old pubs, churches, and even courtrooms. The result is a beautiful backdrop for the array of bottles and taps, and it subtly nods to London’s history (if you look closely, you might spot little engravings or marks in the wood that hint at its past life). Warm lighting fixtures cast a golden glow in the evenings, and the walls are adorned with a mix of vintage beer advertisements and local artwork. One thing regulars immediately noticed post-refurbishment was the addition of vintage-style wooden partitions that create semi-private nooks and crannies. Not only do these partitions look the part (you’d think they’d been there a hundred years), but they also break up the space nicely, so even when the pub is packed, you can tuck yourself into a corner that feels intimate. The upstairs area, which historically might have been a function room, has been refreshed as well – it’s a quieter space with additional tables, often used for dining or private bookings, and it overlooks the street, offering a bit of people-watching for those seated by the window. Downstairs, meanwhile, is where the buzz is strongest, especially around the main bar and stage area when music is on.

The Ship’s atmosphere shifts organically with the time of day and day of week, catering to different vibes. On a weekday afternoon, you might find a handful of patrons spaced out in these snug corners, perhaps a couple of students from the nearby university tapping away on laptops over a coffee (yes, they do a decent coffee if you ask) or retirees enjoying a quiet pint. The mood then is laid-back, almost like a coffeehouse that happens to have beer on tap. Come early evening, local office workers trickle in, giving the place a friendly post-work energy – you’ll hear lively conversations, clinking glasses, but it’s still easy enough to chat softly in a booth. Weeknights that feature events (say, a Thursday band or a Wednesday cocktail night) ramp up the energy: there’s laughter, music, and the hum of a pub hitting its stride. By the time you hit Friday or Saturday night, The Ship can be outright bustling – a joyous, buzzing atmosphere with standing room filling up and an excited chatter throughout. It never veers into nightclub territory (last orders are at a sensible time, and people here are generally more about socialising. than partying till dawn), but it’s certainly lively. If you prefer things a bit calmer, midweek or Sunday visits might be more your speed; Sundays in particular have a warm, communal feel, thanks in part to the afternoon music session which mellows everyone out. What’s nice is that even when the pub is full and noisy, it doesn’t feel hostile or uncomfortable – the clientele is quite diverse and respectful. You’ll see a mix of ages and backgrounds: young professionals, older regulars who have been coming here for decades, students from around Southwark, and tourists or visitors drawn in by curiosity. That diversity adds to the charm; it’s a melting pot of people all enjoying the pub together, and conversations often leap between tables. It’s not unusual to strike up a friendly chat with strangers here – whether it’s discussing the football score or asking about the Lebanese dishes they just ordered.

From an accessibility standpoint, The Ship does its best given the constraints of a 19th-century building. The main entrance on Borough Road has just a small step up from the pavement – essentially it’s almost level – so wheelchair users can enter with minimal difficulty (the staff are certainly willing to lend a hand if needed). Once inside, the ground floor is all one level, which means moving from the front door to the bar to the rear garden doesn’t involve any additional steps. That said, during peak times the interior can get a bit cramped and navigating through the packed narrow aisle with mobility equipment might require some patience and polite excuse-me’s. The pub’s restrooms are on the ground floor toward the back, which is convenient (no stairs to a basement or anything, which can often be the case in older pubs). They are of standard size – not specifically a large accessible stall from what one can tell – so extremely large wheelchairs might find it a tight squeeze. Unfortunately, the upstairs area is only reachable by a flight of stairs, as there’s no elevator or lift installed, meaning that section isn’t accessible to those who can’t do stairs. The management is aware of these limitations and they usually accommodate by ensuring anyone who can’t go upstairs can be seated comfortably downstairs. The outdoor beer garden is accessed via a doorway at ground level as well; in nice weather, that area is a great option for anyone who needs a bit more space or fresh air. As for other aspects of accessibility: lighting is warm but not too dim (you won’t be squinting at your menu), and the music volume, while energetic on event nights, typically stays at a level where you can still converse – they seem mindful not to blast it unbearably loud. Service-wise, the staff are attentive to all guests; if you have any special needs (say, you’re visually impaired and need help reading the chalkboard menu, or you can’t carry a tray of drinks to your table), they are quick to assist. One more thing to note is that dogs are welcome, as mentioned, and you’ll often find a water bowl by the door for thirsty pups – a small gesture, but one that reflects The Ship’s inclusive, everyone’s-welcome philosophy. All in all, the atmosphere exudes that classic pub warmth with a modern inclusivity – it’s the kind of place where pretty much anyone can walk in and feel comfortable, and that is a huge part of The Ship’s appeal.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Nestled in the bustling heart of Southwark, The Ship boasts a prime location that’s both convenient and rich in surrounding attractions. The pub sits just off the intersection of Southwark Bridge Road and Borough Road, placing it squarely in an area teeming with activity and history. For those travelling by public transport, The Ship could not be much easier to reach. Borough Underground station (on the Northern Line) is only about a five-minute walk (roughly 300 yards) to the north-east, practically around the corner – just stroll down Borough High Street and you’re nearly there. In the other direction, Elephant & Castle station (which connects to the Northern Line, Bakerloo Line, and National Rail services) is about 10 minutes on foot (around 600–700 meters). That station’s proximity means even if you’re coming from further afield or from different parts of London, you’ve got multiple tube lines and buses funnelling you close to The Ship. Speaking of buses, numerous routes criss-cross the area – the 344 and 360, for example, run along nearby Southwark Bridge Road, and buses on Borough High Street and Elephant & Castle can drop you within a short walk. If you’re a cyclist, you’ll find bike lanes on some of the main roads and a few bicycle racks near the pub (plus the area is fairly flat, making for easy riding terrain).

Once you’re at The Ship, you’re in a fantastic spot to explore Southwark’s attractions. A short walk north (less than 10 minutes) brings you to Borough Market, one of London’s most famous food markets. It’s a food lover’s paradise bustling with gourmet stalls, fresh produce, and street-food vendors. Many people will make a day of visiting the market to sample cheese, oysters, or international bites, and then wander down to The Ship afterward to relax with a pint – it’s an ideal combo for a Saturday. Just beyond Borough Market is London Bridge and the Thames riverfront. From there, you can easily visit the Tate Modern art gallery or the Globe Theatre by strolling west along the South Bank, or head east to see the Tower Bridge – all within a 15–20 minute walk from the pub. If you head west from The Ship, you’ll soon reach Southbank University and the edge of Lambeth, which has the Imperial War Museum about a mile away (a quick bus ride or a 20-minute walk through Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park). To the south, the Elephant & Castle area is undergoing lots of development, but it’s historically known for its shopping centre (now being redeveloped) and a smattering of eclectic eateries and Latin American nightlife – an interesting mix if you venture that way.

The beauty of The Ship’s location is that it straddles the line between historic and modern London. Southwark is one of the city’s oldest areas (Shakespeare’s old stomping grounds were not far), yet it’s buzzing with contemporary life, from modern office buildings to universities and arts venues. For out-of-towners, using The Ship as a meeting point or a rest stop makes great sense – you can easily meet friends coming from different parts of the city here, given the connectivity, and if you need to hop on a train at London Bridge Station or Waterloo, you’re not far off either. Even the City of London (the financial district) is just across the river, walkable in 20-25 minutes or a short bus/taxi – which is why you might see the odd suit or banker in the pub after work as well. Despite all this urban hustle and bustle nearby, The Ship’s immediate surroundings feel comfortably down-to-earth. Borough Road itself has a mix of residential blocks and local businesses, and just a block away you have the greenery of St George’s Gardens – a small public square that adds a bit of calm. So you get the advantage of a central location without a feeling of being in a tourist trap. This position really makes The Ship an ideal starting point for a day of exploration (stop in for a hearty lunch and a pint, then set off to sightsee) or a perfect ending point (grab dinner and drinks here to unwind after a day out in London). Many visitors have discovered The Ship because they were exploring nearby attractions and wanted an authentic pub to cap off their day – and it serves that purpose brilliantly. Whether you’re local to South London or adventuring through the city, The Ship’s location puts you right in the thick of things while offering a welcoming haven to recharge.

Overall Impression

The Ship in Southwark succeeds in offering something truly special: a harmonious blend of traditional pub charm and fresh, modern touches that together create a memorable experience. After spending time here, it’s easy to see why this pub has quickly become both a neighbourhood favourite and a draw for visitors. On one hand, The Ship delivers all the timeless elements you’d want from a classic London pub – a character-filled interior with wood panels and historic quirks, a hearty welcome, well-kept ales, and a sense of living history in its very walls. On the other hand, it isn’t content to be stuck in the past; the Lebanese kitchen, the curated live music nights, and the revitalised beer garden all inject a contemporary vibrancy that keeps the pub feeling dynamic and relevant. Patrons consistently remark on the vibrant yet cosy atmosphere: it’s the kind of place where a lively Friday night with music and laughter still manages to feel warm and inclusive, not overwhelming. And on a quiet Tuesday lunch, The Ship can feel like your own secret local, peaceful and unpretentious. That balance – between energy and comfort, between old and new – is perhaps The Ship’s greatest achievement.

In terms of highlights, there are a few that deserve reiterating. The Lebanese food is a standout – it elevates the pub from having the usual “decent pub grub” to being a destination for foodies as well. It’s not often you can rave about falafel and pints in the same breath, but here you absolutely can. The beer garden is another jewel in The Ship’s crown; in a crowded city, having that little alfresco haven tucked out back, decked with flowers and buzzing with conversation, is a huge plus. Live entertainment, from the weekly bands to the charming Sunday trad sessions, gives the pub a cultural heartbeat – it’s not just a place to drink, but a place to enjoy and participate in the local scene. And the staff and service tie it all together with genuine hospitality, turning one-time visitors into repeat customers. One could say that The Ship has quickly re-established itself as a “vibrant centrepiece of Southwark’s pub scene” (to borrow a phrase from its proud owners) – and the community response backs that up. Walk in on any given night and you’ll see a diverse crowd that reflects the area’s makeup, all laughing, eating, drinking, and making memories under The Ship’s roof. It’s a testament to how a pub can honour its heritage while still innovating and staying fun.

No place is perfect, and it’s worth mentioning a couple of minor quirks. If you’re someone who loves a quiet pint in solitude, be mindful of timing – match days and music nights are wonderfully lively (which most of us see as a plus) but might not suit those after complete tranquillity. The pub’s popularity can also mean it gets a bit crowded on weekend evenings, and you might have to be patient to snag a table during peak hours. Also, traditionalists might note that you won’t find a Sunday roast or an English fry-up on the menu here, given the pivot to Lebanese cuisine – so if you’re craving a Yorkshire pudding, The Ship isn’t the spot for that. However, these are really matters of preference. The pub does so many things well that it’s hard to fault its formula.

In the grand scheme, The Ship encapsulates what makes London pub culture so beloved: it’s a community hub, a place of good cheer, good food, and good music, where everyone is made to feel welcome. After its rejuvenation in 2023, The Ship hasn’t just returned – it’s raised its sails and charted a new and exciting course. Whether you’re an Ale connoisseur hunting for a perfectly kept pint, a foodie eager to try a different cuisine in a pub setting, a music lover chasing the next great live gig, or simply someone who enjoys a cosy corner and friendly chat, The Ship delivers. It’s the kind of pub that lingers in your memory after you leave: you’ll recall the notes of that Irish fiddle, the taste of that cold beer on a sunny afternoon in the garden, the laughter ringing from the bar – and you’ll already be planning your next voyage to The Ship. In summary, The Ship has firmly established itself as a must-visit pub in Southwark, successfully marrying its rich heritage with the demands (and delights) of modern pub-going. It’s absolutely worth dropping anchor here for an evening (or a few), to experience a little slice of London pub perfection.