The Southwark Tavern - Southwark - Pub Reviews

The Southwark Tavern's Victorian tiled exterior on the corner of Southwark Street and Stoney Street, near Borough Market. The Southwark Tavern is a historic pub in Southwark, London (22 Southwark Street, SE1 1TU) that seamlessly blends old-world character with modern pub culture. Dating back to the mid-19th century (established around 1864), this sumptuous Victorian pub sits proudly at the edge of Borough Market and is even built on the site of a former debtor’s prison. In fact, the pub’s basement once housed jail cells – today, those old brick cells have been transformed into snug booths, giving the Tavern a quirky charm unlike any other London pub. The exterior retains its iconic tiled façade from the old Friary Meux brewery era, complete with ornate leaded windows evoking a bygone era. Inside, you’ll find a warm, storied atmosphere: period features like wooden floors and vintage fixtures are paired with contemporary touches and cosy lighting (there’s even an open fireplace for chilly days)t. The Southwark Tavern is a popular haunt for a diverse crowd – from Borough Market foodies and local office workers to tourists exploring Bankside – all drawn by its unique character and hearty food. The pub currently enjoys a strong reputation with customers (around 4.3 out of 5 stars in recent ratings), reflecting consistent praise for its atmosphere, food, and friendly service. Opening hours are convenient for both lunch and evening visits: typically 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, and 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM on Sunday.

Facilities & Entertainment

When it comes to facilities and entertainment, The Southwark Tavern keeps things straightforward and cosy, very much in tune with its historic-pub vibe. There is no on-site parking (as expected in central London), and you won’t find noisy pub games like dartboards or pool tables here, nor any giant screens blaring sports matches. Instead, this pub orientates around good conversation, food and drink, and its own unique features. The most notable feature is the atmospheric basement bar, where the former prison cells now serve as intimate drinking nooks – a novel layout that invites groups to claim their own “cell” for the evening. Exploring these nooks and crannies downstairs is half the fun, giving the Tavern a distinctive entertainment element of its own. For those who prefer some fresh air, there’s plenty of outdoor seating along the street, perfect for people-watching and soaking up the Market buzz on a nice day. While you won’t come here for karaoke or trivia machines, the pub does foster a social atmosphere with weekly community events (more on that later) and even provides free Wi-Fi for a modern convenience. Overall, The Southwark Tavern focuses on offering a relaxed, characterful setting to enjoy a pint or chat with friends, rather than the high-octane entertainment of a sports bar – and it succeeds in creating a charming spot where the surroundings themselves are the entertainment.

Food on Offer

The Southwark Tavern is known for its hearty and satisfying British pub food, executed with a quality that delights regulars and visitors alike. The menu sticks to quintessential pub favourites and comfort foods, but often with a Borough Market twist. For example, their beer-battered fish and chips – a top recommendation here – features flaky cod in a crisp golden batter, paired with chunky chips and tartar sauce, making for a classic treat that many say is done just right. You’ll also find a line-up of juicy burgers (with a proper cheeseburger as a staple, plus a spicy fried chicken or a plant-based burger option for vegetarians), alongside other mains like sausages and mash or hearty pies, typically priced in the reasonable £12–£18 range for a generous plate. Lighter bites are well covered too: the Tavern offers a popular small-plates menu that’s perfect for sharing or snacking with your pint. Think crispy calamari with saffron aioli, addictive halloumi fries, or a loaded plate of house nachos – all ideal for grazing over conversation. Many of the ingredients and specials take inspiration from the neighbouring Borough Market, meaning you might spot seasonal produce or artisanal local ingredients making an appearance in your dish. Vegetarians and vegans will have no trouble finding something tasty, whether it’s a flavourful plant-based entrée or salad (such as an avocado & mango salad or a veggie burger) or the option of a meat-free version of the daily specials.

One standout culinary offering here is the Sunday roast, which has become something of a local favourite. Every Sunday, the kitchen serves up a traditional roast (choices often including succulent roast beef, chicken or a vegetarian nut roast) complete with all the trimmings – think roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, seasonal veg, and rich gravy. It’s a generously portioned, comforting meal that regulars rave about. In fact, the roasts are so popular that they often sell out by the evening, so arriving early or booking a table is wise if you’ve got your heart set on a Sunday roast. The pub even promotes this weekly tradition, underscoring how integral it is to their food identity. Overall, while The Southwark Tavern’s menu doesn’t aim to be haute cuisine, it nails the brief of well-executed pub classics. The combination of fresh local influences and proper British recipes ensures that both London newcomers and seasoned pub-goers will find something to enjoy – be it a hearty main meal or a few shareable snacks over drinks. And judging by the satisfied chatter and cleaned plates often seen around the pub, the kitchen here delivers on both quality and value, making the food a highlight of the Southwark Tavern experience.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will feel right at home at The Southwark Tavern. This pub takes pride in its fine selection of draught beers, ranging from beloved big-name brews to local craft gems, all kept in great condition. Being a free house (part of Mitchells & Butlers’ Castle pubs group), the Tavern isn’t tied to one brewery, which means the taps offer plenty of variety. On any given day you can find around six real ales on hand-pump (cask ales) and about 20+ speciality draught beers and lagers available – an impressive array by central London standards. Well-known staples like Camden Hells Lager, the ever-popular Neck Oil IPA from Beavertown, and the iconic Guinness stout are usually on tap, ensuring that fans of the classics have something familiar to enjoy. But beyond the usual suspects, the Southwark Tavern keeps things interesting with a rotating selection of craft ales and seasonal brews. In fact, they typically rotate at least four guest ales, often featuring respected breweries such as Adnams or Dark Star among others. This commitment to variety means there’s often a new IPA, porter or small-batch beer to try whenever you visit, showcasing the vibrant beer culture of London and the Borough area.

Importantly, the pub staff take good care of their beer. Many patrons note that pints here are poured well and taste fresh, indicating that the lines are cleaned regularly and the cellar management is sound. During my visits, each ale I tried was served at the right temperature and with the proper head – little details that ale aficionados truly appreciate. The bar team is also quite knowledgeable and passionate about beer. If you’re undecided or curious, they’re happy to offer recommendations or a little taster, whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or new to the craft beer scene. For those who prefer something other than beer, The Southwark Tavern’s bar is also well-stocked with wines, spirits, and ciders. In particular, they mix a respectable gin & tonic and are known to have a decent selection of whiskeys behind the bar. But it’s the beer selection that really shines here. The combination of reliable crowd-pleasers and rotating taps means you can balance having your favourite. pint with discovering something new. And given the pub’s reputation for keeping their ales in tip-top shape, even traditional CAMRA folks (Campaign for Real Ale members) give a nod of approval. In short, whether you’re craving a cold lager on a summer day or looking to sample a hoppy new IPA from a London microbrewery, the Tavern’s taps have you covered with quality and choice in equal measure.

Price Range & Value

By central London standards, The Southwark Tavern offers a comfortable mid-range (££) pricing that feels fair for the quality and location. A visit here won’t break the bank, and you’re likely to leave feeling that you’ve gotten good value. As a general guide, most main dishes on the menu fall roughly in the £12–£18 range. For example, a hearty fish and chips or a stacked burger with fries will land in the lower teens, while a larger entrée or Sunday roast with all the extras might approach the upper end of that range. Given the generous portions and the prime ingredients (some sourced from Borough Market), customers find these prices reasonable for the heart of London. Lighter bites and small plates come in well under that – you could grab, say, a plate of calamari or a serving of nachos for under £10, which makes it easy to order a spread of snacks to share without stretching the budget too much.

When it comes to drinks, pints of beer at the Tavern start around the £6 mark for standard ABV brews. A more premium craft pint or a higher-strength ale might be closer to £6.50–£7+, which is in line with other popular pubs in the area. There are always a couple of more budget-friendly choices on tap as well, so you’re not forced into the pricey stuff if you just want a simple lager. Wine by the glass and classic mixed drinks are similarly mid-priced for London – not dirt cheap, but you’re paying for a well-poured drink in a lively atmosphere, and most guests seem to feel it’s worth it. The pub occasionally runs specials or bundle deals (for instance, a Wednesday steak night deal where you could get two steaks and a bottle of wine for a set price), which add extra value if you time it right. Service charge isn’t automatically added for bar orders, which is standard; for table service, check your bill, but tipping remains at your discretion based on the service you received.

In terms of overall value, The Southwark Tavern gets very positive feedback. The consensus is that you “get what you pay for – in a good way”. The portions are hearty, the food quality is high, and the pints are well-kept, so patrons feel content paying the going rate. Considering its location next to a major tourist attraction (Borough Market) and its unique historic setting, the prices could arguably be higher – yet the Tavern seems committed to staying accessible to regular folks. It’s the kind of place where a group of friends can meet for a few pints and dinner and everyone’s share of the bill will be reasonable, which in this part of London is something to cherish. In summary, the Tavern sits comfortably in the ££ bracket: not a bargain pub, but certainly not overpriced. You’ll leave with your wallet moderately lightened but with the satisfying feeling that it was money well spent on a classic pub experience.

Customer Service

One of the reasons the Southwark Tavern has cultivated a loyal following is its friendly and attentive customer service. From the moment you step up to the bar or door, the staff tend to offer a warm welcome – in my experience and many others’, the bartenders and servers here exude that down-to-earth, cheerful demeanour that instantly makes you feel at home. The pub has been around a long time, and some of the team members are long-tenured as well, which gives a sense of pride and familiarity to the service. Regulars are often greeted by name, and even newcomers will find that staff are happy to chat or make a recommendation (as long as it’s not too slammed busy at that moment). This easy-going hospitality has been noted again and again in reviews: patrons frequently commend the Tavern’s team for being “friendly, attentive, and efficient, even during busy periods”. On my last visit, for example, despite the Friday evening rush, the bartenders were handling the crowd with smiles and quick service, and one of them took a moment to suggest a new pale ale when I was indecisive about what to order – a small touch that I really appreciated.

Of course, as with any popular pub, there are times when the bar is four-deep with customers and the staff are essentially sprinting to keep pints flowing. During these peak moments (say a sunny Saturday afternoon when Borough Market foot traffic spills in, or right after work on a weekday), service might naturally slow down a tad. A few online reviews mention longer wait times when the pub is packed to the gills, which is understandable if you catch it at the height of a rush. The team here does their best to keep things moving – empties get cleared, and they’ll hustle over to your table with hot food as soon as it’s ready – but patience can be required on an especially busy day. That said, the general consensus is that the staff manage the crowds admirably and maintain a positive attitude throughout. It’s not easy to stay chipper when juggling dozens of orders, yet the Tavern’s crew consistently do so, which doesn’t go unnoticed by the clientele. Also worth noting: if something’s not right with your food or drink, they’re quick to put it right with minimal fuss.

In quieter hours, the service becomes even more of a standout. You might find your server has time to chat about the history of the pub or give you tips on other local spots to visit. The local knowledge and personal touch definitely enhance the experience – it feels very much like a neighbourhood pub in those moments. Overall, the customer service at The Southwark Tavern hits that ideal balance of efficient and genuinely friendly. It contributes hugely to the welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s your first time there or your fiftieth, you can expect to be treated like a valued guest. And judging by the overwhelming number of positive comments regarding service (with only the occasional gripe about speed during mad rushes), the staff here are doing an excellent job of upholding the pub’s hospitable reputation.

Events & Special Nights

While The Southwark Tavern isn’t a pub with loud DJs or a packed weekly band line-up, it certainly knows how to keep things interesting with a few signature events and traditions. The most popular fixture is the weekly quiz night, which has become something of a Southwark institution. Every Tuesday evening around 8pm, teams of friends (including plenty of locals and some clued-in visitors) gather to test their trivia knowledge in a fun, casual atmosphere. What makes the Tavern’s quiz night extra special is the setting – often the competition takes place down in those old basement “cells”, so each team can huddle in their own little brick alcove. The friendly rivalry and the quirky venue make for a brilliant night out. Prizes are usually on offer (often a bar tab or cash pot for the winners), and the quiz is pitched at just the right difficulty to be enjoyable. If you fancy a midweek brain-teaser and some banter, this pub quiz is a great shout (it’s wise to show up early to snag a table, as it does get busy).

In addition to the quiz, The Southwark Tavern also hosts a Wine Club, typically on a designated night each week. This is a nod to the oenophiles in the community – a more laid-back, convivial gathering where people can taste and learn about different wines. According to local pub info, the Tavern holds a “weekly wine club” where patrons can explore a curated selection of wines in a social setting. It’s the kind of event that sets the pub apart from your average boozer – offering something a bit more refined without being stuffy. The Wine Club is a hit with those looking to expand their palate or just enjoy an easygoing evening sipping vino with others. Whether you’re a wine novice or a self-proclaimed connoisseur, the vibe is welcoming; don’t be surprised if you end up making new friends over a shared bottle or two. (It’s worth checking the pub’s announcements or asking staff for the exact schedule of the wine club, as these things can sometimes be monthly or subject to change. Historically it’s been on Tuesdays as well, meaning you could theoretically do the quiz and the wine tasting in one night if you were so inclined!)

Beyond these recurring events, the Tavern also embraces its community role with occasional special happenings. Given its proximity to Borough Market, they’ve been known to participate in local events or host seasonal beer festivals and tap takeovers, where a particular brewery’s beers will feature prominently for a week. The pub’s management clearly enjoys keeping a sense of occasion alive. For instance, on weekends they advertise a Saturday brunch session – opening a bit earlier on market days so shoppers can pop in for a brunch bite and what they cheekily claim are the “best Bloody Mary’s in Borough” to kick-start your day. And during major London events or holidays, you might find themed specials (like a special cocktail during the Thames Festival, or a festive menu at Christmas with mulled wine flowing). One-off events like brewery showcase nights, meet-the-brewer sessions, or even history talks about the local area have happened here in the past as well.

However, it’s important to note that The Southwark Tavern’s heart remains that of a relaxed pub – so events here are social and unpretentious. You won’t find blaring club nights or karaoke competitions, and sports fans should be aware the pub doesn’t typically show live games on big screens. Instead, the focus is on fostering a community vibe through things like the quiz and wine club, which nicely complement the Tavern’s character. If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth checking their website or social media to see if any special events or theme nights are on the horizon. But even if you just stumble in on a regular night, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by a lively quiz final round or a group of wine enthusiasts clinking glasses in a corner – little touches that give the Southwark Tavern its sociable, congenial spirit.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Step inside The Southwark Tavern and you’ll immediately sense the vibrant yet unpretentious atmosphere that has made this pub a beloved local spot. The interior manages to be both historically rich and comfortably contemporary. Much of the pub’s Victorian character is intact – from the glazed caramel-coloured tiles on the walls to the wooden floorboards and vintage brewery signage (look out for the old “Meux’s Brewery” tiling as a nod to its past) – yet it doesn’t feel like a museum piece. Instead, these heritage features are blended with casual, modern touches: warm lighting, eclectic furnishings, and that inviting open fireplace that’s lit on colder evenings. The layout includes a mix of high stools near the bar, standard tables, and cosy bench seating tucked into corners. It’s the kind of place where you can equally imagine a group of coworkers laughing over pints, a couple nestled in a quiet booth, or a solo visitor reading a book by the fire. Music, when played, tends to be background-level – just enough to add ambiance without drowning out conversation. By day, especially around lunchtime, the Tavern is bright with natural light and has a laid-back feel, often with market shoppers resting their feet. By night, it glows with a more lively buzz, but remains “vibrant yet leisurely” – there’s an energy without any rowdiness, and first-timers often comment on how comfortable and welcoming the vibe is.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the atmosphere is found below ground. Descending the staircase to the basement bar, you almost feel like you’re entering a secret hideaway. Down here the old brick cell walls form a series of intimate alcoves and candle-lit cubicles, each furnished with comfy cushions – these are the infamous former prison cells turned booths. Far from being spooky, the effect is actually charming and even a bit romantic. It’s not every day you get to drink in what was once a jail cell! These little nooks are hugely popular; they offer a sense of privacy and novelty that groups absolutely love. Don’t be surprised if you find every cell occupied on a busy evening, with laughter emanating from behind the iron-bar-like partitions. Between the historic setting and the friendly crowd, the ambience at The Southwark Tavern is uniquely delightful – it’s a rare blend of historical intrigue and everyday conviviality. Tourists often marvel at the fact they’re drinking in a Victorian debtor’s prison, while regulars just casually enjoy it as their local hangout spot. This mix of patrons adds to the pub’s inclusive feel. As the pub’s own description notes, it draws a diverse clientele and reflects the relaxed, leisurely vibe of the neighbourhood. You’ll rub shoulders with an eclectic mix: after-work professionals in suits, market traders grabbing a pint post-shift, backpacking tourists, maybe a couple of beer aficionados with a CAMRA guide in hand, and long-time Southwark residents with their dogs snoozing under the table. Everyone mingles comfortably here, bound by the simple enjoyment of good food, drink, and company.

In terms of accessibility, the Tavern does its best within the constraints of a 19th-century building. The main bar area at ground level is on a single floor with just a small step at the entrance, so wheelchair access to the main room is possible (though not perfectly level, it’s manageable with assistance). Once inside the ground floor, navigating can be a bit tight when it’s crowded – the cosy layout means some narrow passages between tables. The basement bar, however, is only reachable by stairs, and the original steep steps could pose a challenge for those with mobility issues. Unfortunately, there isn’t an elevator or alternative access to that level, which is something to be aware of if you have difficulty with stairs. Many patrons happily stay upstairs, which still offers plenty of seating and atmosphere. The pub does have outdoor seating on the pavement, which not only is great on sunny days but also provides an option for those who might find the interior a bit cramped or need an easier-to-access spot. As for facilities, the restrooms are located on the ground floor; they are modest in size (as expected in an old pub), and I did not note a specifically designated accessible toilet, so that’s another consideration. On the bright side, the staff are very accommodating – if someone needs a hand (whether it’s carrying drinks to an outdoor table or finding a seat that suits their needs), they’ll step up to assist.

A couple more notes on comfort: outdoor area – the Tavern’s patio seating wraps around the front by the paths of Southwark Street and Stoney Street. It’s not a beer garden per se, but there are a number of picnic benches and barrel tables outside. In warm weather these are fantastic for enjoying the street life of the Borough Market area; you’ll often see every outside seat taken on a summer evening. The pub is also dog-friendly – it’s quite common to see a few furry companions lounging contentedly while their owners have a drink. Water bowls are usually available, and staff seem to enjoy having canine visitors (treats have been known to be given). This adds to the homey, community-oriented atmosphere. Noise-wise, the Tavern can get lively, especially at peak times, but it rarely gets unbearably loud. Without blaring music or sports, the sound tends to be the natural buzz of conversation. If you’re after a quiet pint, late afternoon or Sunday evenings are your best bet, whereas if you thrive on a bustling pub energy, Thursday and Friday nights deliver that in spades. All in all, the atmosphere at The Southwark Tavern is a major selling point – it’s warm, characterful, and inclusive. And while the building’s historic nature introduces a few accessibility challenges, the pub makes an effort to be as accommodating as possible, ensuring that everyone can soak in the unique charm of this place, whether in a cosy cellar booth or at a sunny outdoor table.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Situated in the heart of historic Southwark, The Southwark Tavern enjoys an enviable location that makes it an ideal pit stop during a day of exploring London. The pub is perched on the corner of Southwark Street and Stoney Street, literally across the road from Borough Market, which is one of the city’s most famous food markets. In fact, you can step out of the Tavern’s door and be browsing the market’s artisanal food stalls within a few paces – it’s that close. This proximity means the pub often fills up with shoppers seeking a refreshing pint or a meal after winding through the busy market. The immediate area around the Tavern is packed with history and attractions. Just a stone’s throw away (within a few hundred meters) you’ll find the Golden Hinde, Sir Francis Drake’s iconic galleon ship replica, docked as a museum. Equally nearby is the towering Shard skyscraper – you can look up from the pub’s front and see its gleaming pinnacle – and the HMS Belfast, a WWII warship-turned-museum moored on the Thames. If you’re interested in theatre and literature, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a short walk west along the river, and the Tate Modern art gallery is also within walking distance, just past the Globe. Essentially, The Southwark Tavern sits amidst Bankside’s iconic cultural attractions, making it a perfect “refuelling” spot as you take in the sights.

For transport, the pub is very well connected. London Bridge station (serviced by the Northern and Jubilee Tube lines, as well as national rail) is only about a 3–5 minute walk away, making it extremely easy to reach from across London. In fact, you can see the railway bridge at Borough Market from the pub – that’s how close it is. Several bus routes also run along Borough High Street and Southwark Street, so public transport options abound. If you’re coming from central tourist hubs like the Tower of London or St Paul’s Cathedral, it’s just a short bus or Tube ride to get here. The Tavern’s location on the south side of the Thames means it’s also a lovely walk across London Bridge from the City or across the Millennium Bridge from St. Paul’s, if you’re up for a scenic stroll. Those staying around the South Bank, Waterloo or Tower Bridge will find it within comfortable walking distance as well. For drivers, keep in mind there is no dedicated parking at the pub (or in Borough Market area generally). Street parking is extremely limited and subject to restrictions, so it’s not advisable to drive right up to the area. There are some paid car parks a bit further out, but frankly, public transport is the way to go here. Cyclists will find some bike racks around, and of course, one can always walk from nearby accommodations if staying in the London Bridge area.

Beyond Borough Market, the neighbourhood of Southwark/Borough is vibrant and worth exploring. Immediately around the Tavern are other traditional pubs (The Market Porter and The Globe Tavern are within a block, both also popular with market-goers), as well as a host of cafes, bakeries, and wine bars that have thrived thanks to the market’s influence. Southwark Cathedral, a beautiful medieval church, is just by the market as well and often has choral music and events. If you venture a bit further south, you’ll hit Borough High Street which has more restaurants and shops, and leads down to Elephant & Castle. Heading north and east takes you into London Bridge City and towards Tower Bridge. The pub’s strategic spot makes it a great meetup point – for instance, you could gather friends at the Tavern before heading to a show at the nearby Bridge Theatre, or for a walk along the Thames Path eastward to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Even if you simply plan to pub-crawl, The Southwark Tavern can be the start or end of a fantastic crawl around Southwark’s historic pubs (don’t miss The George Inn on Borough High Street, a genuinely old coaching inn, as part of that circuit). In short, whether you’re a tourist plotting your London itinerary or a Londoner showing friends around, The Southwark Tavern’s location is prime. It offers not just convenience, but a sense of place – you’re drinking in a pub that’s embedded in one of the oldest, most character-rich districts of the city, with so much to see and do at its doorstep. This makes a visit here all the more rewarding: you can combine a pint (or two) with a whole day’s worth of London exploration and end up right back at this welcoming tavern.

Overall Impression

The Southwark Tavern delivers a truly special pub experience by effortlessly combining rich history, hearty hospitality, and the best of British pub culture. After spending ample time here, it’s easy to see why this place is considered a gem in the Southwark area. The pub has an authentic charm – from its Victorian tiled exterior and storied past as a debtor’s prison, to its warm, convivial interior vibe – that gives it a character all its own. You feel a tangible link to London’s history while also enjoying the comforts of a modern, well-run establishment. In a city filled with pubs, the Southwark Tavern manages to stand out. Its unique basement cell booths alone make it memorable, but it doesn’t rely on gimmickry; the Tavern also excels in the fundamentals: tasty food, a great selection of drinks, and friendly service. It’s the kind of place where you can have an excellent pint and a conversation about the day’s market finds, all while literally sitting in a piece of history. The balance it strikes between being a tourist-friendly spot (given the location) and a true locals pub is particularly impressive – it welcomes all comers without losing its soul as a neighbourhood local.

Of course, like any pub, The Southwark Tavern isn’t without a few minor quirks or downsides. If you visit during peak times, be prepared for it to be very busy and bustling – it’s a victim of its own popularity in that sense. At Friday happy hour or a sunny Saturday, you might have to jostle a bit to get to the bar or wait a touch longer for your meal; a few reviews have mentioned service delays when the place is packed. The flip side is that the lively atmosphere is part of the fun, and the staff generally handle the rush with aplomb. Another thing to keep in mind is that there’s no parking and limited seating capacity, so logistics favour those coming by foot or public transit (which, luckily, is most people in this area). If you absolutely require a quieter or more spacious setting, you might find the Tavern’s cosy layout a bit confining at the busiest moments. Additionally, sports fanatics who need a big screen for the match or those who love pub games won’t find that here – but then again, that’s not what this pub is aiming for. These are relatively small quibbles in the grand scheme. As many patrons point out, such inconveniences are far outweighed by the pub’s character and quality offerings. The management also seems attuned to feedback; they’ve kept the pub’s historic features beautifully preserved while making tweaks (like expanding hours or adding events) to meet modern expectations.

The Southwark Tavern is well worth a visit – and I’d say it’s a must-visit if you’re in the London Bridge/Borough Market area. It encapsulates so much of what makes London pubs great: an intriguing history, a warm atmosphere, good food and drink, and a sense of community. Whether you’re after a casual pint with friends, a hearty Sunday lunch, or just a unique spot to tuck away for a while (perhaps in an old cell with a candle and a pint of ale), this pub has you covered.