A proper Vauxhall local in every sense of the word. The Jolly Gardeners is the kind of pub that does warmth well — from the friendly faces behind the bar to the comforting plates coming out of the kitchen. It’s open all day, so whether you’re popping in for a lunchtime pint, settling in for supper, or easing into the evening with a local beer, it always feels like the right time to arrive. Expect good food, well-kept ales, and a soundtrack that leans joyfully into Simply Red territory. No pretence, no rushing — just a genuinely welcoming pub that knows its neighbourhood.

Why we love it:
Because it’s a proper local — welcoming, unpretentious, and always a good idea, whether you’re here for food, beer or a Simply Red singalong.

Address:
49 Black Prince Road, London SE11 6AB

Opening times:
Mon–Sat: 12pm–11pm
Sun: 12pm–8pm

Tucked away on Spring Gardens, The Black Dog is one of those pubs you quietly recommend to friends — and then slightly regret because it’s so good. Award-winning and proudly independent, this freehouse takes its drinks seriously without ever losing its relaxed feel. Real ales rotate regularly, the wine list is thoughtful, and the food is seasonal, fresh, and changing daily depending on what’s good right now. It’s cosy without being cramped, refined without being fussy — ideal for lingering over a glass (or two) when the weather turns colder.

Why we love it:
Good drinks, genuinely good food, and a calm, confident atmosphere that makes you want to stay for just one more.

Address:
23–25 Spring Gardens, London SW8 4AJ

Opening times:
Mon–Thu: 12pm–11pm
Fri–Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–10:30pm

(Kitchen times vary — worth checking if you’re heading over for food.)

Part café, part theatre, part community living room — Tea House Theatre is one of Vauxhall’s most comforting spots. By day, it’s all about leaf teas, homemade cakes, proper sandwiches and one of the best Full English breakfasts in London. By night, the space transforms into an intimate venue for performance, music and events. It’s bright, welcoming and quietly charming, making it just as perfect for a slow afternoon cuppa as it is for an evening drink before a show. Come for the tea, stay for the atmosphere.

Why we love it:
A rare hybrid — brilliant tea, homemade cake, and a cultural heartbeat that makes it feel like Vauxhall’s living room.

Address:
139 Vauxhall Walk, London SE11 5HL

Opening times:
Mon–Fri: 10am–6pm
Sat: 10am–11pm (events dependent)
Sun: 10am–6pm

(Evening opening times vary with performances.)

A local favourite that balances top-tier food with laid-back pub energy. The Duchy Arms is known for its award-winning kitchen, a sun-soaked beer garden when the weather plays ball, and a newer smokehouse menu that’s quickly become a hit. Inside, it’s warm and buzzy — the kind of place that feels lively but never overwhelming. With a private function room available and The Oval just a short walk away, it’s as good for big get-togethers as it is for a cosy pint and dinner for two.

Why we love it:
Amazing food, lush beer garden, and the kind of south london energy that works just as well for a roast as it does for late-night pints.

Address:
63 Sancroft Street, SE11 5UG

Opening times:
Mon–Thu: 12pm–11pm
Fri–Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–10pm

The Pilgrim knows how to keep things fun. With daily happy hour, live music nights, themed food evenings (Taco Tuesdays, Wing Wednesdays — you get the idea), and a popular Sunday pub quiz, there’s always something going on. Add cold beers, solid comfort food, live sport screenings and a friendly crowd, and you’ve got a pub that’s full of energy without losing its local feel. It’s the kind of place where you go in for “one quick drink” and end up staying all evening.

Why we love it:
There’s always something going on — quizzes, tacos, wings, music — and it never feels forced. Just good fun, done properly.

Address:
247 Kennington Lane, London SE11 5QU

Opening times:
Mon–Thu: 4pm–11pm
Fri: 4pm–12am
Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–11pm

A classic English pub that does the basics brilliantly. The Windmill is warm, unpretentious and quietly dependable — with a strong selection of beers, homemade pizzas, and a relaxed, lived-in atmosphere. There’s a pool table, darts, and plenty of corners to settle into with a drink, making it a great shout for low-key evenings with friends. No frills, no fuss — just a solid local pub that feels good to be in, especially when it’s cold outside.

Why we love it:
A classic South London pub — cosy corners, homemade pizza, and just enough going on to keep things lively without shouting about it.

Address:
44 Lambeth Walk, London SE11 6PY

Opening times:
Mon–Thu: 12pm–11pm
Fri–Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–10:30pm

Sitting neatly between Vauxhall and Oval, The Fentiman Arms is a vibrant neighbourhood pub with plenty of space to spread out. With two gardens, a brilliant private room, and a menu that delivers proper pub classics done well, it’s a reliable go-to for relaxed drinks or longer catch-ups. The atmosphere is lively but welcoming, making it equally suited to after-work pints, weekend gatherings or cosy evenings that turn into late ones without you really noticing.

Why we love it:
Spacious, sociable and reliably good — with gardens, private rooms and an atmosphere that works for both casual drinks and longer stays.

Address:
64 Fentiman Road, London SE11 8DX

Opening times:
Mon–Thu: 12pm–11pm
Fri–Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–10:30pm

A pub that’s earned its reputation for doing food properly. The Canton Arms pairs a relaxed pub setting with a serious dining room, making it ideal for nights when you want something a little more special without losing that comforting pub feel. Expect seasonal menus, thoughtful cooking, and a warm, intimate atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and enjoy your drink. It’s understated, confident and consistently excellent — exactly how a great local should be.

Why we love it:
A pub that quietly excels — where award winning dining and excellent drinking sit perfectly side by side.

Address:
177 South Lambeth Road, London SW8 1XP

Opening times:
Mon–Sat: 12pm–11pm
Sun: 12pm–10pm