London is renowned for its interest in theatre and film, cloudy weather and intermittent heat waves and an overwhelming number of pubs. People come from all over the world to experience the atmosphere of a proper British pub. And nowhere is the experience more worthwhile than Putney where pubs of all shapes, sizes and ages abound and you can find a mix of good old fashioned pint of ale, refined wines, nutritious pub grub and sophisticated dining.
Some of the more unique and highly recommended pubs in Putney include:
• The Duke’s Head: At 8 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, the pub is suffused with ye olde worlde charm; original fireplaces and gleaming woodwork, but youngsters will also enjoy the basement pub, which often boasts live music, while a private room with a lovely view of the river caters to large groups and private parties.
A selection of ales and draught beers will appeal to the traditionalist in Putney bar enthusiasts while menus based on the availability of fresh seasonal produce will satisfy even the fussiest foodie.
The Duke's Head
• The Boathouse: On Brewhouse Lane, Putney this pub is considered one of the most picturesque in all of London, owing to its amazing Thames riverside location. The bar occupies three levels catering to different needs. The top floor has more of a restaurant feel than Putney bar and is perfect for intimate dinners of the romantic or platonic kind. The mezzanine level and ground floor terrace offer traditional pub fare and an appropriately relaxed atmosphere.
The Boathouse, Putney
• The Prince Alfred: What list of recommended pubs would be complete without an allusion to royalty? The Prince Alfred, located at 5A Formosa Street, Maida Vale, Putney is a prime example of a British pub that has stood the test of time. Dating back to 1863, the pub maintains it original curved front window and compartments that were designed to enforce English societal castes. No self-respecting Gentleman would drink in the company of a chimney sweep (no matter what Mary Poppins may try to tell us) and no self-respecting labourer would feel free to quaff in the presence of a Nob. As a result, there is a Ladies Bar, a Private Bar and some general plebian drinking compartments for those like to drink without judgment.
The Formosa Dining Room is particularly well esteemed among food connoisseurs with tantalising dishes such as roast salmon and pink trout.
• The Halfmoon is perhaps not as old some of the other bars in the Putney area, but it has a reputation as one of London’s most popular (and long running) venues for live music. The Rolling Stones, The Who and U2 are among the famous rock bands that have graced The Halfmoon’s hallowed pub halls, while Billy Connolly and Harry Hill have used the bar as their Putney destination of choice. With an eclectic mix of old and new and live performances 7 days a week, The Halfmoon is the place for you if you have a hankering for live music. You can find the pub at 93 Lower Richmond Road, Putney.
Putney bars epitomise the traditional pub experience that so many people look for when they visit London. But even residents will be surprised by the variety Putney pubs offer and although estate agents in Putney won’t admit it, the presence of so many pubs can’t hurt sales.