Clapham is one of the most popular areas in London – and naturally there's a pub scene to match.
From gastropubs to arty boozers, there's a pub for every taste in Clapham. Unsurprising, as there's a lot of Clapham.
We've rounded up the best pubs across Clapham Common, Clapham North, Clapham South and Clapham Junction. There's also a dash of Brixton and Wandsworth included for good measure.
Want more pub perfection? Check out our guides to the Best Pubs in London Bridge, Best Pubs in Waterloo and Best Pubs in the City.
First round's on us. Cheers.
Best Pubs in Clapham Common
The Stonhouse
Simple and straightforward, The Stonhouse does everything right, without any pretension. Its brick walls and dark, leathery atmosphere give it the added oomph.
What’s the beer selection like?
There’s twelve on tap. Also guest ale, and a couple stouts and pale ales to choose from.
The wine list is impressive so don’t be afraid to indulge.
How’s the food?
Fantastic. Your mid-week menu is pretty pub-standard. Hake and chips, scampi, steak.
On Sundays they’ve got a great roast going. But the scotch eggs and salt and pepper calamari on the Bar Food menu is to die for.
Is there a beer garden?
Yes there is a beer garden. It’s reasonably sized for a busy summer’s day, and particularly nice in the evenings with all the lights.
Anything else to note?
The garden is available all year round. They keep it heated and covered. So come November, when you fancy that frosty beer, give The Stonhouse a crack.
165 Stonhouse St, SW4 6BJ; The Stonhouse
The Sun
Slap bang in the middle of Clapham Old Town, The Sun is a lively pub with drinks a-flowin’ and top notch food. The garden is a beaut, too.
What’s the beer selection like?
Pretty expansive. 10 hand-picked beers on daily rotation on the craft taps and plenty on draught, as well as a lovely selection of wine and spirits.
How’s the food?
Bar snacks are the king here, as well as a delicious list of main course options.
Try the sausage roll with a hint of cheddar and the crispy breaded sticky beef liquor melts for something a bit different.
Is there a beer garden?
Yes there is, a really nice one. Lots of space and never empty in the summer.
Anything else to note?
This is one where you’ll want to book in to make sure you get a seat (especially if you’re reading this after all restrictions have been eased.
47 Clapham Old Town, SW4 0JL; The Sun
The Bobbin
This is one for ‘those in the know’. Hidden away on a quiet backstreet in Clapham Old Town, it’s the ideal spot for a long lunch, afternoon drink or leisurely dinner – ideally all three combined.
What’s the beer selection like?
Small but well considered. Timothy Taylor’s Landlord and Harveys Sussex Best for ales, Camden Hells and Estrella Damm head up the lagers; and Camden Pale Ale and Sharps Atlantic Pale Ale for the Pales. A fairly standard selection of bottled beers and spirits fill up the rest of the bar.
How’s the food?
There’s a strong Mediterranean leaning here. Think burrata and heritage tomato salad, gazpacho Andaluz, bruschetta di pomodoro and calamari with aioli to start. Main courses are more generic, but no less comforting.
Is there a beer garden?
Oh yeah – a lovely walled affair with sprawling climbing roses. Get there early in proceedings to secure a spot in the sunshine.
Anything else to note?
The wine list includes a Double Magnum of ‘Coto de Imaz’ Rioja Reserva from 2013. Yes, it’s £120; but at £30 per 75cl, that’s a lot of bottle for your buck.
1-3 Lillieshall Rd, London SW4 0LN, thebobbinclapham.com
The Alexandra
It’s quirky and Irish. It’s traditional. That’s enough for us but if you want know more then keep reading.
What’s the beer selection like?
There’s eleven taps to get yer hands on. House bitter, plenty of crafts and stouts. Guinness, Amstel, Kona Big Wave. They’ve also got a decent selection of wines and spirits to choose from.
How’s the food?
In terms of bar snack you’ve got some pretty filthy buffalo chicken wings to get greasy with. The main contender is the pizza, though.
They’re all pretty standard, with a twist (Buffalo Margherita, Salami picante, Black olive and anchovy) but done to perfection. More than you’ll need to sponge up those ales.
Is there a beer garden?
Unfortunately not, although there is a smoking area out front. But hey, take your frustration out on the darts board.
That’s right, they’ve got a darts club that you can book in to. Pretend you’re the next Phil Taylor while chomping on buffalo wings.
Anything else to note?
It's a great place to watch the match. The Alexandra has five TVs showing live sport. What’s to complain about?
14 Clapham Common South Side, SW4 7AA; The Alexandra
Coach & Horses
Five minutes away from Clapham Common, Coach & Horses is a great place to wet your whistle slightly off the beaten track.
What’s the beer selection like?
They pride themselves on their extensive craft beer selection. They sell everything from IPAs, APAS, sours, Gooses, Saisons, and any other seasonal beers you can imagine. Recently they had a beer that tasted just like a Solero ice cream!
How’s the food?
Coach and Horses serve 14 delicious pizzas with plenty of veggie/vegan options too! As well as the classics such as pepperoni and ham and mushroom. The pizzas are all available on a gluten free base.
If you are just looking for a snack, they also have really great nachos and vegan wings available.
Is there a beer garden?
They have a lovely front garden which people enjoy basking in during the summer. But for when the weather turns, they’ve got a big awning to provide cover as well as heaters.
Anything else to note?
All the best sports can be found at the Coach & Horses, with a walk-ins only policy. Also they have got a great pub quiz which is always well attended. This will be returning in September!
173 Clapham Park Rd, Clapham, SW4 7EX; Coach & Horses
Hope & Anchor
An absolutely delightful beer garden makes this pub – right on the border between Clapham and Brixton – a must-visit for all drinkers.
What’s the beer selection like?
The beer Selection varies from Peroni, Camden hells, Camden Pale, Estrella, Neck Oil, Brixton reliance and Guinness.
How’s the food?
Hope & Anchor have just launched a new food menu with their new pulled beef nachos, hot & spicy chicken wings and burgers.
They have also included a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan food such as Jackfruit nachos, mouth watering plant based burgers and cauliflower wings.
Is there a beer garden?
The beer garden is amazing with its own private Tiki huts that have their very own Tv Screens that seat up to 10 people. These are perfect for watching sports with your friends.
They also have a very beautiful pergola that is covered and is heated for when it gets a bit cold.
Anything else to note?
Their Rocks Room is for larger parties that hold up to 150 people!
123 Acre Lane Brixton London SW2 5UA; hopeandanchorbrixton.co.uk/
The Belle Vue
Part of the City Club pub family, The Belle Vue opposite Clapham Common station prides itself of being vegan friendly. They certainly have a ‘bellevue’ inside, with a bright, airy, cosy interior.
What’s the beer selection like?
On draught, expect the classics – Amstel, Moretti, Guiness et al and a few craft beers. There’s also a guest ale tap which rotates regularly. Very similar with the bottled beers – Sol, Peroni, Estrella etc.
There’s plenty of non-alcoholic beers, wines and classic cocktails to choose from too.
How’s the food?
The Belle Vue is well-known for its Chicken Parmigiana, so we recommend giving it a try. This classic pub menu has about a 50:50 ratio of meat to plant-based dishes, lots of them are also gluten free.
The plant based/gluten free Celeriac Katsu Curry looks great. Or, pop in for a hearty Sunday roast after a crisp morning walk on the common (of course this includes vegan roasts too).
Is there a beer garden?
There’s not. But with a common literally a two-minute walk away, how much more outdoor space do you need?
Anything else to note?
This place has something happening Monday to Thursday, including The Big Fat Belle Vue Quiz every Tuesday and ‘Pie Me a River’ Wednesdays. There’s also speed dating nights coming up. Never a dull moment.
Clapham Common South Side, London SW4 7AA; The Belle Vue
Best Pubs in Clapham North
The Clapham North
No prizes for guessing which area of Clapham The Clapham North is located. This wonderful pub is barely a minute from the tube station – making the commute home a bit of a dream.
What's the beer selection like?
There's a strong selection of craft beers and cider on tap, along with an assortment of bottles and cans. Teetotallers should note several different low / no ABV-beers to sample.
Pushing the boat out? Try one of the house cocktails, an old classic or a special summer serve. The Bloody Mary is meant to be particularly good.
How's the food?
Copious and good. Whether you're looking for brunch, lunch or dinner, The Clapham North has you covered. It's definitely worth starting your day with a visit: the eggs are sourced from Cackleberry Farm and taste delicious.
Oh and there's Sunday Roasts. Naturally.
Is there a beer garden?
Not a beer garden per se but there's a very nice outdoor area if you can snag a seat. Looks onto the street and is great for people watching.
Anything else to note?
Pub quiz every Sunday if you want to round off your week in style.
409 Clapham Rd, SW9 9BT; The Clapham North
The Railway Tavern
The Railway is always chock full of people. The music is a particular highlight in this pub – come down and get your groove on.
What’s the beer selection like?
This one’s pretty unique for the keg taps. They have an ale called “Magic Rock Common Grounds”. If the name isn’t weird enough, wait until you hear what’s in it.
It’s a combo of seven different malts combined with seven different coffees added separately at three different points during the ale making process. The outcome is pretty spectacular.
If it doesn’t appeal, get the Delirium Tremens or St Stefanus. Plenty of other ales and ciders too in case you’re not feeling too adventurous.
How’s the food?
The Chicken Society has plenty of trendy, delicious food choices. Korean style BBQ bites are particularly popular. Lots of greasy burgers to dig into as well.
Try The Boss (Double beef patty, cheesy sauce, bacon, tobacco onions, Sriracha hot sauce, crushed hash brown).
They don’t ignore vegans and veggies here, either. Try the vegan Cauli wings (Chilli, spring onions, vegan mayo, Frank’s Hot Buffalo Sauce) and the veggie lasagne. Both go down a treat.
Is there a beer garden?
No beer garden here. This is a place where all the action happens inside. So don’t miss it.
Anything else to note?
The Chicken Society and Ruby Jean’s Burgers (The Railway’s own food brands) will deliver to you on UberEats or Deliver if you ain’t feeling too perky.
18 Clapham High St, London SW4 7UR; The Railway
The Landor
The Landor is famous for its fringe comedy productions and beer garden. There's also Sky Sports and a pool table to keep you busy.
What’s the beer selection like?
There’s plenty of craft beers to try, both on and off tap. Two of their 15 taps are beers from Brixton Brewery, just 10 minutes down the road. Can you get any more local?
How’s the food?
The menu isn’t huge, but there’s still enough variety to suit all taste buds - from classic fish and chips to lamb or chicken flatbreads. There’s also vegetarian and vegan options.
Is there a beer garden?
Esquire voted The Landor’s garden as one of Britain’s best. There’s plenty of benches – though not many sheltered – and a garden bar serving a range of craft beers, frozen cocktails and more.
Anything else to note?
On the first floor of the pub, the Theatre Space allows users to transform the space for any type of event. Be it a music event, workshop or a private party, there’s also an upstairs bar. Handy.
70 Landor Rd, London SW9 9PH; The Landor
The Duke of Edinburgh
OK so The Duke of Edinburgh is really a Brixton pub but it's a mere ten-minute walk from Clapham North so it makes the list. The main thing that matters here is the beer garden. We'll come to it.
What’s the beer selection like?
Plenty to choose from, all your classics on tap along with a good wine and spirit list.
How’s the food?
Quite heavily inspired by Jamaican cuisine, courtesy of White Men Can't Jerk. Lots of Jerk chicken and wing options. All wonderful.
Is there a beer garden?
My oh my is there a beer garden. It’s the biggest in Clapham, apparently. But to our eyes its one of the biggest we’ve seen.
You can’t even see to the end if you’re stood at the entrance of the garden. Full of people and great ambiance in the summer, it gets pretty rammed on a hot day.
Anything else to note?
The garden closes at 9:30, so if you plan to stay longer then make sure you book an indoor table beforehand, as they tend to fill up.
204 Ferndale Rd, SW9 8AG; Duke of Edinburgh
Best Pubs in Clapham South
The Windmill
The Windmill stands directly on Clapham Common but Clapham South is the marginally closer tube. It's a lovely pub and you don't get much more Clapham either way.
What’s the beer selection like?
The Windmill have a really interesting selection of beers with always three cask ales available and a great selection of premium craft beers including three Beavertown beers and local offerings from Two Tribes and Gipsy Hill.
They also offer gluten free beers in cans and bottles as well as three non-alcoholic beers so there really is something for everyone.
How’s the food?
They are very proud of their food, as they serve fresh seasonal modern British food including the pub classics you would expect and some more interesting twists. All of their steaks are locally from Ginger Pig butchers on Abbeville Road, and their 800g sharing cote de beouf, tomahawks and porterhouses are all very popular.
They have some great brunch dishes and are rightly famous for their roasts. The Windmill always has a good selection of options for vegetarian and vegans, they’ve even perfected a vegan Yorkshire pudding.
Is there a beer garden?
They say they have London's biggest beer garden as they’re right on Clapham Common.
The actual beer garden has an outside restaurant that seats 60 (non smoking) and three other gardens including their Shack Garden with the bookable Max Shack area for 30 people, live music every Saturday in summer and their famous Burger Shack (which also has a vegan version of each of the burgers).
Anything else to note?
The Windmill is an award winning boutique hotel with 42 bedrooms, their feature rooms have roll top baths so perfect for indulgence. T
hey also have London's most famous pub dog, Max a 66 KG Bernese Mountain Dog with a penchant for sausage rolls! He has his own insta account @Windmill_Max.
Clapham Common South Side, London SW4 9DE; The Windmill
The Abbeville
It’s rustic and dark. Candlelit tables and Victorian style paintings decorate the pub's interior. Very atmospheric.
What’s the beer selection like?
There’s 11 on the keg taps with three on the cask pumps. There’s always a variety and a bit of a spread from all over the world.
In terms of top-shelf spirits, they change every time you go. Rest assured, the Abbeville won’t bore you.
How’s the food?
There’s a brunch menu with some outstanding options. Try the smoked salmon and scrambled egg on sourdough.
There’s also the Sunday roast, which runs from 12pm until 9pm. All served with roasties, veg and gravy.
Is there a beer garden?
No beer garden. But there’s a terrace, just as spacious as any garden you’ll need for a great al fresco night.
Anything else to note?
The Abbeville has two sister pubs, also in Clapham. The Stonhouse and The Avalon. So the atmosphere has its familiar twang, with a twist. It’s always busy, and always homely.
67-69 Abbeville Rd, London SW4 9JW; The Abbeville
The Avalon
Despite being named after the mythical island of Avalon (King Arthur), you won’t find any stone tables or pointy hat wizards here. It’s nonetheless a pretty pub with an enchanting, hearty ambiance.
What’s the beer selection like?
In abundance. There’s 13 beers on tap to choose from. You’re pretty spoilt for choice here. Plenty of bottled beer, over 30 whiskey options and some cool little additions from Japan (Nikka and Yamakazi).
The Avalon is also reasonably big on non-alcoholic bevs so if you don’t indulge or fancy a night off then grab yourself a Punchy (0% fruit punch). The Virgin Mary is pretty interesting, too (tomato, Worcestershire sauce, tabasco).
If you’re a cocktail drinker, get yourself a Monkeyshoulderoni (Monkey Shoulder, Campari, English Rosso).
How’s the food?
The food is great. We recommend the Braised Wagyu Beef brisket with sweet potato fries and coleslaw. Bit different from your standard bangers and mash, and with the Banoffee pie for dessert, tidies up nicely.
Is there a beer garden?
Oh yes. And it’s really lovely. The Courtyard is an outside lounge area (mostly decking).
It’s got three different areas, the lounge (where you can book parties), the booths (for casual drinks and food), and the al fresco bar.
If that’s not enough, there’s also a terrace out front.
Anything else to note?
In need of a room to hire out for a private party? Hire out the Blue Room. It’s at the bottom of a secret staircase behind the bar. It’s perfect for hen dos, birthdays or just a nice dinner.
16 Balham Hill, Clapham South, London SW12 9EB; The Avalon
The Grove
Although it's technically on Balham High Street, The Grove is almost exactly halfway between Clapham South station and Balham station. It’s modern, cosy and family friendly – including dogs!
What’s the beer selection like?
There’s no shortage of good beer at The Grove but the wine list might be the true USP. The wines are divided by character (e.g. Smooth & Silky; Rich & Spicy), plus there’s even a separate menu for Port and Dessert Wine.
The bottles range in price from the low £20s to the low £40s – depends on how good a day you’re having!
How’s the food?
You’ll find everything you expect on a hearty pub menu - Camembert, sausage and mash, fish and chips, steak, the works. There’s a couple of vegan options too.
We recommend trying the Slow Cooked Beef Featherblade and Kidney Pudding - looks delicious!
Is there a beer garden?
No garden, but there are a few outdoor tables at the side of the pub. Not many though, so you’ll need to be quick if the sun’s out.
Anything else to note?
They have a pub quiz every Thursday from 8pm, with a chance to win a £50 bar tab, the ‘mega cash golden question’ and other prizes. Worth trying your luck if you ask us.
39 Oldridge Rd, London SW12 8PN; The Grove
Best Pubs in Clapham Junction
The Northcote
Super chic, new-agey vibes. Come here for a chill drink and if you’re feeling a little artsy.
What’s the beer selection like?
Pretty limited on the craft beer front. All your classic draughts are on tap, though.
The highlights on this menu are the cocktails and wines. Try the Amaretto sour (Amaretto, angostura bitters, lemon juice, egg whites) and Dark N Stormy (Kraken rum, Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, lime juice, Angostura bitters, lime wedge).
How’s the food?
Lovely. The chicken and smoked ham leek pie is fabulous. Try the smoked mackerel plate for starters if you’re feeling fishy.
Is there a beer garden?
No but there's outdoor seating. Anyway, the Northcote is perfect as it is. The ambiance comes from indoors so you’d be missing it all sat outside anyway. Who needs the sun?
Anything else to note?
Really great place to book out for private hires. This pub screams taste so if you have any clients that need impressing then make sure you come here.
2 Northcote Rd, SW11 1NT; The Northcote
Four Thieves
A vibrant pub around ten minutes from Clapham Junction with an amazing arcade room upstairs.
What's the beer selection like?
Plentiful, there’s 15 lines on the Main Bar alone! If craft beer is your thing there’s a taproom and bottle-shop on-site with six draught lines and two fridges filled with bangers from near and far.
The pub also has 50 gins and a range of flavoured tonics so there's really a combo for everyone.
How's the food?
There are two kitchens! One is the Four Thieves’s very own pizzeria with freshly made sourdough bases and a great selection of toppings (including a Nutella pizza. Thank them later).
Then there’s the main kitchen which serves pub classics with an Italian twist – the N'duja Mac n' Cheese is pretty life-changing.
Is there a beer garden?
Enjoy a small but mighty Gin Yard with a sunny courtyard as well as cozy, covered booths. She's fantastic all year round – in the winter they throw up the stretch tent, affectionately nicknamed Quentent Taratento, to keep out the elements!
Anything else to note?
Don’t miss a huge arcade on the upper floor with a full size remote controlled car track, the world's first in pub Virtual Reality booths and a huge range of retro Arcade games.
Plus the Big Quiffy Quiz every Tuesday with fabulous Boogaloo Stu and a live Comedy Club every Thursday featuring professional comedians, ranging from TV names to rising stars.
1 Lavender Gardens, SW11 1DJ; Four Thieves
Hawkins Forge
Located in Battersea, close to Clapham Junction station. The slogan for this pub is ‘social eats, beats and treats’. They play live sports (including football) and have an incredible food menu – read on and see for yourself.
What’s the beer selection like?
It’s craft beers galore here, with a selection of beers and ales from around the world. On draft they do have a couple of crafts that rotate regularly, but your staples like Camden Hells, Peroni and Neck oil are there to stay.
There’s a classic cocktail menu, plenty of ciders and non-alcoholic options too. There’s also a gluten-free Peroni on the menu.
How’s the food?
Veggies and vegans – you’re in luck. This place has a ‘Veg Heads’ menu with 14 different options – and that’s excluding your classic sides like fries.
For the meat lovers, the rest of the menu is split into ‘Chicken Society’, ‘Ruby Jeans Burgers’ and ‘The Marvellous Pub Grub Co’. Alongside starters, sharers and sides.
It all sounds so scrumptious, we genuinely wouldn’t know where to start.
Is there a beer garden?
Yes. It’s not huge, but plenty big enough for an alfresco pint or two.
Anything else to note?
They offer an ‘express lunch’ between 12pm and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Get a burger or wrap with a side and a drink for £10.50 or £11.50 with alcohol – though we’re not sure what drinks are included, so ask beforehand if you’re considering an early tipple.
110 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1EJ; Hawkins Forge
The Fox & Hounds
The Fox & Hounds is part of a small group of independent pubs, which includes the Bobbin on this very list and also a few great Hammersmith boozers.
What’s the beer selection like?
At the time of writing, The Fox & Hounds has a selection of four lagers on tap, a few real and pale ales and extra cold Guinness and Mortimer’s Cider. Plenty to keep you occupied.
How’s the food?
The menus are largely Mediterranean with many dishes from Spain and Italy as well as France, Morocco and Algeria. The kitchen focuses on using the freshest, best ingredients delivered daily directly from the markets.
The Fox & Hounds also have a T-bone special on Monday nights with a 1kg 28-days aged T-bone steak. Don’t miss the Sunday roasts either.
Is there a beer garden?
The Fox & Hounds have a beautiful cosy garden at the back of the pub, really peaceful and quiet. The garden is very popular in summer and all covered and heated in winter, too.
Anything else to note?
Post prandial stroll? Battersea Park is ten minutes by foot. Perfect for those lazy (ish) Sunday afternoons.
66-68 Latchmere Rd, London SW11 2JU; The Fox & Hounds
The Ship
Strictly speaking, The Ship isn’t a Clapham pub; The Ship is a Wandsworth pub. However The Ship is only 15 minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction and that’s close enough to make the list. Come aboard.
What’s the beer selection like?
The Ship is a Young’s pub so expect a hearty selection of lagers, ales and cider to wash your troubles away on the tides. There’s a decent wine selection and fair array of cocktails as well. Emulate the drunken sailor and get your grog on.
How’s the food?
Substantial. The Ship offers brunch, dinner and Sunday Roasts to ensure your stomach is lined and your mood merry.
Special mention to the Burger Shack, which promises the best burgers in Wandsworth. Not only can you chomp down on Classic, Loaded or Chicken Katsu burgers, there are also plant alternatives for each! Yo ho indeed.
Is there a beer garden?
Yes – and what a beer garden! The Ship’s waterside terrace overlooks the river Thames and can even be accessed via boat.
Big group? Book one of the cabins that seat up to 15 people and contain their own TV – a perfect option for the Six Nations or football.
Anything else to note?
There’s never a dull evening at The Ship, with Wednesday quiz nights and weekend DJs – plus the occasional live band. Set sail for Wandsworth when you can.
41 Jews Road, Wandsworth, SW18 1TB; The Ship
