Blythe Hill Tavern

Let me tell you about the Blythe Hill Tavern in London, because this isn't just another pub - it's the kind of place that makes you text your friends at midnight saying "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE?!" This Grade II listed gem in South East London is what happens when someone takes everything you love about a proper British boozer and turns it up to 11.

First things first - this isn't some cookie-cutter chain pub with generic vibes. The moment you walk through the door of the Blythe Hill Tavern, you're stepping into what feels like London's best-kept secret (except it's not so secret anymore, with that ridiculous 4.8-star rating from nearly a thousand people who couldn't keep their joy to themselves).

Picture this: You're wrapped in dark wood paneling from the 1920s that's seen more stories than a library, surrounded by walls that are basically a museum of Irish writers, vintage brewing memorabilia, and sporting history. THREE separate rooms to choose your adventure - because why have one perfect pub space when you can have three?! The corner public bar for your casual pint, the cozy saloon for those "let's solve the world's problems" conversations, and that sprawling back room that's basically begging you to bring your whole crew.

OH. MY. DAYS. The beer garden! When summer hits London, this place transforms into an absolute oasis. We're talking about the kind of outdoor space that makes you cancel all your other plans and text everyone you know with "EMERGENCY GARDEN DRINKS AT BLYTHE HILL. NOT A DRILL."

The prices? They're like a beautiful throwback to when London was actually affordable. We're talking proper pints that won't make your wallet cry, including some of the finest Guinness this side of Dublin. The rotating cast of real ales keeps things interesting, and yes, they've even got pizza that's actually good - not just "it's-midnight-and-I'm-hungry" good, but legitimately delicious.

But here's the thing about the Blythe Hill Tavern in London - it's not just about the drinks (though they're stellar) or the historic interiors (though they're Instagram gold). It's about those nights that start with "just one quick pint" and end with you making friends with half the pub, learning traditional Irish songs, and wondering why you ever waste time anywhere else.

During winter, those roaring fireplaces turn the place into the cozy pub of your dreams. Quiz nights here aren't just quiz nights - they're competitive sport with more plot twists than a Netflix series. And when there's live music? The atmosphere is electric enough to power half of South East London.

Let's talk about Con the landlord and his crew - because they're the secret sauce that takes this place from great to legendary. The kind of publicans who remember your name, your drink, and probably that story you told them three months ago about your aunt's cat. It's like being at the world's best house party, except the house is a historic pub and everyone's invited.

For the sports fans - watching matches here is basically like having the best seats in the house, if the house was filled with the most entertaining commentary team you've never met but always needed in your life. The atmosphere during big games is worth bottling and selling.

Getting here? Ten minutes' walk from Catford station, and trust me - it's worth every step. It's the perfect excuse to tell your mates "it's a bit of an adventure" before revealing what might be your new favorite pub in London. The street parking's free, which in London is basically like finding a unicorn that serves pints.

Look, I could go on about the Blythe Hill Tavern in London all day, but here's the bottom line: If you haven't been here yet, you're actively choosing to have less joy in your life. It's that simple. Whether you're planning a first date, a mate's birthday, or just need a proper pub that feels like home (if home had better beer and professional pizza), this is your spot. Get yourself to Forest Hill/Catford borders and thank me later. Just don't blame me when you end up making this your second address.