Earl of Derby

Listen up, because I'm about to put you onto something special - the Earl of Derby in London is that rare pub that makes you feel like you've stumbled into the best-kept secret in Southeast London. And trust me, once you've experienced this gem between Nunhead and New Cross, you'll be texting your friends "WHERE ARE YOU??" because they NEED to join you.

First things first - this isn't just another London pub. The Earl of Derby has that magical quality where it somehow feels both centuries-old authentic AND fresh-out-the-box exciting. Picture this: you walk in through a traditional Victorian facade and BAM - you're hit with this perfect blend of old-school charm and contemporary cool that'll make your Instagram stories look effortlessly aesthetic.

Y'all, the ROOMS though! This place is like the TARDIS of pubs - it just keeps going! Three distinct spaces that each deserve their own appreciation post. The main bar area gives you those classic pub vibes with an absolutely gorgeous servery (seriously, the back bar is pure eye candy). But wait until you discover the cozy back room through those mysterious archways. And THEN? The upstairs space with its Georgian wood paneling and bold blue walls is basically begging to be your new favorite spot for everything from date nights to group celebrations.

Let's talk about what you're drinking, because the Earl of Derby doesn't mess around with their beer lineup. They've got this perfectly curated selection that'll please everyone from your craft beer snob friend to your "just give me something cold" cousin. The prices won't make your wallet cry either - we're talking proper London pub prices that let you have a proper night out without having to sell a kidney.

But HOLD UP - we need to discuss the food situation because Gengelly's is in the kitchen doing things that'll make your taste buds throw a party. Their pub classics are what comfort food dreams are made of, but they're not just playing it safe. The Sunday roasts? LEGENDARY. We're talking Yorkshire puddings the size of your head and gravy that you'll want to swim in. Even the vegans are living their best lives here - their mushroom wellington has converted more than a few carnivores (temporarily, at least).

The atmosphere is exactly what you want it to be, whenever you want it. Sunny afternoon? Grab one of those coveted outdoor benches and soak up the rays with a cold one. Cozy evening? Sink into a corner with some mates and solve all the world's problems over a few pints. Live music nights turn the place into the kind of spot where "just one drink" turns into "how is it midnight already?"

Here's some insider intel: The best times to hit up the Earl of Derby? Early evening on weekdays for that perfect post-work vibe, or Sunday afternoon for the roast of your life (but book ahead, seriously). The staff are those rare gems who actually seem to enjoy their jobs and will remember your usual after just a couple of visits. And yes, you can bring your dog - it's that kind of place.

Located just a hop from Queens Road Peckham station, the Earl of Derby is the sort of pub that makes you realize why London's pub culture is unbeatable. It's where the locals go to avoid tourists, where first dates turn into relationships, and where "quick drink?" turns into "should we get food?" turns into "okay but ONE more round."

Don't be the person who has to hear about this place from someone else. The Earl of Derby is having a moment, and you need to be part of it. Get yourself down to this corner of London before everyone else discovers it and you have to start booking tables weeks in advance. Your future self will thank you - probably while demolishing a Sunday roast and planning their next visit.