The Five Bells

The Five Bells in London is that perfect neighborhood pub that makes you wonder why you ever waste time at fancy cocktail bars. Tucked away in New Cross, this historic watering hole isn't just a pub - it's where Charles Dickens literally wrote his last novel! But don't worry, this isn't some stuffy literary museum. This is where epic nights begin, legendary stories are born, and your wallet somehow stays surprisingly full.

Listen, I need you to understand something: this isn't just another London pub. This is the kind of place where you walk in for "just one pint" and end up making best friends with a local who knows every secret passage in Southeast London. The U-shaped bar is basically a social catalyst - I've never seen someone stand there for more than five minutes without getting pulled into the kind of conversation that makes you forget to check your phone for hours.

You know those pubs that feel like they were designed by someone who's never actually been to a pub? This isn't one of them. The Five Bells keeps it real with proper pub vibes - think vintage fireplaces, classic wood paneling, and the kind of tartan carpet that's seen more stories than a tabloid journalist. But here's the best part - they've got a pool table AND a dartboard. Name a better combo for turning strangers into mates. I'll wait.

OH. MY. DAYS. Let me tell you about the prices. Remember when you could get a pint in London without having to remortgage your house? The Five Bells is keeping that dream alive. We're talking proper London pub prices that'll make your bank account send you a thank-you note. Carlsberg for £3.10? In LONDON? That's not a typo, that's a miracle.

The smoking area out back isn't just any old smoking area - it's got chalkboards where you can scribble your deepest thoughts or most questionable artwork. It's basically a philosophical salon meets street art gallery meets therapy session. I've seen some of the best impromptu poetry readings happen right there between cigarettes.

They've started doing jazz nights now, and let me tell you - it's not your grandad's jazz. This is the kind of night where you might walk in knowing nothing about jazz and leave planning to start your own quartet. The atmosphere when the music's playing? Electric doesn't even cover it.

Here's your insider intel: get there early if you want to snag the prime spots near the bar. The locals are friendly but they're not giving up their favorite perches without a fight. And if you're there when Millwall's playing? Buddy, you're in for a SHOW. The energy in this place during match days could power half of Southeast London.

The staff here? They're not just bartenders - they're basically pub concierges. Need recommendations for the best cider in South London? They've got a detailed map in their heads. Want to know the history of every building within a five-mile radius? Just ask. They're the kind of people who make you feel like you've been coming here for years, even if it's your first visit.

And let's talk about that location - right by New Cross Gate station, which means you've got zero excuse not to visit. Plus, you're literally around the corner from where they filmed Shaun of the Dead. Yes, THE Shaun of the Dead. Your Instagram story basically writes itself.

Listen, while the rest of London is queueing up for overpriced drinks in places with more rules than a boarding school, The Five Bells is over here offering the authentic London pub experience we're all actually craving. This is where memories are made, where friendships are forged, and where some of the best nights in London begin. Get yourself to New Cross, find The Five Bells, and thank me later. Just don't blame me when you end up making this your regular spot - though honestly, you could do a lot worse.