The Prince Regent

If Victorian pubs could tell stories, The Prince Regent in London would be penning bestsellers. Perched proudly on the corner opposite Brockwell Park in Herne Hill, this architectural stunner has been serving up pints and tales since the mid-nineteenth century, when it first opened its elaborately decorated doors as a Truman's house. Today, it stands as a testament to London's enduring pub culture, complete with a rather dashing statue of its namesake prince keeping watch over the proceedings.

Walking into The Prince Regent feels like stepping into a particularly well-preserved time capsule, albeit one with excellent Wi-Fi and contactless payment. The central bar, with its decorative gantry that would make any Instagram influencer swoon, anchors the space like a ship's helm. Those sturdy wooden pews along the walls? They've probably heard more London secrets than a black cab driver on a Saturday night shift.

The pub's interior is a masterclass in traditional British pub design, but without the stuffiness that sometimes comes with historic venues. Rich timber fixtures and fittings create a warm embrace, while the wood and etched glass partition separating the bar from the dining area adds a touch of Victorian sophistication. Historical pictures dot the walls, sharing space with a handsome Truman's mirror that's probably seen more toast-worthy moments than we've had hot dinners.

But what really sets The Prince Regent apart from other London pubs is its ability to balance its historical grandeur with a thoroughly modern approach to hospitality. The front of the pub boasts a collection of benches shaded by parasols – perfect for those three days of British summer we get each year. Inside, the space manages to feel both cozy and spacious, with plenty of nooks for intimate conversations and larger areas for group gatherings.

The menu here strikes that sweet spot between traditional pub fare and contemporary cuisine. Yes, you'll find your fish and chips (priced fairly at £15.95), but venture into the specials menu and you might discover something that would make even a seasoned foodie raise an appreciative eyebrow. The kitchen team clearly knows their way around both classic comfort food and more adventurous dishes – those arancini that regulars rave about aren't your standard pub grub.

Behind the bar, you'll find a well-curated selection of drinks that caters to both traditionalists and those looking to expand their horizons. The cask ales rotate regularly, keeping things interesting for the regulars, while the wine list is surprisingly sophisticated for what appears at first glance to be "just" a neighborhood pub. And let's talk about those cocktails – they're mixed with the kind of care that suggests someone behind the bar actually enjoys their craft rather than just going through the motions.

One of the pub's hidden gems is its upstairs private room, which has become something of a local legend for celebrations. With its own bar and space for canapés and nibbles, it's the kind of venue that makes party planning almost too easy. The staff have mastered that particularly British art of being attentive without hovering, friendly without being overfamiliar.

The Prince Regent has managed to cultivate that most elusive of pub atmospheres – a place where both locals and newcomers feel equally at home. During the week, you might find yourself sharing the bar with everyone from young professionals unwinding after work to old-timers who remember when the pub's Victorian tiles were newly laid. Come Sunday, the roast dinner service transforms the space into what feels like London's largest family dining room.

Here's the inside scoop: arrive just before the evening rush to snag one of those coveted window seats, perfect for people-watching across Brockwell Park. If you're coming for Sunday roast (and you really should), book ahead – this isn't one of those best-kept secrets anymore. And while the main bar area has its charms, those in the know often gravitate toward the slightly quieter dining area behind the partition, especially for more intimate conversations.

Step out of Herne Hill station, and you're just a five-minute walk from what might become your new favorite London pub. The Prince Regent isn't trying to reinvent the wheel – it's just making sure it runs as smoothly as possible, with a bit of Victorian splendor thrown in for good measure. Whether you're planning a special celebration upstairs or just dropping in for a pint and some people-watching, you'll find yourself in exceptionally good hands. Trust me, your future self will thank you for discovering this gem of South London hospitality.