THE JOURNAL
The Three Johns, Angel. Photograph courtesy of The Three Johns
Now that patio season has come to a close, the humble pub offers respite from the incoming chill. In essence, the pub is a second home during the holiday season – a safe haven from cooking duties, annoying family members, and a place to enjoy throat-warming booze, a homemade feast, and that famous festive cheer. Whether you’re looking for award-winning cuisine, or to refine your whisky palate, these six London gems will warm your cockles this winter.
For whisky connoisseurs
The Sun Tavern, Bethnal Green
The Sun Tavern, Bethnal Green. Photograph by Mr Rory Paterson, courtesy of The Sun Tavern
Over 300 years ago, the Irish spirit poitín was deemed both sinful and illegal. Sinful no longer, poitín tasting classes have become a mainstay at The Sun Tavern. During the class, sample four varieties of the spirit, ranging from 40 to 90 per cent strength, and learn about the histories of its makers. For a more subdued evening, order the special whisky cocktail, which changes every month, or try the Bushmills Original hot toddy. Featuring more than 130 whiskies on the menu from distilleries all over Ireland, whisky lovers are spoilt for choice. After your visit, be sure to buy your favourite bottle – the pub is also an off-licence.
For a taste of the countryside
The Running Horse, Mayfair
The Running Horse, Mayfair. Photograph courtesy of The Running Horse
The Running Horse has the feel of a quaint country pub. Cofounded by the former bar director of Sketch, Mr Dominic Jacobs, The Running Horse is the oldest pub in Mayfair. Besides having a rich history, old fireplace, stylish seating and hunting-inspired art, the food is also top-notch. Enjoy one of its legendary meat pies and wash it down with a dark lager.
For cosiness
The Jerusalem Tavern, Clerkenwell
The Jerusalem Tavern, Farringdon. Photograph by Mr D Hale-Sutton/Alamy
Perhaps the tiniest pub on this list, The Jerusalem Tavern makes up for its size with old-world appeal (and reasonably priced beer). While the tavern has been in the area since the 14th century, it has called Britton Street home since 1720. Formerly named The Jerusalem Coffee House and presently owned by St Peter’s Brewery in Suffolk, coffee or beer are classic options. While you’re there, try the Scotch eggs and hole up by the fire with a good book.
For the food obsessive
The Marksman, Hackney
The Marksmann, Hackney. Photograph by Harriet Clare, courtesy of The Marksmann
Homemade dressings and sauces are par for the course at The Marksman on Hackney Road. With a menu that changes daily, The Marksman will become your go-to for culinary inspiration, whether you’re a pub lover or food fanatic. It won the Michelin Pub of the Year Award in 2017, and the Good Food Award for Gastro Pubs in 2019. For the full experience, sign up for an intimate cookbook dinner, where revered chefs devise menus from their favourite cookbooks.
For the literary crowd
The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead
The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead Heath. Photograph by Lucas Rodriguez/Eroteme
For literary aficionados and mulled wine lovers alike, The Spaniards Inn is worth the trip to Hampstead. A fixture in the area since 1585, The Inn served as a fictional watering hole in Mr Bram Stoker’s Dracula. With wood-panelled walls, a crackling fire and intimate seating, it’s where the likes of Lord Byron and Mr John Keats cured their writer’s block. Order a glass of mulled wine and try the Yorkshire pudding that comes with the Sunday roasts.
For the winter beer loyalist
The Three Johns, Islington
The Three Johns, Angel. Photograph courtesy of The Three Johns
The Three Johns ticks all the proverbial pub boxes: wood panelling, eccentric antique portraits, fireplace and a tall liquor shelf. What makes this Angel haunt special, however, is its impeccable selection of beer. With more than 14 beers on tap and nearly 70 types of lagers, The Three Johns is a must-visit for the year-round beer drinker. During cold evenings, heavier beers such as Cassels & Sons Double Cream Milk Stout, or the Beavertown Heavy Lord, are advised.