BALHAM PUBS
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I’ll be honest, there aren’t a huge number of Balham pubs I’d recommend visiting – you’re far better making your way to Clapham or beyond… That being said, there are some drinking spots worth visiting, each with their own wee spark.
So whilst most Balham pub guides have countless recommendations… I reckon there are four worthy of your hard-earned pennies pounds.
Let me know if I’ve missed anything!
Clapton Craft
DECOMPRESS WITH A BEV
Not strictly a pub, but well worthy of inclusion on this Balham pubs list. I’d rather pop here for a relaxing few drinks than some of the bang-average spots in the area.
Cards on the table, I’m a bit biased: Clapton Craft was the first place that made me feel welcome having just moved to London. I’ve since visited a few of their stores and always have a great time, be it with friends or on my lonesome. So, despite the bias, I’m confident you’ll enjoy it.
The space:
Like all Clapton Craft sites, it’s a relaxed space that encourages you to switch off from outside stresses and enjoy a quality brew. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and want to match you with drinks you’ll love.
The Balham site is blessed with outdoor seating, meaning you can soak in the occasional London sun and watch the world go by. Lovely stuff.
The drinks:
How long have you got? 5 beers on tap, which typically include the likes of lager, cider, pale ales and sours. If none of them tickle your fancy, the world is your oyster. Clapton Craft is a beer shop at heart, so it’s fair to say they stock up on the stuff – we’re talking wall-to-wall with cans and bottles varying in type, strength and price.
It’s not just beer. They’ve also got natural wine, cider and local spirits. Simply pick your poison and the team will pour you a glass of the good stuff.
Oh, and if hunger strikes, Yard Sale Pizza is at your beacon call (it’s everywhere at the mo…).
The London Butler note: There is a corkage fee if you’re staying in and something from the fridge.
28 Hildreth St, SW12 9RQ; Clapton Craft
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All images by Clapton Craft
Balham Bowls Club
A BIT DIFFERENT
Once a bowls club (who would’ve guessed it), this charming venue has become one of the most popular pubs in Balham. And rightly so.
The space:
Rather than giving it the London treatment by ripping out old for new, Balham Bowls Club proudly nods to its past – they even call themselves a ‘nostalgic social club’. What does this actually mean? Ornate wood panelling, trophies, shields, and a peppering of bowls equipment. It feels like you’re entering a bowls club. And a fine one at that. It’s totally different to other pubs in the area.
It’s also a big place. There are several areas to sprawl into with plenty of seating, making it my favourite Balham pub for large groups. It’s not just for big groups, though. Without sounding cliché, this is a place for all kinds: large groups, sure, but they’ve also got live music, drawing classes, quizzes – you get the gist.
It can get busy
And on that note, it’s worth saying the BBC can get busy. Peak weekend times can mean waiting at the bar for a bevvy. Not always, but sometimes, so bear this in mind if you’re only after a swift one. Oh, and if the football is on, chances are they’re showing it – do with that what you will.
Bevs and bites
Expert your pub favourites – cask and pale ales, IPAs, Guinness and ~5 lagers on tap, alcohol-free by the bottle, not to mention plenty of wine by the glass.
As for food, I recently had their beef and bone marrow burger – lovely stuff. Not the best pub grub in the city but I enjoyed it. We’re hoping to go for a roast soon and will update you lovely lot – I’ve heard good things about the veggie option
All in all, Balham Bowls Club is different to other local spots. It’s a vintage space that proud nods to its past. A place for all sorts. Just how it should be.
The London Butler tip: They’ve got a decent-sized beer garden — always a plus come the summer
7-9 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8QX; Balham Bowls Club
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The Cyclist
INCREDIBLE SERVICE
I’ve gotta be honest: I wasn’t a fan of The Cyclist when we visited in early 2024. It was fine – but that’s all it was: an okay place to have a drink. Having gone back recently, things have changed, and for the better – it’s well worthy of being on this prestigious (yeah right) list.
Having relaunched in June 2024, The Cyclist brings a refresh and new menu. It’s a modern London pub with a bit of character thrown in. The outside space is a real highlight and the service, well, the service is banging.
On service, I need to shout out Max, the real MVP – a man who genuinely wants you to have a wicked time. A mate of mine, who visited just last week, said the same thing; and it turns out we’re not the only ones – just check their recent reviews. These sorts of things make a difference. It’s why I’ll head there next time vs Hagen & Hyde.
On the food front, things have massively improved. The fish finger sandwich is bloody brilliant and makes for a wonderful pub lunch.
If you’re looking for somewhere a little livelier on a Friday and Saturday night, without the want to head to a bar, The Cyclist is well worth a visit. The music is a little louder, the songs a little faster, and the service still top-notch…
The London Butler note: The Cyclist is so close to Balham station and perfect for a pre-tube bevvy.
194 Balham High Rd, SW12 9BP; The Cyclist
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All images by The Cyclist
The Bedford
WHERE SOMETHING’S ALWAYS HAPPENING
I’ll keep this short and sweet. The Bedford is where things happen; there’s always something going on. Sure, you can go for a drink and leave it at that, but I’d argue there are better pubs for that sort of thing. You come here to do something…
Be it comedy nights featuring (sometimes) well-known peeps, swing lessons, a regular pop quiz, live music from many an artist, there’s always something to see. And if you’re craving a livelier eve come the weekend, their club room is open Fridays & Saturdays from 11pm – 2am. Disco, house, ’90s, and all that – you get the drill.
The Bedford is a delightful distraction from the mundane. We’ll see you there.
77 Bedford Hill, SW12 9HD; The Bedford
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Let us know if you’ve been to any of these or if there’s a Balham pub we need to visit!
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And if you’re wanting more tips for the Balham area, be sure to check out our guides to Balham’s brunch spots, cafés, bars and restaurants.
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