The Best Camberwell Pubs And Bars

Wholesome and cosy with a massive, glass chandelier out back and a see-through ceiling letting in rays of natural light, Sun Of Camberwell is a charming pub. It comes with red leather sofa-laced dining areas and spacious beer gardens, perfect for enjoying a fresh pint. Open seven days a week, it fronts hearty roasts with lashings of gravy, as well as a menu filled with seasonal small plates like crispy crab cakes with capers, and popcorn chicken alongside Korean ketchup. Mains include poached chicken supreme, followed by a gooey peanut butter and chocolate brownie for dessert. 

When it comes to the best Camberwell pubs and bars, The Cambria has to be up there. From its leafy garden room to its loft-like bar and lounge, filled with wooden furnishings and droplets of light hanging from the ceiling, it provides a homely setting to enjoy a mix of small plates (three for £18) and generous helpings of hearty classics. The drinks list features local handcrafted beers from Brixton Brewery, as well as a selection of wines, spirits and cocktails. Come for a Kyro Pink Spritz and stay to devour dirty fries topped with cheese, smoked Hickory BBQ gravy and jalapeños, plus beer-battered haddock served with mushy peas.

Up on Denmark Hill, this former railway station has retained some of its features, such as arched windows, vaulted ceilings and a vintage clock, while taking on the form of a colourful, modern boozer. Phoenix Windsor Walk is home to a duel-level bar, one of which can be found on the mezzanine, serving smoked pineapple mezcalitas and non-alcoholic Amalfi spritzes. It's also a great haunt to swing by when looking for somewhere to eat lunch, as its menu includes an array of light bites and main courses, like an avocado and mango salad or pan-fried hake served with gunpowder potatoes. 

Tropical rainforest wallpaper, soft golden lampshades and rich, brown leather booths: Grove House Tavern offers a sight to behold with its aesthetically pleasing interiors. The independent joint is one of the best pubs in Camberwell thanks to its restored Victorian flare paired with a sun-soaked terrace. Head down to dance to live music, giggle with some fabulous comedy or brush off your general knowledge skills with a quiz. You don't have to worry about leaving your furry friend at home either, as it's dog-friendly. Oh, and did we mention it's also home to sandwich giants Mondo Sando? Chomp on the likes of bread filled with chipotle smoked turkey or fennel and picante salami, or even opt for one of its special burgers. Either way, you'll be glad you did as these eats are something special.

Founded by two friends, Matt and Hector, The Crooked Well is an award-winning gastropub that's been part of the Camberwell neighbourhood for over twelve years. It comes complete with a private event space upstairs, laced with emerald green tiles, and a minimal downstairs dining area fronting white tiles and leafy greens. The current menu offers European delights, such as pâté en croûte with mustard and cornichons, plus mains such as bavette steak served with a peppercorn sauce and chips, ideal for a weekend lunch, washed down with a glass of wine from a hand-picked list. 

The award-winning Camberwell Arms is located within a 19th-century pub and from the same team behind Franks Café at Bold Tendencies in Peckham. Established in 2014 by chef director Mike Davies, it offers a contemporary space (think orbs of light dangling from the ceiling and bare brick walls) to enjoy seasonal dishes and a natural-leaning wine list. Thoughtful plates include asparagus drizzled in brown butter with pecorino and hazelnuts, plus chargrilled lamb alongside anchovies. The Sunday lunch is worth making the visit south for, as well as a house cocktail list featuring Mezcal Manzanilla Margaritas and PZ Negronis.