There’s not much I like more than drinking, eating and listening to some jazz. So when the chance came to check out the new look of Barnes’ infamous jazz den, The Bull’s Head, I jumped at the chance. But with all the new modern touches, would it be able to keep it’s soul?
The Venue
Located right on the river, the setting of The Bull's Head couldn’t be better. Inside there’s a bizarre mix of your standard gastro grub, intimate jazz club and effortlessly cool bar - but somehow it works brilliantly. The buzzing atmosphere, island bar, log fires and comfy seating are all offset by a relaxed dining room. Then on top of all this, there’s the chic room upstairs (for private events) and an adjoining building outside, where you can party the night away with some of the best jazz acts in London.
The venue is a gastro pub, jazz club and stylish bar all rolled into one!
The Atmosphere and Clientele
As far as jazz clubs go, this place is more middle-aged men than bearded hipster, but that might actually be considered a good thing. In the bar and restaurant the vibe is chilled but busy, perfect for relaxed drinks and dinner. If you're not a jazz fan you needn't be put off, there’s plenty of food and good booze to be distracted by, just be prepared for a very young family-feel at the weekend.
Jazz not your thing? Fear not, for the standard of the menu is worth a visit alone.
The Food and Drinks
The menu has a selection of averagely priced traditional British pub food with a twist, including your favourite Sunday roasts. But with the option of bargain £7 salads you'd almost think you weren't in London. However it’s at the bar where things get really exciting; there’s your microbrewery craft beers, local London ales and other quality cask ales making this an excellent place to kick back with a brew any day of the week.
The Bull's Head boasts a wide range of beers and ales to select from.
Summary
It’s a shame that The Bull’s Head jazz heritage is now so separate from the rest of the pub, but that doesn’t detract from the fact that this is an excellent place to while the time away by the river with a beer or Bloody Mary.
