Alcohol and kids definitely should not mix, but over in the U.K. going for a drink in a pub is a common family outing. The majority of pubs are open throughout the day, especially on weekends and many have gardens making them a great choice for a place to meet up with friends while the children play.
Rather than just offering beer and spirits lots of pubs also provide hot food, many of them excelling as gastropubs, and have therefore become an alternative to a traditional restaurant for Sunday lunches and special occasions.
London pubs, in particular, not only condone kids as patrons but actively encourage them. These landlords go further than simply allowing parents to bring their children in with them for a pint, they provide activities and amenities to make the smallest guests feel right at home. Which seems fitting as according to The Daily Mail, Britons apparently spend a year of their life in the pub!
London publicans enthusiastic marketing and redesign of “family-friendly” pubs include offering kid’s meals and providing highchairs and coloring books, some go even further earning them the moniker of “The best child-friendly pub in London.” So, when in London, make like a Londoner and bring the kids along for a date night at the pub. Here are a few firm favorites.
3 Broom Road, Teddington, Middlesex,
The Anglers is right on the banks of the river Thames and has a lovely playground. The kid’s menu has lots of appealing choices for mini guests and it even has its own mooring spot so you can arrive by water!
44 – 48 Clapham High Street, London
This eclectic bar has a kid’s corner and sperate menu. Come on Sundays to enjoy brunch. Or arrive later between 1-5 p.m. when qualified carers lead kid-friendly activities so the adults can have an uninterrupted chat.
The Island, Queens Park
123 College Road, Kensal Rise, London
The Island is a gastropub with outdoor space that welcomes families with a selection of board games in “The Snug” a quieter corner of the pub where you can enjoy your Sunday lunch with a glass of wine while the children play.
The Florence, Herne Hill
131-133 Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London
The Florence has a garden which in the summer hosts weekend BBQ’s, and a large playroom for rainy days. This pub has its own microbrewery and hand pumps to deliver the perfect pint.
The Knights Templar, Chancery Lane
95 Chancery Lane, Off Carey Street, Near Fleet Street, London
Although it’s a chain run pub by the Wetherspoons network it really is a cool space with little medieval touches that kids will love. A suit of armor, nooks and crannies and stairwells to hide in and the best bathrooms in London. Each individual stall door arcs out as though you are entering a tomb and the sinks are made to look like a fountain!
Lippitts Hill, Loughton, Essex
On the outskirts of London and into Loughton, Essex you’ll find The Owl. Follow the long winding country road where a collection of animals are available to pet, including the cutest bunny rabbits. It also has a playground in its large garden and paddocks next door with friendly horses.
