Nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant Southwark district, The Royal Oak is a charming Victorian corner pub that perfectly captures the essence of traditional British hospitality. Located at 44 Tabard Street, this inviting establishment offers a warm atmosphere with its classic wooden bar and two cozy rooms, making it an ideal spot for locals and travelers alike seeking authentic real ales and hearty fare.
The Royal Oak proudly serves a carefully curated selection of real ales from Harvey's Brewery of Lewes, renowned for its quality and traditional brewing methods. Guests rave about the beautifully kept Harveys Old Ale and the rewarding taste of their stouts and dark mild ales, with subtle notes of cherry and sweetness that perfectly complement the pub's inviting ambiance. The kitchen offers an array of comforting British classics alongside vegan-friendly options, including a highly recommended vegan pie that caters to all dietary preferences.
- Traditional Victorian Character – Tiled exterior and authentic wooden bar create a cozy and classic pub vibe.
- Excellent Beer Selection – A wide range of Harvey’s real ales and cask beers, expertly presented and dispensed.
- Welcoming and Dog-Friendly – Bring your well-behaved canine companions along to enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
- Central Location – Just a short walk from Borough underground station, making it easy to access.
- What are the opening hours of The Royal Oak? The Royal Oak is open Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Is The Royal Oak dog-friendly? Yes, The Royal Oak welcomes well-behaved dogs inside the pub.
- Does The Royal Oak serve vegan options? Yes, they offer vegan-friendly dishes including a popular vegan pie.
- Can I make a reservation at The Royal Oak? Yes, reservations can be made via OpenTable or by contacting the pub directly.
- Does The Royal Oak serve real ale? Absolutely, a variety of Harvey's Brewery real ales are always available.
Positive and welcoming - The Royal Oak is beloved by locals and visitors for its cozy ambiance, attentive service, and top-notch beer selection. Its traditional charm combined with modern inclusivity, such as vegan menu items and dog-friendly policies, creates a warm, community-oriented vibe that resonates with a diverse crowd. Whether you're popping in for a quick pint or settling in for a leisurely Sunday roast, the pub consistently delivers an authentic and enjoyable British pub experience.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of London's Southwark district, The Royal Oak at 44 Tabard Street is much more than a traditional Victorian pub. This historic establishment stands on the very site of the medieval Tabard Inn, famously immortalized as the starting point for Geoffrey Chaucer's iconic literary masterpiece, 'The Canterbury Tales.' The current building, constructed in 1870, retains a timeless charm with its distinctive tiled exterior and welcoming wooden interiors that celebrate London's rich pub heritage.
Since its construction in 1870, The Royal Oak has been a cornerstone of local culture and community life. The Victorian architecture preserves the spirit of a bygone era while providing a cozy and authentic atmosphere for beer enthusiasts and visitors alike. Over the years, the pub has garnered prestigious recognition, including being awarded the London Pub of the Year by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) in 2003—a testament to its dedication to serving quality cask and real ales.
- 1870 - Current building constructed on the historic site of the medieval Tabard Inn, preserving centuries of tradition.
- 2003 - Honored as London Pub of the Year by CAMRA, highlighting its excellence in real ale and atmosphere.
- 2024 - Featured in the London Evening Standard's pub guide, further cementing its reputation as a beloved local gem.
Today, The Royal Oak continues to thrive as a traditional corner pub known for its impressive selection of Harvey's of Lewes beers and expertly kept cask ales. The pub’s two-room layout and classic wooden bar create an intimate setting that welcomes both regulars and visitors exploring London's Southwark area. Beyond its rich history, it offers a vibrant social scene without losing the charm of a true Victorian-era establishment, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic London pub experience steeped in literary and cultural significance.
- Historic Location - Situated on the site of the medieval Tabard Inn, the birthplace of Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales'.
- Award-Winning Pub - Recipient of CAMRA's London Pub of the Year and featured in prestigious local guides.
- Authentic Victorian Design - Features a classic tiled exterior and inviting wooden bar area preserving its original character.
- Traditional Victorian pub atmosphere
- Extensive selection of Harvey's Brewery ales
- Dog-friendly environment
- Authentic British pub experience
- Friendly and efficient service
- Limited food service hours on certain days
- Occasional service hiccups reported
- Can get busy in the evenings
The Royal Oak is perfect for casual gatherings, family outings, and dog-friendly meetups. Its warm atmosphere makes it a great spot for enjoying hearty Sunday roasts or simply unwinding with friends over a pint.
- Reservations are recommended for larger groups
- Parking is available on the street
- Check for live music events on weekends
The Royal Oak stands out as a quintessential British pub, offering a delightful mix of traditional charm and modern comfort. With its extensive selection of ales and a welcoming atmosphere, it remains a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.
