Discover The Royal Oak in Southwark London: A Classic British Pub Experience
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.
A haven for real ale enthusiasts and food lovers
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.
Why The Royal Oak stands out in Southwark
- 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.
Frequently asked questions about The Royal Oak
- 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.
Community sentiment and visitor experience
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.
The royal oak history and heritage in london southwark district.
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.
historic timeline and notable achievements
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.
a living tradition for beer lovers and locals
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.
The Royal Oak at a glance
Pros
- Traditional Victorian pub atmosphere
- Extensive selection of Harvey's Brewery ales
- Dog-friendly environment
- Authentic British pub experience
- Friendly and efficient service
Cons
- Limited food service hours on certain days
- Occasional service hiccups reported
- Can get busy in the evenings
Ideal for
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.
Things to know before visiting
- Reservations are recommended for larger groups
- Parking is available on the street
- Check for live music events on weekends
Overall impression
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.
The Royal Oak, Southwark London: A charming historic pub experience at 44 Tabard St.
Nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant Southwark district, The Royal Oak is a quintessential Victorian corner pub that invites you to step back in time and savor authentic British pub culture. Located at 44 Tabard Street, this establishment is celebrated for its richly traditional atmosphere, featuring a cozy wooden bar and two intimate rooms perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.
Exceptional cask ales and beer selection
The Royal Oak is renowned for its impressive selection of Harvey's Brewery ales, bringing the authentic taste of Lewes to London. Beer aficionados can enjoy a rotating variety including Best Bitter, Mild, Pale Ale, and the elusive Dark Mild, all carefully presented and expertly dispensed for maximum flavor. This dedication to real ale craftsmanship makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine British pub experience.
Comfortable setting and thoughtful amenities
This traditional pub boasts a tiled exterior that perfectly complements its Victorian charm, creating an inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Inside, the friendly staff and warm surroundings make it an ideal spot to relax with friends or enjoy a quiet pint. The Royal Oak welcomes dogs and groups, ensuring everyone feels at home. Payment options include contactless and card payments, reflecting a modern convenience amid historic surroundings.
- Real ale variety: Includes Best Bitter, Mild, and Pale Ale from Harvey's Brewery.
- Sunday roast specials: Traditional options including roast beef, pork, and vegan pie for £15.
- Dog friendly: Welcomes canine companions with open arms.
plan your visit
Conveniently situated just a short stroll from Borough underground station, The Royal Oak offers a perfect pit stop on your London itinerary. While the pub does not provide outdoor seating or live music, its authentic ambience and quality ales more than compensate. Street parking is available nearby with paid options, and the pub’s reservation system makes it easy to secure a spot for groups or special occasions.
Discover the charm of a true traditional London pub while enjoying exquisite cask ales and hearty meals at The Royal Oak.
