The City of London and Canary Wharf are nice locations, but they somehow lack something that faded away with years passing by in the capital: authentic British pubs.
But only a few miles from the city centre, another area has everything you’re looking for, and these best pubs in Paddington are sure to bring you back to the good old days while sipping on exotic drinks.
When planning a good time and wanting to feel like a high roller, then you need to check out these pubs in Paddington. These places are where the party never stops, the drinks keep flowing, and you’ll feel like a million bucks without spending one!
Let’s get started with our list; we’re confident you’ll find the right spot to spend the night with friends or colleagues.
Top Pubs in Paddington
The Union Paddington
- Type: Gastropub
- Address: 4 Sheldon Square, London W2 6EZ
- Known For: Delicious Sharing Boards and 30-day Dry Aged Hereford Ribeye
In the mood for a beautiful and exquisite meal? The Union Paddington is the perfect site to relax and enjoy some of the best food and drinks in the area.
The Gastropub is set near the canal and offers a variety of European and Asian dishes and small plates to share. Our personal favourites are the Smoked Salmon with Crushed Avocado served on toasted sourdough, and the classic Beer Battered Cod Fillet with Pea Purée and Fries.
Naturally, at The Union, you should go ahead and try the different drinks available – The Old Fashioned Cocktail and their assortment of wines are our recommendations.
What else to say? Are you on the hunt for a great place to eat or drink in Paddington? Then head over to The Union.
The Cleveland Arms
- Type: Historical Pub
- Address: 28 Chilworth St, London W2 6DT
- Known For: The Cleveland Arms Burger with Rosemary Fries
The Cleveland Arms has been a Paddington institution for over 150 years. This charming pub serves up British classics with a twist in a cosy and inviting setting. The pub’s rich history is evident in its Victorian-era theme, which includes antique furnishings and a unique ambience.
The Cleveland Arms is the ideal pub to enjoy a romantic meal or a night out with colleagues. Indulge in the incredible menu featuring Onglet Steak with Puy lentils and Chimichurri, Roasted Cauliflower Risotto served with Parmesan, and even original British treats like Scottish Eggs.
And if you’re willing to enjoy hot summer days, you could take advantage of their terrace outside with their excellent craft beer.
See Also: Oldest Historic Pubs in London
The Royal Exchange Pub
- Type: Pub
- Address: 26 Sale Pl, Tyburnia, London W2 1PU
- Known For: Beef Murphy’s Pie
Another fantastic spot for a pint for an excellent meal is The Royal Exchange, a typical British pub that is different from modern eateries and cocktail bars in the city.
The pub has a wide selection of beers, including both local and international brands, and, obviously, a great menu featuring Mexican delicacies made with fresh local ingredients.
The Victoria, Paddington
- Type: Pub
- Address: 10A Strathearn Pl, Tyburnia, London W2 2NH
- Known For: Owton’s Dry-aged 8oz Ribeye Steak
While technically not in Paddington, The Victoria is only 0,1 miles away from the official border of the neighbourhood, hence largely eligible for our list of best bars in Paddington.
The Victoria pub in Paddington is a typical 19th-century British pub with original-looking wallpaper and wooden furniture serving fantastic beer and comfort food that will leave you craving more. The interior design is opulent, and the atmosphere is inviting, making it a lovely place to enjoy a drink and some traditional pub fare.
The menu features classic British dishes like Fish and Chips but also offers original dishes such as the Fried Buttermilk Chicken Burger and the Corn-fed Chicken Breast with Puy Lentils and Salsa Verde.
In terms of drinks, they have all the best wines you can think of, from French specialities to La Rioja straight from Spain and even Chile and Argentina.
Last but not least, The Victoria won the Fuller’s Pub of the Year awards in 2007 and 2009. Do we need to tell you more to convince you? Book your table today and enjoy the experience by yourself.
The Mad Bishop & Bear
- Type: Gastropub
- Address: 1st Floor, Paddington Station, London W2 1HB
- Known For: Grilled Lamb Kofta and Crispy Squid
The Mad Bishop & Bear in Paddington is another stunning yet authentic pub in Paddington, serving exotic specialities and craft beers. It is an excellent pub to enjoy a pint after a long day of work or exploring the city.
The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their drinks, and they are always happy to recommend their signature beer or cocktail to suit your taste. The pub also has an excellent selection of wines and spirits, as well as a menu of classic British dishes that are sure to satisfy your hunger.
When visiting The Mad Bishop & Bear, you should get your hands on the Mrs Owton’s Bacon Chop with Lycroft Farm egg or the Pan-Fried Chicken Pasta with Smoked Bacon. That’s not it, end the meal with the Molasses, Date, and Hops Sticky Toffee Pudding with ice cream, a dessert to die for!
In plain words, whether you are looking for a casual night out or a luxurious dining experience, the Mad Bishop & Bear is an immaculate choice.
Also Read: Best Bars in Paddington, London
Sawyers Arms
- Type: Authentic Pub
- Address: 8 London St, Tyburnia, London W2 1HL
- Known For: British Chicken & Woodland Mushroom Pie
Next is Sawyers Arms, your typical pub with a traditional, delicious menu and refreshing, industrial design. The light-coloured theme makes it seem bright and welcoming, while the wooden furnishings give it a homely feel.
Upstairs, there’s a second comfortable area with a few more chairs and tables, perfect for unwinding with mates around a pint.
Now, let’s discuss the menu, which couldn’t be any closer to what you can expect from a British pub. Among the favourites, you can find the Chicken and Bacon Sandwich with Ayrshire dry-cured bacon, mayo, rocket, and Pico de Gallo, and the Whitby Scampi and Chips served with garden peas and triple-cooked chips.
All the menu was designed to be enjoyed with a drink, including a craft beer or sparkling wine. So, what are you waiting for? They get full pretty quickly, despite how big the pub is!
Fountains Abbey
- Type: Traditional Pub
- Address: 8 London St, Tyburnia, London W2 1HL
- Known For: 8oz Rump Steak Skewer
Fountains Abbey is a historic pub in the heart of Paddington. With its original tile and leaded windows, it’s easy to see why this pub was once a favourite haunt of so many locals. And although the pub has been renovated over the years, it still retains its Victorian charm.
The interior is cosy and inviting, with dark furniture transporting you back to the good old days as soon as you step in. The pub serves a wide variety of beers and ales, as well as traditional British pub fare. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is relaxed and casual.
While you’re here for a drink, don’t skip the rich, succulent menu that you will love! We highly recommend tasting the Halloumi & Chips, a great alternative to the classic Fish and Chips, and the Half Roast Chicken with Rosemary-salted Fries and Fresh Salad.
On top of that, they offer a wide variety of wines from all around the world and local beers, including the St Austell Tribute and the Belhaven Grand Slam. Is there anything that Fountains Abbey can’t do to make you satisfied? We really don’t think so!
Lockhouse
- Type: Industrial Pub
- Address: 3 Merchant Sq, London W2 1JZ
- Known For: Eggs Royale and Avocado and Falafel Bowl
Right next to the Paddington Basin is our next favourite pub – Lockhouse. A modern, industrial, and convenient watering hole is the perfect place for a drink.
They proudly advertise themselves as serving the best food and brunch in Paddington, and it’s easy to see why. With authentic British dishes like Full English Breakfast and the Bacon Egg Benedict, and another exotic delicatessen like the Parmesan Truffle Chips, the Quintessential Prawn Cocktail, and the Lockhouse Power Bowl, you’re in for a treat.
Also, the decor is exactly what you’d expect from a business area – it’s clean, sleek, modern, and comfortable. What else do you need?
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Conclusion
These were the absolute best pubs in Paddington to drink and be merry. Despite its size, Paddington has no shortage of pubs, from sports bars to traditional English watering holes; there’s something for everyone in this neighbourhood.
From The Victoria and its great selection of wines to The Mad Bishop and Bear and its incredible food and cakes and all the other pubs we covered, you have no excuse not to come around and spend the night in Paddington.
Thanks for reading until the end, and let us know if we missed any of the must-go pubs in Paddington; we’re always ready to add more!