Though drinking in zone three may not be the most enticing of prospects, Balham is definitely an exception, with its great selection of pubs. These boozers are cosy and friendly, and you never get overcrowded bars as you would do with some Central spots. Though there are not many pubs in the area, there are still some great places to drink in Balham, despite this.
No list of Balham pubs would be complete without The Bedford. This local institution is a favourite among all, thanks to its central location, stunning interiors and fantastic selection of British grub. Whether you're looking for somewhere for a quick, cosy pint or a sit-down family feast, you're gonna want to hit up this place.
Looking like a pub taken fresh out of your retro living room, Balham Bowls Club is everything a traditional boozer should feel like. It's a favourite social with locals and pulls in punters with a spread of hearty nosh and top notch beers to choose from. Don't let this Balham pub fool you, she's a beauty with a rustic heart.
The Regent, located on Chestnut Grove and just a stone's throw from Balham tube station is a home-away-from-home created to offer locals and visitors something a bit different. They offer a wide selection of drinks, cocktails and carefully sourced and prepared lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus, all served in newly refurbished and stylish surroundings.
Hidden in the suburbs between Balham and Clapham North, The Nightingale is a top pub in London for casual afternoons and British plates. Join this favourite not only for affordable plates and the best of London beer, there's a garden and outdoor seating to boot.
Ok you caught us, this one's not technically a pub. But Lost & Found's live music programme, fun-time atmosphere and massive cocktail list wins it a worthy spot on the list. You're absolutely in the right place if cocktails are your thing, and there's a healthy choice of beers and wines to boot. The kind of space to drink your way deep into the evening.
Head to Balham where modern British pub, The Cyclist, is serving up a delicious selection of seasonal eats every day of the week. Alongside a menu of slap up grub, you'll also find some tasty craft beers, cocktails and small-batch gins to enjoy.
A constant since way back in 1821, The Devonshire is still one of Balham's finest boozers thanks to its exceptional drinks, sunny beer garden and gastro fare that is a cut above your standard pub grub. Pick something out from their extensive range of ales, craft beers, spirits, wines and juices; well-matched with their signature smoked scotch eggs or something from their BBQ menu come the summer.
This stunning example of Victorian architecture has stood as a haven from the hustle of Balham high road since 1877. The interior design is inspired by this decadent period when the scandalous Victorians lorded over the largest Empire in history and Balham was resident to many of London's most notable characters. Enjoy a craft ale & a pulled pork slider in the Cox's bar, a great pub in Balham.
Perched on Balham Hill, The Avalon is a modern pub that's known for its beautiful decor, across both the interiors and the leafy beer garden. They strike a balance between chic and homely, with exposed brick walls and a roaring fireplace paired with the elegant touches across the room.
Whether it's indoors or al fresco, their selection of beers and cocktails is fantastic. Hungry? Get stuck into the likes of beef brisket burgers, pan-fried stone bass, portobello mushroom pizzas and more.
While Hagen & Hyde may be tucked among the high street shops of Balham, it's one hell of a pub. From the cool beer garden out back to the regular sport screenings and pub grub, it's the perfect all rounder for those in South London.
They host weekly quizzes, as well as lively parties on Fridays and Saturdays. Plus, you can enjoy delicious Yard Sale Pizza while you're here, topped with everything from garlic roasted aubergine to pepperoni.
