London pubs

Copper House is a stylish, intimate bar at Wellington Parade, with a drinks list built around cocktails, spirits, beer and wine. It is family-friendly, welcomes dogs until 6pm, and keeps the music low enough for conversation.

Distortion Brewing Company is an independent South West London brewery and taproom, tucked beneath Wandsworth Road railway station. Come for modern craft beer served directly from the tanks, with wine, cocktails, spirits and cider alongside.

Libertalia Brewing Company is a small brewery and taproom at Arch 142 on Tilbury Road, pouring its own draught beers alongside cocktails. Burgers and street food from local vendors keep things fed, while DJ events bring extra energy at the weekend.

The Stag & Lantern is a relaxed, community-focused micropub on The Broadway in Highams Park. Its changing drinks selection covers real ale, craft beer, cider, wine and alcohol-free options, with street food, burgers and occasional DJs adding to the mix.

Urban Alchemy Tap is the Barnet taproom from Barnet Independent Brewery, serving small-batch craft beer and real ale at 98 High Street. The taproom is currently closed, with the brewery running pop-up bars at events instead.

The Vault Morden is a modern, multi-functional venue a short walk from Morden Tube Station. It is available for private hire, with space for parties, celebrations and other events.

Elm & Eden is a relaxed micro-pub on Upper Elmers End Road, with characterful décor, discreet music and a warm welcome. The drinks list includes craft beers, lagers, spirits and non-alcoholic options, while the food runs to burgers, wings, chips and squid.

The Backyard sits on Shoreditch High Street, serving cocktails, beers and food in a welcoming bar setting. There is plenty of seating, and the venue can be reserved for occasions such as company parties.

Gravity Well’s taproom pours hop-forward pales, IPAs, DIPAs and intensely fruity sours from its Tottenham brewery. There’s vegan Japanese street food, bar snacks and a small outdoor seating area alongside the beer.

Jawbone Brewing’s taproom brings fresh brewery pours to a relaxed spot near the Thames in Twickenham. There are seven changing taps, cans to take away, wine, G&Ts and soft drinks, with food and occasional events on the calendar.

Drop Project Brewing is a tap-room brewery tucked into Willow Business Centre, serving its own range across around eight taps. It is a little out of the way, but the direct-from-the-source beer, visiting food vendors and occasional events make the trip worthwhile.

Harlem Brewing Company Taproom brings the New York brewery’s beers to Market Row, with a rotating-feeling selection that includes favourites such as Cherry Sour and La La La Lager. It’s a small, friendly bar for trying something new, with cocktails and sports on screen too.