What’s a pub if you can’t bring your pal? So much more than just a man’s best friend, a dog is also an ace drinking partner, if you know where to take him. Check out our list of the most paw-some spots in town and if you’ve got anymore to add to the list, be sure to let us know. Also send us photos of your dogs. We like dogs. A lot.
1. Red Lion and Sun, Highgate
What could be better than a crisp walk across Hampstead Heath on a weekend? Follow that with a long sesh with your pup at this Edwardian gastropub in Highgate Village and you’ll be in sleepy Sunday heaven. During winter, the roaring fire is the best place to park your pooch, whilst from spring to autumn they serve up hog roasts in their back garden, which is great for hungry humans. But the real stars of the show are your little canine companions: the owners take photos of all their favourite furry friends that frequent this watering hole, so make sure they’re looking their finest on the day.
25 North Road, N6 4BE
2. Brown Dog, Barnes
The quiet leafy streets of Barnes couldn’t be a better place to take your dog for a walk. Venture down by the River Thames and do a loop round the ‘Leg of Mutton’, a disused reservoir and local nature reserve that pooches go mad for. Independently-owned pub, Brown Dog, is a perfect spot to try out after. As the name suggests, they’re very dog-friendly, offering pig’s ears and bowls of water upon arrival. The steak and chips with horseradish sauce will make owners very happy too.
28 Cross Street, SW13 0AP
3. The Prince Arthur, London Fields
Just like their owners, only the trendiest pups hang out in London Fields, so expect French Bulldog galore (and certainly no Labradors) at this East London local. It’s a favourite after a day out at the lido, meaning booking for Sunday lunch is heavily recommended. They’ve always got a fresh bowl of water ready for your companion (FYI that means your dog) and a wonderful list of wines for any other companions (FYI that means humans).
95 Forest Road, E8 3BH
4. Gaucho, Hampstead
Before you think we’re barking mad for including a chain restaurant in this list, hear us out. We’ve got two words for you: Doggy Sunday. On selected Sundays of the year, the Hampstead branch of Gaucho throw a Bring-Your-Own-Dog brunch. Special pooches are given complimentary pet nutritionist-approved beef and chicken empanadas, a water bowl AND a goodie bag to take home, so that they don’t feel left out whilst you’re woofing down your three-course set meal. And as if that wasn’t enough, £5 per dog is donated to an animal charity. That gets a massive paws-up from us.
64 Heath Street, NW3 1DN
5. Outsider Tart, Chiswick
Again, it’s not a pub but how can you say no to a cake shop with a ‘Barkery’? Yep, you got it, this delicious American-style bakery in West London has a whole section devoted to freshly made treats for your doggy. Little ones go mad for their puppy granola and they’ve got a selection of different flavoured biscuits, which definitely beat the Bonios. Their human treats are also pretty mouthwatering and each day they have at least five different types of brownies, cookies and cupcakes. Take a quick walk along the Thames beforehand and you’ll definitely both have done enough to earn your treats…
83 Chiswick High Road, W4 1SH