Genuine hidden gems are rather few and far between in hustly, bustly areas like Oxford Street. But this charming boozer, tucked away furtively down a side street, truly is one of the city’s best kept secrets. I mean, you know a place is good when locals are willing to wade through the chaotic crowds of Oxford Street to pay it a visit.
Bradley’s Spanish Bar is not a spot that does what it says on the tin. Quite the opposite, actually. It isn’t owned by somebody named Bradley, it certainly isn’t Spanish, and it isn’t really even a bar. But what it is, however, is cosy, charismatic, and completely unpretentious – a trio of characteristics that are alarmingly hard to come by in a London pub these days.
So, where did the name come from?
It’s what we’re all thinking, right? Why on earth is it called Bradley’s Spanish Bar when not a single part of the name accurately describes what you’re walking into. If you head in to Bradley’s expecting some sangria, tapas, and a flamenco show – you’ll be in for a shock. A pretty darn great one, though.
The building itself dates back to the 1860s when it opened as a sewing machine repair shop but acquired its current name in the late 1950s. There’s a few different stories floating around regarding how Bradley’s got its title. It supposedly came about when the spot was owned by sherry importers (a drink often imported from Spain) who whacked the word ‘Spanish’ on the front of the bar to make it sound a bit more exotic.
The Bradley part of the name allegedly comes from a local named William Bradley, who used to use the basement of the building as a social club. Eventually the merriment took over the whole place, and it was officially turned into a pub and named in William Bradley’s honour. You can apparently still spot a picture of William Bradley in the ground floor bar – so be sure to keep an eye out during your visit. Another account suggests the name simply comes from a regular customer called Bradley who spent so much time (and money) at the bar, they decided to name it after him. Who’s to say which one is true.
Bradley’s is a two-storey spot, with a bar on each floor. The walls and ceilings are covered in a mishmash of photos, posters, banknotes, and other random memorabilia. And the clientele of the place is eclectic and varied – just as it should be.
The pub houses a legendary vintage jukebox (a NSM prestige 11 from the late 70s/early 80s, in case you were wondering) and a collection of over 20,000 vinyl records. The jukebox is beloved – and is completely free to use from Monday-Friday until 5pm. No food is served at Bradley’s. Just drinks An plenty of them.
Entering Bradley’s feels a bit like you’re being wrapped in a comforting hug. It’s warm, it’s familiar, and it’s usually filled to brim with friendly faces. As you’re probably aware, pubs are a subject that we Londoners feel ever-so passionate about. But I think it’s pretty easy to see why Bradley’s makes more ‘favourite pubs in the city‘ lists than most.
Find out more and plan your visit to Bradley’s here.
42-44 Hanway Street, W1T 1UT.