As far as I’m concerned, every station in London should come with a gorgeous pub nestled inside. But unfortunately, that’s not the case. You’re lucky enough if you manage to find a vending machine on the platform to grab yourself a questionable-looking KitKat for your journey, to be honest. One station that has understood the assignment, however, is Denmark Hill.
Tucked away inside the beautifully-restored former ticket hall of the south London station is The Phoenix. Rather aptly named after – quite literally – rising from the ashes (more on that later), the charming boozer is one of the few spots in the city where you can hear your train pulling into the station, sink your pint, and still make it on board before you hear ‘mind the closing doors‘.
Credit: @dogmeister via IG
The history of The Phoenix
Originally built as the ticket hall that served Denmark Hill railway station, the building was constructed at some point between 1864 and 1866. It functioned as a ticket hall for over a century before being severely damaged in a station fire in 1980. And that’s where pub chain, Finkin Brewery, come in.
They bought the building, revived, renovated and rejuvenated it, turning it into a warm and welcoming watering hole. Tickets were traded for tipples and rail-cards were replaced with roast dinners. They named the spot Phoenix and Finkin as a nod to the building’s new life – and the rest is history, really.
Credit: @thephoenixdenmarkhill via IG
The Phoenix nowadays
When the ownership changed, the pub was renamed The Phoenix, and it’s boasted Grade II listed status since 1988. Many of the station building’s original period features have been preserved. The interior featuring high ceilings, exposed brick work, a huge clock, and a spiral staircase leading up to a mezzanine level. If you brave sitting outside, you’ll be perched on passenger benches and can sit and chug pints whilst watching overground trains chug by.
With the sheer quantity of boozers in the capital, it’s pretty difficult to find one that’s unique. But with its authentic and homely atmosphere, gorgeous decor, and decent food and drink offering; The Phoenix truly is something special. All aboard! Next stop: the pub, of course.
Find out more and plan your visit to The Phoenix here.
đź“Ť Windsor Walk, Denmark Hill, SE5 8BB.