With an idyllic location, great food, a cracking selection of beers and a friendly local spirit, the Sun Inn is a shining example of an idealistic local.

The Venue
Across the road from the serene, duck-filled Barnes pond sits the cute whitewashed historical cottage that is the Sun Inn. Inside is a welcoming little den of mismatched furniture scattered with patterned cushions, vibrant floral lampshades and comfy couches. Adding some quirky character is a vintage tabletop videogame, contemporary artwork for sale on the walls and, oddly, a life-sized baby wooden elephant.

Best of all, the Sun Inn transcends seasons; its copious outdoor seating and backyard BBQ area is just as perfect for sunny summer days as the cosy corners and low ceilings are for chilly wintry evenings. There are board games and colouring-in for the kids (complete with crayons), plus great events like Monday night’s wine club where you can try a selection of top-notch wines for £10.

The Atmosphere
The Sun Inn has a strong sense of community, supporting local causes and running a stream of interesting and fun seasonal celebrations. The staff always offer service with a smile and will stop to ask if everything if OK with your meal or if there is anything else you need. Whether you’re curled up on a couch, tucked away in a private corner or perched on a low stool, it’s easy to chill out here or bop along to the easy-listening soundtrack, featuring classic hits from the likes of REM and Blondie.

The Food
The seasonal menu is delicious, featuring stunning fresh produce and hearty steaks, burgers, chicken and fish options. There are a few delicious vegetarian meals too, like the tasty chargrilled halloumi, a spinach and lentil burger, and fresh broad bean, leek and pea risotto. Some modern twists jazz up the more traditional British fare: corn-fed chicken is served with chorizo and asparagus spears whilst pork belly comes with mustard mash, honeyed leeks and liquor. The dishes come at great prices, too, with mains ranging from £6.90-£10.50 and puddings costing just £3.50.

The Drink
The Sun Inn has an exceptional offering when it comes to quenching your thirst. The impressive and unique choices on tap include London Pride, Bombardier, Leffe, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Paulaner Munchen (to mention a few) plus the fruity favourite Fruli and three ciders. There are also bottles galore with beers like Chimay and Vedet, and organic ciders.

An expansive wine list is helpfully organised into tasting categories with monthly recommendations and pocket-pleasing prices (starting from £2.85 for a small glass or £11 for a great-value bottle of Australian Shiraz). There are even some chilled draught wines you can buy by the glass or carafe. It’s not only the boozers that get all the fun either: from green tea to organic apple and carrot juice or ginger beer, there are plenty of alcohol-free options.

The Last Word
The choice of beverages alone makes the Sun Inn worthy of a visit. Add to that its village charm, friendly atmosphere, excellent food and great value for money, it’s a real winner.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (6)