One of the newer faces on Croydon’s party scene, this pub-meets-club has emerged as something of a Phoenix from the ashes of CRO Bar and is much better for it. Aimed at older clubbers in their late twenties, it seems to be doing alright for itself.

The Venue
Taberners Lounge Bar doesn’t look like much from the outside; in fact, it could be described as looking a little bleak. Still, persevere and you’ll be rewarded by the pleasant setting within. And you have to be impressed with what the owners have done with a six-year-abandoned spot that had no water or electricity when they first moved in.

The space inside is large, with plenty of room for a makeshift dancefloor when they put on one of their many club nights here. But there are also some very comfortable seating options, including some stylish black leather corner-sofas. The bar is also well-sized and includes draught pumps while the colourscheme has been kept neutral with white wood-panelled walls, enlivened by cute decorative flourishes like funky light fittings and record sleeves on the walls. It may be a little schizophrenic between pub and club but they’ve pulled it together.

The Atmosphere
Taberners Lounge Bar looks to attract punters in their late twenties and it seems to have succeeded, being happily free of young partygoers out on the lash. They also care about their music here with some strong themed nights including dubstep and regular drum and bass events. However, where they have really succeeded is their ability to morph from pub to club over the course of a day, with a much more laid back atmosphere in the afternoon and early evening. The staff are very friendly and welcoming and it seems that this is a place where the owners are keen to ensure it’s a success and the punters leave happy – and come back for more.

The Drink
Who needs a happy hour when you can have a Recession Session? And they do offer some great drink deals at Taberners Lounge Bar with daily happy hours that run from 4pm-8pm in the week and 5pm-10pm at the weekend. During this time, glasses of wine, spirits and pints are just £2.50, bottles are 2 quid. This is taken a step further on Wednesdays and Thursdays when all drinks are £2. All day. Now that’s impressive. They do offer some draught beers for those popping in when it’s under its pub guise, with options like Carling, Guinness, Worthington’s and London Pride.

The Last Word
Croydon’s party scene hasn’t always had the best reputation. Hopefully new spots like Taberners Lounge Bar will help to reverse that.

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