The Railway is a pleasant alternative in an area dominated by DJ bars and upbeat party spots. A relaxed, chilled out pub with a decent range of beer and lager on tap and a student vibe, it’s a welcome inclusion on Clapham High Street.

The Venue
With simple decor, trendy artwork and a young, urban feel, The Railway is a break from the norm for Clapham. The inside is fairly unassuming with the usual pub tables and chairs. The obligatory plasma screen can still be found for anyone who wants to watch a bit of sport or music. A couple of squashy sofas are dotted around the place but this is mainly somewhere to hang out without the pretentious atmosphere that can be synonymous with so many other London bars. There is also seating available outside for anyone who fancies an al fresco beer. An upstairs area with a separate bar is used at the weekends and is available for private functions.

The Atmosphere
The Railway has a slightly studenty feel about it. Indie music plays in the background and sets the scene for an alternative left field atmosphere. This is somewhere for the younger drinkers in the area who like something a bit different. There is also live music on Sunday evenings, which is a crowd puller.

The Food
The food menu is kept fairly simple at The Railway but offers up good, wholesome food. Snacks and sharers cost from £4.60 for fish fingers in a floured bap with lime mayo. A sirloin steak with hot mustard and onion rings in a baguette is £5.90. Mains cost from £6.90 for an 8oz beef burger with Maris Piper chips. A rib eye steak is £10.50. Puddings cost from an incredibly low £2.50 for ice cream. Sunday roast is also on offer for £8.90.

The Drink
An unusual selection of Carling, Stella, Red Stripe, Aspal Cyder, Peroni, Grolsch and Staropramen are all available on draught with Aspal, Magners, Becks, Pacific, Chimay, Birra Moretti, Budweiser, Asahi and Duvel available in bottles.

Wine is also represented with white wine available from £2.65 for a house Argentinean Chenin Chardon and a French Chablis coming in at £18 a bottle. Red wine is the same price for the house - an Argentinean Malbec with a nice Rioja costing £18.50 a bottle. Rose is from £13.50 for Alpha Zita (Italy), rising to £14.50 for a Pinot Grigio. If you like something a little more sparkling, Prosecco is just £15 and Verve Cliquot vintage is £45 a bottle.

The Last Word
Different from many pubs found in this area, The Railway is a refreshing change from the funky bar scene that dominates Clapham. A nice, friendly place with a relaxing vibe.

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