77 Bedford Hill,
Balham,
London,
SW12 9HD
0872 148 5049
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
Follow in the footsteps of U2, The Clash and Catherine Tate and step into The Bedford, a local pub with delicious food, lots of energy and a rich musical history.
The Venue
The Bedford is a huge pub within spitting distance of Balham tube, perfect for a quick after work drink or pub lunch. But if that's the extent of your dalliance with The Bedford, you're missing a huge trick. Downstairs is a stunning, almost eerie live music venue where, most nights of the week, emerging artists and huge acts alike grace the stage for free gigs. The pub itself is clean and comfortable with lots of seating, and there's a small beer garden too. On top of that, there are three large rooms upstairs available for hire - The Ballroom, The Tavistock and The Theatre, with capacities of 180, 75 and 270 respectively, all with DJ facilities and projectors. If you're here for the long-running comedy night - Banana Cabaret - you'll notice there's a wall that's covered in photos of stand up comics who have performed at The Bedford, from Catherine Tate to Rob Brydon, making you feel as though you could well be about to be part of comedy history.
The Atmosphere
It’s not surprising that The Bedford largely attracts a young crowd, many of whom will live nearby in South London but others who have travelled far and wide for a gig. It can get pretty busy (particularly at their club nights on weekends) but everything is spaced out enough so that you don’t feel crushed. There’s certainly a lot going on here, with dance classes, yoga and quizzes to name just a few regular events, so you can feel a real buzz in the building. Staff are all super friendly and seem happy in their work.
The Food
Meals here won’t disappoint. In fact, you’ll love it. Everything is cooked to perfection and there’s a lot more imagination than you’d expect from a pub menu. The pancetta wrapped salmon fillet with crushed new potatoes is beautiful to look at and tastes fantastic, and it’s only £9.50. The delicious seafood linguine (£8.50) is loaded with tasty prawns, salmon and crayfish. If you want to stick to the pub classics, try a home made burger for £7.95 or fish and chips at £9.50.
The Drink
Colourful cocktails, beer, wine and shots are all on offer. The house white, a Crusan Colombard, is very drinkable and only £12.50 a bottle. If you want to push the boat out a little more, there’s a Boschendal Chenin Blanc or Shiraz at £16 a bottle. Beers on draught include Guinness, John Smiths, Stella and Kronenbourg.
The Last Word
With a relaxed atmosphere, amazing food, free gigs and endless dance classes and events, you’ll never need to leave. But if you do, you’ll be coming back.