373 Lonsdale Road,
Barnes,
London,
SW13 9PY
0872 148 5420
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
A stunning riverside view at one of the most renowned jazz venues in London – you can’t ask much more of Barnes’ historic hostelry, The Bulls Head.
The Venue
Majestic and steeped in history, the picturesque white terraced building on the edge of the river in Barnes has been home to a pub for centuries. Stepping inside this traditional-looking Young’s venue, you wouldn’t guess from the tired interior that it’s also home to one of London’s premier jazz spots.
Over the years, the Yamaha Jazz Room has played host to international artists and jazz greats like Ronnie Scott and George Coleman. Really coming into its own in the 1950s, it still buzzes with daily gigs by reputable jazz and swing artists. Leaflets and gig lists are tacked to the wall next to the entryway of the jazz room, which sits atop a few steps at the back of the bar that has all the hallmarks of an old British boozer.
The Atmosphere
On lazy weekend afternoons, the jazz sounds of a swinging piano and sassy sax wafting across Barnes village from the back of the Bulls Head are relaxing and effortlessly cool. This pub has not been trendified and doesn’t attract a typically stylish crowd, but its jazz credentials and friendly, local feel speaks volumes for its appeal as an interesting venue.
Attracting a mostly older crowd of music enthusiasts, most of the action is in the small jazz room itself, while in the main bar you’ll generally find quiet regulars nursing pints or sports fans watching plasma screens.
The Food
While some standard, uninspiring British grub is available at the bar in the pub section of the Bulls Head, you can venture outside for something a little different. In the converted stables at the back of the venue, you’ll find the cute little Nuay’s Thai Bistro, which serves up authentic Thai fare at very reasonable prices.
The menu mixes traditional Thai favourites with some tasty twists – there are the expected stir fries, noodles and soups for around the £4.50–£6 mark, but you could also try crispy fried fish in chilli and tamarind sauce (£7.90), whole deep fried sea bass in a light soy sauce (£10.90) or even Thai-style spare ribs.
The Drink
Fans of Young’s will find that the requisite Young’s Bitter, Special and Winter Warmer are available. There is also Carling, Addlestone, Amstel, Heineken and Guinness on tap.
In keeping with the old-time elegance, they also have 20 malt whiskies and a large selection of cognac, armagnac and liqueur. A small wine list starts at £3 a glass and includes some premier Champagnes as well as some special drops circa 1970 like a Chateau Mouton Rothschild at an eye-watering £180.
The Last Word
Original and renowned, the Bulls Head brings an extra element of interest beyond a standard Young’s pub to SW13 and is a must for music lovers.