251 Tooley Street,
Bermondsey,
London,
SE1 2JX
0871 971 3966
The ViewLondon Review
A quirky local pub with real character – and expensive tastes.The VenueSituated just off Tower Bridge Road on the more residential end of Tooley Street, The Kings Arms is a cosy looking pub with instant visual appeal. From the tables sitting right on the street that seem so tempting in the summer months for a spot of people-watching, to the eccentric decor indoors that could be compared to someone’s oversized living room, this is a hard pub to walk past if a drink is on your mind.
The AtmosphereThe pub’s predominantly residential setting means that there is usually a steady stream of locals throughout the week, creating a familiar and friendly vibe. A variable but chilled out music selection and some fantastically cosy lighting in the evenings makes this pub popular for small groups and couples. However, as with most pubs and bars in this area there is a tendency for The Kings Arms to get very busy on a Friday evening, when a mix of residents and those working nearby gather to kick off the weekend. The staff seem to have a fairly laid-back attitude regardless of whether the pub is busy or quiet, which can occasionally lead to a frustratingly long wait at the bar, particularly if you only popped in for a swift half.
The FoodApart from a few permanent choices such as burgers, the modestly sized menu changes its selection of meals regularly and for a place with such a comfortable atmosphere the expectations are set high for some traditional pub grub. Unfortunately, the food fails to totally hit the mark and this is, in part, the fault of an overpriced menu where the meals can’t quite live up to what you are expected to pay for them. Go for one of the more moderately priced regular items and you are likely to leave feeling more satisfied.
The DrinkAs with the food, drinking at The King’s Arms can be an expensive experience. Wine is served in large glasses only and even the house variety is pricey. The best bet may be to share a bottle with someone from what is a good-sized and well-balanced wine list to save a few pennies. An average selection of bottled and draught lagers and beers is available, as well as spirits. All are priced a little steeply by pub standards but are not totally out of keeping with other bars in the area.
The Last WordThe Kings Arms is a cosy pub with a great atmosphere and an easy place to lose yourself for a few hours – but you might want to wait until payday.