Notting Hill’s charming streets are dotted with cozy bars and pubs, offering a warm nightlife for locals and visitors alike. From historic pubs steeped in tradition to modern gastropubs, each establishment adds its unique flair to the vibrant neighborhood. Many of these venues have stood for centuries, holding onto their historical foundations while evolving to cater to contemporary tastes. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of local celebrities who frequented these establishments, adding to their allure.
Whether you’re in search of a traditional pint or a gourmet meal, Notting Hill’s bars and pubs promise a delightful experience in a setting rich with history and character. Dive into our curated and most recommended bars in Notting Hill’s finest bars & pubs for an unforgettable outing.
1. The Knight of Notting Hill
Source: London Unattached
After a period of being closed, the former KPH reopened in September 2023 as the Knight of Notting Hill, the second free house pub from Zora Singh, who also owns Three Falcons “desi pub” in St John’s Wood. The pub has undergone a general refurbishment with new banquette seating, marble-topped tables, and a new sound system installed for live performances.
The tradition of live music will continue, featuring rappers, singers, and DJs. The food menu offers Indian cuisine and keg beers but no cask ales. Notably, the pub was a wartime favorite of Timothy Evans, who was later wrongly convicted and hanged for the Rillington Place murders. John Christie once worked as a barman at the pub was the actual serial killer.
2. The Eagle
Source: Time Out
We are amazed by how The Eagle masterfully combines its culinary pursuits with an attractive selection of beers and a welcoming bar atmosphere, focusing on quality dining experiences like steak nights, seasonal dishes, and Sunday roasts. This place wins hearts for many reasons, not least because of its two large tanks of Truman’s raw Lager, a Kolsch-style beer served directly from the tank, while you lounge in comfy seating and enjoy the excellent food. It’s roomy enough to always find a seat yet cozy enough to make you feel at home and wish to stay longer.
3. The Cow
Source: Russell Simpson
Located on Westbourne Park Road in west London, The Cow is a popular gastropub known for its great food and drinks. It has a lovely upstairs dining area that feels like stepping back in time. Tom Conran owns this welcoming place, which often sees famous people visiting, making it more alluring.
Don’t mistake it for a steakhouse, The Cow serves not only various drinks, you can also taste some Northern European food, especially seafood, and has influenced many other pubs to try and capture its special charm. Its simple but stylish look lets the delicious food and wine stand out. It’s a place to go for an authentic gastropub experience in Notting Hill.
4. The Sun in Splendour
Source: Minube
Situated right on the famous Portobello Road near Notting Hill Gate, with its welcoming yellow exterior is The Sun in Splendour. Inside this Victorian pub, beneath large windows, you’ll find an array of wooden tables and chairs. At heart, The Sun in Splendour remains a classic yet refined pub, despite its expanded menu over the years, now offering a wider selection of beverages and wines. It continues to serve traditional British pub fare such as fish and chips, and sausage and mash, alongside healthier options like nourishing bowls in its cozy beer garden at the back.
5. The Resting Room
Source: Open Table
The Resting Room would be an ideal choice for your evening rest located in The Distillery on Portobello Road. Offers a relaxed all-day retreat perfect for enjoying outstanding cocktails in a stylish setting. Despite its calm vibe, the cocktail menu is anything but ordinary, catering not only to gin enthusiasts but also offering creative options for those who prefer other spirits.
Beyond its signature gins, The Resting Room takes pride in distilling a variety of spirits and unique flavors, including a standout called Characterful Vodka. The menu is equally impressive, featuring delicious charred and roasted dishes prepared in a Josper oven. Specialized in traditional British cuisine, every dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a truly authentic experience.
6. The Churchill Arms
Photo: The Churchill Arms
The Churchill Arms stands out as London’s most lively bar. Depending on the time of year, its entrance is adorned with either thousands of flowers or hundreds of Christmas trees. The historic Fuller’s Brewery establishment, dating back to the 1750s, earned its name from its regular patrons, ancestors of Sir Winston Churchill.
Beyond its historical charm, the bar’s visiting ambiance, filled with antiques and relics from past wars, attracts a diverse crowd. Interestingly, one of the most iconic British pubs in London is known as the first pub to serve Thai food. The menu is both delicious and authentic, offering a refreshing departure from the typical gastropub fare.
7. The Ladbroke Arms
Source: Hampstead London
The Ladbroke Arms stands as a beacon of independence, its towering pub sign boldly declaring its status as a “Free House”. This establishment caters to all tastes, offering refined dining, a charming front terrace for al fresco drunks, and an impressive selection of wines and ales. While the menu may lean towards the higher end of the price spectrum, it more than justifies its cost with exceptional quality.
While many gastropubs serve British classics, The Ladbroke Arms sets itself apart with its superb execution. It comes as no surprise that it enjoys bustling business, particularly towards the week’s end, thanks to its renowned Sunday roasts.
8. The Elgin
Source: On In London
The Elgin bar boasts an impressive selection of over 40 gins, staying true to its roots as one of the classic Victorian gin palaces. Complementing this array is a thoughtful variety of wines, beers, and spirits. The Elgin stands out in Notting Hill as a top-rated pub, drawing in crowds with its vibrant live music scene.
Locals and tourists alike flock to its beer garden, while its menu featuring delightful Sunday roasts and seasonal British fare adds to its allure. Housed in a Grade II listed building on Ladbroke Grove, The Elgin’s Victorian origins are evident in its stained glass windows and ornate mirrors.
9. Earl of Lonslade
Source: Time Out
When many pubs decide to renovate, they often end up with a minimalist look these days. However, this one of the pubs in Notting Hill has chosen a different path. Unplug and unwind yourself in Earl of Lonsdale. Once you enter this establishment by Samuel Smith, you are prohibited from swearing and using modern devices (smartphone, iPad, and laptops) except for payments.
The brewery’s ethos is to foster social interaction through face-to-face conversation in its pubs, like the good old days. Today, the pub is restored into a Victorian-style haven with rich dark wood and intricately etched glass. Divided into five cozy drinking areas by wooden and glass partitions. Additionally, there’s a rear room and a patio/beer garden.
10. The Pelican
Photo: The Pelican
The Pelican was a regular pub on All Saints Road for 150 years until restaurateur James Gummer took over in 2022. He simplified the decoration and brought in Owen Kenworthy, a well-regarded chef, to lead the kitchen. The aim is not only to improve the local area but also to attract people looking for modern, rustic food. The kitchen focuses on using sustainable ingredients from nearby suppliers like Paddock Farms and Whittington Lodge, which support biodiversity and sustainable farming.
Bar snacks include Welsh rarebit, spider crab toast, and sausage rolls. The pub serves ales from the newly revived Allsopp’s Brewery and craft beer from Portibello, Deya, and Kernel. They also have a carefully selected wine list.