Forming a focal point for most of society for thousands of years, pubs' appeal continues to evolve with frequent innovation and the progress of both technology and social values. Pubs are purpose-built to move beyond social borders and appeal to all demographics to ensure that no one misses out on appreciating the quintessential elements of pub life.
Marylebone is one of the most glamorous old quarters of London, filled with famous landmarks and not short on fine pubs to wander to in search of refreshments. To find a comfortable setting, with plentiful food and beverages and a positive atmosphere within Marylebone, the following options are among the best the area has to offer.
The Prince Regent
Residing on Marylebone High Street, The Prince Regent is a quintessential British pub that strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Its gilded mirrors, impressive chandelier, and elegant seating make it a standout location for those seeking a more refined pub experience. The snug corners and roaring fireplaces provide a cosy retreat from the outside world to enjoy the comforts of a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Prince Regent prides itself on an exceptional selection of cask ales and premium lagers (both domestic and imported), alongside an extensive wine list and non-alcoholic options. The pub’s kitchen serves up hearty British fare like steak and ale pie and roasts on Sundays, as well as plenty of enticing alternatives to lighter-lunchers.
The Gunmakers
Tucked away on a quiet side street, The Gunmakers is a hidden gem that has been a part of Marylebone's pub scene since the 18th century and offers an authentic, traditional pub experience. With exposed brick walls, vintage furnishings, and eclectic wall art, The Gunmakers remains ever-popular with locals and provides a lively yet intimate atmosphere reminiscent of the original pub.
Known for its excellent range of real ales and craft beers, The Gunmakers has an elevated menu that's a welcome addition to its traditional take on pub food. Dishes such as sizzling venison sausages with mouth-watering mashed potatoes and earthy wild mushroom risotto highlight the kitchen's commitment to serving hearty food – a twist on more common menu items at other venues.
The Angel In The Fields
With its traditional bar area complete with the original fittings, copious amounts of wood panelling, and steadfast commitment to keeping its heritage, The Angel In The Fields is as close to an authentic 19th-century pub as you can get around Marylebone. The pub serves as a pillar of the local community, frequented by local patrons who love nothing more than to come together and catch up over a nice cold pint of beer – just as the first patrons used to 200 years ago.
The Angel in the Fields is all about keeping that sense of creature comforts alive, which it does by offering a rotating selection of ales and an impressive menu filled with staples British comfort food. From hearty ploughman's sandwiches to indulgent sticky toffee pudding, the food here is a celebration of the classic flavours of pub heritage. The quaintness of the setting and relaxed atmosphere make this pub a beloved fixture in the Marylebone community.
The Sir John Balcombe
Just a stone’s throw away from the Sherlock Holmes museum, no game of playing detective is required to work out why The Sir John Balcombe is such a popular addition to the Marylebone area. The venue combines the traditional pub layout with modern furnishings and updated fixings, creating a gastro pub look and atmosphere. Such taste also extends to the menu, featuring an eclectic mix of dishes that offer a mix-and-match approach from pub cuisine of past and present.
There are plenty of traditional items on the menu, like pie and mash, with newer options including gourmet burgers and artisanal pizzas (which most people in the UK will tell you is not pub food). Serving an array of beverages that cater to all tastes, this pub is perfect for a quick pint whilst on the go or a leisurely meal by day or night. It’s a welcoming venue that brings a more contemporary touch to the pub experience compared to some of the more traditional establishments in the area.
The Coach Makers Arms
The Coach Makers Arms is a beautifully restored establishment that comes oozing with gastro-pub charm across three distinct levels. The ground-floor bar is the hub for regular patrons, offering an extensive range of lagers, ales, craft beers, spirits, wines, and cocktails. Ascending to the first floor, a delightful dining room awaits, taking its decor cues from London’s traditional chophouses (otherwise known as steakhouses), where panelled walls and ambient lighting create a relaxed setting to enjoy quality food, of which there is plenty.
But the real delight of this charming Marylebone watering hole lies beneath street level. The basement houses a speakeasy cocktail bar, affectionately known as “The Clubhouse,” decked out like a real Roaring 20s private affair, complete with leather swivel chairs. It’s ideal for low-key evening drinks or, to hire out as a private space for an event, offering delicious cocktails that don’t require any passcodes or secret handshakes to secure the good stuff.
The pub experience is purposefully varied to serve the differing preferences of patrons. There is a pub for every person, whether it be quiet and charming, focussed on fostering a community presence amongst its patrons or, up-market, perhaps even a little rambunctious in ensuring that its clientele are all going to have a good time. There are many more pubs in Marylebone but when it comes to covering the essentials, any of these fine establishments is a good place to start.
