As many embark on Dry January we decided to buck the trend and come up with a weekend activity that’ll keep us sane during the winter months. What better way to spend a chilly afternoon/evening than a pub crawl. We take you to the picturesque Wimbledon “village”, best known for its proximity to the famous Wimbledon Tennis Championships, this little haven has everything you are looking for when it comes to wintery pubs, and you can even take the dog!
So let’s get started…
Definitely one of the more spacious pubs we’ve been too, The Dog and Fox offers live coverage of various sports, a selection of delicious pub grub, beer on tap, wine by the glass, carafe or bottle (for those taking this pub crawl business seriously) and an abundance of cosy spots near the fire place.
We recommend you try a glass of the Corte Della Calli Prosecco as an aperitif.
Enter into a more traditional English pub where you’ll be greeted by roaring open fires and very friendly staff. For the brave, there are heaters outside which will surely keep you toasty (although we think this might be a bit too confident for the middle of January). If you happen to visit the Rose & Crown on a Sunday, their roast dinner is too die for – accompany this with an ice cold cider or beer and you really can’t go wrong.
For those who would like to stick to the wine, why not try the Chablis Domaines Brocard.
For a true feeling of village life, it doesn’t get much better than the Hand in Hand. We love everything about this pub particularly their passion for real ales. Pub Landlord Andrew Ford offers free real ale workshops and if you catch him on a good day, he may even take you into the cellar for a quick peak – a great insight if you’re looking for London bar jobs. Our visits are never without a plate of their delicious white bait and a glass of their own ale, ask at the bar for their latest brews.
This pub puts the chic into shabby chic and is a firm favourite with the locals. Their food is quite simply put – DELICIOUS and the portions are certainly geared towards the hungry. Also well known for their commitment to ales, you won’t be disappointed with the choice on offer at the Crooked Billet however if wine is still your chosen drink, why not try a large glass of Château St.Pierre Lussac Saint Emilion.
Built in 1787 and renovated in 2011, the Fox and Grapes is the only independent pub in the village and is certainly a hidden gem. With an award winning menu that offers traditional English fair with a modern twist and an unrivalled wine list, you will be sad to miss out on this one. Did we mention that they also have triple cooked chips? Who doesn’t love a tripled cooked chip!
If your budget allows, give the 2013 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir a go, we know you won’t be disappointed.
Not a traditional pub per say but definitely one of the most vibey drinking stops in Wimbledon Village, this is the perfect place to end the night (we mean it this time)! Order yourself a cocktail from their extensive list which includes good old faithfuls like an espresso martini or something a bit more adventurous like a mango and chilli Brazilian.
We think this is a great way to kick off the New Year and we hope you’ll enjoy it too.
We handle hospitality recruitment for many of the finest pubs and bars in London and are always looking for talented people to represent. If you are looking for a bar job in London, get in touch with us on 02079236021 or email a copy of your CV to info@thechangegroup.com
