London’s most cosy bars and restaurants

With its low seating, retro framed pictures hanging on brick walls and quirky trinkets to ogle at, Bertie’s Bar is a hidden gem tucked away in Wimbledon – a basement cellar bar under The Prince of Wales. Just a short walk from the station, this pub rewards you with plenty. It serves a heavenly (but affordable) menu, consisting of homely mac ’n cheese, deliciously oozing burgers, and a beautifully cooked fish pie, to name just a few. But above this, Bertie’s Bar is known for it’s exceptional list of cocktails to match your meal. And if that’s not enough to convince you, the atmosphere most certainly will, as Bertie’s Bar is a friendly place to get involved. With a selection of board games, pub quiz nights, live music and even dart matches, there is always something to make this bar feel like a home away from home.

Based in the Isle of Dogs, The Waterman’s Arms is one for those that are ready to dig a little deeper in their pockets for the promise of a cosy interior and a beautifully crafted menu of gourmet food (to align with the seasonal changes of produce, the menus are subject to regular change). High chairs, dim lights and a burgundy palette of colours makes The Waterman’s Arms a moody and atmospheric place to visit.

For your fix of tradition during the winter, Holly Bush is an ideal experience. Along with a carefully thought out menu that display a wide variety of dishes always cooked to perfection, (including our personal favourite, the Cornish Orchards Cider Brined Pork Chop), this pub epitomises the dining that every Brit has come to know and love. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Hampstead, The Holly Bush is a perfect opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy London and emulates the country pubs that you could find further out. Homing a roaring fireplace, and cushioned armchairs, this restaurant is the perfect place to get in from the cold and smell the sweet scent of Sunday roast. 

Positioned snugly in the heart of Leicester Square, Waxy O’Connor’s is a must-have on this list. Centred around an oak tree that branches off into cosy secluded areas, you’re bound to get lost in the dark corners of this Irish pub, creating the perfect place to share a drink with a special someone. Or, arrive later in the evening, and be wrapped up by the buzz of the atmosphere, experiencing London’s true bustling nature. As well as serving the usual burgers, big bites and nibbles, Waxy O’Connor’s always introduces festive menus that offer a range of seasonal favourites. In short, Waxy O’Connor’s promises a cosy atmosphere, slightly impaired vision and a full belly by the end of your time there. 

For those that enjoy the cosy vintage atmosphere, visit Ten to One in Haringey, a bar that transports you back in time to the days of speakeasies and rum on the rocks. An old betting shop that was renovated into a restaurant and cocktail bar, Ten to One offers plenty of comforting food and warming drinks for the wintery season on the menu. With a selection of staple grilled toasties and a variety of chicken wings drizzled in sauces of your choice, we can almost guarantee that you won’t be getting food envy when your dish lands on the table. Ten to One also offer an impressive list of cocktails, ranging from the contemporary menu of the ones we all know, to the signature mixes, including Dead Man’s Chest and Mexican Lady. Enticed? While you sink into the snug sofas or dine on the high tables, be serenaded by the regular indie live music that plays until late (or until you’re dancing, too).