Southwark Brewing Company
Independent cask ale brewery in a Victorian railway arch, where trains rumble overhead and tradition meets innovation.
A pioneering independent microbrewery housed in a Victorian railway arch in Bermondsey, London. Southwark Brewing Company specialises in traditional cask ales with contemporary twists, offering up to eight handpumped real ales alongside keg and bottled options. The spacious tap room features comfortable seating, visible brewing equipment, and a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can sample beers directly where they're crafted. Located near Tower Bridge and London Bridge, it marks the beginning of the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile.
A brief summary to Southwark Brewing Company
- 46 Druid St, London, SE1 2EZ, GB
- +442033024190
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-10 pm
- Friday 5 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-7 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Saturday afternoon (12:00–19:00) for the longest opening hours and a relaxed atmosphere. The tap room is closed Monday, Wednesday, and all day Sunday except 13:00–17:00.
- Arrive early if you want to try specific seasonal or one-off brews, as these rotate frequently and can sell out quickly on busier days.
- The railway arch setting means overhead train noise is part of the experience—embrace it as part of the brewery's authentic industrial character.
- Order bottles or cans to take away during opening hours, or use the brewery's delivery service to enjoy their beers at home with next-day national delivery available.
- Use this as your starting point for exploring the Bermondsey Beer Mile, which stretches south with numerous other craft breweries within walking distance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
Getting There
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London Bridge Station (National Rail & Underground)
From London Bridge station, exit onto Borough High Street and head south towards Bermondsey. Turn onto Druid Street; the brewery is approximately 10 minutes' walk from the station. Follow signs for Bermondsey or use a map app to navigate directly to 46 Druid Street. The route is flat and straightforward through residential and commercial streets.
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Bermondsey Underground Station (Jubilee Line)
Exit Bermondsey station and head northwest towards Druid Street. The brewery is approximately 8–10 minutes' walk away. The route involves some minor elevation changes but remains accessible. Use a navigation app to guide you directly to the address.
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Local Bus Services
Multiple bus routes serve the Bermondsey area, including routes 1, 42, 78, and 188. Alight at stops near Tower Bridge Road or Bermondsey Street, then walk 5–15 minutes to Druid Street depending on your stop. Journey times from central London typically range from 20–40 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Ride-share services and black cabs operate throughout London. Journey times from central London (e.g., Piccadilly Circus, King's Cross) typically range from 15–30 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated fares for ride-share services from central London range from £8–16 GBP. The brewery's address is 46 Druid Street, London SE1 2EZ.
Southwark Brewing Company location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Southwark Brewing Company
A Railway Arch Brewery in Historic Bermondsey
Nestled beneath the rumble of passing trains, Southwark Brewing Company occupies a characterful Victorian railway arch on Druid Street in Bermondsey, one of London's most vibrant brewing neighbourhoods. Since opening in autumn 2014, this independent microbrewery has established itself as a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene, offering an authentic brewery experience where visitors can watch the brewing process unfold while enjoying freshly poured ales. The industrial setting—complete with visible brewing equipment, steel beams, and the distinctive acoustic signature of overhead trains—creates an atmosphere that feels genuinely rooted in the location's working heritage.Cask Ale Craftsmanship and Rotating Selection
The brewery's philosophy centres on traditional cask ales, a deliberate contrast to many of its neighbours on the Bermondsey Beer Mile. The tap room features six handpumps serving a rotating selection of the brewery's regular real ales alongside seasonal and one-off brews, with some beers available on gravity dispense behind the bar. The core range includes established favourites such as Bermondsey Best, a 4.4% English Pale Ale, alongside experimental offerings like Blackfriars Black IPA and Citra Single Hop. For those seeking keg options, the brewery's experimental range appears under the name Big Bear Brewery. Bottles and cans are available for takeaway during opening hours, and the brewery operates a delivery service for those wishing to enjoy their beers at home.Welcoming Tap Room Atmosphere
The tap room itself balances industrial authenticity with genuine comfort. Spacious seating areas feature sofas, tables, and benches arranged throughout the space, with additional outdoor seating available. The brewery also serves coffee alongside beer, making it accessible to a broad range of visitors. The visible brewing equipment at the rear of the space provides an educational backdrop, allowing visitors to understand the craft behind each pint. This combination of transparency, comfort, and quality creates an inviting environment that encourages lingering and conversation.Gateway to the Bermondsey Beer Mile
Southwark Brewing Company occupies a unique position as either the first or last stop on the renowned Bermondsey Beer Mile, depending on which direction you choose to explore. Its proximity to London Bridge station and Bermondsey tube station makes it easily accessible for both local regulars and visitors discovering the area's brewing heritage. The brewery's emphasis on cask ale provides a distinctive counterpoint to the predominantly keg-focused venues further along the mile, offering beer enthusiasts a more traditional experience within London's contemporary craft beer landscape.Community and Craft Identity
As an early addition to Bermondsey's burgeoning brewing scene, Southwark Brewing Company has helped shape the neighbourhood's identity as a destination for serious beer appreciation. The brewery's commitment to independent production, local delivery, and direct-to-consumer engagement reflects a philosophy that prioritises community connection over mass production. The tap room functions not merely as a sales point but as a genuine gathering space where the brewery's story and values are communicated through the quality of its product and the authenticity of its setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wakefield Tower
0.8 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.8 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
1 Tower Hl Ter
1.0 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Tower Hill Memorial
1.0 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
London Wall
1.0 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Custom House
1.0 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
St Mary Overie's Dock
1.1 km
Historic riverside dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde replica and steeped in medieval maritime heritage.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
1.2 km
Medieval survivor where Viking legend, plague history, and literary fame converge in a Gothic gem.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
1.2 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
Execution Dock House
1.2 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Trinity Church Square
1.2 km
Discover the serenity of Trinity Church Square in London, a historic oasis of beauty and tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
1.2 km
Medieval guild church with Wren's only 'true spire'—a 950-year sanctuary in the City's financial heart.
Pudding Ln
1.2 km
Explore Pudding Lane, a historic London street where the Great Fire ignited, and discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the City.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
1.2 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Fish St Hill
1.2 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Fish St Hill in London, a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the capital's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Maltby Street Market
0.2 km
Discover Maltby Street Market, a vibrant weekend food haven beneath historic Bermondsey railway arches, offering global street food and artisan delights.
Ropewalk
0.2 km
Discover Ropewalk, the vibrant and historic heart of Maltby Street Market where London’s industrial charm meets world-class street food.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
0.3 km
A distinguished bronze tribute to Bermondsey’s first mayor, set near the iconic Tower Bridge in London’s historic South Bank district.
Bermondsey St
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Bermondsey Street in London, a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that captures the city's unique spirit.
Shad Thames
0.4 km
Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.
Bridge Theatre
0.4 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in London’s innovative Bridge Theatre, where flexible design meets immersive performances by the Thames.
Potters Fields Park
0.4 km
A peaceful riverside park by Tower Bridge blending historic pottery heritage with vibrant gardens and iconic London views.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore London’s iconic Tower Bridge with panoramic views, historic Engine Rooms, and a unique gift shop celebrating this engineering masterpiece.
Bermondsey Antique Market
0.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and rich history every Friday at Bermondsey Antique Market, London's oldest and most vibrant antiques hub.
Brew By Numbers Tasting Room
0.5 km
Discover innovative craft beers and a relaxed vibe at Brew By Numbers Tasting Room, a must-visit for beer lovers in Bermondsey.
Tower Bridge
0.6 km
Walk across London’s most famous bridge, explore its high-level walkways and glass floors, and discover the Victorian engineering behind this iconic landmark.
More London Place
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside business and cultural precinct blending modern architecture with iconic Thames views near Tower Bridge.
English Grounds
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of English Grounds in London, a perfect escape into nature and culture amidst the vibrant city life.
Hay's Galleria
0.7 km
Historic riverside galleria blending Victorian architecture, vibrant shopping, and iconic Thames views in the heart of London.
The Kernel Spa Road
0.7 km
Discover The Kernel Spa Road: London's vibrant brewery taproom blending craft beers with Japanese-inspired comfort food in a stylish industrial setting.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
1.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
1.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.5 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.7 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Madison
1.9 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.9 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.3 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
2.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Nomadic community
2.6 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Lyle's
2.6 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
2.7 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
2.7 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
2.8 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
0.8 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
1.0 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Borough Yards
1.2 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
The Royal Exchange
1.6 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
1 Poultry
1.7 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Middlesex Textiles
1.7 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.8 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
One New Change
2.0 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Fashion St
2.0 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Bankside Arches Boutique
2.0 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Commercial St
2.1 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Spitalfields Market
2.1 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Sclater Street Market
2.2 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
2.2 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
2.3 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nine Lives
0.5 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Old School Yard
0.8 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.3 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
1.3 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Moonshine Saloon
1.6 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.6 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Midnight Apothecary
1.7 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
The Bell
1.7 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.7 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Discount Suit Company
1.8 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
1.9 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.9 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
1.9 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
2.0 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
2.1 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
1.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
E1
1.4 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Ministry of Sound
1.6 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
1.7 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Club 701
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.7 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Hoxton Pony
2.8 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
2.8 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Trafik
2.9 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
3.0 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
London Best Night Clubs
3.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Basing House - Shoreditch
3.1 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
3.2 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Industrial
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Adults Only
