The Punch Bowl
Historic Mayfair gastropub where three centuries of character meet contemporary British cuisine and award-winning hospitality.
A Grade II listed gastropub nestled on a quiet Mayfair side street, The Punch Bowl dates back to 1729 and has evolved from a servants' drinking den into one of London's most celebrated destination pubs. Recently crowned 'Best Destination Pub in London' by Muddy Stilettos, this historic establishment combines period charm with contemporary British cuisine, craft beverages, and live entertainment. With its intimate ground-floor bar, elegant first-floor dining room, and private event space, it welcomes everyone from locals to celebrities seeking authentic London hospitality.
A brief summary to The Punch Bowl
- 41 Farm St, London, W1J 5RP, GB
- +442074936841
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-11 pm
- Thursday 8 am-11 pm
- Friday 8 am-12 am
- Saturday 9 am-12 am
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead for dinner, especially Thursday through Saturday evenings and during peak seasons. The intimate dining room fills quickly, and reservations ensure you secure a table rather than waiting at the bar.
- Visit on Wednesday evenings for live music performances, which create a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. Check the pub's social media for upcoming themed supper clubs and special events.
- Try the signature ox cheek pie or Tiramichoix Bun dessert—both showcase the kitchen's skill with British ingredients and contemporary presentation. The vegan and vegetarian options are equally thoughtfully prepared.
- Arrive between midday and 5 PM for a quieter experience if you prefer intimate conversation. The pub becomes busier from 5 PM onwards, particularly with after-work crowds and diners.
- Explore the ground-floor bar for a more casual atmosphere and shorter visits. The first-floor dining room is ideal for leisurely meals, while the second-floor private space suits special occasions and group celebrations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Punch Bowl location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Punch Bowl
Three Centuries of Mayfair History
The Punch Bowl's story begins in 1729, when it was established as a drinking establishment for the servants, butlers, and stablehands of Lord Berkeley's grand estate. The pub was licensed to serve alcohol in 1786 and underwent significant reconstruction in 1792 following a devastating fire. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, it remained a fixture of Mayfair's social fabric, serving generations of locals and visitors seeking refuge from the bustling streets above. The building retains its Grade II listed status, preserving original architectural elements including dark wooden paneling and period staircases that transport visitors back through centuries of London life. The pub's modern celebrity chapter began in the early 2000s when it caught the attention of film director Guy Ritchie and pop icon Madonna, who featured it in her 2005 documentary 'I'm Going to Tell You a Secret.' The couple purchased the establishment in 2008, transforming it into a celebrity hotspot that attracted A-list visitors including David Beckham, Leonardo DiCaprio, and members of the royal family. Though their ownership was brief—the pair divorced within months and Ritchie sold the pub in 2013—the experience left an indelible mark on the venue's reputation. Today, under the stewardship of the Butcombe group, The Punch Bowl has reclaimed its identity as a welcoming community establishment rather than an exclusive celebrity enclave.Intimate Spaces for Every Occasion
The pub's layout reflects its evolution from a simple tavern to a sophisticated dining destination. The ground floor features a cosy bar area with intimate nooks and crannies, perfect for casual drinks and bar snacks. The first floor houses an elegant dining room where the kitchen showcases its culinary ambitions, while a separate private dining space on the second floor accommodates corporate events, celebrations, and intimate gatherings. This thoughtful spatial arrangement allows The Punch Bowl to serve multiple purposes simultaneously—whether you're stopping by for a quick pint, enjoying a leisurely meal, or hosting a special event, the venue adapts to your needs without compromising atmosphere or service quality.British Cuisine Elevated
The kitchen at The Punch Bowl celebrates British culinary traditions while infusing them with contemporary technique and luxury ingredients. The menu showcases seasonal British fare including game dishes such as grouse, partridge, and venison, alongside classic pub staples like fish and chips and meat pies. Signature dishes include the famed Tiramichoix Bun—a delicate choux pastry creation filled with tiramisu mousse and served with decadent hot chocolate sauce—and the celebrated ox cheek pie with bone marrow, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy. The kitchen sources ingredients exclusively from suppliers meeting the highest standards of quality and ethical practice, with particular pride taken in British meats and cheeses. Notably, the pub offers thoughtfully prepared vegan and vegetarian options, recognising the diverse dietary preferences of its clientele. Bar snacks range from simple fare to more substantial offerings, while the wine list and cocktail menu receive equal attention, featuring craft beers, cask ales, fine wines, and expertly prepared drinks.A Living Social Hub
The Punch Bowl has earned its reputation as a 'destination pub' through consistent commitment to hospitality and community engagement. Live music performances occur every Wednesday, creating an animated yet intimate atmosphere. The venue regularly hosts themed supper clubs, cocktail masterclasses, quiz nights, and special events throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging among regulars and visitors alike. The staff—described consistently as warm, welcoming, and attentive—create an environment where guests feel valued rather than merely served. This dedication to genuine hospitality, combined with the pub's historic character and culinary excellence, resulted in its recent recognition as London's best destination pub, beating out competitors across the capital.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 41 Farm Street in Mayfair, The Punch Bowl occupies a quiet side street within one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods. Farm Street itself derives its name from its historical origins as Hay Hill Farm, before the area was developed into the elegant residential and commercial district it is today. The pub sits mere minutes' walk from major attractions including Green Park, Bond Street, and Piccadilly, yet its tucked-away position on a residential street provides a sense of discovery and escape from the surrounding bustle. Despite its central location, the venue maintains an unhurried, neighbourhood atmosphere that appeals to both long-time locals and curious visitors seeking authentic London experiences beyond the obvious tourist trail.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.2 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.3 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
0.5 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
0.7 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Burlington House
0.7 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
Speakers' Corner
0.7 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.7 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
3 Savile Row
0.7 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.7 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
Wellington Arch
0.7 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Royal Artillery Memorial
0.7 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.8 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Liberty’s clock
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Liberty's Clock, an iconic landmark in Carnaby, London, embodying the city’s rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Constitution Hill
0.8 km
A ceremonial royal route honouring centuries of monarchy and Commonwealth sacrifice in the heart of Westminster.
Canada Memorial
0.8 km
Visit the Canada Memorial in Green Park, London, a serene homage to Canadian soldiers, surrounded by natural beauty and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair
0.0 km
Historic Jesuit Catholic church in Mayfair, London, renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture and vibrant spiritual community.
Mount Street Gardens
0.1 km
A historic and tranquil garden oasis in Mayfair, blending Victorian charm with seasonal beauty and rich London heritage.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.1 km
Discover nearly two centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and royal heritage at Thomas Goode & Co, London's premier luxury tableware emporium in Mayfair.
Grosvenor Chapel
0.1 km
Historic 18th-century Mayfair chapel blending Georgian elegance with Anglo-Catholic tradition and wartime American ties.
Clermont Club
0.2 km
London's most exclusive private members' club, where Mayfair's elite gather in historic elegance.
Berkeley Square
0.3 km
A timeless Georgian garden square in Mayfair, blending historic grandeur, iconic plane trees, and cultural elegance in central London.
Curzon Mayfair
0.3 km
Experience London’s premier art-house cinema in a stunning Grade II listed 1960s building, blending cinematic heritage with modern luxury.
Shepherd Market
0.3 km
Discover Shepherd Market, a charming historic village in Mayfair blending boutique shops, cozy pubs, and rich London heritage.
Grosvenor Sq
0.4 km
Grosvenor Square: London's historic garden square blending aristocratic heritage, American diplomacy, and modern urban renewal in Mayfair.
Park Ln
0.4 km
Prestigious Park Lane in London blends historic grandeur with luxury hotels, upscale shops, and serene Hyde Park views along its iconic 1.1 km stretch.
Sprueth Magers Gallery
0.4 km
A leading contemporary art gallery in London’s West End showcasing innovative exhibitions by international artists.
Bond St
0.5 km
Discover Bond Street, London’s iconic luxury shopping street where history, high fashion, and exclusive boutiques converge in elegant Mayfair.
The Royal Institution
0.5 km
Explore centuries of groundbreaking science and iconic lectures at London’s historic Royal Institution, home to Faraday’s legacy and the famous Christmas Lectures.
Sotheby's London
0.5 km
Sotheby's London: The world’s oldest auction house blending historic prestige with global art innovation since 1744.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.5 km
An intimate bronze sculpture of Churchill and Roosevelt sharing a bench, symbolizing 50 years of peace and the enduring UK-US alliance on London’s New Bond Street.
Essential places to dine
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
0.5 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Apricity Restaurant
0.5 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
sketch
0.7 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Little Social
0.7 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.7 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Quaglino's
0.7 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Great British Restaurant
0.8 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
NOPI
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Kingly Court
0.8 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Golden Lion
0.9 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Starbucks Coffee
0.9 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.9 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
The Grenadier
0.9 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Mele e Pere
1.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LONGCHAMP
0.5 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.6 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.7 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.7 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Regent St.
0.8 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Crest Of London
0.8 km
Discover unique London-themed gifts and souvenirs in the vibrant heart of Oxford Street’s shopping district.
Hamleys
0.8 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
Fortnum & Mason
0.8 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Princes Arcade
0.8 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Prestat Chocolates
0.8 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Kingly Ct
0.8 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
John Lobb St. James
0.8 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Liberty
0.8 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival icon blending heritage craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and timeless design in the heart of London’s West End.
Floris London
0.8 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Oxford St
0.9 km
Europe’s busiest shopping street, Oxford Street offers iconic department stores, high-street fashion, and vibrant retail energy in central London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.5 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Cahoots London
0.8 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
0.8 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
0.9 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
The Argyll Arms
0.9 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.9 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Duke of Argyll
1.1 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Thin White Duke
1.1 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Purl London
1.1 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
Basement Sate
1.2 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
NQ64 Soho
1.2 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Village Soho
1.2 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Duke Of Wellington
1.2 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Punch Room
1.3 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
1.3 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
0.6 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
The Cuckoo Club
0.8 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
0.9 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Sunset night club
1.0 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.1 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Box Soho
1.1 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.1 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sophisticats Soho
1.2 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Tiger Tiger London
1.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
St Moritz Club
1.2 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Luxe Club
1.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Bordello London
1.2 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
1.2 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
