The Drawing Board: Eclectic Gastropub Haven in Leamington Spa
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Drawing Board is a vibrant gastropub located at 18 Newbold Street in Leamington Spa, known for its eclectic gourmet bar food, extensive craft beer selection, and unique comic-themed interior. Established in 2015, this two-floor venue offers a cozy refuge with mismatched furniture, vintage comics, and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking quality food and drinks in a quirky setting.
A brief summary to The Drawing Board
- 18 Newbold St, Leamington Spa, CV32 4HN, GB
- +441926330636
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-7 pm
Local tips
- Try the locally sourced SPAM fritters for a unique taste experience.
- Explore the extensive vegan menu with varied and flavorful options.
- Enjoy the cozy atmosphere with vintage comics and board games for a relaxed visit.
- Sample the award-winning craft beer selection, recognized as ‘Best For Beer’ in 2019.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Drawing Board location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Drawing Board
A Distinctive Atmosphere Rooted in Creativity
The Drawing Board stands out in Leamington Spa for its unique interior design that blends comfort with nostalgia. The pub’s mismatched dining furniture, log burners, and plush leather sofas create a welcoming, homely environment. Walls adorned with framed vintage comic books and classic games consoles evoke a playful, retro vibe that appeals to a diverse crowd. This artistic ambiance invites guests to relax and immerse themselves in a space that feels like a hipster sanctuary, combining contemporary cool with a touch of vintage charm.Culinary Offerings with a Global Twist
The gastropub serves an eclectic mix of world-influenced gourmet bar food, ranging from tapas to locally sourced specialties such as SPAM fritters. The menu reflects a commitment to quality and local sourcing, featuring ingredients from independent suppliers like Bread & Co, Aubrey Allen, and Bennett’s Farm Ice Cream. A dedicated vegan menu and gluten-free options cater to varied dietary needs, while the kitchen maintains transparency about allergen presence. The food experience is both adventurous and comforting, appealing to food lovers looking for something beyond typical pub fare.A Celebrated Craft Beer and Drinks Selection
As a freehouse, The Drawing Board prides itself on a diverse and carefully curated drinks menu. The pub’s ‘Kid In A Sweetshop’ mentality translates into a sensational lineup of craft beers, wines, and other beverages. This dedication to quality and variety earned the venue the prestigious ‘Best For Beer’ award at The Great British Pub Awards in 2019. The drinks selection complements the food perfectly, enhancing the overall gastropub experience.Community Hub and Cultural Spot
Beyond food and drink, The Drawing Board functions as a cultural hub with its comic-themed decor and board games, encouraging social interaction and leisurely enjoyment. The venue’s relaxed living room feel makes it an ideal spot for gatherings, casual meetups, or simply unwinding. Its location in Leamington Spa positions it as a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a unique and lively pub experience that combines quality offerings with a distinctive character.Operating Hours and Accessibility
The Drawing Board operates mainly from midday to late evening, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays and closed Mondays. Its two-floor layout and welcoming atmosphere make it accessible and comfortable for a broad audience. The pub’s moderate price range ensures it remains approachable for a variety of budgets, while its extensive photo collection and strong online presence reflect its popularity and vibrant community engagement.Legacy and Recognition
Since its establishment in 2015, The Drawing Board has grown into a celebrated venue within Leamington Spa’s dining and nightlife scene. Its blend of creative ambiance, quality food, and award-winning drinks has earned it a loyal following and critical acclaim. The pub continues to innovate while maintaining its core identity as a quirky, friendly gastropub that champions local suppliers and craft beverages, securing its place as a must-visit destination in the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Randolph Turpin Statue
4.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Council House
13.2 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Sir Frank Whittle
13.5 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Gower Memorial
15.9 km
Discover the Gower Memorial in Stratford-upon-Avon, an artistic tribute to Shakespeare surrounded by lush gardens and rich literary history.
Stratford Herald
15.9 km
Discover the vibrant community of Stratford-upon-Avon through the pages of the Stratford Herald, a local newspaper publisher capturing the essence of this Shakespearean town.
Tramway Bridge
15.9 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Bancroft Basin
15.9 km
Explore Bancroft Basin, a serene marina in Stratford-upon-Avon, where nature meets history in a picturesque setting perfect for all travelers.
The Countess of Evesham
15.9 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
15.9 km
Discover the enchanting Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and comfort blend seamlessly for an unforgettable stay.
Stratford Waterside Market
16.0 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Stratford Butterfly Farm
16.0 km
Explore the enchanting Stratford Butterfly Farm, where thousands of butterflies create a vibrant ecosystem in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
William Shakespeare
16.0 km
Explore the magnificent sculpture dedicated to William Shakespeare in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, a tribute to the Bard's timeless legacy.
Swan Fountain
16.0 km
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Swan Fountain, a stunning monument in Stratford-upon-Avon that combines artistry and nature.
Bancroft Gardens
16.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bancroft Gardens, a lush park along the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Stratford Town Walk and Stratford Ghost Walk
16.0 km
Experience the rich history and haunting stories of Stratford-upon-Avon with guided Town and Ghost Walks, perfect for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Guys Cliffe House
3.0 km
Discover the haunting beauty and rich legends of Guys Cliffe House, Warwick’s atmospheric Gothic ruin and ancient spiritual sanctuary.
St Nicholas' Park, Warwick
3.3 km
A historic riverside park in central Warwick offering gardens, sports, and family-friendly leisure in a tranquil natural setting.
St John's House
3.4 km
Explore nearly 900 years of history in Warwick’s Jacobean St John's House, a Grade I listed mansion blending heritage, education, and intimate events.
Warwick
3.7 km
Discover Warwick’s timeless medieval castle, charming historic streets, and tranquil river setting in the heart of Warwickshire.
Warwick East Gate Victorian Type PB1 Postbox
3.7 km
Discover Warwick’s charming Victorian cast iron postbox, a vibrant red relic of 19th-century British postal heritage still in use beside East Gate clock tower.
The Castle Dungeon
3.8 km
Step into Warwick Castle’s dark past with The Castle Dungeon, a spine-chilling immersive journey through plague, torture, and medieval terror.
Warwick Castle Main Entrance
3.8 km
Step into over 1,100 years of history at Warwick Castle, where medieval grandeur meets immersive live entertainment and scenic grounds.
Time Tower
3.9 km
Step inside the Time Tower at Warwick Castle for an immersive journey through centuries of history with captivating audiovisual storytelling and stunning views.
Warwick Antiques Centre
3.9 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Warwick Antiques Centre, a historic marketplace in the heart of Warwick.
Warwickshire Yeomanry Museum
3.9 km
Explore the rich history of the Warwickshire Yeomanry cavalry regiment in the historic Georgian Court House of Warwick.
St Mary’s Church
3.9 km
Discover St Mary’s Church, Warwick: a historic collegiate church blending medieval grandeur with post-fire Gothic revival in the heart of Warwick.
Warwick Castle
4.1 km
Discover over 1,100 years of history, thrilling live shows, and breathtaking views at Warwick Castle, one of Britain’s finest medieval fortresses.
The Weird Walk of Warwick
4.1 km
Explore centuries of military history and medieval charm at the Lord Leycester Hospital’s Weird Walk of Warwick, a unique living heritage site.
The Lord Leycester
4.1 km
Step into a living medieval masterpiece where Tudor history breathes through centuries-old timber walls and enduring traditions.
Market Hall Museum, Warwick
4.1 km
Discover Warwickshire’s rich history in a 17th-century landmark with fossils, Roman treasures, and a live beehive at Market Hall Museum.
Essential places to dine
Villa Capri Ristorante Italiano & Cocktail Lounge
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in a vibrant Capri-inspired setting in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Côte Leamington Spa
0.2 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
0.4 km
Experience authentic French bistro charm and superb British steaks in the heart of Leamington Spa at Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro.
Habano Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant Pan-Latin dining experience with fresh Cuban and Spanish flavors, friendly service, and a lively wine bar in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Eleven
0.5 km
An intimate, family-run French bistro in Leamington Spa offering classic dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
0.5 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
The Star & Garter
0.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
The Moorings at Myton
1.4 km
A charming canal-side gastropub in Royal Leamington Spa, serving locally sourced English classics in a family- and dog-friendly setting.
Saxon Mill Warwick
3.2 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
The Dining Room at Mallory Court Hotel & Spa
3.5 km
Elegant country house dining with seasonal, garden-grown British cuisine in a historic, intimate setting near Leamington Spa.
The Aubergine Turkish Restaurant
3.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavors and warm ambiance in the heart of historic Warwick.
Aqua Food & Mood Lebanese Restaurant
3.8 km
Authentic Lebanese flavors and warm hospitality combine in Warwick’s cozy Mediterranean gem.
The Stag at Offchurch
3.9 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Life of Mou
0.2 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
0.2 km
Discover unique home and lifestyle accessories in Leamington Spa’s eclectic Collective Home Store, where style meets quality and quirkiness.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
0.2 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Revolve
0.3 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Lilac Rose
0.3 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Stone The Crows
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Leamington Shopping Park
1.8 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Cloud 9
3.6 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
3.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes in the heart of historic Warwick at Browsers, your cozy local gift shop on Smith Street.
Trinkets & Treasures Ltd
3.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Present Days
4.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming gifts at Present Days, Warwick’s beloved boutique gift shop on historic Swan Street.
NV Her
4.1 km
Discover unique, sophisticated ladies’ fashion with a raw edge at NV Her, Warwick’s independent boutique in Market Place.
BeHoptimystic
4.1 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique collectibles and rare treasures in the heart of Warwick’s historic Market Place.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Drawing Board
0.0 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Royal Pug
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
The Boiler Room
0.4 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
Bedford Street Bar
0.4 km
Lively grill and bar venue in Leamington Spa offering live jazz, classic British dishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere with heated outdoor seating.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
0.4 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
The Clarendon Leamington Spa
0.5 km
Lively sports bar and pub in Leamington Spa with live games, craft beers, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The White Horse
0.6 km
A charming blend of historic character and modern comfort, The White Horse offers classic British pub fare and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Micro Pug
0.8 km
A lively canal-side pub and coffee spot in Leamington Spa, blending great drinks, fresh food, and a buzzing social scene with scenic waterside charm.
The Fat Pug
1.2 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
Royal Horse
2.3 km
A vibrant, family-friendly pub in Royal Leamington Spa offering hearty British fare, lively events, and warm hospitality since 2013.
The Black Pug
3.2 km
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
The Wild Boar
3.4 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ronnie's of Warwick
3.9 km
Eclectic bar in Warwick blending retro style, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere with a welcoming garden space.
The Old Coffee Tavern
4.0 km
Charming historic pub and boutique hotel in Warwick’s Old Square, blending cosy style, excellent food, and comfortable rooms in a central location.
That Gin & Cocktail Bar (That Gin Company)
4.0 km
Discover Warwick’s premier gin destination, blending bold handcrafted flavors with a cozy, inviting cocktail bar experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Altoria Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Neon
0.5 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Smack
0.5 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
The Cavern
4.5 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Caz Bar Nightclub
16.0 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
16.2 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Stratford Play House
16.3 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
16.8 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Disco Wonderland
31.4 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
31.5 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
Club PST
31.5 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
The Night Owl
31.5 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
31.5 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Next Door & Spotlight
31.5 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Sector 57
31.8 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Quirky
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly