The Kernel Spa Road Taproom: A Modern Hub for Craft Beer in London
Discover The Kernel Spa Road: London's vibrant brewery taproom blending craft beers with Japanese-inspired comfort food in a stylish industrial setting.
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A New Chapter in London's Brewing Scene
The Kernel Spa Road taproom opened its doors in August 2024, marking a significant expansion for The Kernel Brewery, which is renowned for pioneering craft beer in London. Situated on the ground floor of a modern residential block on Spa Road, Bermondsey, this venue replaced the brewery's original taproom. The space was designed to accommodate a large, airy environment with ample seating, making it an inviting destination for both beer aficionados and casual visitors.Industrial Design Meets Brewing Tradition
The taproom’s interior features an industrial aesthetic with exposed ceiling ducting and a prominent L-shaped bar counter. This design not only reflects the brewery’s raw, authentic approach to craft beer but also creates a lively and social atmosphere. With 25 keg taps and two handpumps, the bar offers a wide range of beers, including many bottle-conditioned varieties that meet CAMRA’s standards, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection.Culinary Collaboration Enhances the Experience
Complementing the beer offerings is the kitchen residency with Yagi Izakaya, which serves Japanese-inspired comfort food such as gyoza, udon, and karaage. This collaboration, extended through the end of 2025, provides a unique culinary dimension to the taproom, allowing guests to pair their drinks with thoughtfully crafted dishes. The kitchen operates primarily from Wednesday to Sunday, aligning with the taproom’s busiest hours.Community and Booking Policies
The Kernel Spa Road fosters a community-centric vibe, welcoming groups and encouraging bookings for parties of four or more. Saturdays are reserved exclusively for large bookings of 20 to 30 people, supporting private events and celebrations. The venue also maintains active engagement with its audience through social media, particularly Instagram, where updates on new beer releases and events are regularly posted.Operating Hours and Visitor Information
The taproom is open Wednesday to Friday from noon to 10 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Sunday from noon to 8 pm. The kitchen hours slightly differ, opening later in the day to serve food alongside the drinks. The venue is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for bank holiday Mondays when it opens from noon to 8 pm. This schedule reflects a balance between accessibility and operational focus on peak social times.Significance in London’s Craft Beer Landscape
The Kernel Spa Road stands out as a vital part of London’s craft beer renaissance. Its commitment to quality brewing, innovative food partnerships, and a welcoming, stylish environment make it a must-visit for those seeking authentic beer experiences. The venue’s location in Bermondsey, an area known for its vibrant food and drink scene, further enhances its appeal, positioning it as both a local favorite and a destination for visitors exploring London’s diverse brewing culture.Local tips
- Book in advance for groups of four or more, especially for Saturday large bookings which are limited to 20-30 people.
- Try pairing the ever-changing selection of fresh beers with Japanese dishes like gyoza and karaage from the kitchen residency.
- Visit on weekdays or Sunday afternoons for a more relaxed atmosphere and to enjoy the full range of beer taps.
- Follow @thekernelsparoad on Instagram for the latest beer releases and event updates.
A brief summary to The Kernel Spa Road
- 132 Spa Rd, London, SE16 3AE, GB
- +442072314516
- Visit website
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 11 am-9 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-8 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Overground to Surrey Quays station, approximately 15 minutes from central London. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk along Spa Road to reach the taproom. Frequent train services run daily, with tickets costing around £2.50–£5 depending on your starting zone.
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Bus
Bus routes 47 and 188 serve Spa Road with stops nearby. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes from central London, depending on traffic. Single fares are approximately £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to The Kernel Spa Road takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £15–£25. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially for groups or evenings.
