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.
Located at 132 Spa Road in London SE16, The Kernel Spa Road is a contemporary brewery taproom known for its extensive and ever-changing selection of fresh craft beers. Opened in August 2024, it offers a spacious, industrial-style setting with an L-shaped bar, 25 keg taps, and a kitchen residency serving Japanese-inspired comfort food. The venue blends a vibrant brewery atmosphere with quality dining and a commitment to craft brewing excellence.
A brief summary to The Kernel Spa Road
- 132 Spa Rd, London, SE16 3AE, GB
- +442072314516
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- 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
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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
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.
The Kernel Spa Road location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Kernel Spa Road
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Execution Dock House
1.0 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
The Captain Kidd
1.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
1.2 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
Wakefield Tower
1.4 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
1.4 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
1.6 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Tower Hill Memorial
1.6 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
London Wall
1.6 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Trinity House
1.7 km
Five centuries of maritime heritage and seafarer welfare in a restored Georgian masterpiece.
Trinity Church Square
1.7 km
Discover the serenity of Trinity Church Square in London, a historic oasis of beauty and tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape.
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
1.7 km
Discover London's haunting past at The London Bridge Experience, where history and thrills meet in an unforgettable adventure.
Custom House
1.7 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
1.7 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage at Billingsgate Roman House & Baths, a fascinating museum revealing ancient life in the heart of London.
Execution Dock
1.8 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
1.8 km
Medieval survivor where Viking legend, plague history, and literary fame converge in a Gothic gem.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brew By Numbers Tasting Room
0.2 km
Discover innovative craft beers and a relaxed vibe at Brew By Numbers Tasting Room, a must-visit for beer lovers in Bermondsey.
Ropewalk
0.6 km
Discover Ropewalk, the vibrant and historic heart of Maltby Street Market where London’s industrial charm meets world-class street food.
Maltby Street Market
0.6 km
Discover Maltby Street Market, a vibrant weekend food haven beneath historic Bermondsey railway arches, offering global street food and artisan delights.
Shad Thames
0.7 km
Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.
Southwark Brewing Company
0.7 km
Independent cask ale brewery in a Victorian railway arch, where trains rumble overhead and tradition meets innovation.
Bermondsey Antique Market
0.8 km
Discover timeless treasures and rich history every Friday at Bermondsey Antique Market, London's oldest and most vibrant antiques hub.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
1.0 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
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant Bermondsey Street in London, a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that captures the city's unique spirit.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.0 km
Explore London’s iconic Tower Bridge with panoramic views, historic Engine Rooms, and a unique gift shop celebrating this engineering masterpiece.
Bridge Theatre
1.0 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in London’s innovative Bridge Theatre, where flexible design meets immersive performances by the Thames.
Potters Fields Park
1.1 km
A peaceful riverside park by Tower Bridge blending historic pottery heritage with vibrant gardens and iconic London views.
Thames River Police Museum
1.1 km
Explore the historic Thames River Police Museum in Wapping, showcasing over 200 years of pioneering river policing on London’s iconic Thames.
Tower Bridge
1.1 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.
St Katharine Docks Marina
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant St Katharine Docks Marina, a picturesque destination in London offering dining, shopping, and stunning riverside views.
St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe
1.2 km
An 18th-century riverside church in Rotherhithe with deep maritime roots and Mayflower connections, offering quiet reflection and centuries of history by the Thames.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.9 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
1.7 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
George
1.7 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
14 Hills
2.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Mercato Metropolitano
2.0 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
2.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
2.2 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
2.5 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.
Madison
2.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.9 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Nomadic community
3.0 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
3.1 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Lyle's
3.1 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
3.3 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
3.3 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
1.5 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
1.6 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
1.9 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
2.3 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Middlesex Textiles
2.3 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
2.3 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
1 Poultry
2.4 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Fashion St
2.5 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Commercial St
2.6 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
One New Change
2.7 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Spitalfields Market
2.7 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Bankside Arches Boutique
2.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Sclater Street Market
2.7 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
2.8 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
2.8 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
1.2 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Midnight Apothecary
1.3 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
The Old School Yard
1.4 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 Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.7 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
2.0 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
2.0 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
2.2 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
2.2 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Bell
2.3 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
2.3 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Discount Suit Company
2.3 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Demon, Wise & Partners
2.4 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Astronomer, EC1
2.5 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
2.5 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
2.6 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club 701
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
1.5 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
2.0 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Ministry of Sound
2.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Steel Yard
2.1 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
The Venue
3.2 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
3.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
3.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
3.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Hatch Club
3.3 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Hoxton Pony
3.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
3.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Trafik
3.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
3.7 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.
Basing House - Shoreditch
3.7 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly