A proper old-school boozer tucked under the railway arches right outside Waterloo Station, the Hole In the Wall is the kind of no-frills pub that's increasingly rare in this part of London. Cheap drinks, a lively mix of locals and commuters, and a location that makes it the easiest pre-train pint you'll ever have. Don't expect craft cocktails or a gastropub menu — this is a pint-and-a-pack-of-crisps kind of place, and that's exactly its charm.
A no-frills London boozer under the railway arches at Waterloo, serving cheap pints to a lively mix of locals and commuters since forever.
If you want a quieter pint, head to the front bar earlier in the day — the back gets packed and loud with commuters after work, especially on Fridays.
A Proper Waterloo Boozer Under the Arches
If you've ever emerged from Waterloo Station and thought, "I could use a quick, cheap pint before I get on the train," the Hole In the Wall is your answer. Tucked under the railway arches on Mepham Street, it's one of those pubs that feels like it's been there forever — and in the best way. The front bar tends to attract an older, quieter crowd, while the back opens up a bit more with a livelier mix of commuters, locals, and the occasional dazed tourist who's wandered over from the South Bank.
Drinks here are genuinely cheap for the area — a rarity when you're this close to one of London's busiest stations. Reviewers consistently mention the value, and it's not uncommon to hear people say they've walked past it a hundred times before finally stepping in and being pleasantly surprised. The food is standard pub fare: think pies, burgers, and the usual suspects. Nothing to write home about, but it does the job when you need something to soak up the beer.
It's not trying to be anything it isn't, and that's the whole point. No craft beer revolution, no reclaimed wood, no small plates — just a straightforward London pub with a sticky floor and a warm welcome. If you're after atmosphere over polish, this is your spot. Just don't expect a quiet one on a Friday after work.