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The Churchill Arms
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
baroqueclutteredlively
About the Vibe
Dripping in flowers and crammed with memorabilia, The Churchill Arms is one of London's most recognisable watering holes. Built in 1750 and once frequented by Churchill's grandparents, this Kensington institution serves up some of the best Thai food in the city alongside real ales that have earned CAMRA approval. The atmosphere is boisterous and baroque, with wicker baskets, chamber pots, and presidential memorabilia creating a uniquely cluttered charm that's earned it Chelsea Flower Show awards.
Known For
- •authentic Thai cuisine
- •real ales
- •flower-covered facade
- •eccentric memorabilia
Best For
group dinnerspub crawlsThai food lovers
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 7, 2026
Floral chaos with excellent Thai food
The Churchill Arms is a proper London pub experience, though it comes with its own brand of chaos. The exterior is absolutely stunning—covered in hanging baskets and flowers that make it impossible to miss on Kensington Church Street. Inside, you'll find a maze of memorabilia that ranges from chamber pots to presidential flags, creating an atmosphere that's equal parts cozy and overwhelming. The Thai food is genuinely excellent, with curries and stir-fries that rival many dedicated Thai restaurants, and the real ales are properly pulled.
That said, the service can be hit or miss. I've heard horror stories about reservation cancellations and ghosted emails, so book well in advance and maybe have a backup plan. The crowds get boisterous, especially on weekends, which adds to the energy but can make conversation tricky. If you're looking for a quiet pint, this isn't it—but if you want to experience a pub that feels like it's been decorated by an eccentric aunt with strong opinions, you'll find it here.