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The Cross Keys
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
cozylocal-crowdtraditional
About the Vibe
Tucked away on Black Lion Lane, The Cross Keys is your go-to for that authentic British pub experience without the tourist trap vibes. You'll find real ales, a roaring fire in winter, and a Thai kitchen that punches way above its weight for a local pub. It's the kind of place where board games and darts coexist peacefully with good conversation, and the staff actually remember your name (or at least your usual order).
Known For
- •Thai pub food
- •real ales
- •roaring fire
- •board games and darts
- •garden seating
Best For
casual dinnerswatching sportsfamily visitsafter-work pints
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 8, 2026
A Proper Local Pub with Surprising Flair
The Cross Keys feels like stepping back in time to a proper British pub, but with a modern twist thanks to their Thai kitchen. I've been here several times for lunch and dinner, and the food is consistently solid—don't skip the Thai curry options if you're feeling adventurous. The atmosphere is what really sets it apart though; it's got that warm, lived-in feel with a roaring fire in the colder months and a decent selection of real ales on tap.
What I love most is how it caters to everyone. You've got families with kids enjoying the board games area, sports fans glued to the screens in the garden, and locals just chilling with a pint. The staff are genuinely friendly without being over-the-top, and the prices are reasonable for Hammersmith. It's not fancy, but that's exactly why it works.