
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Don't let the gentrified exterior fool you—The Drapers Arms is a genuinely lively gastropub where the ground-floor bar hums with locals after work. The Georgian building's fine features have been preserved beautifully, offering generous spaces with classic design, while the kitchen delivers solid modern comfort food like the house cheeseburger or the duck breast with roasted black plums. Head upstairs to the serene dining room when you want to escape the hubbub, or grab a seat in the walled patio garden when the weather's kind.
Lively local gastropub with character
The Drapers Arms manages to be both a proper local pub and a decent gastropub, which isn't an easy balance to strike. The Georgian architecture gives it character without feeling stuffy, and you'll find the ground-floor bar packed with regulars most evenings—proof that it's not just chasing trendy crowds. The food is straightforward but well-executed: the house cheeseburger is a reliable comfort choice, while the duck breast with roasted black plums shows they can handle more ambitious dishes without losing their pub soul.
Service tends to be friendly and efficient, though it can get a bit chaotic during peak times when the place is fully booked. I'd recommend going for a Sunday roast or an evening drink rather than trying to squeeze in a quick lunch—the atmosphere really comes alive when the locals are in full flow. The wine list offers reasonable glass and carafe options, and if you're into beer, there are always a few real ales on tap that change regularly.