Beer hops spots: Croydon Pubs Pulling Perfect Pints
If you’re seeking the perfect pint, pull up a chair at one of Croydon’s beer hot spots, which offer everything from traditional favourites to unique craft beers.
The humble pint has become a little showier over the last decade. The explosion of the craft beer scene has created some much-needed innovation within the industry resulting in a huge new line up of specialty beers (housed in gallery-worthy cans).
Here in Croydon, we have three of our very own breweries (The Cronx Brewery, Signal Brewery and Anspach and Hopday) who are all fermenting and filtering the finest of hops within the Borough’s boundaries.
We also have our own event dedicated to the drink. Each year, the Croydon Beer Festival takes over Braithwaite Halls to showcase over 40 beers and ciders to locals.
To (semi) quote Carlsberg, Croydon is probably home to the best beer drinkers in the world and a few centrally located hops spots are below…
Art & Craft
To quote another much-loved advert (albeit one from a different industry) Art & Craft does exactly what it says on the tin. There is art on the walls and craft beer on tap.
This independently owned bar is based on Surrey Street and a large yellow “Good Beer” street sign directs punters off the main pathway and into the “urban beer garden” (with a graffiti mural from @Sickboykks providing a fitting backdrop).
Inside, an industrial look of exposed pipes and distressed brick walls is softened with festoon bulb lighting and a thoughtfully curated modern art collection.
With a team keen to showcase their 10 keg lines of craft beer from local, national and international breweries, there’s plenty to choose from but if beer’s not your thing, they also have a pretty impressive artisan spirit collection.
Dog & Bull
If you’re looking for a side order of history with your pint, pull up a chair at the Dog and Bull.
Originally established in 1276 as ‘The Bell’, it is the oldest pub in Croydon. The main bar was designed by THE Isambard Kingdom Brunel – the English engineer often cited being as one of the “greatest figures of the Industrial Revolution”.
Brunel is well known for his work on the Great Western Railway, Clifton Bridge and the SS Great Britain, so after a tough week on a never-ending treadmill at work, it’s a motivating reminder of how success happens in small steps – one day you’re building a bar, the next – a bridge!
The stained-glass windows and original fireplaces inside the premises are juxtaposed by heated booths and a big screen outside.
Boasting a large pub garden with rotating food menu alongside its historical credentials, the Dog and Bull will be pulling pints for all generations, for many more generations to come.
The Green Dragon
A regular fixture in the Good Beer Guide, the Green Dragon Pub on the High Street is as legendary as the creature it takes its name from.
With an extensive food menu, board games, pool table, sports screenings, DJs, kid’s menu and even a baby change facility – this pub has something for all ages.
But we shall focus on the beer (of which you’ll get an easy visual overview courtesy of their beer mat collection wall).
Continually recognised by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) for their impressive range of ales, the knowledgeable team are always on hand with recommendations.
The addition of their new “Crafternoon Tea” is inspired – replacing sandwiches, tea and scones with sliders, pretzels, and craft beer.
Whilst the number of pubs in the UK might be at a record low, the Green Dragon is fighting back with fire to ensure the much-loved British institution doesn’t become folklore.
The Cronx Tap
Keep it Croydon and stop by The Cronx Tap to sample locally brewed craft beers.
Owned by The Cronx Brewery, who first started brewing beers in Croydon in 2012, this new high street gem opened in Sept 2023.
Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply enjoy the occasional pint, you’ll find the perfect pour here. Their selection of Croydon beers are served up alongside a range of guest brews for good measure.
Alongside the impressive craft line-up are the street-art inspired walls that add to the laid-back atmosphere.
And let’s not forget the staff. The passion these beer gurus have for hops is rivalled only by their love for all things Cronx (they were arguably the ones who made the Croydon/Brooklyn portmanteau mainstream!).
Got a thirst for more? Head to The (Cronx) Tap of knowledge.
71 High Street, Croydon, CR0 1QE
The Ship
Music and beer go hand in hand at The Ship – Croydon’s alternative pub.
The Ship’s core clientele is a refreshing breath of (sea) air but don’t be put off if rock isn’t your preferred genre – this well-established High Street local is home to a group of regulars who are as friendly to newcomers as they are loyal to the pub.
Open until the early hours and with reasonably priced drinks, this treasure trove has captured our heart(ies).
47 High St, Croydon, CR0 1QD
