England v Wales
Your guide to the best Twickenham pubs
This weekend an army of Welsh fans will be making the trip to London for Wales’ opening encounter with the old enemy England at Twickenham.
Here’s our guide to some of the best watering holes in and around Twickenham. And for those of you staying in London, we’ve also handpicked some of the best pubs in the capital for you to enjoy a quality pint.
The good news – for those die hard Brains fans among you – is that all pubs listed have brought in Wales’ best loved beer just for the occasion.
Iechyd Da!
PUBS IN AND AROUND TWICKENHAM
1. The Cabbage Patch, London Road, Twickenham. TW1 3SZ
The 'Patch’ is a much loved rugby pub, and is named after the stadium, which was famously built on a cabbage patch. Being the closest pub to the stadium, it is always busy on match days. But don’t be too put off by the crowds – the pub prides itself on providing the fastest service in Twickenham. There are two bars inside and three outside.
2. The White Swan, Riverside, Twickenham. TW1 3DN
A great, although small, 300 year old pub, with traditional ‘olde worlde’ décor. Strong rugby ties are reflected in a prized collection of memorabilia. Very close to Twickenham, it’s a great place to stop off pre or post match.
3. Twickenham Tup, 13 Richmond Road, Twickenham. TW1 3AB
The Tup has become a popular meeting place before and party-pub after all the major rugby matches. And for those of you who can’t get to the real Twickenham, the Tup’s a great alternative.
4. Barmy Army, the Embankment, Twickenham. TW1 3DU
About a 20 minute walk from the ground, but a great place to mingle with opposition fans before the match.
5. The William Webb Ellis, 24 London Road, Twickenham, TW1 3RT
Named after the man who invented rugby, the William Webb Ellis is a popular rugby pub in the centre of Twickenham, about 60 seconds from the train station. A great range of real ales, including the local Twickenham ales brews and specially brought in Brains SA, and TV screens for those of you without tickets.
6. The Roebuck, 72 Hampton Road, Hampton Hill. TW12 1JN
Good beer, food and atmosphere in this CAMRA award-winning pub. Far enough away (but close enough) to miss the main crowds and amazing views of the River Thames.
7. The Orange Tree, 45 Kew Road, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 2NQ
A quality pub with a reputation for great food and cask ale. Near the train station and right next to the bus stop that takes you to the stadium, it’s well worth a visit.
LONDON PUBS SERVING BRAINS
1. Famous Three Kings, 171 North Street, Fulham, W14 9NL
Voted the ‘Most Welsh pub outside of Wales’, the pub has become a magnet for Welsh rugby lovers. The pub is buzzing throughout the Six Nations so whenever you go you’re guaranteed a great atmosphere. With Brains beer on tap and welsh food on offer, you’ll feel right at home.
2. Argyll Arms, 18 Argyll Street, Oxford Circus. W1F 7TP
For a traditional pub, with a fantastic range of real ales, try the Argyll Arms. It’s one of the landmark pubs in Oxford Circus, within walking distance of Oxford Circus Tube, Oxford Street and Great Marlborough Street.
3. Princess of Wales, 27 Villiers Street, WC2N 6ND
For a traditional warm Welsh welcome – albeit in London – pay a visit to the Princess of Wales. Brains SA is one of its best sellers so you’re guaranteed a great pint.
4. Opera Tavern, 23 Catherine Street, London. WC2B 5JS
Another landmark pub, but this time in Covent Garden. Traditional and welcoming, it’s within walking distance of Covent Garden, Strand and Aldwych.
5. The Comedy, 7 Oxendon Street, London. SW1Y 4EE
A large pub, club, live music and comedy venue between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus in the heart of London. Don’t be fooled by the name, the pub is also a popular sports pub, showing all live sport.
6. The Prince of Wales, 150-151 Drury Lane, Covent Garden. WC2B 5TD
An authentic English pub with a good range of ales on tap. Situated on the corner of Drury Lane and Long Acre in the heart of theatreland.
7. The Sports Café, 80 Haymarket, London. SW1Y 4TE
Located in the heart of the West End, the Sports Café is split over two floors, with three bars and big HD screens. Guaranteed a great atmosphere and packed with rugby fans.