Five Fabulous Pubs for Sunday Lunch in London: A Celebration of British Tradition
Introduction: The Quintessential British Sunday Lunch
The Sunday roast is more than just a meal in Britain—it’s a cultural institution, a weekly ritual that brings families, friends, and communities together. In London, where culinary diversity reigns, the traditional Sunday lunch, complete with roast meat, crispy potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and lashings of gravy, remains a beloved centerpiece of the weekend. Pubs, with their cozy interiors, roaring fires, and convivial atmospheres, are the natural home for this hearty feast. From historic taverns to modern gastropubs, London’s pub scene offers an array of exceptional Sunday lunch experiences that cater to every taste, from classic beef roasts to innovative vegetarian options.
In this article, we spotlight five fabulous pubs in London that elevate the Sunday lunch to an art form. These establishments, scattered across the city’s diverse neighborhoods, combine quality ingredients, skilled cooking, and inviting ambiance to create memorable dining experiences. Whether you’re a local seeking a new favorite or a visitor eager to embrace British tradition, these pubs promise a Sunday lunch worth savoring. Drawing on recent reviews, culinary trends, and firsthand insights, we explore what makes each pub a standout destination for this iconic meal.
1. The Camberwell Arms, Camberwell: A Gastropub Gem
Nestled in the vibrant South London neighborhood of Camberwell, The Camberwell Arms is a gastropub that blends the charm of a local boozer with the sophistication of a fine-dining restaurant. Run by a team with roots in the legendary St. John, this pub has earned a reputation for its exceptional Sunday roasts, which are both comforting and impeccably executed.
The Sunday Lunch Experience
The Camberwell Arms offers a Sunday lunch menu that emphasizes sharing, with generous joints of meat designed for groups. Highlights include slow-roasted mutton, roast chicken with bread sauce, and a vegetarian option like herb and butter-roasted celeriac. The roasts are served with golden roast potatoes, seasonal greens, and Yorkshire puddings that are crispy on the outside and fluffy within. Starters, such as beer onions on toast, and desserts, like ginger cake with rhubarb, add a creative twist to the meal. Priced at around £40 for a three-course menu, the experience is both indulgent and excellent value for the quality.
Why It Stands Out
What sets The Camberwell Arms apart is its commitment to seasonal, British ingredients and its ability to balance rustic charm with culinary precision. The dining room, with its exposed brick and warm lighting, feels welcoming yet refined, making it ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Reviewers praise the “exceptional” roasts and the “lairy yet well-mannered” vibe, noting that the pub’s attention to detail elevates it above typical pub fare. Booking is essential, as the pub’s popularity often leads to fully reserved tables.
Details
- Address: 65 Camberwell Church St, London SE5 8TR
- Price Range: Mains from £18–£25, three-course menu ~£40
- Website: thecamberwellarms.co.uk
2. The Marksman, Hackney: A Modern Classic
Located in the heart of Hackney, The Marksman is a Victorian pub that has become a cornerstone of East London’s dining scene. Awarded the Michelin Pub of the Year in 2016, this gastropub combines traditional pub aesthetics with innovative cuisine, making it a top choice for Sunday lunch.
The Sunday Lunch Experience
The Marksman’s Sunday roast menu is a masterclass in balance, offering a three-course set menu for £40 that allows diners to mix and match. Main courses include roast chicken with girolle pie, Middlewhite pork with apple sauce, or a barley, ale, and hazelnut tart for vegetarians. The roasts come with perfectly crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and Yorkshire puddings stuffed with extra meat for carnivores. Standout desserts, like the brown butter and honey tart, are reason enough to visit. The pub’s proximity to Columbia Road Flower Market makes it a perfect stop after a morning stroll.
Why It Stands Out
The Marksman’s strength lies in its ability to deliver a roast that feels both traditional and elevated. The open kitchen, where chefs cook over charcoal, adds a theatrical element, while the upstairs dining room offers a cozy, intimate setting. Reviewers on platforms like Eater London rave about the “clever menu” and “universally admired Yorkshires,” noting that the Marksman consistently gets the roast right where others falter. The pub also offers excellent vegetarian and pescatarian options, ensuring inclusivity without compromising on flavor.
Details
- Address: 254 Hackney Rd, London E2 7SJ
- Price Range: Three-course menu ~£40
- Website: marksmanpub.com
3. The George, Fitzrovia: Historic Elegance
Tucked away in the bustling heart of Fitzrovia, The George is a beautifully restored pub that exudes historic charm. Owned by JKS Restaurants, this National Trust site is one of London’s oldest pubs, dating back to the 18th century. Its Sunday lunch menu combines tradition with a touch of decadence, making it a standout in Central London.
The Sunday Lunch Experience
The George’s upstairs dining room, with its wood-paneled walls and Titanic-esque elegance, is the setting for a Sunday roast that feels like a special occasion. The beef rump roast, served perfectly pink with lush bone marrow gravy, is a highlight, accompanied by crispy roast potatoes, seasonal veg, and a towering Yorkshire pudding. Other options include roast chicken, pork belly, or a vegetarian Wellington. Starters like cod roe crumpets and desserts like apple crumble round out the meal. Prices for mains range from £22–£28, with a pint of Guinness adding to the quintessential pub experience.
Why It Stands Out
The George’s combination of historic ambiance and modern culinary flair makes it a unique destination. Reviewers describe the upstairs dining room as “posh yet welcoming,” with staff who are “friendly rather than fawning.” The pub’s central location, near Oxford Street and the British Museum, makes it accessible for tourists and locals alike. Its ability to cater to both midweek pint-seekers and Sunday roast enthusiasts adds to its versatility. The George is particularly praised for its “glistening gravy” and “crispy roasties,” cementing its status as a top-tier roast spot.
Details
- Address: 55 Great Portland St, London W1W 7LQ
- Price Range: Mains £22–£28
- Website: thegeorge.london
4. The Audley Public House, Mayfair: Art and Indulgence
In the upscale enclave of Mayfair, The Audley Public House stands out as a stylish yet approachable pub that redefines the Sunday roast. Part of the Artfarm group, this traditional British pub is adorned with an eclectic art collection, including a vibrant ceiling mosaic by Phyllida Barlow, making it as much a visual feast as a culinary one.
The Sunday Lunch Experience
The Audley’s Sunday roast menu is a celebration of premium ingredients, with a focus on 100-day-aged beef, Herdwick lamb, or Cumbrian chicken, all served with fluffy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding filled with pulled beef. The cauliflower cheese side, described as “buttery, crispy, cheesy joy,” is a must-order. Vegetarians can opt for a nut roast or celeriac Wellington. Mains range from £22–£26, and the menu’s emphasis on local suppliers, including Borough Market vendors, ensures freshness. The upstairs Mount St. Restaurant offers a more formal dining experience for those seeking extra elegance.
Why It Stands Out
The Audley combines Mayfair’s sophistication with the warmth of a traditional pub, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diverse diners. Reviewers on CN Traveller and DesignMyNight praise the “generous portions” and “impeccable presentation,” noting the pub’s ability to balance classic roasts with modern flair. The art-filled interior and responsive service—complete with “gravy top-ups”—add to the experience. Its location near Bond Street makes it a convenient stop for shoppers and art enthusiasts visiting nearby galleries.
Details
- Address: 41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX
- Price Range: Mains £22–£26
- Website: theaudleypublichouse.com
5. The Black Dog, Vauxhall: A Hidden South London Treasure
Tucked away in a quiet backstreet near Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, The Black Dog is a charming neighborhood pub that delivers one of South London’s best Sunday roasts. Known for its friendly staff, excellent craft ales, and cozy beer garden, this pub is a local favorite that deserves wider recognition.
The Sunday Lunch Experience
The Black Dog’s Sunday roast menu features classics like 21-day-aged Angus rump of beef, roasted pork belly, or Somerset chicken, alongside a roasted butternut squash and feta tart for vegetarians. Each plate is piled high with duck fat roast potatoes, steamed seasonal greens, roasted root vegetables, and a massive Yorkshire pudding, all drowned in rich gravy. Prices range from £16–£22, making it one of the more affordable options on this list. The pub’s craft beer selection, including local brews, pairs perfectly with the hearty meal, and the apple crumble dessert is a comforting finale.
Why It Stands Out
The Black Dog’s appeal lies in its unpretentious charm and commitment to quality. Reviewers on Secret London and Tripadvisor describe it as a “lovely little spot” with “fantastic roasts” and a “welcoming vibe.” The pub’s location, just a short walk from Vauxhall station, makes it accessible yet feels like a hidden gem. Its dog-friendly policy and cute beer garden add to the relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for leisurely Sunday lunches with friends or family. The Black Dog’s ability to deliver a traditional roast with all the trimmings at a reasonable price sets it apart in London’s competitive pub scene.
Details
- Address: 112 Vauxhall Walk, London SE11 5ER
- Price Range: Mains £16–£22
- Website: blackdogvauxhall.com
The Art of the Sunday Roast: What Makes a Great One?
A great Sunday roast is more than the sum of its parts—it’s about balance, quality, and atmosphere. According to culinary experts and reviewers, the perfect roast requires:
- Quality Ingredients: Premium, locally sourced meats, such as 35-day-aged beef or free-range chicken, elevate the dish. Seasonal vegetables and homemade Yorkshire puddings are non-negotiable.
- Cooking Technique: Roast potatoes must be crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, often cooked in duck or beef fat. Gravy should be rich and plentiful, ideally made from roasting juices.
- Ambiance: A cozy pub setting, with wooden floors, open fires, or historic charm, enhances the experience. Friendly, attentive service is key.
- Inclusivity: Top pubs offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options that are as thoughtfully prepared as their meat counterparts.
Each of the pubs on this list excels in these areas, offering roasts that respect tradition while adding their own flair, whether through innovative sides, sharing platters, or creative vegetarian dishes.
The Competitive Landscape: Standing Out in London
London’s Sunday roast scene is fiercely competitive, with hundreds of pubs and restaurants vying for diners’ attention. High-end establishments like Hawksmoor and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal offer luxurious takes on the roast, while neighborhood pubs like The Ship in Wandsworth or The Alexandra in Wimbledon cater to local crowds with hearty, affordable options. The pubs on this list stand out by blending accessibility with culinary excellence, offering roasts that rival fine-dining experiences at a fraction of the cost. Their diverse locations—spanning South, East, Central, and West London—ensure there’s a great option no matter where you are in the city.
Tips for Enjoying a Sunday Lunch in London
To make the most of your Sunday lunch experience, consider these tips:
- Book in Advance: Popular pubs like The Camberwell Arms and The Marksman fill up quickly, especially for Sunday lunch. Reservations are often required weeks in advance.
- Arrive Hungry: Portions are generous, and many pubs offer sharing roasts or bottomless sides, so come prepared for a feast.
- Explore the Menu: Don’t skip starters or desserts—many pubs offer creative takes on classics, like scotch eggs or sticky toffee pudding.
- Pair with a Drink: A pint of local ale, a glass of red wine, or a Bloody Mary complements the meal perfectly.
- Check for Specials: Some pubs, like The George, offer daily specials or seasonal dishes that add variety to the roast menu.
Why These Pubs Matter
The Sunday lunch is a celebration of British heritage, and these five pubs embody the best of this tradition. They showcase London’s ability to honor its culinary past while embracing modern innovation, from charcoal-grilled meats to plant-based Wellingtons. Each pub offers a unique experience, whether it’s the historic elegance of The George, the artistic flair of The Audley, or the neighborhood charm of The Black Dog. Together, they represent the diversity and vibrancy of London’s dining scene, proving that the Sunday roast remains a cornerstone of the city’s food culture.
Conclusion: A Sunday Well Spent
London’s pub scene is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and these five establishments—The Camberwell Arms, The Marksman, The George, The Audley Public House, and The Black Dog—are among the best for a fabulous Sunday lunch. Each offers a roast that balances tradition with creativity, served in an atmosphere that feels like home, whether you’re in a bustling central neighborhood or a quiet South London street. As you plan your next Sunday outing, consider one of these pubs for a meal that promises comfort, quality, and a taste of British soul.
So, gather your loved ones, book a table, and prepare for a Sunday lunch that will leave you full, happy, and already looking forward to next week’s roast. Cheers to good food, great company, and the timeless joy of a pub lunch in London.
For reservations or to view menus, visit the respective pub websites listed above. Prices and offerings are subject to change, so check with each venue for the latest details.