How about a pint and a story? We’re standing in front of The Britannia near London Bridge. This isn’t just any pub. The Britannia is a proper boozer. It is tucked away from the London Bridge hustle. It sits within the Kipling housing estate. Community ties are strong here.
Back in 2006, Leigh White first ran this pub. He was a relief pub manager for The Only Pub Company. Bob McCarthur operated it. Bob was the son of a master whisky distiller. He became a publican and started a whisky pub company. Leigh ran the pub for Bob a second time in 2011. Sadly, Bob passed away in 2013.
Leigh White saw The Britannia on the market in October 2020. His Kingston pub had been trading well with takeaway food and drinks. He took a gamble during a risky time. He acquired the leasehold right after the November lockdown was announced. It was a calculated risk for a pub he loved.
Today, The Britannia is thriving. Locals and office workers flock here. They come for quick lunches and after-work drinks. Live music fills the air on weekends but not during summer. Everyone enjoys the sun trap in the side courtyard. The courtyard overlooks enchanting, leafy Kipling Street. Palm trees add to the charm.
Whisky enthusiasts find a haven here. Leigh continued a whisky theme. He developed a love for whisky after absorbing Bob’s passion. The Britannia focuses mostly on British Isles whisky. They offer more English, Welsh, and Irish whiskies than usual. The list is mainly Scottish single malt whisky.
The Britannia is known for premium cocktails, award-winning barbecue food, and a great beer selection. It is a trendy back street pub near Bermondsey Street.
The team includes six front-of-house and three back-of-house staff members. Richard Bonus, the general manager, has a strong cocktail background. Leigh’s son, Cameron, is a trainee assistant manager. He has grown within the company.
Smoked meats and creative burgers are the food specialties. They have a Burger of the Month and a Vegan Burger of the Month. These have a cult following.
The Britannia sometimes hosts live music and comedy. There are plans to develop the comedy further.
Consider trying Smok’d pubs’ famous Jacob’s Ladder beef rib. It is a signature dish. Or maybe the Smok’d beef brisket? The classic burger is also popular. Vegan options are available. Don’t forget the sides like skinny fries or triple cheese macaroni. For dessert, the Biscoff cheesecake is a treat.
So, raise a glass to The Britannia. It’s a place with history, community, and great drinks.