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Exploring Bexley and Sidcup’s Unique Micropubs
I check out a selection of micropubs around Bexley and Sidcup, and each one has its own cool story and vibe. The Rusty Bucket used to be a struggling real ale bar but has turned into a lively craft beer hangout. The Hackney Carriage, founded by Liz Twort, encourages people to connect without the distraction of TVs. The Halfway House is a family-run spot that keeps things cosy and focuses on local ties. The Hangar Micropub really highlights community spirit and hosts various events. The Hopper’s Hut pays tribute to local history, while the Silver Fox, which used to be a dry cleaners, has a friendly atmosphere and some unique seating options. Each of these pubs plays an important role in their community.
Sidcup and Bexley, found in southeast London, boast fascinating histories that trace back to medieval times. Bexley started as a rural parish in Kent, recognised for its farming and ancient churches. Sidcup, on the other hand, evolved from a tiny hamlet into a bustling suburban area thanks to the railway expansion in the 19th century. Both locations joined Greater London in 1965. Bexley still features notable sites like Hall Place, a Tudor-style house, while Sidcup is known for its cultural institutions, including Rose Bruford College.
Rusty Bucket
First is onto The Rusty Bucket pub in Bexley. This located under a railway arch, has a fascinating backstory. It first opened its doors in September 2020 as ‘Next Door,’ a real ale bar, but shut down in late 2022. Fast forward to October 2024, and the original Rusty Bucket team from Eltham breathed new life into the place, turning it into a warm and inviting craft beer spot.
Step inside, and you’ll discover a snug, modern atmosphere beneath the railway arch, complete with low tongue-and-groove panelling, stylish flooring, and lively pop art featuring legends like Amy Winehouse and Bob Marley.
A fantastic warm welcome from Rachel when I walked in. A fantastic line up of 14 keg options, 2 cask beers and a cider. A number of fridges full of cans and bottles to complement the draft selection. I opted to go with “Spring Protagonist” from Lost and Grounded Brewers. A classic English Bitter, full of character and super tasty.
Hackney Carriage
Next up is The Hackney Carriage Micro Pub in Sidcup. This opened its doors on August 19, 2016, turning a former school outfitter’s shop into a friendly spot. Liz Twort, a former estate agent, started the pub with the goal of creating a safe and welcoming place for people to gather. The name is a nod to her husband Mark, who works as a black cab driver.
Inside, you’ll discover a snug, rectangular layout with high benches and tables on either side, promoting a sense of community. At the back, the bar features a cool room where you can enjoy real ales and ciders straight from the cask. The décor includes great wooden seating and a lovely green colour on the walls, giving it a classic feel. The pub keeps a calm, conversation-friendly vibe, steering clear of TVs and loud music, so patrons can connect with each other.
Was great meeting and chatting to owner Liz and Micropub enthusiast Brian today. On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales and 6 keykeg beers, alongside a nice choice of ciders. I went with a keg beer from The Outhouse Brewery in here. “Hollow Core” was a delicious, fruity and refreshing Raspberry Pale Ale.
Halfway House
Next up is a short bus ride to The Halfway House in Sidcup. This is a family-owned micropub that opened its doors in 2017. This area has a rich history, originally known as Lamorbey, a medieval hamlet. The pub’s name pays homage to its spot on this historic road. Since it opened, the Halfway House has become a cherished part of the local scene, known for its friendly vibe.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy, single-room setup with a few tables that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The simple décor includes tall benches and stools, promoting a communal feel that encourages patrons to chat. Big front windows let in plenty of natural light, and there’s a covered patio at the front for extra seating when the weather is nice. They are in the process of building a hut at the rear for extra seating.
A great warm welcome in here today and was great chatting to a few regulars including Finn. On the bar a choice of 2 cask ales alongside a range of keg beers. In here I chose to go with “Foundation Bitter” from East London Brewing Company. A delicious well balanced English Bitter.
The Hangar
Another bus ride to The Hangar Micropub in Sidcup. This opened its doors on June 13, 2018, in what used to be a carpet shop. It became the ninth micropub in the Bexley CAMRA branch area, aiming to create a community-cantered space that embodies the micropub spirit—encouraging conversation, local involvement, and a warm, inviting vibe. The pub quickly established itself as a beloved part of Sidcup’s social life, frequently hosting events and building strong relationships with patrons. To capitalize on its local popularity, The Hangar launched a sister venue in Welling in October 2020.
Inside, you’ll discover a sleek, minimalist design featuring wooden floors, tall tables, and wall-mounted benches that foster a laid-back, social environment. Ample natural light streams in through large front windows, while charming aviation-themed décor and a cosy patio cabin at the back add a unique touch to this friendly community hub.
A selection of 3 cask ales available to choose from alongside a range of keg options. In here I went with “Mosaic Pale Ale” from Grey Trees Brewery. A delicious, light and tasty pale ale brewed using Mosaic hops.
The Hopper’s Hut
Next up is The Hopper’s Hut Micropub in Sidcup. This opened its doors in October 2016, turning a previous party supply store at 1 Invicta Parade into a friendly spot for the community. Established by ex-teacher Simon and Rebecca Tippett, the pub’s name honours the local history of hop farming, where seasonal workers stayed in ‘hopper’s huts’ during the harvest.
Step inside, and you’ll discover a welcoming, single-room layout with stone floors and light coloured walls. The seating arrangement includes high tables with wall-mounted benches, along with some lower seating options. The décor creates a warm and inviting vibe.
A fantastic warm welcome from Natalie in here and was brilliant chatting. On the bar a choice of 2 cask ales and 7 keg beers to choose from. I opted to go with “Californian Spring” from Titsey Brewing Company. A great, well hopped and full of flavour American Pale Ale.
Silver Fox
Last visit is to the Silver Fox Micro Pub found in Bexley. This was founded by Niki and Simon Fox. The name pays homage to Niki’s silver hair and Simon’s last name. Their dream took shape in 2019 when they started transforming an old dry cleaners into a micropub. Although the COVID-19 pandemic caused some setbacks, they finally opened their doors on July 4, 2020, the same day pubs in England were allowed to welcome customers back after lockdown. As a local independent pub, the Silver Fox quickly became a beloved spot in the community.
Inside, the pub has a warm and inviting vibe. The front area features high bench seats and tables mounted on the walls, while the back offers standard-height tables and chairs to suit different seating preferences. Occasionally, you’ll hear some recorded music playing, enhancing the laid-back atmosphere. Outside, there’s a roped-off forecourt with six tables, providing extra seating in a peaceful suburban environment. The tables look amazing with spirit miniatures inside them, something I have never seen before.
A fantastic warm welcome from Simon, Niki and Amber today when I arrived. On the bar a selection of 2 cask ales alongside a choice of keg beers. Here I went with “Country Best” from Tonbridge Brewery. A delicious traditional English Bitter, full bodied and tasty.
Micropub Adventures 
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