If you enjoy reading please consider “buying me a pint”, this will help to cover my hosting and image hosting and help to ensure further trips can go ahead!
BUY ME A PINT
Discovering Pubs in Dartford, Greenwich, and Hither Green
Brockley Brewery, which started in 2013 in South East London, is all about traditional cask ales and building community ties. In 2019, they moved to a bigger location in Hither Green and have since prioritised sustainability. Their taproom has a laid-back vibe, showcasing brewing equipment and serving both cask and keg beers. River Ale House, opened in 2017, turned an old lingerie shop into a trendy micropub with a sleek design and a great selection of cask ales. Growler Stop, which opened in 2021 in Dartford, transformed a former car rental spot into a chic taproom offering takeaway beer, featuring 21 keg lines. The Long Dog, Dartford’s first micropub since 2018, fosters a sense of community and hosts various events, all while showcasing a unique design that highlights cultural elements and craft beers.
Hither Green, Dartford, and Greenwich all boast unique histories. Hither Green transformed from a small rural village into a bustling London suburb during the 19th century, thanks to the railway’s arrival. Dartford, located in Kent, has a long history, recognised for its Roman crossings, medieval markets, and early advancements in industries like papermaking and cement production. Greenwich, known for its rich maritime heritage, is home to the Royal Observatory and the concept of Greenwich Mean Time. Once a royal borough and a naval centre, it features notable sites such as the Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College.
Brockley Brewery
A journey to Lee and a 10 minute walk from the train station brings me to Brockley Brewery. This was founded in 2013 by a group of seven locals from South East London who shared a love for great beer and community connection. They turned an old builder’s workshop on Harcourt Road into a brewery, focusing on traditional cask ales and building a sense of community. In 2019, they moved to a bigger location in Hither Green to boost their brewing capabilities. Even though they faced some hurdles, like halting production at the original site in 2024, the committed team brought the brewery back to life, prioritizing sustainability and local engagement.
At Brockley Brewery’s Hither Green Taproom, you’ll discover a laid-back, industrial-style environment that radiates a friendly community atmosphere. The vibe is casual and inviting, featuring wooden tables, benches, and string lights that create a cosy ambiance. You can also see the brewing equipment, which adds to the genuine brewery experience.
A great space which offers 2 cask beers alongside a nice selection of keg beers. “Pale Ale” was my choice of beer in here from Brockley Brewery. A lovely hoppy, well balanced and tasty beer.
River Ale House
The River Ale House, which opened its doors in East Greenwich in September 2017. It has transformed a former lingerie store into the borough’s first micropub. Owner Trevor Puddifoot saw the shift in retail trends and turned his shop into a space for the community. It quickly gained popularity among locals, snagging several CAMRA awards, including the title of South East London Pub of the Year in 2019, 2022, and 2024.
Inside, the pub boasts a rustic and minimalist vibe. With exposed brick walls and wooden panels, it creates a warm and welcoming feel. The main bar area features high-backed wooden benches and tables made from scaffolding boards, along with some high stools. There’s also a smaller seating area at the back, which is accessible via a short ramp. The overall design prioritises simplicity and comfort, making it a great spot for community gatherings.
A warm welcome from George and on the bar a fantastic selection of 7 cask ales to choose from alongside a brilliant offering of ciders. I chose to go with “Bankside Blonde” from local Southwark Brewing Co. A delicious Golden Ale brewed using Mosaic hops giving it a great tropical flavour and a very refreshing beer.
Growler Stop
A train journey to Dartford and a walk to Growler Stop Kent. This place kicked off its journey in early December 2021, taking over a former Avis car rental spot at Westgate House on Spital Street and turning it into a stylish taproom. Nick Byram, who owns Caveman Brewery and previously managed ales at the Dartford Working Men’s Club, started this place in response to the rising demand for takeaway beer during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The name “Growler Stop” nods to refillable beer containers, highlighting its function as both a taproom and a takeaway service.
Inside, you’ll find a blend of rustic and modern vibes, mixing industrial features with welcoming details. The open layout showcases a striking wall of taps, along with a large graphic wall that’s become a favourite spot for photos. The design uses wood and metal elements to create a warm atmosphere. Plus, the venue has some uniquely styled restrooms that add a fun twist to the overall experience.
A great line up of 21 keg lines and 7 cider lines to choose from in here. Lots of choice. A refreshing, sessionable and light Golden Ale in here. “Eldarado” from Brentwood based Elephant School Brewing Co.
Long Dog
My second visit in Dartford is to The Long Dog Dartford. This started out as the Dartford Jug when it opened its doors on July 13, 2018. It was the first micropub in Dartford, transforming a former Indian takeaway into a space that promotes conversation and community spirit. Originally linked to The Malling Jug in West Malling, it rebranded to The Long Dog and came under the sole management of Daniel Farr in August 2022. The pub quickly gained popularity among locals, celebrated for its welcoming vibe and events like quiz nights and live music.
Inside, The Long Dog boasts a carefully crafted design that combines the classic micropub feel with its own unique flair. The front area features seating with repurposed casks, leading to a section with tall tables and stools. At the back, the bar showcases a tongue-and-groove counter decorated with beer bottles and ceramic dachshund figurines, a nod to the pub’s name. The décor includes large murals—one depicting an old local map and another displaying a collage of historic pub photos. Extra details like a framed brewing process diagram and a periodic table of beer add to the atmosphere. Stairs by the bar lead to the restrooms, flanked by walls filled with framed joke cartoons that bring a playful touch to the space.
On the bar today a choice of 3 cask ales, alongside some craft keg options to choose from. A beer from Tonbridge Brewery was my choice in here. “NZ Pale”, is a delicious, full of flavour, hoppy and tasty Pale Ale.
Micropub Adventures 
1 Comment