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Trams, Taprooms and South London Pints
I spent the day exploring South London, starting in Selsdon before making my way through Addiscombe, Beckenham, Penge, Anerley, Gipsy Hill and West Norwood, before finishing back in Croydon. Along the way I visited a fantastic mix of micropubs, taprooms, brewery bars and independent pubs, each with its own history and character. It was great to meet owners, staff and local CAMRA members who were keen to share their stories and passion for good beer. From traditional cask ale pubs to modern brewery taprooms, there was plenty of variety throughout the day, along with some excellent beers enjoyed in warm and welcoming surroundings.
South London is made up of a fascinating mix of communities, each with its own story. Selsdon grew from a rural hamlet into a suburban centre during the twentieth century, while nearby Addiscombe expanded with the arrival of the railways and later the tram network. Beckenham developed from a village into a thriving town, and Penge grew rapidly after the opening of Crystal Palace in the 1850s. Anerley takes its name from a Scots word meaning “lonely”, though it is anything but today. Gipsy Hill and West Norwood developed around the railway, while Croydon grew from a historic market town into one of South London’s largest centres.
The Golden Ark
Yesterday saw me exploring South London, starting out in Selsdon at The Golden Ark. The Golden Ark in Selsdon began a new chapter in January 2019 when Matt and Maria Ford transformed the former Selsdon Stationers shop into the borough of Croydon’s first micropub. For many years, the premises had been a familiar stop for local people buying stationery and office supplies, but changing times on the high street created an opportunity for a different use. Rather than seeing the unit sit empty, the couple gave it a fresh lease of life, carefully converting the shop into a welcoming pub. Named after nearby Addington, the Golden Ark became part of the growing micropub movement and added a new piece of history to Selsdon’s long-established shopping parade.
Inside has the characterful look of a traditional micropub, packed with interesting details wherever you look. The timber bar sits at the heart of the room, surrounded by stools and shelves filled with bottles, while pump clips line the walls and add plenty of colour. Around the room are collections of artwork and photographs, giving the space a personal touch. Tables and chairs are arranged throughout the single room, with a mix of bench seating, armchairs and smaller tables providing different places to settle down. Large front windows bring in natural light, helping create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
A fantastic warm welcome from Matt when I arrived along with John, Bill and Cathy from Croydon & Sutton CAMRA who it was fantastic to meet and chat with. On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales along with a range of keg options. I went for Pit Stop by Tiny Rebel Brewing Co., a session IPA with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes and a clean, refreshing finish.
Claret & Ale
I headed back into Croydon and jumped on the tram to Addiscombe to visit Claret & Ale. The Claret & Ale in Addiscombe has been serving locals for many years and is one of the area’s best-known real ale pubs. Originally known as The Claret Free House, it built a strong reputation among beer drinkers long before adopting the Claret & Ale name around 2016. Despite the rebranding, little else changed, with the pub continuing to focus on traditional pub values and a wide range of cask ales. Located beside Addiscombe Tram Stop at Bingham Corner, it remains an independent free house rather than part of a pub chain. Over the years, it has collected numerous CAMRA awards and become a well-established fixture of Addiscombe’s pub scene.
Inside is full of character, with low ceilings, exposed black timber beams and traditional plastered walls giving it the feel of an old-fashioned pub. The layout is split into a number of seating areas, with a mixture of wooden tables, chairs and comfortable armchairs providing plenty of places to settle in. Large leaded windows at the front bring natural light into the main room, while warm wall lighting adds to the cosy atmosphere. The walls are packed with framed pictures, brewery memorabilia and model aircraft displays, giving visitors plenty to look at while enjoying a drink. It feels welcoming, well lived-in and very much a traditional pub at heart.
It was fantastic meeting and chatting to owner Charles when I arrived, along with Dave, Chair of Croydon & Sutton Camra. A fantastic line up of 6 cask ales to choose from on the bar, along with keg and cider options. I went for Flight Path by Twickenham Fine Ales, a pale ale with bright citrus hop notes and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Three Hounds Beer Company
My next couple of visits were over in Beckenham, the first being to The Three Hounds Beer Company. The Three Hounds Beer Company in Beckenham started out as a market stall in 2016, created by local resident Matt Walden to share his love for craft beer. By 2017, it transformed into a permanent spot near Clock House station, quickly becoming a community hub celebrated for its events and support of local artists. Housed in a charming 1904 shopping parade, the café has hosted music nights, comedy acts, and art shows, showcasing the lively culture of Beckenham. In 2024, it was recognised as a runner-up for Bromley CAMRA’s Pub of the Year, solidifying its role as a vital part of the local scene.
Inside has a bright and relaxed feel, with large front windows bringing plenty of natural light into the main room. Dark wood flooring, colourful dog-themed artwork and deep blue feature walls give the space plenty of character, while warm hanging lights add a cosy touch overhead. One side of the room is lined with fridges showcasing a wide range of cans and bottles, alongside shelves displaying merchandise and local touches. Seating is arranged around sturdy tables and benches, creating a comfortable place to settle in. Outside, several bench tables at the front provide additional seating overlooking the street.
When I arrived a fantastic warm welcome from Adam and Dewi. A fantastic selection on the bar with 3 cask lines, 20 keg lines and a great choice of ciders. Something for everyone! I went for Wangmark by Pomona Island Brew Co., a hazy pale ale with juicy tropical fruit notes and a soft, smooth finish.
Br3wery
A stroll up the road in Beckenham brought me to Br3wery. Br3wery kicked off in 2017 as a family-owned business in Beckenham, starting out by brewing small batches in a garden shed. Drawing inspiration from local history, their branding reflects elements from South-East London railway signs and the Beckenham town shield. In 2020, they relocated to a former mower shop at 253 Beckenham Road, transforming it into a microbrewery and taproom. By 2023, they expanded to a new brewery at 2A Birkbeck Road, with the taproom moving next door to 255 Beckenham Road in January 2025. The current taproom is situated in a building that used to be S.R. Lloyd, a wine, spirit, and beer merchant dating back to the early 1900s.
Inside has a stripped-back, industrial look, with exposed brickwork running along one side, dark-painted ceilings and wide timber floorboards underfoot. Long wooden benches and tables fill the narrow room, while red pendant lights add warmth against the otherwise understated décor. Natural light pours in from the rear, where doors open onto a surprisingly spacious outdoor area. The beer garden features rows of bench seating beneath covered canopies, creating plenty of room to sit outside. At the front, a handful of picnic benches provide additional pavement seating, giving visitors the choice of two very different outdoor spaces.
Drinks wise a line up of 10 keg lines showcasing various different styles, with most brewed themselves alongside some guests. I went for TROP by BR3WERY, a pale ale bursting with tropical fruit flavours and a bright, juicy finish.
Southey Brewing Co
A short bus ride to Penge brought my next to Southey Brewing Co. Southey Brewing Co Tap in Penge grew out of the brewery that began brewing on Southey Street in late 2016. The site itself has an even longer story, having previously been home to Late Knights Brewery until that business ceased trading in 2016. Rather than leaving the brewery space behind, the team behind Southey Brewing restarted production and gradually built a following for their beers. The taproom opened in March 2018, giving visitors the chance to enjoy beer right where it was brewed. Housed within a former Victorian warehouse that has been used for everything from candle making to an abattoir, it combines Penge’s industrial past with its modern brewing scene.
Inside combines the character of a brewery with the comfort of a cosy taproom. Dark painted brickwork, timber panelling and wooden floors give the space a warm feel, while a mix of booth seating, tables and chairs provides plenty of places to settle in with a pint. Exposed filament bulbs hang from the ceiling, adding a soft glow, and colourful artwork brightens the walls. One of the standout features is the view through to the brewhouse itself, where brewing vessels can be seen beyond the sliding doors. Outside, a small seating area beside the brewery offers an extra spot to enjoy a drink.
A fantastic variety on the bar with a choice of 2 cask ales and 8 keg lines with various styles and strengths to choose from. I went for Pale by Southey Brewing, a pale ale with gentle citrus hop notes and a clean, refreshing finish.
Craft Metropolis
A short walk through Penge brought me into Craft Metropolis. Craft Metropolis began in 2015 as an online craft beer business founded by beer enthusiast Oliver Meade. After several years selling beer online and at events, the business opened its Penge taproom and bottle shop in 2019. The venue occupies a former delicatessen on Penge High Street, giving a new lease of life to an established local shop unit. Since opening, it has combined a specialist beer shop with a relaxed place to enjoy a drink, helping it become a popular stop for local beer lovers. Still independently owned, Craft Metropolis remains a well-known part of Penge’s growing craft beer scene.
Inside has a cosy and relaxed feel, with dark walls, wooden panelling and industrial-style lighting giving the room plenty of character. Seating is arranged around the edges, with a mix of benches, stools and small tables, while a larger table in the centre provides additional space for groups. Strings of warm lights add a welcoming touch, and large front windows bring in plenty of natural light during the day. The compact bar forms the focal point, with beer boards displaying the latest selection and shelves stocked with snacks and drinks. Despite its modest size, it feels comfortable and inviting.
Drinks wise on the bar a cask ales, alongside a fantastic range of 9 keg lines, as well as fridges packed full of cans and bottles. I went for Kite by Fourman, an American pale ale with soft citrus and tropical fruit notes and a fresh, aromatic finish.
The Douglas Fir
A bus ride to Anerley brought me to The Douglas Fir. The Douglas Fir in Anerley first opened in November 2016 as the first pub venture from Gipsy Hill Brewing Company. It took over a former hairdresser’s shop on Anerley Road, transforming the compact retail unit into a welcoming craft beer bar. The name comes from the Douglas fir timber used to create the bar top and drinking shelves, sourced through an unusual beer-for-wood exchange. Known affectionately to regulars as “The Doug”, it is said to be the only pub in Great Britain with the name Douglas Fir. Following a closure at the end of 2024, the pub reopened in April 2025, continuing its story as a distinctive independent venue in Anerley.
Inside now stretches across two adjoining units, giving it more space while keeping the friendly character that made it popular in the first place. The main room is bright and welcoming, with large front windows, long wooden tables and benches, and strings of warm lights running around the walls and ceiling. Blue-painted walls, framed artwork, books, games and a well-used bar give the room a relaxed, lived-in feel. Through to the separate snug, visitors will find a quieter seating area with sofas, bench seating, dartboards and sporting memorabilia, creating a comfortable spot to settle in with a pint.
A cask ale on the bar, alongside a variety of keg options varying in style and strength to choose from. I went for Lazy Jesus by Southey Brewing, a pale ale with bright citrus hop notes and a lively, refreshing finish.
The Bull & Finch
Over to Gipsy Hill to visit The Bull & Finch. The Bull & Finch in Gipsy Hill has a story that stretches back to 2013, when local brewer Late Knights Brewery opened a pop-up pub called Beer Rebellion next door in a former café. As its popularity grew, the pub moved into its current home at 126 Gipsy Hill in October 2014, taking over a former bookmaker’s shop opposite the railway station. Following the closure of Late Knights Brewery in 2016, the venue changed hands before closing in 2018. It reopened in May 2019 under the ownership of Bullfinch Brewery and was renamed The Bull & Finch. Today, it continues to build on that independent brewing heritage.
Inside feels warm, cosy and a little different from the average pub. The narrow room is filled with a mix of wooden tables, chairs and bench seating, creating plenty of comfortable spots to settle in with a drink. Shelves of books, framed pictures and interesting decorative touches give the space plenty of character, while soft pendant lighting adds a welcoming glow. One wall is dominated by an impressive rack of bottled beers, reflecting the pub’s strong focus on Belgian and European brewing. Fridges stocked with bottles and shelves lined with glassware complete a relaxed and inviting space full of personality.
Drinks wise a range of 11 keg lines on when I visited. A nice mix of different styles. I went for Casual Pale by UnBarred Brewery, a pale ale with juicy citrus and tropical fruit notes and a soft, easy-going finish.
Gipsy Hill Taproom
My final visit on Wednesday was to The Gipsy Hill Taproom / The Gipsy Hill Brewing Co. in West Norwood. This grew naturally from the success of Gipsy Hill Brewing Company, which was founded on the Hamilton Road industrial estate in 2014. As more people discovered the brewery’s beers, it made sense to create somewhere they could enjoy them right at the source. A former industrial unit opposite the brewery was transformed into a taproom, giving visitors the chance to sit down with a pint just yards from where it had been brewed. What began as a small local brewery has grown into one of South London’s best-known brewing names, with the taproom remaining at the heart of the story.
Inside is a large and characterful space with an industrial feel that suits its railway arch surroundings. High ceilings, exposed steelwork and polished concrete floors create a sense of space, while hanging plants and warm lighting add a welcoming touch. Long wooden tables and benches provide plenty of seating, making it well suited to both small groups and larger gatherings. The timber bar runs along one side of the room, while pale brick walls, metal railings and brewery-inspired details add plenty of character. Despite its size, the taproom feels relaxed, friendly and somewhere that’s easy to settle into for a few hours.
A great variety on the bar with a single cask ale alongside 12 keg lines, so lots of choice. I went for Magnifera Vs by Hammerton Brewery, a mango and apricot sour with bright tropical fruit flavours and a tangy, refreshing finish.
Art & Craft CR0
When back in Croydon I managed to drop into Art & Craft CR0. Art & Craft CR0 opened in April 2018 on Surrey Street in Croydon, occupying a building that had previously been used as offices by the Croydon Advertiser. The venue grew out of the Art & Craft bottle shop business, which had already built a following for its focus on independent beer and contemporary art. Set on Surrey Street, one of Croydon’s oldest and most historic roads, the bar was created as a place where good beer, local culture and artwork could come together. Over the years it became known not only for its changing beer selection but also for the original Banksy artwork displayed inside, helping make it one of Croydon’s most distinctive independent bars.
Inside feels unlike anywhere else in Croydon. The compact corner bar is packed with artwork, prints and quirky features, giving you something new to spot wherever you look. Exposed brickwork, dark green walls and low lighting create a cosy atmosphere, while large windows bring in plenty of natural light during the day. Banksy pieces are a particular highlight, including a police helmet turned into a disco ball, a framed doormat artwork and several prints displayed around the room. Even the toilets have been transformed with colourful painted murals. Outside, a small seating area wraps around the corner of the building, while the distinctive “Good Beer” road sign has become one of the bar’s most recognisable features.
Drinks wise a selection of 10 keg lines with a further selection of bottles and cans to choose from. A nice mix of styles and strengths. I went for Sloth by Radio City Beer Works, a collaboration with ABYSS Brewing. It’s a hazy pale ale with juicy hop flavour and a soft, fruity finish.
Micropub Adventures 