The Two Bridges, Bermondsey, SE1

Dating from 1793 as the King of Prussia, this was rebuilt in 1897 and renamed the King of Belgium in 1914, probably due to the outbreak of World War I, the current name dating from 2019, presumably a reference to the location between London and Tower bridges. The place looks a fright from the outside but is marginally better than it appears. Naturally there’s virtually nothing remaining of the original interior, apart from some lovely polychromatic glazed tiling to dado height to the left-hand wall, then a fine pink marble fireplace – surprisingly, with a welcoming coal effect gas fire – to the right, rear. Thereafter, photos are viewable on the website’s gallery, including multiple TVs showing a selection of sporting activities – some on a video wall – and flashing games machines; a ‘traditional pub’ as claimed on the website, this is not. One element of interest is the commanding balustraded staircase going up to the restaurant area, which doubles as a function room. Customers were a mix of millennials. Surprisingly, there was some ale to be had in the form of Sussex Best (pint glass over the pump) and Landlord at £2.60 a half and nice, served by a friendly barmaid. For all the visual assaults, this place is a lot cheaper than the Tower Bridge Arms and my half was a far more enjoyable drink; it’s a real pity though that virtually nothing of the original pub remains.

Official site of The Two Bridges - thetwobridges.co.uk

Official site of The Two Bridges - thetwobridges.co.uk