40 Stuart Rd, London SE15 3BE

About This Pub

Ah, The Ivy House – what a gem in the heart of London! I've got to say, it's one of those places that really captures the spirit of a traditional British pub while adding its own twist. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by this fantastic community vibe that's all about good chats and shared laughs, especially with all the live music and events on offer, from lively gigs to cosy quizzes. The beer selection is spot on too; they've got a brilliant range of cask and keg options, including gluten-free ones, and at prices that won't break the bank – think £5 for a quality pint, which is always a winner in my book. The staff are an absolute delight, making everyone feel welcome, and being cooperatively owned just gives it that extra layer of charm. On the flip side, though, I've heard a few grumbles about the Sunday roast; it sounds like it can be overpriced with portions that leave you wanting more and veg that's a bit on the tough side, plus waits that stretch on. Still, if you're not fussed about a full meal and just fancy a pint and some entertainment, it's a top spot. Overall, it's got that perfect mix of history, fun, and friendliness that makes it worth a visit – just maybe plan around the food if you're heading there for a proper nosh.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The community atmosphere is absolutely brilliant – it's like walking into a warm hug from your neighbours, with everyone chatting and enjoying themselves.
  • They've got an amazing selection of cask and keg beers, including gluten-free options, and at really reasonable prices like £5 a pint, which is a steal these days.
  • Live events are a highlight, from punk gigs and poetry nights to pub quizzes and Sunday jazz – there's always something fun on offer to keep things lively.
  • The staff are genuinely friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home from the moment you step in.
  • It's a historic spot with a rich backstory, cooperatively owned, which adds a nice community spirit and makes you feel like you're supporting something special.
  • The pizzas and cocktails are solid choices, and for drinks enthusiasts, the hand-picked wine list is a treat.
Cons
  • The Sunday roast can be a bit disappointing – one chap mentioned it was overpriced and not up to scratch, with small portions and rock-hard veg that took ages to arrive.
  • Food service might drag on, as it reportedly took over an hour for a meal in one review, which could put a dampener on your visit if you're peckish.
  • While the beers are great, the food options seem a tad inconsistent, so it might not be the first pick if you're after a full meal rather than just drinks and vibes.

Contact Information

40 Stuart Rd, London SE15 3BE
+442072778233
Pub
Closed

Opening Hours

Monday12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 00:00
Saturday (Today)12:00 - 00:00
Sunday12:00 - 22:30

Location

Recent Reviews

Great community atmosphere. Amazing selection of cask and keg beer, which are really well priced. £5 for a good cask beer. And… cask gluten free beer is always in draught.
JB
John Brooks
🚇 Nunhead 🍺 £6.00 Arnsberg Lager The Ivy House is located in a quiet residential street, near Nunhead Cemetery in the Newlands area of Nunhead, Southeast London. The nearest station is Nunhead. This former Truman's pub was originally built in 1865 and called The Newlands Tavern. The pub you see today was built in 1938 by Truman's principal architect, A.E. Sewell. Renamed The Stuart Arms in 1985, its name changed again in 1996 to The Ivy House, apparently in connection with the pub's Guv’nor at the time, Mum Ivy. During the ‘Pub Rock’ era of the 1970s, Ian Dury, Elvis Costello, Joe Strummer all performed here. In 2015, the pub was used as the Double R Club in the Kray film ‘Legend’. This pub became the UK's first community-owned pub and the first pub listed as an Asset of Community Value. This large, multi-room pub impressively preserves its 1930s features, including dado height panelling, a glazed entrance, a moulded stone fireplace, multi-pane screens, and original bench seating. A notable detail is the brown and white chequered spittoon trough before the servery. The main bar connects to a Hall, off which lies the Jacobethan-style former "Refreshment Room." A courtyard beer garden is located at the rear. The beer selection is diverse, offering four cask ales, locally brewed beers, and familiar favorites. I tried the Arnsberg Lager by @bexleybrewery ; my pint was great, price was average. The food option here is pizza, with nine choices available. A Margherita pizza costs £9.50, roast dinners return in September. Arrived around 4 pm on a warm Saturday in April. The pub was quiet inside, with most customers enjoying the spring sunshine in the lively beer garden. Inside had a relaxed atmosphere. The service was excellent; a friendly staff member was kind enough to share interesting details about the pub. The @ivyhousenunhead absolutely blew me away, what an outstanding pub this is. It just goes to show the power of community. A rich history, beautiful decor, friendly staff and locals and a top beer selection made for a marvellous London pub experience. Get it on your to visit list. 📅 12th April 2025 More London pub info on socials @londonpubmap 🍻
LP
London Pub Map
Excellent Sunday Roast at a very reasonable price. Enjoyed the coffee and finished the afternoon with a game of pool in the games room. Popular live acts all through the week. Once known as Newlands Tavern, this is quite the historic venue.
TT
Tyrone Thomas
Cooperatively owned, great beers, nice staff, excellent building with a big gig space out the back.
AT
Adam Thompson
This is a fantastic community owned pub with good selection of beers and friendly staff. Would highly recommend for a drink. However, they really need to up their roast game. £22 for one piece of ham that I'd eat out the fridge as a snack. Aunt Bessie's. Rock hard carrots. And it took over an hour and a half to come. Love you but come on guys.
JW
JD Weatherspoon

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