Part of our Best Pubs in London microsite. Is your local listed?
The Glad, as it's affectionately known, is a smashing little pub hidden away at the quieter end of Borough High Street. We have to confess to overlooking it for years, as more famous local bars tugged at our attentions. Having now discovered the place, we'd rank it among our top 10 in London, let alone the Southwark/Borough area.
The main bar is effortlessly cosy, with candlelit tables for intimate discussion. A pub cat pads around, occasionally settling on the piano. An upstairs room continues the small-tables theme, and in warmer weather there's a small but quiet and sun-soaked terrace. This is not a place for large groups or rowdy revellers. That said, the pub also supports the live music scene, with free gigs several times a week (though there is a pass-the-hat for performers). The drinks choice is pretty decent without being remarkable. The food menu turns around small-plate Indian dishes (with Anglo-Indian pies). Fans of puns will also leave 'feeling Glad all over'.
Sadly (or gladly, if you prefer plants to paints) the mural shown in our feature image has since been covered with ivy. Still a great pub, though.
