Have you ever walked into a building and felt like you stepped into a living masterpiece? That is exactly what happens when you visit the audley public house in London. Nestled on a quiet corner in Mayfair, this isn’t just a place to grab a drink. It is a historic treasure that has been brought back to life with a splash of modern color. Whether you are a local worker or a curious tourist, this pub welcomes you like an “old friend,” which is actually what the name “Audley” means in Old English!
In this guide, we will take a deep dive into everything that makes this spot special. We will look at the audley public house photos that everyone is talking about and check out the audley public house reviews to see if the food lives up to the hype. From the rainbow-colored ceiling to the perfectly poured pints, there is so much to explore. Let’s start our journey through one of London’s most iconic neighborhood pubs.
The Rich History of Audley Public House London
The story of audley public house london began a long time ago. The building we see today was built in 1888, but there has been a pub on this very spot since the 1700s! It was designed by a famous man named Thomas Verity. He was the same person who worked on the pavilion at Lord’s Cricket Ground. For over a century, it served as a local “boozer” where people from all walks of life gathered.
In recent years, the building got a major “glow-up.” A company called Artfarm took over and spent a lot of time fixing it up. They didn’t want to destroy the history. Instead, they hired experts to hand-polish the old dark wood for eight weeks! They even kept the original 19th-century clock and the fireplace. Today, it stands as a perfect mix of Victorian charm and modern art.
A Look Inside: The Audley Public House Photos and Design
If you search for the audley public house photos online, the first thing you will notice is the ceiling. It is a giant, colorful work of art by Dame Phyllida Barlow. It looks like a bright collage of pinks, oranges, and blues. This art makes the pub feel happy and energetic. It contrasts beautifully with the dark, serious wooden walls and the long mahogany bar.
The design is meant to be a conversation starter. Behind the bar, there is a neon sign that simply says “FRIENDS.” This reminds everyone that the pub is a place for community. The windows are large and let in a lot of soft light, making it a great spot for a photo op. Even the walk to the restrooms is artistic, featuring unique wallpaper that catches everyone’s eye.
What is on The Audley Public House Menu?
The food here is all about classic British flavors done really well. When you look at the audley public house menu, you will see two main sections: bar snacks and pub favorites. They use fresh ingredients from their own farm in Somerset, called Durslade Farm. This means the meat is high quality and tastes amazing.
One of the most famous items is the London Dip. It is a delicious roast beef sandwich served with a rich gravy that you can dip the bread into. They also serve “lamb scrumpets,” which are crispy bites of slow-cooked lamb. If you want something simple, their fish and chips are legendary. The batter is thin and crunchy, and the fish is always fresh.
A Closer Look at the Drinks and Pints
No trip to the audley public house is complete without a drink. They are very proud of their beer selection. They serve local ales from Sambrook’s Brewery in Battersea, which is one of the oldest in London. If you are a fan of stout, many people say they serve the best pint of Guinness in Mayfair!
The bartenders take their time to pour every drink perfectly. They also have a great list of ciders and wines if beer isn’t your favorite. Because it is a “walk-in” pub, you can just stroll up to the bar and order. It has a very relaxed vibe, even though it is located in a very fancy part of town.
Why The Audley Public House Reviews are So High
If you check the audley public house reviews, you will see a lot of happy customers. People love the atmosphere most of all. One reviewer mentioned that it feels “refreshingly relaxing” despite being near high-end fashion shops. Others praise the staff for being friendly and helpful, especially when the pub gets busy.
The Sunday Roast is another reason for the high ratings. On Sundays, the pub serves huge plates of roast beef with Yorkshire puddings that are five inches tall! It is a very popular tradition, so the pub can get quite crowded. Most guests agree that the quality of the food and the beauty of the room make it worth the visit.
Exploring the Mount St. Restaurant Upstairs
While the ground floor is a cozy pub, the first floor is home to the Mount St. Restaurant. This is a more formal dining room. Here, the art is even more impressive. You can see real paintings by famous artists like Lucian Freud and Andy Warhol while you eat. The floor is a beautiful marble mosaic called “Broken Floor.”
The menu upstairs is a bit fancier than the pub menu. They are famous for their Lobster Pie, which is a show-stopping dish for two people. While the pub is great for a casual lunch, the restaurant is the perfect place for a special celebration or a romantic dinner.
The Curious Rooms on the Upper Floors
Above the restaurant, there are three more floors with “Curious Rooms.” These are private spaces that people can rent for parties or meetings. Each room has its own theme. For example, there is a “Swiss Room” that celebrates the owners’ heritage and a “Scottish Room” inspired by the Highlands.
The top floor has a “Games Room” which feels like a secret clubhouse. It has a private bar and a card table. These rooms are filled with even more art and interesting furniture. It shows that the audley public house is more than just a place to eat; it is a full cultural experience.
Celebrity Sightings and Famous Guests
Because it is so beautiful and serves such good food, the audley public house attracts some famous faces. Years ago, even Michelle Obama brought her daughters here to experience a real English pub! You might see local artists, fashion designers, or famous actors enjoying a pint at the bar.
Even with famous guests, the pub stays “down to earth.” You will see people in expensive suits sitting right next to tourists in sneakers. Everyone is treated with the same kindness. This “people-first” attitude is part of what makes the pub feel so welcoming to everyone.
Sustainability and Farm-to-Table Ethics
One thing that makes audley public house london stand out is its commitment to the planet. They work closely with local farmers and makers. By getting their meat and vegetables from Durslade Farm, they reduce the distance food has to travel. This makes the food fresher and better for the environment.
They also support a farm in North London that teaches people about sustainable growing. When you eat here, you are supporting a business that cares about where its ingredients come from. It’s a great example of how a traditional pub can be modern in its thinking.
Tips for Your Visit to The Audley
Planning a visit? Here are some quick tips to help you have the best time at the audley public house:
- No Bookings: The pub downstairs doesn’t take reservations. It is walk-in only, so try to arrive early if you want a table.
- Sunday Roast: If you want the roast, be prepared for a bit of a wait. It is the busiest time of the week!
- Look Up: Don’t forget to admire the ceiling and the art on the walls.
- Dress Code: The pub is casual, but the restaurant upstairs likes guests to be a bit more “smart and elegant.”
- Dog Friendly: You can bring your furry friends to the pub area!
Conclusion
In a city full of history, the audley public house stands out as something truly special. It manages to feel like a cozy local spot while offering the beauty of a world-class art gallery. Whether you are coming for the famous London Dip, a cold pint of Guinness, or just to stare at the ceiling, you are bound to have a great time.
It is a place where history and modern life come together. It proves that you don’t have to choose between a “posh” experience and a friendly one. So, next time you are in Mayfair, don’t just walk past the red brick building on the corner. Step inside, find a stool, and enjoy a little piece of London magic.
FAQs
1. Do I need a reservation for the audley public house?
No, you do not need a booking for the ground-floor pub! It is a walk-in-only space. However, if you want to eat at the Mount St. Restaurant upstairs, it is a good idea to book a table in advance.
2. Is the audley public house dog-friendly?
Yes! The pub is very welcoming to dogs. It is a great place to stop for a drink after a long walk through nearby Hyde Park with your pet.
3. What is the most famous dish on the menu?
While there are many favorites, the “London Dip” (a roast beef sandwich with gravy) and the “Scotch Egg” are very popular. Their Sunday Roast is also highly rated by locals and tourists alike.
4. Who designed the colorful ceiling?
The stunning ceiling was created by the late British artist Dame Phyllida Barlow. It is a site-specific commission that has become the trademark of the pub’s interior.
5. Is there a dress code for the pub?
The pub on the ground floor is quite relaxed and casual. However, if you are heading upstairs to the restaurant or the private rooms, a “smart and elegant” dress code is encouraged.
6. What are the opening hours?
The pub is generally open seven days a week from 11:00 AM. It usually stays open until 11:00 PM on most nights, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays.
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