It would be foolish to deny that the weather has finally taken a turn towards its due autumnal self (if not a pivot for the inclement worse), all of us having before been spoilt by an extended summer well past September and, indeed, far into the very heart of October. Now, though, we’re all wrapping ourselves in warming attire and grumbling about the chill damp and shaking umbrellas off by doorsteps, while the wind whips up previously coiffed hair and circles inside on airy loops disentangled golden leaves from street-lining trees in the midst of shedding their displays pre-winter.

In short, what better time to find a wonderfully cosy pub in the City, preferably with a fire (but we know that’s pushing it)? And what better day of the week to properly relax and enjoy such surroundings than on a (very traditionally British) Sunday? Here’re some we think you’ll rather relish.


1. The Magpie, Bishopsgate

A very realistic short stroll from Liverpool Street Station, Bishopsgate, and Houndsditch – The Magpie is thoroughly flying the flag when it comes to traditional British pub food, and has a Real Ale list to match. Originally an ambulance station in the early 1900s, The Magpie is one of Nicholson’s Collections’ pubs, which are “held in the highest of regards for their distinctive buildings, intriguing history and vibrant atmosphere”.


2. Culpeper, Whitechapel

Yes, it very much errs on the side of gastropub taken to its limits, but one has to admit: the food is very, very good. If it bothers you, simply overlook the roof garden replete (though decidedly less so at this time of year) with freshly grown herbs and salad ingredients, and set aside wondering what such extras have to do with honest pub grub. Once a Truman’s pub for 130 years, this Victorian Inn is still worth a sojourn of a Sunday when famished by the colder weather (and the prospect of a new working week to come).


3. Jugged Hare, Barbican

One of two pubs acquired by The Barbican (together with Chiswell Street Dining Rooms), the Jugged Hare is perhaps not the venue to choose with the beloved vegetarian or vegan in your life in attendance – if simply because of the plethora of mounted animal heads on the walls. And as for the menu? Well, think “chips and gravy; pork crackling with apple sauce; venison scotch egg with Cumberland sauce”. A veritable carnivore’s paradise. Indeed, as the name suggests, game is the speciality on this pub’s menu. Hearty fare for the soul (pescatarians will feel welcome too).


4. Old Red Cow, Farringdon

One for the man in your life (ladies, perhaps return to the idea of the Culpeper), Old Red Cow prides itself on its keg beer offerings (over a dozen!), and once again this is a meat adoring establishment, with an emphasis on the Sunday roast. If Yorkshire pudding overflowing with homemade gravy on the side of fresh vegetables and juicy slices of beef is your idea of heaven, make it Old Red Cow.