As Christmas approaches, there’s no better way to celebrate friendship than with a “Friendsmas” - that pre-Christmas get-together filled with laughter, good food and a few too many festive cocktails. London’s pub scene is perfect for it: think roaring fires, hearty roasts, and private rooms made for long dinners that last into the night. Whether you’re after a stylish spot in Chelsea, a classic local in Marylebone, or a laid-back gastropub in Chiswick, these are the best London pubs to book for your Friendsmas before Christmas Day.
1. The Hound, Chiswick
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- Website: thehound.london
- Location: 17 Devonshire Road, Chiswick, W4 2EU
- Google Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.4/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – The Green Room, The Clink, or full venue hire
- Price Range: Around £45–£50 per person
Menu Highlights:
Expect elevated pub dishes such as Black Pudding Scotch Egg (£10.50), Ham Hock Croquettes (£8.50), Highland Wagyu Hound Dog (£18.50), and Beer-Battered Fish & Chips (£23.00).
Why Friendsmas Here:
With a warm neighbourhood feel and elegant dining rooms, The Hound is ideal for a mid-December catch-up with friends who appreciate good food and even better company.
2. The Cadogan Arms, Chelsea
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- Website: thecadoganarms.london
- Location: 298 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 5UG
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – The Rose Room (35 seated, 50 standing)
- Price Range: Around £60–£70 per person
Menu Highlights:
The festive menu includes pub favourites with a refined twist — Prawn Cocktail, Chicken Kiev, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and their Sunday Roast are standouts. They also offer a pre-order Feast Menu perfect for group dining.
Why Friendsmas Here:
A luxurious Chelsea pub where tradition meets style. The Rose Room gives you privacy while still soaking up the seasonal buzz of King’s Road.
3. The Portman, Marylebone
- Website: theportmanw1.com
- Location: 51 Upper Berkeley Street, Marylebone, W1H 7QW
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – The Dorset Room (36 seated, 50 standing)
- Price Range: Around £40–£50 per person
Menu Highlights:
Classic British pub dining with modern touches. Expect favourites like Beer-Battered Haddock, Roast Chicken Supreme, and hearty vegetarian options such as Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto.
Why Friendsmas Here:
Tucked away in a smart corner of Marylebone, The Portman offers charm, comfort and great service — ideal for a relaxed pre-Christmas get-together.
4. The Windmill, Mayfair
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- Website: windmillmayfair.co.uk
- Location: 6-8 Mill Street, Mayfair, W1S 2AZ
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – The Upper Pie Room and Lower Pie Room (up to 70 guests)
- Price Range: Around £55 per person
Menu Highlights:
Known for their award-winning pies, including the Steak & Kidney, Chicken & Mushroom, and Vegan Curried Cauliflower. Also serves classic roasts, bar snacks, and seasonal puddings.
Why Friendsmas Here:
Few things feel more festive than gathering over comforting British pies. The Windmill’s private rooms are made for big, laughter-filled tables and plenty of pints.
5. The Hillgate, Notting Hill
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- Website: thehillgate.com
- Location: 24 Hillgate Street, Notting Hill, W8 7SR
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – Racks Dining Room (32 seated, 45 standing)
- Price Range: Around £40–£45 per person
Menu Highlights:
Expect hearty British comfort food such as Pan-Fried Salmon, Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank, and vegetarian Nut Roast — all served with roast potatoes and gravy on the festive menu.
Why Friendsmas Here:
A pastel-painted gem near Notting Hill Gate, The Hillgate combines classic charm with excellent food and space for your whole group to unwind before the big day.
6. The Bird in Hand, Brook Green
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- Website: https://thebirdinhandlondon.com/
- Location: 88 Masbro Road, Brook Green, W14 0LR
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes
- Price Range: £40–£50 per person
Menu Highlights:
Seasonal sharing plates, wood-fired pizzas, and Mediterranean-inspired small dishes.
Why Friendsmas Here:
Cosy yet lively, The Bird in Hand blends relaxed dining with festive charm.
7. Brigadiers, Bank
- Website: brigadierslondon.com
- Location: 1-5 Bloomberg Arcade, EC4N 8AR
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – multiple private dining rooms
- Price Range: £55–£70 per person
Menu Highlights:
Indian BBQ feasts, spiced cocktails, and their signature Lamb Chops.
Why Friendsmas Here:
Perfect for groups who want energy and flavour — Brigadiers delivers both in spades.
8. The Hero, Maida Vale
- Website: theheroofmaida.com
- Location: 55 Shirland Road, W9 2JD
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – first-floor dining room
- Price Range: £45–£60 per person
Menu Highlights:
British favourites with a French twist — Roast Duck Breast, Wild Mushroom Risotto, and seasonal desserts.
Why Friendsmas Here:
A beautifully refurbished pub with generous portions and a festive, neighbourhood vibe.
9. The Elgin, Notting Hill
- Website: theelginpub.co.uk
- Location: 96 Ladbroke Grove, W11 1PY
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes – The Music Room
- Price Range: £35–£45 per person
Menu Highlights:
Gastropub dishes like Scotch Eggs, Fish & Chips, and Sunday Roasts with all the trimmings.
Why Friendsmas Here:
Lively and full of charm, The Elgin offers live music and a warm welcome for group celebrations.
10. Trullo, Highbury & Islington
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- Website: trullorestaurant.com
- Location: 300-302 St Paul’s Road, N1 2LH
- Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
- Private Room Hire: Yes
- Price Range: £50+ per person
Menu Highlights:
Seasonal Italian fare, fresh handmade pasta, and regional wines.
Why Friendsmas Here:
If you prefer pasta to turkey, Trullo offers a cosy, candlelit setting perfect for pre-Christmas cheer
Friendsmas Booking Tips
- Book early: December slots go fast, especially for private rooms.
- Ask about minimum spend: Some pubs have no hire fee but a spend requirement.
- Pre-order group menus: Helps kitchens prepare festive feasts on time.
- Confirm accessibility and décor: Many pubs add decorations or themed menus during December.
Conclusion
Friendsmas is about spending time with the people who matter most before the Christmas rush. From Brigadiers’ vibrant BBQ feasts to The Pelican’s comforting roasts, London’s pubs are filled with festive warmth and cheer. Be sure to reserve your table early — the best spots fill up fast.
For more inspiration on where to live and celebrate in style, explore Essential Living’s London Neighbourhood Guides, search available apartments, and discover more great venues at Homequarters.co.uk.
FAQ
What is the best pub in London for a Friendsmas dinner?
The Cadogan Arms in Chelsea is one of the most popular choices for a pre-Christmas meal, with private dining and a festive set menu.
Which London pubs offer private rooms for Christmas parties?
Pubs such as The Hound in Chiswick, The Windmill in Mayfair, and The Portman in Marylebone all offer private hire spaces.
Where can I find affordable group dining pubs in London?
The Hillgate in Notting Hill and The Portman in Marylebone both offer mid-range festive menus perfect for groups.
Do London pubs have special Christmas menus?
Yes, many pubs — including The Cadogan Arms and The Windmill — release special Christmas set menus from late November.
When should I book a pub for Friendsmas in London?
Aim to book by mid-November, as private rooms and weekend slots fill up quickly across the city.
Related Reading
If you love exploring London’s best pubs and eateries, check out our guide to the best pubs for Sunday Roasts in London and the best cafés in Greenwich. For more on city living and lifestyle tips, visit Homequarters.co.uk.
