As the name implies many of this pubs customers work on Borough fruit and vegetable market opposite. They make up the 'early shift', replaced later by office workers and curious tourists. It's a good place for a hearty breakfast or a leisurely lunch.
There are several bars each varying in character, but all timber-rich and cosy, be it panelling or beams. It's an honest local with a 'welcome', something that the big chains sometimes fail to deliver. There's always a good selection of well kept real ales, with a turnover too numerous to list.
Ambitious plans for a £10 million regeneration (or is that redevelopment?) of the market are being considered. One idea is to re-site the Floral Hall portico from Covent Garden here. Meanwhile Borough Market has built a reputation as a 'foodies' market and on Fridays and Saturdays stalls sell high quality produce including bread, meat and cheese.
This area of Southwark was, and is, home to several famous pubs, the Tabard, from where Chaucer's Canterbury Tales begins, was nearby and The George Inn, London's only surviving coaching inn, is a short walk away. The area has many interesting old buildings and is full of surprises, including Southwark Cathedral and Clink Prison Museum. Its also a popular movie location; 'Lock, Stock…' and 'Mission Impossible' included scenes shot here.
paulk, 2009-08-04
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