SIDCUP, LONDON — In a quiet transformation of Sidcup’s social scene, micropubs are reshaping how locals enjoy their drinks. Eschewing loud music and sprawling interiors, these intimate venues focus instead on traditional cask ales, personal service, and conversation — creating one of southeast London’s most distinct pub crawls.
With five standout micropubs all within walking distance, Sidcup has quietly become a hub for enthusiasts of real ale and small-scale hospitality. Each venue brings a unique story and character, contributing to a crawl that combines traditional pub values with modern community spirit.
The Broken Drum
- 308 Westwood Lane, Blackfen
The trail begins in Blackfen at The Broken Drum, one of the earliest micropubs in Bexley and a favourite among real ale aficionados. True to micropub ethos, there is no music, no television, and no slot machines — just rotating cask ales poured directly from the barrel. The atmosphere is deliberately stripped-back, creating a space dedicated to good conversation and expertly kept beer.
The Hangar
- 37 The Oval, Sidcup
Located in a former carpet shop, The Hangar has become a local favourite since its conversion by owners Clif and Steph. Now featured in the Good Beer Guide, this venue offers an eclectic mix of cask and craft beers, premium lager, wine, and signature cocktails — including the Hangar Wallbanger. A garden with heaters and a retractable roof ensures year-round appeal, while its community feel has cemented it as a local gathering point.
The Halfway House
- 188c Halfway Street, Sidcup
A short walk south leads to The Halfway House, a small, family-run micropub known for its welcoming atmosphere. Featuring a rotating menu of real ales, craft beers, ciders, gins, and wines, the venue operates without a kitchen but provides snacks and a dog-friendly policy. Its intimate space makes it a sociable stop on the trail.
The Hackney Carriage
- 165 Station Road, Sidcup
Established in 2016, The Hackney Carriage occupies a former school uniform shop and honours its namesake — the iconic London black cab — with a no-frills approach. Founded by Liz Twort, the micropub earned recognition as Cider Pub of the Year in both 2017 and 2018. It continues to specialise in real ale and cider, drawing commuters and locals alike with its proximity to Sidcup station and its traditional service model.
The Hopper’s Hut
- 1 Invicta Parade, Sidcup High Street
Rounding off the crawl is The Hopper’s Hut, named after the shelters once used by hop-pickers in nearby Bexley fields. Owners Rebecca and Simon have curated one of the area’s most ambitious drinks lists, including exclusive imports from French microbrewery Au P’tit Brasseur D’Argentonnay. With real ale on cask, craft beer on keg, over 70 spirits, and a variety of wines and soft drinks, this venue combines local charm with international flair.
Micropub Trail Details
The full route spans approximately 2.7 miles and takes about an hour of walking time. From The Broken Drum, it’s an 11-minute walk to The Hangar, followed by 20 minutes to The Halfway House. The Hackney Carriage is a further 18 minutes away, with The Hopper’s Hut concluding the journey after an additional 20-minute stroll. While ambitious for a single evening, the trail offers a unique and rewarding experience for beer lovers.
Patrons are advised to check individual opening times before setting out and to plan their return travel in advance.
Honourable Mentions
Two additional micropubs just outside the main crawl also offer compelling experiences.
The Silver Fox Micropub
- 4 Montpelier Avenue, Bexley
Converted from a launderette by owners Niki Frost and Simon Fox in 2020, this cosy venue is community-focused and dog-friendly, offering craft beers, house cocktails, and a warm welcome.
The Bolthole Micropub
- Falconwood Parade, Welling
Opened in 2019 by Dan and Jen, this former insurance office has become a relaxed, over-21s venue with a varied drinks list. Its laid-back atmosphere makes it a convenient stop for those returning via Welling or Bexley.
With its blend of character, craft, and community, Sidcup’s micropub trail offers an authentic and increasingly rare drinking experience — one pint, and one story, at a time.
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