Bars & Pubs

In south Wimbledon’s backstreets lies an ale drinker’s nirvana, and it’s called the Sultan (named after the famous racehorse from the 1830s). Deserved winner of Time Out’s Best Pub award in 2005, it’s still an absolute gem – and the Wiltshire-based Hop Back Brewery’s only London pub. The 1930s suburban architecture may not be particularly striking, but inside it’s a delightful den, characterised by its colourful locals, two bars (the Ted Higgins bar is named after a beer-loving actor who once starred in Radio 4’s The Archers) and Hop Back’s lovely ales. There’s GFB, Entire Stout and the much-acclaimed Summer Lightning, priced from a bargain £2.05 a pint (carryouts are also available), along with various bottled ales. Piped music is banned, with darts being the only sport allowed – unless you count beer swilling, or the quiz that takes place here on a Tuesday night.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008