The Black Prince

You'll find yourself on Black Prince Road in that slightly gritty stretch between Elephant & Castle and Kennington, where this place punches well above its weight. The Black Prince is exactly the kind of pub that's become rarer in London—unpretentious, genuinely welcoming, and run by people who know their beer. The bar staff actually chat to you rather than look through you, the real ales rotate properly, and there's none of that forced rustic cosiness you get elsewhere. Walk in and you'll get a proper neighbourhood feel; regulars mingle with newcomers without any awkwardness. The food's simple but thoughtful, and prices won't leave you reaching for your overdraft.