When the sun is shining, there is nothing quite like a trip to the pub to enjoy a crisp, cold drink. In London, you are not short of places to go for a pint, as there are more than 3,000 boozers across the city. But of all these, there is only one that is actually located inside a London Underground station, and it is in an incredible spot right on the platform.
Tap on the Line: London's Last Remaining Tube Station Pub
Tap on the Line is London's last remaining pub attached to a Tube station, and it can be found at Kew Gardens Station. While it is not exactly a hidden gem, as thousands of people pass by it every single day, many Londoners remain unaware of its existence. The pub features a wall of windows at the back that allows for a direct view of the District Line and Mildmay trains as they pass.
Seating and Dining Arrangements
Obtaining a front-row seat by the windows is not easy. The atrium, which offers the best views, is used as the main dining space during peak times. Visitors who arrive just after 6pm on a Friday without intending to eat are swiftly directed elsewhere to save space for those having food. For a chance to sit in the best seats, it is recommended to visit much earlier in the day. Georgina Wald, the comms manager at Fuller's (the pub's owner), explains: 'The atrium does tend to be for dining only, but during quieter times, people are welcome to come and have a drink there and watch the trains. Our busiest times are the weekends and 4 to 7pm weekdays. For weekends or specific seating, we definitely recommend booking.'
Train Views from the Main Bar
Even if the atrium is reserved for diners, the main bar area still offers views of the trains through three windows along the back of the pub. However, the tables are positioned so that only one person can see the trains, while anyone accompanying them has their back to them. To both enjoy the view, visitors must play a strange version of musical chairs and keep swapping seats.
Decor and Atmosphere
The pub is part of a chain but is incredibly characterful in terms of its look and location. The decor is inspired by the pub's proximity to Kew Gardens, featuring bright colours, tropical flowers, and exotic birds. There are also subtle nods to trains hidden around the place, such as the words 'mind the gap' embedded in the flooring. For those who are not bothered about the trains, the pub has a cute outside terrace with festoon lighting overhead, overlooking Kew Gardens Parade and the station entrance.
Drinks and Verdict
The drinks menu is solid, featuring several American IPAs and Belgian beers for those wanting to try something different. Prices are standard for a London pub. Despite not having the full experience during the visit, the pub charmed the reviewer, who can easily see it becoming a regular spot.
