Quick answer
London takes its Sunday roast seriously — and these 12 spots are the ones that Reddit, food critics, and obsessive roast reviewers keep coming back to. From Blacklock's legendary sharing platter to The Tamil Crown's masala-spiced twist, every pub on this list earned its place through consistent quality and real recommendations.
- Best overall
- Blacklock Shoreditch — 4.7★ (3,083 reviews)
- Price range
- £18–£55 per person
- Best splurge
- The Harwood Arms (Michelin ★)
- Last verified
- 2026-03
Top verdicts
- Blacklock: The most recommended Sunday roast across all of Reddit London. Book 6-8 weeks ahead.
- The Harwood Arms: London's only Michelin-starred pub. Game-focused and worth every penny.
- Sussex Restaurant: Soho's best-kept secret — ranked #4 by London's top roast reviewer, yet you can still book for next Sunday.
London's Sunday roast scene ranges from £25-£55, with Blacklock Shoreditch being a top recommendation for its sharing platters. This guide highlights the best spots for a traditional British Sunday roast, considering both price and location.
The Sunday roast is sacred in London. Every neighbourhood pub claims theirs is the best, but only a handful actually deliver. We cross-referenced hundreds of Reddit posts from r/london, r/LondonFood, and r/uktravel with reviews from London's most dedicated roast dinner critic (350+ anonymous reviews and counting), plus guides from Eater, The Infatuation, TimeOut, and Condé Nast Traveller.
The result: 12 pubs and restaurants where the Yorkshire puddings are billowing, the gravy is rich, the potatoes are properly crispy, and the meat is cooked with genuine care. Whether you want a Michelin-star game roast in Fulham or a £28 sharing platter in Shoreditch, this list has you covered.
Sunday Roast Map
📊 Quick Comparison
All 12 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Blacklock Shoreditch | Gastropub | £25–£35 pp | 4.7★ | 28-30 Rivington St |
| #2 | The Harwood Arms | Michelin Star | £40–£55 pp | 4.6★ | Walham Grove |
| #3 | The Devonshire | Gastropub | £30–£45 pp | 4.4★ | 17 Denman St |
| #4 | The Waterman's Arms | Riverside Pub | £25–£40 pp | 4.6★ | 375 Lonsdale Rd |
| #5 | Marksman Public House | Gastropub | £30–£45 pp | 4.2★ | 254 Hackney Rd |
| #6 | The Quality Chop House | Fine Dining Pub | £35–£55 pp | 4.6★ | 92-94 Farringdon Rd |
| #7 | The Ladbroke Arms | Neighbourhood Pub | £25–£40 pp | 4.6★ | 54 Ladbroke Rd |
| #8 | The Red Lion & Sun | Village Pub | £25–£38 pp | 4.5★ | 25 North Rd |
| #9 | The Bull and Last | Gastropub | £30–£45 pp | 4.4★ | 168 Highgate Rd |
| #10 | The Tamil Crown | Indian Twist | £28–£42 pp | 4.4★ | 16 Elia St |
| #11 | The George | Central London | £28–£40 pp | 4.5★ | 55 Great Portland St |
| #12 | Sussex Restaurant | British Bistro | £25–£38 pp | 4.6★ | 63-64 Frith St |
Quick Picks by Budget
Best Picks by Occasion
Best for a Special Occasion or Date Night
For those moments when you want to impress or celebrate, London's high-end roasts deliver. Opt for the only Michelin-starred pub roast at The Harwood Arms for an unforgettable game-focused experience. Alternatively, The Quality Chop House offers a sophisticated, iconic British dining room perfect for a refined Sunday.
Best for a Classic London Pub Vibe
If you're seeking that quintessential cosy London pub atmosphere with a stellar roast, these spots are ideal. The Red Lion & Sun in Highgate offers a charming village pub setting, while The Ladbroke Arms embodies a beloved neighbourhood local with an exceptional menu. For scenic views with your meal, The Waterman's Arms provides a picturesque riverside setting.
Best for a Modern Twist on Tradition
For adventurous palates looking beyond the traditional gravy and Yorkshire pudding, London offers exciting variations. The Tamil Crown reimagines the roast with incredible Tamil spices and unique sides like coconut cabbage. For a gastropub pushing boundaries within British cuisine, The Devonshire brings an all-beef dedication that’s both traditional and elevated.
Best for Central London Convenience
When you're exploring the heart of the city and need a delicious Sunday refuel without venturing too far, these central spots hit the mark. The George in Fitzrovia delivers a proper Central London roast experience in a beautifully restored pub. For a Soho gem, Sussex Restaurant offers a British bistro take, or dive into the hype at The Devonshire, also in Soho.
Best for Lively Gatherings & Groups
Bringing a crowd for Sunday lunch? These popular picks offer a buzzing atmosphere perfect for groups. Blacklock Shoreditch is a widely recommended favourite known for its energetic vibe and excellent value chops. Also consider The Devonshire in Soho, whose immense popularity ensures a lively buzz that’s great for a fun group outing.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Blacklock Shoreditch vs. The Devonshire
These two gastropub giants are constantly talked about, but offer slightly different experiences. Blacklock Shoreditch is lauded for its incredible value, particularly its 'all-in' option, offering a lively, slightly more casual atmosphere ideal for groups. The Devonshire in Soho, while a bit pricier, is all about the beef and the hype, providing a bustling, high-energy environment that feels a touch more refined, though still very much a pub.
The Harwood Arms vs. The Quality Chop House
For those seeking a luxurious Sunday feast, these two are at the pinnacle. The Harwood Arms stands out with its Michelin star and game-focused menu, offering an undeniably fine dining experience in a pub setting, making it perfect for truly special occasions. The Quality Chop House, while not Michelin-starred for its roast, is an iconic British institution known for its meticulously sourced ingredients and legendary confit potatoes, delivering a sophisticated yet comforting meal in a historic setting.
Marksman Public House vs. The Bull and Last
These two gastropubs are consistently celebrated as some of London's best, each with a distinct neighbourhood charm. Marksman Public House in Hackney offers a sleek, modern gastropub experience with particular acclaim for its roast beef and stylish upstairs dining room. Meanwhile, The Bull and Last, nestled near Hampstead Heath, provides a more traditional, rustic pub feel, often cited for its hearty portions and consistent quality, making it a perfect post-walk reward.
1Blacklock Shoreditch
GastropubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Gastropub in Shoreditch EC2A 3DZ
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 3,083 Google reviews · Gastropub
- Price / value
- £25–£35 pp
- What to order
- The All In — a sharing platter of all the meats (beef, pork, lamb) with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, greens, and unlimited gravy. £28 per person and worth every penny.
🕐 Opening hours
2The Harwood Arms
Michelin StarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Michelin Star in Fulham SW6 1QJ
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1,634 Google reviews · Michelin Star
- Price / value
- £40–£55 pp
- What to order
- The game roast — whatever wild game is in season, from venison to grouse. The scotch eggs to start are legendary. Expect elevated pub food with Michelin-star precision.
🕐 Opening hours
3The Devonshire
GastropubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Gastropub in Soho W1D 7HW
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 2,646 Google reviews · Gastropub
- Price / value
- £30–£45 pp
- What to order
- The rib of beef — arrives blushing pink with silver gravy boats of sides: buttery peas with lardon chunks, honey-sweet carrots, and bulbous crispy-corners potatoes.
🕐 Opening hours
4The Waterman's Arms
Riverside PubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Riverside Pub in Barnes SW13 9PY
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 704 Google reviews · Riverside Pub
- Price / value
- £25–£40 pp
- What to order
- The lamb shoulder sharing roast — tender meat with crispy roast potatoes, braised garlicky greens, and charred carrots with tarragon mayo that they should sell by the jar.
🕐 Opening hours
5Marksman Public House
GastropubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Gastropub in Hackney E2 7SB
- Strengths
- 4.2★ from 1,164 Google reviews · Gastropub
- Price / value
- £30–£45 pp
- What to order
- Hereford rump with Yorkshires and horseradish cream. The upstairs dining room is Scandi-minimalist with low-hanging lights — a proper upgrade from the buzzy pub below.
🕐 Opening hours
6The Quality Chop House
Fine Dining PubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Fine Dining Pub in Clerkenwell EC1R 3EA
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1,590 Google reviews · Fine Dining Pub
- Price / value
- £35–£55 pp
- What to order
- The confit potatoes are legendary — arguably London's best. Order whatever roast meat is on that week, but make sure you add a side of those potatoes. The wine list is exceptional too.
🕐 Opening hours
7The Ladbroke Arms
Neighbourhood PubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Neighbourhood Pub in Holland Park W11 3NW
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 995 Google reviews · Neighbourhood Pub
- Price / value
- £25–£40 pp
- What to order
- The pork belly — described as 'unimprovably superb' by one of London's most respected roast reviewers. The cabbage might genuinely be the best you'll ever have. Possibly.
🕐 Opening hours
8The Red Lion & Sun
Village PubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Village Pub in Highgate N6 4BE
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 996 Google reviews · Village Pub
- Price / value
- £25–£38 pp
- What to order
- Order the suckling pig when booking your table — it's a pre-order special and absolutely divine. Otherwise the standard roast is consistently top-tier with excellent roast potatoes.
🕐 Opening hours
9The Bull and Last
GastropubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Gastropub in Kentish Town NW5 1QS
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 963 Google reviews · Gastropub
- Price / value
- £30–£45 pp
- What to order
- The beef dripping roast potatoes are the star. Go for the beef rib or whatever's on the board — the bone marrow butter adds a decadent touch. Treacle tart for dessert is non-negotiable.
🕐 Opening hours
10The Tamil Crown
Indian TwistQuick comparison
- Best for
- Indian Twist in Angel N1 8DE
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 1,194 Google reviews · Indian Twist
- Price / value
- £28–£42 pp
- What to order
- The masala roast chicken — charred skin, roasted spices, with coconut stir-fried cabbage, roti, and shimmering gravy. The lamb shank is equally brilliant. This isn't your nan's Sunday roast.
🕐 Opening hours
11The George
Central LondonQuick comparison
- Best for
- Central London in Fitzrovia W1W 7LQ
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1,307 Google reviews · Central London
- Price / value
- £28–£40 pp
- What to order
- The beef rump roast — perfectly pink with bone marrow gravy. Head upstairs to the dining room that feels like the posh bit of the Titanic. TVs downstairs for football with your roast.
🕐 Opening hours
12Sussex Restaurant
British BistroQuick comparison
- Best for
- British Bistro in Soho W1D 3JW
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1,078 Google reviews · British Bistro
- Price / value
- £25–£38 pp
- What to order
- The pork belly with bone marrow Yorkshire pudding (when available as a special). Otherwise any roast on the board — everything is sourced from Sussex farms. The jus is excellent, though some prefer a thicker gravy.
🕐 Opening hours
💡 Pro Tips
- Book by Wednesday for a Sunday roast at popular pubs. By Friday, the best spots are fully booked, especially in Bermondsey and Islington.
- Ask for the 'beef dripping roasties' if offered — they're superior to regular roast potatoes and usually the same price.
- Arrive by 12:30 PM. Most pubs serve until they run out, and the best cuts (bone-in rib, sirloin) go first.
Planning Your London Sunday Roasts Visit
Reservations Are Essential
Sunday roasts are incredibly popular in London, especially at highly-rated venues. Always book well in advance, sometimes weeks or even months ahead for top spots like The Harwood Arms or The Devonshire. Spontaneous walk-ins are rare and usually result in disappointment, particularly for larger groups.
Timing Your Sunday Feast
Most pubs and restaurants serve Sunday roasts from midday until early evening, typically 12 PM to 5 PM. Later sittings might mean certain meat options have sold out, so an earlier reservation is often best to ensure you have the full choice. Aim for a mid-afternoon slot for a relaxed experience.
Beyond the Gravy: What to Expect
While a classic roast includes meat, roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy, expect variations. Some places like The Tamil Crown offer unique cultural twists, while others like The Quality Chop House might have elevated side dishes. Always check the menu online for specific offerings and dietary accommodations.
Getting There: Transport Tips
London is well-connected by public transport. Many of the listed pubs, such as Blacklock Shoreditch or The George, are easily accessible via Tube or bus. For places further afield like The Waterman's Arms in Barnes, consider bus routes or a short taxi ride from the nearest Tube station for convenience.
Dress Code and Atmosphere
The dress code for a Sunday roast typically ranges from smart-casual to relaxed, depending on the venue. Michelin-starred pubs like The Harwood Arms might warrant a slightly dressier attire, whereas neighbourhood pubs like The Ladbroke Arms are perfect for a comfortable, laid-back vibe. Always check the venue's website if you're unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Sunday roast?
A Sunday roast (or 'roast dinner') is a traditional British meal typically served on Sundays, consisting of roasted meat (beef, lamb, pork, or chicken), roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and gravy. It's an institution in British culture — many pubs and restaurants build their entire Sunday service around it.
How much does a Sunday roast cost in London?
A pub Sunday roast in London typically costs £18–£30 per person. At higher-end gastropubs like The Harwood Arms or Quality Chop House, expect £35–£55. Sharing roasts (like Blacklock's 'All In') can offer better value at £25–£30 per person including all trimmings.
Do I need to book a Sunday roast in London?
Yes — absolutely. The best Sunday roasts in London book up weeks in advance. Blacklock needs 6-8 weeks' notice for Sunday lunch. The Devonshire releases bookings at 10:30am on Thursdays. Some places hold tables for walk-ins, but don't rely on it for popular spots.
What time is Sunday roast typically served?
Most London pubs serve Sunday roast from 12:00 PM until 3:00–4:00 PM, with some extending to 6:00 or 8:00 PM. Earlier sittings (12:00–1:00 PM) tend to get the freshest food and the most relaxed atmosphere. Late sittings after 3:00 PM may have limited meat choices.
Which London area is best for Sunday roast?
Every area has standout spots, but East London (Hackney/Shoreditch) and North London (Highgate/Kentish Town) have the highest concentration of top-rated Sunday roasts. Soho is great for central options like The Devonshire and Sussex. Fulham has the Michelin-starred Harwood Arms.
What should I order with a Sunday roast?
A classic Sunday roast comes with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, seasonal vegetables, and gravy. Some pubs offer extras like cauliflower cheese, bone marrow butter, or pigs in blankets for a small supplement. Always order the gravy boat — you'll want extra.
Are there vegetarian Sunday roast options in London?
Yes — most good gastropubs now offer a vegetarian or vegan Sunday roast option, often featuring nut roast, stuffed squash, or mushroom Wellington with all the trimmings. The Tamil Crown offers a sambar-based vegetarian roast that's particularly creative.
What exactly is a Sunday Roast and why is it such a beloved tradition in London?
A Sunday Roast is a traditional British meal typically served on Sunday, consisting of roasted meat (beef, chicken, lamb, or pork), roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables (like carrots, peas, greens), and lashings of gravy. It's a cherished weekly ritual, originating from a time when families would gather after church, and has evolved into a cornerstone of British pub and restaurant culture, celebrating communal dining and hearty comfort food.
Are vegetarian or vegan options commonly available at London's top Sunday Roast spots?
While traditionally meat-centric, many of London's best Sunday Roast venues are increasingly offering excellent vegetarian and even vegan alternatives. Places like Blacklock Shoreditch and Marksman Public House often feature creative plant-based roasts. However, it's always best to check the specific menu online or call ahead, especially for strict dietary requirements, as options can vary significantly.
Can I enjoy a traditional Sunday Roast outside of Sunday in London?
Generally, the traditional Sunday Roast is an exclusive Sunday offering in most London establishments, living up to its name. A few places might occasionally feature a 'roast of the day' on other weekdays, but it's rarely the full, elaborate Sunday feast. For the authentic experience, dedicating your Sunday to this meal is key; don't expect to find the full spread at The Devonshire or The Red Lion & Sun on a Tuesday.
What's the typical price range for a good Sunday Roast in London?
The price for a Sunday Roast in London can vary widely, usually ranging from £25 to £55+ per person. Gastropubs like Blacklock Shoreditch or Sussex Restaurant typically fall into the £25-£38 bracket. Mid-range options like The Devonshire are generally £30-£45, while Michelin-starred experiences at The Harwood Arms can reach £40-£55 or more, depending on the cuts and additional courses chosen.
Which London neighbourhoods are known for having the best Sunday Roast options?
London boasts excellent Sunday Roasts across many vibrant neighbourhoods. Shoreditch and Hackney are strong contenders with popular gastropubs like Blacklock Shoreditch and Marksman Public House. Soho is also a hotspot, home to The Devonshire and Sussex Restaurant. Areas like Highgate and Kentish Town, with venues such as The Red Lion & Sun and The Bull and Last, offer a more village-like feel with exceptional roasts.
Is it generally considered family-friendly to bring children to a Sunday Roast in London?
Most pubs and gastropubs in London are welcoming to families, especially during the daytime Sunday Roast hours. Venues with a relaxed atmosphere, like The Waterman's Arms or The Ladbroke Arms, are often good choices. However, fine dining establishments or particularly bustling, smaller venues might be less suitable. It's always a good idea to check with the specific venue about high chairs, kids' menus, and overall child-friendliness when booking.
What constitutes a 'traditional' Sunday roast in London?
A traditional Sunday roast typically features a choice of roasted meat (beef, lamb, pork, or chicken), crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, a Yorkshire pudding, and lashings of rich gravy. Some establishments, like The Quality Chop House, also add unique flourishes like confit potatoes or creative seasonal sides.
Are vegetarian or vegan Sunday roasts widely available in London?
Yes, many of London's best Sunday roast venues now offer excellent vegetarian or vegan options, often featuring nut roasts, mushroom wellingtons, or spiced vegetable bakes. The Tamil Crown is a fantastic example of a place offering unique, flavourful plant-based options that go beyond the usual.
How far in advance should I book a Sunday roast in London?
For the most popular venues like The Harwood Arms or The Devonshire, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is often necessary, especially for prime lunchtime slots. For other well-regarded pubs, a few days to a week in advance is usually sufficient, but walk-ins on the day are rarely guaranteed.
What is the average price range for a good Sunday roast in London?
The average price for a good Sunday roast in London typically ranges from £25 to £45 per person, depending on the venue and cuts of meat. You can find excellent value options like Blacklock Shoreditch in the lower end of this range, while Michelin-starred experiences such as The Harwood Arms will be a more significant splurge.
Can I find a Sunday roast outside of Sunday in London?
While 'Sunday' roasts are traditionally reserved for Sundays, a very small number of establishments might offer a limited version on other days or as part of a weekly special. However, the full, authentic Sunday roast experience with all the trimmings is almost exclusively a Sunday-only affair in London. Always check directly with the venue.
What's the difference between a gastropub and a traditional pub for Sunday roast?
A gastropub, like Marksman Public House, typically focuses on high-quality, gourmet food prepared by trained chefs, offering a more refined dining experience while retaining a pub atmosphere. A traditional pub, such as The Ladbroke Arms, might offer a more classic, hearty roast with less emphasis on 'fine dining,' often prioritizing a cosy, community-focused drinking environment alongside the food.
What makes a London Sunday Roast unique compared to other cities?
London's Sunday roasts are distinctive for their incredible diversity, from traditional gastropub excellence to Michelin-starred interpretations. You'll find everything from the highly recommended classic at Blacklock Shoreditch to the Indian-spiced innovation at The Tamil Crown, all served in historic pubs or stylish dining rooms with a palpable Sunday buzz.
Do I need to book a Sunday Roast in London in advance?
Absolutely, booking in advance is crucial, especially for the most popular spots. Many of London's top roasts, including The Harwood Arms and The Devonshire, are fully booked weeks, sometimes months, ahead. Spontaneous walk-ins are rarely successful for these highly sought-after Sunday experiences.
Are there vegetarian or vegan Sunday Roast options available?
Yes, many London establishments now offer excellent vegetarian and vegan Sunday roast alternatives, though quality can vary. The best places creatively adapt the traditional format, ensuring the sides and gravies are equally delicious. Always check specific menus online or call ahead, especially if you're heading to a place known for its meat, like The Devonshire which focuses exclusively on beef.
Which London pubs are best for a Sunday Roast near a park or green space?
For a Sunday roast followed by a stroll, consider The Bull and Last, ideally situated near Hampstead Heath for a pre- or post-roast walk. Similarly, The Red Lion & Sun in Highgate is perfect for exploring the charming village and nearby parks, offering a beautiful setting to complement your meal.
What's the typical cost of a Sunday Roast in London?
The cost of a Sunday roast in London can vary significantly. You can expect to pay anywhere from £25-£40 per person at excellent gastropubs like Blacklock Shoreditch or The Ladbroke Arms. For a more premium experience, such as at The Harwood Arms or The Quality Chop House, prices can range from £40-£55 per person, not including drinks.
Can I find a Sunday Roast with a unique twist in London?
Absolutely! London is known for its culinary innovation. For a truly unique experience, The Tamil Crown offers a groundbreaking Indian-spiced Sunday roast with coconut cabbage and roti, completely reimagining the British classic. It's a fantastic choice if you're looking to break away from tradition.
What is the average cost of a Sunday Roast in London?
The price for a Sunday Roast in London can vary significantly based on the venue type and location. You can expect to pay anywhere from £25-£40 per person at a good gastropub like Blacklock Shoreditch or The Waterman's Arms, while a Michelin-starred experience at The Harwood Arms or fine dining at The Quality Chop House can range from £40-£55+.
Are vegetarian or vegan Sunday Roast options commonly available?
Yes, vegetarian and increasingly vegan Sunday Roast options are becoming much more common in London. Many gastropubs, including spots like Marksman Public House and The Bull and Last, offer creative plant-based alternatives. It's always best to check the menu online or call the restaurant in advance to confirm their current offerings.
Which London neighbourhoods are best known for great Sunday Roasts?
Several London neighbourhoods are renowned for their Sunday Roast scene. Hackney (with Marksman Public House) and North London villages like Highgate (The Red Lion & Sun) and Kentish Town (The Bull and Last) are rich in quality gastropubs. Soho also boasts strong contenders like The Devonshire and Sussex Restaurant for a central city fix.
Is it family-friendly to bring children to a Sunday Roast in London?
Many London pubs are family-friendly, especially during Sunday lunch hours. Traditional pubs like The Red Lion & Sun or riverside options such as The Waterman's Arms often have a welcoming atmosphere for children. However, some fine dining establishments, like The Harwood Arms, might be less geared towards younger diners, so it's wise to check their policy when booking.
What is a 'Yorkshire Pudding' and is it always served with a Sunday Roast?
A Yorkshire Pudding is a savoury baked batter pastry, traditionally served with roast beef, but now a staple of almost all Sunday Roasts. It's crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, perfect for soaking up gravy. You'll find it proudly served at virtually all the venues on our list, from Blacklock Shoreditch to The Quality Chop House, unless you're opting for a highly unconventional twist like at The Tamil Crown.
Can I find a 'late' Sunday Roast in London?
While most Sunday Roasts wind down by late afternoon, some establishments, particularly larger gastropubs or those in more central areas like The George in Fitzrovia, might serve until early evening, often until 7 or 8 PM or until they run out. It's always crucial to check the specific serving times for your chosen venue to avoid disappointment.
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