If you are looking for a traditional London pub in one of the capital’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, The Barley Mow pub Mayfair is worth visiting. Located on Duke Street, this historic pub combines a classic British pub atmosphere with a restaurant upstairs.
The Barley Mow in Mayfair
The Barley Mow London is a historic pub at 82 Duke Street in Mayfair. The venue has a traditional pub and bar on the ground floor, while the first floor includes a restaurant and spaces for private dining.
The location makes it convenient if you are already exploring central London. You can combine lunch or dinner with luxury shopping on New Bond Street, explore nearby galleries or walk through Hyde Park.
The pub is operated by Cubitt House and reopened in late 2022 after being restored. Today, it offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday roasts and drinks, making it suitable for different times of day.
History of The Barley Mow pub
The current The Barley Mow pub Mayfair has a history that goes well beyond its recent reopening. The corner building was rebuilt in 1896 and later served as the residence of the Japanese Ambassador before the First World War.
There is also a long-standing story about a tunnel connecting the building with the former Japanese embassy. CAMRA describes this as an alleged tunnel, so it is best treated as part of the pub’s local history rather than a confirmed feature.
Key dates in the pub’s history
- 19th century: The site developed as part of the historic Mayfair streetscape.
- 1896: The current corner building was rebuilt.
- Before the First World War: The building was used as the Japanese Ambassador’s residence.
- 1976: The pub was caught in gunfire intended for the neighbouring hotel.
- Late 2022: Cubitt House reopened The Barley Mow following its restoration.
If historic pubs appeal to you, Mayfair has plenty to explore. The neighbourhood includes several long-established pubs, alongside newer bars and restaurants. This makes Mayfair’s pub scene an easy addition to a London itinerary.
What to eat and drink at The Barley Mow
The pub serves food throughout the day, with separate menus for breakfast, the main à la carte menu, pub food, Sunday dining, desserts and drinks.
What you can expect
- Breakfast: Available on weekdays from 08:00.
- Pub food: A more casual option for lunch, dinner or a quick bite.
- À la carte dishes: The restaurant provides a broader menu for a longer meal.
- Sunday roast: A traditional option for Sunday lunch.
- Private dining: The venue has separate spaces for celebrations and group meals.
- Drinks: Beer, wine, spirits and other drinks are available at the bar.
Private dining and events
The first floor includes a private Snug, which can be used for parties and group occasions. Other areas of the pub can also be hired depending on the type and size of your event.
The Barley Mow also runs events throughout the year. Live music takes place every Wednesday and Thursday, while seasonal events and special dining experiences are also part of its programme.
The atmosphere and experience
One of the main advantages of The Barley Mow London is that you can choose between a relaxed pub experience and a more formal restaurant meal.
Downstairs, the full-length bar is the main focus of the room. This is the more casual part of the venue and works well for a drink after shopping or a relaxed meal with friends.
Upstairs, the restaurant provides a quieter setting for lunch or dinner. The separate dining areas also make the venue practical for birthdays, business meals and other group occasions.
The location also means you can easily combine your meal with other things to do in Mayfair. Spend the morning shopping, stop for lunch at the pub and then continue towards Hyde Park or one of the area’s galleries.
Location and how to get to The Barley Mow London
The Barley Mow London is at 82 Duke Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 6JG. Duke Street runs through the western side of Mayfair and is close to several of the area’s best-known shopping streets.
The nearest Underground station is Bond Street, which is served by the Central and Jubilee lines. From Bond Street, you can walk through Mayfair towards Duke Street.
Plan your visit to The Barley Mow Mayfair
The Barley Mow Mayfair is suitable for any event, any day of the week. Enjoy an early weekday breakfast or an evening drink.
Kitchen hours are shorter than the pub’s opening hours, so check the current schedule if you are planning a meal close to opening or closing time. It is also sensible to book ahead if you want to eat upstairs, particularly for Sunday lunch or a larger group.
Before you go checklist
- Check the latest menu before you arrive.
- Book a table if you want to eat in the restaurant.
- Check the Sunday menu if you are planning a traditional roast.
- Consider Wednesday or Thursday if you would like live music.
- Allow time to explore Bond Street or Hyde Park before or after your meal.
- Ask about private dining if you are organising a group celebration.
Stay near The Barley Mow with Urban Retreat Apartments
With its historic setting, central location and combination of pub and restaurant dining, The Barley Mow pub Mayfair is an easy place to include in a London itinerary. You can stop in for a drink, enjoy a traditional meal or make it part of a full day exploring Mayfair.
Staying nearby gives you more flexibility to explore the neighbourhood on foot. Urban Retreat Apartments offers luxury serviced apartments in Mayfair, giving you a comfortable base close to the area’s shops, restaurants, galleries and green spaces. Mayfair is near many of London’s major attractions, while its quieter residential streets provide a convenient base at the end of the day.
Planning a stay in Mayfair? Add The Barley Mow to your itinerary for a taste of classic London pub culture, then return to the comfort of your Urban Retreat Apartments accommodation.
