We watched as some owners walked their dogs through the fountains on MoreLondon – and the surprise and delight of their canine companions as the water splashed all about them. We couldn’t work out whether the dogs, the owners or the numerous children were having the most fun.
Then we wandered along Bermondsey Street to reach that delightful designer dog (and cat) collar shop Holly and Lil’s – which I have written about before. Here we picked up some dog biscuits and chews and one of their excellent maps showing the dog friendly venues in the area – there are so many to choose from! After admiring the playful dogs in the square we turned our attention to getting some lunch.
The Woolpack pub doesn’t look like much from the outside but the interior is fantastic. Lots of dark green benches in booths with decorative tiles on the walls – it reminded me of those old pie and mash shops. Dogs are welcome inside but we walked through the sizeable interior to the garden at the rear.
There’s a substantial area out the back. Although I’m not that impressed with fake grass, there are plenty of picnic tables and chairs – most under cover in case of inclement weather – as well as various nooks and crannies around the edges. We took residence in one of those alcoves which had lots of greenery and mirrors to make it as bright and cheerful as the other parts of the walled garden.
And here we met Hayley – a sleek, timid three year old black Labrador – and her owners. They had come in from Hyde Park Corner and were happy to share lots of tips on dog friendly places all around West London. I will checking out some of those soon.
The glasses of rose wine – Pinot Grigio for my companion and a sweeter Zinfandel for me – were nicely chilled. The menu wasn’t extensive but offered all the expected British pub favourites. My burger and fries (£10) came with a generous portion of bacon and cheese and my companion nearly couldn’t finish the huge pieces of lightly battered fish in her fish and chips (£11) with minted mushy peas. There was no space for some of the advertised sticky toffee pudding (£5). Shame.
The dog map lists loads of café, delis, restaurants and even salons and fashion shops in the area which are dog friendly – and helpfully notes if there are any restrictions (e.g. must be on a lead, check before you enter, no restrictions etc). As the area is just a 10 minute walk from London Bridge station – and is close to all the action in Borough and the South Bank, we shall be returning often.
http://www.hollyandlil.co.uk/
http://www.woolpackbar.com/
