“I loved playing at The Bedford in Balham – it was such an important venue on the circuit and always had great acts playing every night. It holds fond memories for me and I look forward to coming back one day.”
Ed Sheeran
From Ed Sheeran through to KT Tunstall and Paolo Nutini*, everybody’s talking about The Bedford, south London’s largest pub and legendary music and entertainment venue.
Now open, following a multi-million-pound refurbishment that includes an £80,000 state-of-the-art sound system, Balham’s much-loved pub and one of London’s most famous grass-roots music venues and comedy clubs is back! The Grade II listed venue now features five bars, four private rooms, a ballroom and a 250-capacity live music club, as well 15 brand new individually designed ‘rock and roll’ en-suite bedrooms.
A-List Entertainment
Having previously hosted some of the world’s best-known acts including Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, Paolo Nutini, KT Tunstall, Michael McIntyre, Eddie Izzard and Frank Skinner, The Bedford’s entertainment legacy continues as it gears up to welcome the stars of the future and nurture young up-and-coming talent.
Expect a roster of exciting events, from hilarious stand-up comedy, courtesy of London’s longest running comedy club*, Banana Cabaret, through to DJ nights and incredible live music, not forgetting all the key sporting games live on the big screen. Cabaret goes burlesque thanks to Medium Rare, who will be at The Bedford for two nights only on 25thJanuary and 22ndFebruary 2019.
Decadent Design
Taking inspiration from the original building, the painstakingly restored interior pairs art deco glamour with original 70s touches. Expect listed features alongside contemporary opulence. Marble bar tops, velvet booth seating and striking chandeliers marry with exposed walls, original parquet flooring and vintage punk art to create a look and vibe in keeping with the drama and theatricality of the venue. A lavish colour scheme runs throughout, with emerald greens, burnt oranges and hot reds taking centre stage, alongside brass, copper and gold accents.
Drink & Dine
From the main Pub to the Saloon Bar and Club, the menu puts the spotlight on fresh, seasonal British produce. Guests can feast on tasty burgers such as wagyu beef with caramelised onions, or the vegan Moving Mountain® B12 with fries and house relish, alongside dishes of pork schnitzel with a fried egg, fries and caper butter, and a classic beer-battered fish and chips. Also on offer is a range of artisan pizzas and fresh seasonal salads as well as moreish small plates – perfect for sharing – including half-pint lamb or chicken skewers with miso mayo; charred baby gem with sun blushed tomatoes and cobnut pesto; and scotch eggs – served classic, black pudding or plant based – with coronation mayo.
Come the weekend, breakfast is a leisurely affair. Enjoy all the classics, from The Bedford ‘¾ English’, eggs benedict, and chilli avocado with poached eggs on rye through to signature dishes like salt beef hash with a fried egg and mustard sauce. Whilst Sundays are all about the roast with choices including grass-fed and dry-aged roast beef, pork belly, chicken or a delicious nut roast, complete with all the trimmings.
At the bar, the extensive drinks list features a dedicated tequila and mezcal menu, plus fine wines, premium spirits and an excellent selection of non-alcoholic tipples, including the excellent Punchy ‘rum’ punch. Award-winning craft ales and gluten-free beers complete the picture. Music continues to be the beating heart of The Bedford, even when it comes to the serves – sip on a refreshing Two Tribes ‘Non Stop Hits’ Modern Lager or try the Island Records Session IPA, both brewed in London and sure to set your taste buds singing.
Beautiful Bedrooms
Each of The Bedford’s 15 new stunning en-suite bedrooms are uniquely designed. Expect exquisite wallpaper, roll top baths in the bedroom, microphone lighting, bespoke furniture, rainfall showers, as well as plush velvet touches and striking artwork. Room styles are ‘Glamorous’, ‘Theatrical’ and ‘Modern’, with each bedroom featuring a luxury Hypnos bed with Egyptian cotton linen, as well as black-out curtains or blinds, to ensure a restful night’s sleep even after a night of rip-roaring entertainment. Other in-room amenities include a Nespresso coffee machine, HD smart TV, mini fridge and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Private Events
Spanning five floors, The Bedford can accomodate all your event needs, from small celebrations with friends and family through to lavish wedding receptions and other large parties. The grand Ballroom is certain to impress with its gold detail ceiling, a green marble bar with fireplace behind, statement chandeliers and lavish design, whilst the stylish Cocktail Bar will wow you with its speakeasy style and is perfect for a sophisticated get-together. An original wood panelled private dining room, adorned with peculiar yet spectacular artwork, joins both spaces is and is ideal for intimate dinners for up to 42 guests.
To find out all the latest news, events please follow The Bedford on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and check out their What’s On calendar.
“Very excited to see the results of the new makeover at the Bedford. It’s a great space to play, and an essential venue, particularly for emerging artists.” – KT Tunstall.
“The Bedford believed in me, gave me a stage to be seen and a platform to be heard. I loved those days – we had fun!” – Paolo Nutini.
