Posted: 2nd March 2016
Pub of the Week: The Betsey Trotwood, London
The Betsey Trotwood is a characterful Victorian pub in Clerkenwell, central London.
Built in 1865, one of the first structures to be built above the London Underground, and named after a character in Charles Dickens’ ‘David Copperfield’, the pub undoubtedly has strong historical roots, but is also a vibrant part of contemporary London life, with a buzzing scene of live music, comedy and more.
Set over three floors, the pub has its main bar at street level, an atmospheric cellar gig space which hosts the pub’s livelier live music, and an elegant upstairs room where various comedy, spoken word and acoustic music events are hosted. Outside, there is a small seating area at the front of the pub for watching the world go by.
The pub serves good, freshly prepared pub food, with a range of classic pub mains, pies, sandwiches and burgers. On the bar, you will find a range of quality cask ales, including guest beers, a choice of premium lagers and ciders, wines, and a large selection of single malt whiskies.
There is also a packed schedule of events at The Betsey.
For live comedy fans, on Monday nights the pub is host to Jester Jesters, showcasing the best in new live comedy, as well as a monthly appearance from Night Howls Comedy Club. The Betsey is also a regular haunt for some pretty familiar faces, including Henning Wehn and Jerry Sadowitz.
In recent years, the pub has also made a name for itself on the live music scene as a hotbed for new and upcoming acts. Among its diary of events is a regular bluegrass session, ‘My Grass is Blue’ the second Thursday of every month, and a regular slot for The Lantern Society – featuring some of the best folk-influenced talent on the contemporary London music scene, in a relaxed setting with lanterns and candles. The cellar gig space hosts a variety of bands with everything from Country Rock to Indie-Pop. Twice month on Sundays you can chill out to the sounds of the Hangover Lounge from 2pm – 9pm… plus much, much more.
For parties and events, the Betsey Trotwood also offers function room hire of either the cellar or upstairs bar as appropriate to suit.
To find out more visit the pub’s website, find them on Facebook or Twitter, or call the team on 020 7253 4285.