Why Richmond Pubs Are the Ultimate Vibe (And Why You Should Care)
Okay, hear me out: pubs in Richmond are basically the OG version of your favorite Netflix show—same cozy energy, but with better beer and zero ads. You won’t find a bunch of tourists here (unless they’re lost). This is where locals go to sip, snack, and maybe accidentally start a debate about whether IPAs are overrated. But let’s cut to the chase: we’re here for the good stuff. Think of this as the ultimate pub guide, written by someone who’s had exactly three pints and has memorized the menu of every bar in town.
1. The Red Lion Pub: Craft Beer Oasis
If you want to feel like you’ve stumbled into a brewery’s secret handshake, The Red Lion is your spot. They have more taps than a hacker convention, and their beer menu is basically a PhD thesis. Pro tip: Ask the bartender for the “unlisted” draft—the one they don’t write down. It’s like the speakeasy of beer, but with better lighting.
- Best for: Craft beer snobs who still think IPAs are cool
- Must-try: The “Mystery Tap” (ask about it)
- Pub food: Fish and chips that taste like they’ve been resurrected by a Michelin chef
2. The Richmond Ale House: Retro Vibes, Modern Pours
This place is like your uncle’s garage turned into a bar—same level of chaos, but with better lighting. They’ve got that “I haven’t updated since the 90s” aesthetic, which somehow makes everything feel more authentic. The owner, Kevin, claims he’s been in the business since before “craft beer” was a thing he had to Google. Spoiler: It’s legit.
- Best for: Nostalgia seekers and people who still love a good mixtape
- Must-try: The “Kevin’s Special” (he’ll tell you it’s his recipe)
- Pub food: Wings that come with a side of guilt-free nachos
3. The Oak & Ale: Where the Cool Kids Hang
Okay, so it’s not technically a pub, but The Oak & Ale is Richmond’s answer to “Where do I go when I’m out of my depth but still want to feel cool?” It’s the kind of place where the barista will ask if you’ve tried their “exclusive cold brew” made with recycled craft beer. Don’t worry, it’s not as weird as it sounds. Probably.
- Best for: People who like to flex their “I don’t do pubs” attitude
- Must-try: The craft beer latte (yes, it’s a thing)
- Pub food: Charcuterie boards that cost more than your rent
4. The Tap Room: Liquid Gold & Local Love
If you want to support the Richmond beer scene like a true local, The Tap Room is where you’ll find the real workhorses. They rotate their drafts faster than your Spotify playlist on a sad day. The owner, Sarah, will not only remember your name but also your order from last week. It’s like your local bookshop, but with more hops.
- Best for: Beer geeks who live for the “new tap”
- Must-try: The “Local’s Choice” (it changes daily)
- Pub food: Brie and grapes that taste like they’ve been curated by a wine snob
5. The Lion’s Den: Pub Quiz Champion
Forget trivia nights at bars. The Lion’s Den hosts pub quizzes that are basically the Hunger Games, but with less bloodshed and more beer. The questions are tough enough to humble even the smartest person in the room. Pro tip: Never trust someone who claims they know everything about Queen. They’re lying.
- Best for: People who think themselves as “genius-level pub quiz players”
- Must-try: The “Quiz Champion” (a strong ale named after last year’s winner)
- Pub food: Burgers so good they’ll make you forget your team’s name
6. The Richmond Arms: Where Pubs Go to Die
This one’s for the purists. The Richmond Arms hasn’t changed since the 80s. The barkeep still uses a cash register from the Cold War, and the jukebox plays the same 10 songs on loop. But here’s the thing: their whiskey is so good, it’ll make you question every other pub in existence. Just don’t be surprised if you end up staying for three hours and forgetting your own name.
- Best for: Time travelers and whiskey connoisseurs
- Must-try: The “Arms Special” (a blend the owner refuses to explain)
- Pub food: Steak pie that tastes like it’s been aged in a cave
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Are there any pubs in Richmond with live music?
Absolutely! The Oak & Ale hosts a jazz band every Saturday, and The Lion’s Den has open mic nights. Just be prepared for someone to try to sing “Bohemian Rhapsody” at noon on a Tuesday.
Do any of these pubs have food trucks?
Yes! Check out The Tap Room’s weekly food truck nights. The fusion tacos? Legend. The deep-fried everything? Also legend.
Can I bring a group to these pubs?
Most pubs in Richmond are group-friendly, especially The Red Lion and The Richmond Arms. Just give them a heads-up so they don’t run out of beer (or sanity).
Call to Action: Plan Your Pub Crawl (And Your Life)
If you’re done pretending to be a “casual drinker” and ready to join the Richmond pub scene, here’s what to do next:
- Make your own beer and bring it to The Tap Room for a “tap takeover.”
- Check out Dropt.beer to sell your homemade brews online. (Yes, you can make money this way. No, we won’t tell your landlord.)
- Host your next team-building event at The Lion’s Den. Trust us, the pub quiz will break up the ice faster than a spilled pint.
Final Thoughts: Cheers to Being a Local
Richmond’s pubs aren’t just places to drink—they’re cultural landmarks where stories are told, friendships are forged, and occasionally, a very serious debate about the best craft beer ever brewed takes place. So grab a mate, a menu, and maybe a map (just in case you get lost in the good parts), and dive into the pub scene like the local you’ve always wanted to be. And hey, if you’re ever stuck choosing a spot, just remember: if they have a “mystery tap,” you’re in the right place.
Need help growing your pub or beer business? Contact Strategies.beer for expert advice that won’t make you want to take a nap. Or just keep sipping. Your call.
