As winter closes in we seek comfort in the city. There’s nothing quite like trudging through the cold to a local haunt and enjoying a traditional roast dinner with lashings of gravy to warm the soul. London being London, the humble roast is now something of an art form with fierce competition between pubs and chefs - some of them even bringing in Sunday specialist chefs to stay ahead of the pack. And a roast isn’t just a dinner, it’s a chance to unwind before the week ahead and enjoy conversation with friends and family – and possibly get in some much needed recovery for a sore post-Saturday-night head. We’ve all got our favourite places, but we’ve compiled a list of some of the best roasts around town in case you feel like trying something new this winter. We’ve a recommendation in North, South, East and West – we hope you enjoy them!

1) The Marksman, Hackney

The Marksman is an inconspicuous little pub tucked away off Hackney Road, but one that boasts a sophisticated menu and focus on quality food and drink. It has a vast range of craft beers, a great wine list and the roasts excel – you can get stuck into a whole chicken between two, or opt for a roast grouse with liver toast. It’s famous in the local area for being one of the best roasts around, so it’s a good idea to get down there early to grab a table – once it fills up it stays that way until everything is gone.

Marksman Public House and Dining Room
254 Hackney Road, London, E2 7SJ

2) The White Horse, Brixton

The White Horse has its own special charm and reputation. At night this lively pub-club is brimming with boozy revellers, but come Sunday it undergoes a transformation into a welcoming, family-friendly and informal venue. Seasonal ceiling decorations add to the cosy atmosphere and the service is amongst the friendliest in town. The White Horses secret Sunday weapon is the landlord’s mum who prepares the dinners under the watchful eye of George, the sociable pub dog. Unlike some other places it’s possible to get a table, even if you turn up at 4pm - and with reasonable prices and massive Yorkshires what’s not to like!

The White Horse
94 Brixton Hill, Brixton, London SW2 1QN

3) Rotunda, Kings Cross

If you like the sound of a roast with organic, grass-fed meat sourced from the pub’s own farm and prepared by the onsite butcher, then Rotunda in Kings Cross could be the one for you. Located by the Regent’s Canal, this up-market spot is a great place to watch the river traffic chug by as you enjoy one of the best Bloody Mary’s going. The meat platters are to share so come with a friend and be prepared to dig in. You can also request a tour of the meat hanging room, a treat for the serious roast aficionado, but maybe not for everyone.

Rotunda Restaurant and Bar
Kings Place, 90 York Way, Kings Cross, London N1 9AG

4) The Crabtree, Fulham

Another riverside pick, but this time by the Thames itself. The Crabtree’s stunning setting is complemented by weeping willows and Victorian architecture, and you can work up an appetite with a stroll through beautiful Bishops Park. The beer garden is massive and relaxed, providing relief to the plush interior – bring your warmest coats and settle down to an alfresco dinner with Yorkshires the size of your head and near perfect gravy.

The Crabtree Riverside Public House
Rainville Rd, London W6 9HA