Bermondsey Street

Our original House, also The Watch House’s namesake, is a building with character like no other. Occupying no more than 25 square feet at the end of London’s famous Bermondsey Street, it was historically a shelter for men guarding St Mary Magdalane Church graveyard at night. Today we honour its former role as a sanctuary, providing shelter to locals, commuters, families and dogs alike – though our hours may be slightly different and our sandwich offering a little more extensive.

Preserving the legacy of this unique space started with the walls themselves. We used only traditional Victorian materials and finishes: limestone washed walls, Victorian tiles on the floor and counter surfaces made with legendary English Oak.

In the winter months, it’s just about the cosiest spot you’ll find in Central London, particularly when we have our rort iron fire roaring providing a glow famous in South London. In the summer, we suggest you order a single origin filter coffee or blend house espresso from our bar, choose a sandwich that catches your eye and enjoy both in neighbouring St Mary Magdalane Park – the same one the guards used to protect 200 years ago.

The Watch House Bermondsey Street is an espresso bar serving Empire Blend and Single Origin Filter coffee, not to mention our daily brew bar offering monthly options of V60 pour overs and Aeropress. We also have an enviable selection of house-made food for lunch, prepared by our specialist chefs and delivered to us daily from our lovely central kitchen before the sun rises.