The Old Dispensary

Featured reviews

• G

  Google user

  ·3 months ago

  “Lovely little venue. Tiny stage, but loads of atmosphere. And the sound tech really worked hard to get the best sound they could.”

• G

  Google user

  ·4 months ago

  “Solid venue right at the crossroads, especially for live music — Sundays (Irish), plus Mondays and Wednesdays when local student bands bring a louder, lively vibe. The best part is the broad mix of customers; it has a proper, unpretentious feel. (mainly lefty Gen Z) Beers on tap include Guinness, apple cider, and a rotating selection of IPAs. You can also play chess, Jenga, etc., which adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Great location overall, with seating out on the high street and a small smoking area at the back (around 10 sqm). The toilets are decent and fit the character of the place. Open till 1am daily.”

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• G

  Google user

  ·4 months ago

  “It's a decent place but I would say when there is a band the music tends to be too loud and the range of drinks on tap is quite limited and it's mostly random ales.”

• G

  Google user

  ·8 months ago

  “had a amazing time here, service and everything between was exemplary. A real stand out of the locals and a fantastic experience- Joe highlighted the evening, welcoming forward and kind. I would recommend to anyone that comes across the pub”

• G

  Google user

  ·10 months ago

  “When quiet this place is great for a calm contemplative drink, a game and a chat. When busy, great for a lively drink and to chat nonsense. Good find - great Guinness.”

• G

  Google user

  ·11 months ago

  “I'm visiting every Irish Pub in the world ( see my profile). And this is a great spot. The pint is excellent and was under a £5!?!? Place is cozy with snugs and is a top spot for some live music. A really great modern Irish Pub.”

• G

  Google user

  ·1 year ago

  “🚇Denmark Hill 🍺 £6.20 Guinness The Old Dispensary is located just off busy Camberwell Green in Camberwell, South London. The nearest station is Denmark Hill. The Old Dispensary in Camberwell was originally established in 1862 as the Camberwell Provident Dispensary, providing medical assistance to the local poor. It was converted into a pub around 2004, adopting the name “The Old Dispensary.” This is a cozy, one-bar pub with a traditional Irish pub feel. The servery is located on the right-hand side and features a solid timber counter. To the left of the servery is a small stage used for hosting live music nights. On either side of the pub’s entrance are intimate nooks: to the left, high wood-paneled benches, and to the right, comfy sofas and a log burner. Around the walls, you’ll find an array of bric-à-brac, Irish memorabilia, maps of the Emerald Isle, and a few TV screens. The standout feature is an ornate chandelier hanging beneath a large, unique octagonal skylight. At the rear of the pub is a suntrap courtyard beer garden. The beer line up offers a selection of mainstream brews, independent breweries and of course Guinness. I decided to try the stout, my pint was excellent, price point was just above six quid. I arrived around 2:30 p.m. on a pleasant Saturday in May. The pub was fairly quiet, with a few punters dotted around the bar and in the beer garden. I was joined by @footballstickersinthewild and his good lady for a pint and a catch-up. The atmosphere was chilled and relaxed, with a warm, welcoming feel to the pub. The service was great—I had a brief chat with the Guv’nor and one of the team, both of whom were very friendly and lovely-natured. The pub is known for its vibrant live music scene and hosts events on a regular basis. It also shows live sports, including GAA. Visiting this characterful Irish boozer was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The intimate surroundings, the well kept Guinness and the warm hospitality made for a top notch pub visit. Get this one on the to visit list, loved it. Follow @theolddispensary for updates. 📅 17th May 2025 More London pub info on socials @londonpubmap 🍻”

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• G

  Google user

  ·1 year ago

  “25/06/2025 I came here to watch a few bands and a Elvis tribute perform I had a tremendous time its very easy to get to since its a short walk from Denmark Hill station 😎👍🏻”

• G

  Google user

  ·1 year ago

  “This is a very nice pub. One of the most cool in Camberwell. Closes late almost everyday. On Mondays there are many people singing and playing. Some weekends djs and local bands. Definitely a must do in south London.”

• G

  Google user

  ·2 years ago

  “Came upon this really nice pub while staying in Camberwell. Really great atmosphere and lighting with Irish style pub decor. Really decent pint of Guinness and an excellent range of whiskeys. The barman was friendly and provided excellent service. I highly recommend paying a visit to the Old Dispensary.”