About The Nags Head
The Nags Head is a McMullen pub on James Street, directly opposite Covent Garden Underground station and a few steps from the piazza. A public house of the same name has stood on the site since at least the 1670s, and the present building, a Neo-Jacobean design by P. E. Pilditch, went up in 1900 and is one of more than thirty listed buildings in the Covent Garden area.
McMullen, the Hertfordshire family brewer, has owned the pub since 1927, and that long stewardship shows in its settled, traditional feel. The layout runs to an upstairs dining area, a downstairs bar and outside seating on the pedestrianised street, with the brewery's own beers on the pumps and a menu that covers lunch, evening meals and after-work drinks. The kitchen opens with the pub and serves until 10pm, or 9pm on Sunday.
A pub near Covent Garden station with room for events
Private function space is a strength. The Sapphire Room takes up to 70 guests seated, or 120 for informal events, and a smaller Conference Room suits meetings. The pub is dog-friendly, takes table reservations, and screens live sport across its bar and dining rooms, so it works for a quick pint as well as a long evening.
What to expect on a visit
Doors open at 11am on weekdays, 9am on Saturday and 10am on Sunday, with late closing at midnight on Friday and Saturday. Expect a busy traditional London pub with period woodwork, a steady flow of visitors from the station and a terrace that fills early in fine weather. For more options nearby see our Covent Garden pubs, including The White Lion on the same street.
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Reviews
Such an amazing meal. We were admittedly eating at a less busy time - 3:30 - but were seated immediately. The Shepards Pie was so good - exactly what two USA visitors were looking for on our first visit to London.
Well after being turned away with Panda Jr (u18) it was a welcome relief for two weary travellers to flop down in the plush seats and cosy environs of a famously named pub (even if it isn't off of only fools). They have a kids menu and for central London the prices almost bordered on reasonable. This makes it a must visit if you're in need of refreshment in these parts. A clean well lit interior awaits, plenty tables and chairs, and bar staff who are polite, friendly, and knowledgeable. We're happy to answer questions and check for answers to one's they couldn't answer. Hats off to the landlord - they have a well trained team. Food wise the portions are immense and my poor little soldier was defeated by the kids fish chips and peas. I tackled a decent pie that was really rather good. Pint of the house lager and I can confirm it's a decent enough drop. All in all I am very happy to recommend this place and will return next time I'm in the area.
Called here after whattsapping a friend who loves london pubs for a recommendation. After walking round Harrods food court I messaged him for a pub suggestion. He said you are really close to the nags head so we went. It was not disappointing. It was like walking back in time. I believe its 125 years old and I would think not too much has changed. Lovely beer selection though unfortunately they were at 2026 prices lol. But nonetheless sat in the bar in front of a real fire we chatted to other customers and it was definitely what we wanted. A proper boozer with real character.