The Old School Yard Bar

Words by Simon Difford

Address: 111 Long Lane, Bermondsey, London, SE1 4PH, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)207 357 6281
Website: view The Old School Yard Bar’s website
Door: Open door
Style: Neighbourhood bar
Food: Tapas/plates & dishes

Review

Occupying what was a forgotten old boozer in the no-man's land between Bermondsey proper and Borough High Street is this celebration of flair bartending and all things 80s, complete with Tonka toy trucks, ghetto blasters, an old chopper bike and even old school lockers complete with graffiti.

The schoolyard theme also influences the cocktail menu which is arranged according to school subjects, English includes Pimm's Cup, Rum Punch and perversely a Hemingway Daiquiri (well, he wrote in English). Chemistry lists a Porn Star Martini and history has a Cosmopolitan, Mint Julep and Mai Tai. Geography lists a Manhattan and Singapore Sling. In our experience, and despite the flair antics, these are well made.

Be warned, this bar's subtitle is 'Bar and Playground' and School Disco and private karaoke rooms feature predominantly. The back-street, residential location attracts a mixed crowd but they seem to abide by the house rules: "The only rule in this respectable establishment is: if you misbehave then you shall be punished. Though girls might get away with it."