The Lighterman

Overlooking both Coal Drops Yard and Regent’s Canal, The Lighterman might sound like something out of a Nick Cave song, but its atmosphere is anything but solemn, especially when the sun hits it just so.

The contemporary gastropub on Granary Square follows its proprietors’ philosophy of making you feel at home through great food and drink, stylish design and warm hospitality. The venue encompasses several different spaces, including a waterside bar and terrace that’s just the thing for soaking up the sun with a cocktail in hand, an indoor bar area, an upper wraparound terrace with panoramic views and a dining room tastefully furnished in wood and natural tones. The Lighterman aims to be the right spot whatever the occasion or company, and suitably offers its various areas for private hire – whether just a large table for a group of friends, or the entire location for a larger event.

When it comes to the food and drinks, The Lighterman takes its designation as a gastropub seriously, serving spruced-up takes on classic British pub fare such as burgers, fish ‘n’ chips and crispy squid, as well as a selection of flatbreads with intriguing toppings like hot-smoked salmon, pickled fennel and roasted aubergine. Using seasonal ingredients and sustainably sourced produce, the Lighterman also offers weekend brunching and Sunday roasting. The drinks include an impressive array of beers, wines and spirits, as well as both classic and seasonal cocktails – if the weather is right, a weekend Bloody Mary by the canal might just save you from that hangover.